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🗞️ Quaker's on the Move

🗞️ Quaker's on the Move

March 14, 2025

Good Morning, Akron!

Let’s talk about breakfast—or more specifically, Quaker Oats. Did you know Quaker Oats was the first brand to put a recipe on its packaging? It was for “Oat Cakes” in 1908.

And speaking of Quaker… big changes might be brewing at Quaker Square in downtown Akron. Once home to a grain mill that churned out tons of oats, the silo-turned-hotel-and-mall could soon be under new ownership. Will it remain a piece of Akron history or be transformed into something entirely new?

Let’s Dive In.

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The Digest

Quaker Square’s Next Chapter 🏨

The University of Akron is preparing to part ways with the iconic Quaker Square complex, pending state approval. The sale marks a new chapter for the historic property, once home to a luxury hotel inside converted grain silos. While the university has owned the site since 2007, its use has dwindled over the years, leading to speculation about its future.

Quaker Square has played a role in Akron’s history, from its days as a bustling shopping and dining destination to its later years as student housing. With the sale in motion, questions remain: Will the new owners preserve its unique charm, or will the silos take on an entirely new purpose? Whatever the outcome, Akronites will be watching closely.

A Blossom of Culture: The Sakura Festival 🌸

Downtown Akron’s Sakura Festival is making its grand return on April 5, bringing a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture to the city. Expect traditional performances, food vendors, and—of course—beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom.

This event has become a local favorite, drawing thousands to appreciate the artistry of Japanese traditions, from Taiko drumming to delicate origami. Whether you’re a longtime festival-goer or a first-time visitor, it’s a great excuse to welcome spring in full bloom. Plus, who doesn’t love a day filled with sushi, tea ceremonies, and cultural performances?

Trade Your Mower, Breathe Easier 🌱

If your old gas-powered lawnmower is belching out fumes like a tired race car, Summit County Public Health has a deal for you. Their annual Lawn Mower Exchange is back, letting residents trade in their noisy, fuel-guzzling mowers for cleaner, battery-powered alternatives at a discounted rate.

Why switch? Gas mowers contribute to air pollution, releasing more emissions per hour than a car. By swapping to electric, Akronites can cut down on pollution, noise, and even maintenance costs. The program has been a hit in past years, with dozens of residents making the eco-friendly switch. So, if you’ve been meaning to upgrade your yard game while helping the environment, now’s your chance. Info about the program can be found here.

What’s Happening

Here is our list of hand-picked events around the area:

Sip & Paint at the Zoo 🎨🍷

Wine, paint, and exotic animals—what’s not to love? The Akron Zoo’s Wine and Paint Night is back, blending creativity with conservation in a truly unique setting. This isn’t your typical art class. While you sip your favorite vino, talented instructors guide you through crafting a masterpiece inspired by the zoo’s wildlife.

Taking place on Tonight at 6:00, the event offers a laid-back atmosphere where you can channel your inner artist while being surrounded by the sounds of nature. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or just there for the drinks, it’s a memorable way to spend an evening. Info Here

Peter Pan Takes Flight 🧚‍♂️

Ballet Excel Ohio is sprinkling a little pixie dust on the stage with its production of Peter Pan this weekend. The show, running on Saturday at 2:00 at Akron Civic, brings J.M. Barrie’s timeless tale to life through the grace and athleticism of classical ballet.

With whimsical sets, dazzling costumes, and a sprinkle of fairy magic, audiences will be transported to Neverland, where Peter, Wendy, and the Lost Boys face off against the villainous Captain Hook. This family-friendly performance is a must-see for lovers of dance and adventure alike. Info and Tickets Here

Luck, Laughter & Lager 🍀😂

The Irish Comedy Tour rolls into Akron just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, delivering a night of Celtic-flavored hilarity. Featuring a lineup of comedians with deep Irish roots, this show blends storytelling, stand-up, and music into one unforgettable performance.

Catch the tour on Tonight at 7:30 at The University of Akron’s E.J. Thomas Hall. Expect plenty of shamrock-themed jokes, some questionable Irish accents, and a pint (or two) of laughter. Info Here

Rocking Hendrix’s Legacy 🎸

The Experience Hendrix Tour is bringing guitar legends together to honor one of the greatest musicians of all time. Hosted at MGM Northfield Park Tonight at 8:00, the tour features a stacked lineup of axe-wielding icons paying tribute to Jimi Hendrix’s revolutionary sound.

From "Purple Haze" to "Voodoo Child," the show promises an electric mix of Hendrix’s most iconic hits, played by some of the best guitarists in the world. If you’re a fan of rock history, this one’s a must-see. Tickets Here

St. Paddy’s Pub Crawl 🍻

Throw on your greenest gear and get ready for a shamrockin’ good time at St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl on Saturday, starting at Noon in Cuyahoga Falls. This annual event takes revelers through some of the city’s best bars, with plenty of Irish beer, themed cocktails, and party vibes along the way. Grab a DORA cup from any bar for $1 to walk roam freely around the designated downtown area with your drink.

Expect live music, games, and plenty of opportunities to toast to good luck. Whether you’re Irish by blood or just for the night, this is the place to be. Info Here

Akron Bites 🍔

With Lent upon us, so is Fish on Fridays! If you’re looking for a new place to get your Lenten fish, check out Everyday Akron’s fish fry guide, which includes an interactive map of the spots around Akron.

Akron Weekend Movie Action 🎬️ 🎥

Nightlight Theatre

Universal Language
Winter. Somewhere between Tehran and Winnipeg. Negin and Nazgol find a sum of money frozen deep within the sidewalk ice and try to find a way to get it out. Massoud leads a group of befuddled tourists upon an increasingly-strange walking tour of Winnipeg historic sites. Matthew leaves his job at the Québec government and embarks upon a mysterious journey to visit his estranged mother.
Rotten Tomatoes: 96%
Showtimes
The Substance
Poinsettia is a former housewife with an imagined lover in the form of 19th-century composer Giacomo Puccini. She moves into a Los Angeles boarding house with an energetic landlady, where she meets a Jamaican widower, Fish, who has recently been released from a mental institution despite his continued battles against unseen demons. In the face of personal challenges and differences, the couple grows together and begins to discover new things about themselves and the nuances of love and happiness.
Rotten Tomatoes: 99%
Showtimes

Highland Theatre

Mickey 17
Mickey 17, known as an "expendable," goes on a dangerous journey to colonize an ice planet. (Rotten Tomatoes)
Rotten Tomatoes: 82%
Showtimes

Live Music Breakdown

Here is a summary of live music happening all around Akron this weekend:

Friday

Saturday

Weather

Today

77 🌡️ 58 | ⛅️ | 25% 🌨️

Saturday

73 🌡️ 57 | ⛈️ | 88% 🌧️

Sunday

61 🌡️ 28 | 🌧️ | 91% 🌧️

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Talk to you next Friday!