Century of the American Motorcycle at the Crawford Auto Aviation Museum
Motorcycles have long carved out their place in the American psyche. From commercials to song lyrics to poetry, the motorcycle is a symbol of freedom and a thirst for the open road. For only its second time outside of the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum located in Birmingham, Alabama, this extraordinary exhibit of restored American-built motorcycles — such as the 1907 Merkel Light and 1905 Indian Single — will be displayed at the Crawford Auto Aviation Museum. A grand opening for the exhibit will be held Aug. 19 at 6 p.m. ($20-$25). Afterward, it can be seen with regular hours and pricing. Free-$15, Aug. 2021-March 2022, Thu. noon-8 p.m., Fri.-Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 10825 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-721-5722, wrhs.org
Cleveland Browns versus New York Giants at FirstEnergy Stadium
For some, the football season can’t come soon enough. While the smell of decaying autumn leaves is yet to puncture the air, the tumble and tussle of arguably America’s favorite sport can still be had. Preseason games grant the fans a preview of what awaits the team this year — fingers crossed we’re in for some thrilling games this season. Before the kids start school and the summer fades into memory, pull on your favorite brown and orange jersey and enjoy a summer NFL game. $35-$231, Aug. 22, 1 p.m., 100 Alfred Lerner Way, Cleveland, 440-891-5001, clevelandbrowns.com
Flats Festival of the Arts at the Flats East Bank
This weekend, white tents will be strung out along the East Bank of the Flats’ brick-laid walk like a pearl necklace for the fifth annual Flats Festival of the Arts. The festival is the perfect place to explore and discover a variety of work from the fine arts to photography, painting and woodworking. The festival features both local and national artists, and with the scenic Cuyahoga River running to join Lake Erie serving as the backdrop to the area’s dining and entertainment venues, the weekend is sure to leave one inspired and refreshed. Free, Aug. 21 & 22, Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. & Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 1055 Old River Road, Cleveland, 561-746-6615, artfestival.com
“Kolade-Xcope” at Cain Park
Cleveland is in for a mesmerizing performance by the UT Austin and Princeton University professor Raphael Xavier, an innovative hip-hop and breakdancer. Xavier has expanded the performance “Kolade-Xcope” since its debut in the Brooklyn Botanical Garden during quarantine last year, adding dancer Joshua Culbreath. The piece combines elements of breakdancing and hip-hop, while integrating poetry and rap with live music performed by the versatile guitarist Tim Motzer. Guests are invited to bring chairs and blankets to watch this first of DanceCleveland’s 2021-2022 performance series. Free, Aug. 21, 3 & 5:30 p.m., 14591 Superior Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-991-9000, dancecleveland.org
Tennis in the Land at Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica
A week before New York City’s Grand Slam event, the U.S. Open Series is stopping in Cleveland for its WTA 250 Tennis in the Land event. A historic first for Cleveland, athletes will also be making history. With various VIP and weeklong packages, there’s a way for everyone to see their favorite professional players battle to the top — from Jennifer Brady to Cleveland’s own Lauren Davis. Special event nights include a free stuffed animal on Kids’ Day and the option to donate 10% of your ticket to Stonewall Sports League and the Buckeye Flame on Pride Night. $18-$395, Aug. 22-28, Sat.-Mon. & Wed. & Thu. 9 a.m., Tue. 11 a.m., Fri. 1 p.m., Sat. (Aug. 28) noon, 2014 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-545-7072, tennisintheland.com
Tri CLE Rock Roll Run in Cleveland
For any athlete who likes variety in a workout, the triathlon is an ideal way to generate some adrenaline. The event starts with a splash in North Coast Harbor behind the Great Lakes Science Center, cycles on Memorial Shoreway and ends in Edgewater Park. The run portion entails musical entertainment by Guitars for Vets. To further spur competitors on, Smokin’ Rock N’ Roll BBQ will be cooking at the finish line. Registration for Saturday’s event ends Aug. 19, so hurry to ensure a part in the fun. Volunteers are also welcome. $80-$300, Aug. 21, 6:30 a.m., 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-288-2266, rockrollrun.com
