2023 Waterloo Arts Festival at Beachland Ballroom & Tavern
In an area packed with more than 50 independent merchants ranging from artists and music venues to local grub hubs, the Waterloo Arts Fest promises a day of peak Cleveland creativity. This year, the event turns 20. So, you know you’re in for a wild time. Free, Sept. 9, noon-7 p.m., 15711 Waterloo Road, Cleveland, waterlooarts.org
Cleveland Dragon Boat Festival at Riverside Park
Serpentine boats glide and race across the water as teams of rowers, mounted on the backs of water-borne dragons, compete for first place. Aside from the international boat teams and their intricately decorated crafts, don’t miss the live music and various food trucks there to ensure you have a fun early fall day. Free to spectate, Sept. 10, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., 421 Black River Lane, Lorain, cledba.org
Cleveland Oktoberfest
Immerse yourself in a world of wiener dog races and bustling Biergartens. This festival, which honors Germany's vibrant and colorful culture, promises over 100 vendors selling Bavarian collectibles, 20 different kinds of beer and delicious food from more than a dozen different restaurants. $16-$105, Sept. 8-9, Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 19201 E. Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, clevelandoktoberfest.com
China’s Southern Paradise at Cleveland Museum of Art
Fully titled China’s Southern Paradise: Treasures from the Lower Yangzi Delta, this new exhibit at CMA explores the industrial and cultural impact of the Yangzi River for the first time in a Western audience. Peruse more than 200 items ranging from the Neolithic to the 18th century. Free-$15, Sept. 10-Jan. 7, various times, 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, clevelandart.org
Corey Taylor at the House of Blues
Just before the release of his upcoming solo record CMF2, Corey Taylor will take The Land by storm alongside openers Wargasm and Oxymorrons. Fans of Slipknot and Stone Sour rejoice: Taylor promises a set mixing in a few hits from both projects. $49.50-$69.50, Sept. 7, 6:30 p.m., 308 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, houseofblues.com
Death Metal Movie Premier at No Class
In need of something demented, free and locally made? Look no further than No Class this weekend for the premier of Death Metal — the tale of a metal song so evil it curses the unsuspecting listeners who tune in. Free, Sept. 10, noon-4 p.m., 11213 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, noclasscle.com
Distant Worlds: Music from Final Fantasy at Blossom Music Center
Hear the world of Final Fantasy like never before, as the Akron Symphony Orchestra takes you through the expansive and fluid world of the game’s many soundtracks. If you’re a fan of composer Nobuo Uematsu, this is a must-see event. Tickets starting at $29, Sept. 9, 7 p.m., 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, clevelandorchestra.com
Duran Duran at Blossom Music Center
Fill your weekend with iconic new wave as Duran Duran comes through town for its Future Past tour. With Bastille opening alongside Nile Rodgers & CHIC, you won’t be disappointed spending your night under the pavilion or on the lawn Blossom this weekend. Tickets starting at $35, Sept. 10, 7 p.m., 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, livenation.com
Fresh Fest Cleveland
The fourth annual Fresh Fest will kick off with a basketball tournament, food tastings and a bountiful co-op market. The rest of the day will have a flow of fresh beats coming from the main stage, featuring headliner KRS-One, interactive art displays and guided meditation. Free, noon, Sept. 9, 8129 Otter Park, Cleveland, freshfestcleveland.com
Rock Hall Live: The Breeders
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s concert series continues this weekend with The Breeders. Fans of the band can pay a little extra for a ticket to the show, plus access to the museum after 5 p.m. where you can explore new exhibits like the recent Hip-Hop at 50. $37-$57, Sept. 7, 8 p.m., 1100 E. Ninth St., Cleveland, rockhall.com
Thurgood at Playhouse Square
Experience the story of Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall — Mr. Civil Rights — in this current production from Cleveland Play House. The story tackles the determination and courage of an American hero, with film and TV veteran Lester Purry taking the stage. $49-$95, Sept. 9-13, various times, 1407 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesquare.org