Looking for something meaningful, creative or simply fun to add to your week? From garden inspiration and public art to live music, treasure hunting and family fun, here are seven local happenings worth putting on your calendar.
Tuesday, August 18 | 6–8 p.m.
The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg
Tired of watching deer treat your garden like a buffet? Learn how to create a beautiful landscape using native plants that deer tend to avoid while still supporting birds, pollinators and other wildlife. Led by 577 horticulturist Bennett O. Dowling, this adult class includes practical planting tips and a garden-design activity.
The class is $30, and registration closes at noon on Tuesday, August 18.
Wednesday and Thursday, August 19–20 | 4–9 p.m.
Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo
Enjoy a summer evening at the Zoo with extended hours and half-price admission available from 4–8 p.m. Explore open exhibits, ride the train or carousel, cool off at the splash pads and visit the Aquarium touch tank.
Thursday evening includes a special hippo watermelon toss at 6:30 p.m.—an especially fun reason to make this week’s visit after hours.
Thursday, August 20 | 4 p.m.
Bowling Green City Administration Building, 305 N. Main St., Bowling Green
Be among the first to see “Harmony,” a new sculpture by Bowling Green artist Ian Dawson. The public opening will include remarks from Dawson, the mayor and a representative of the Bowling Green Arts Council. The sculpture was funded by the Wolfe Foundation in partnership with the Arts Council.
Thursday, August 20 | 6–7:30 p.m.
Sunshine Communities, 7223 Maumee Western Road, Maumee
Nikki D and the Sisters of Thunder bring their energetic mix of blues, soul, rock, R&B and gospel to the Sounds of Sunshine Concert Series. This free outdoor concert is open to everyone—bring a lawn chair and enjoy an evening of powerful music and great company.
View Sunshine Communities’ event information
Saturday, August 22 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
The Summer Kitchen Girls, 4702 W. US Highway 6, Helena
It’s one of the Summer Kitchen Girls’ biggest shopping days of the year! Browse the tent for special finds and some of their best deals of the season. Fans of the shop know this sale is worth the drive, so arrive ready to treasure hunt. No early shopping.
View the Summer Kitchen Annual Tent Sale
Saturday, August 22 | 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo
Celebrate the little creatures that creep, crawl, float and flutter. BUGfest features live insect encounters, cockroach races, bug-themed games and crafts, cricket-flour cookie making, keeper talks and special animal feedings throughout the day. Activities are included with Zoo admission and free for members.
Explore the complete BUGfest schedule
Entries and voting close Sunday, August 23, at 9 p.m.
Online fundraiser benefiting Humane Ohio
Think your pet has star power? Enter a favorite photo in Humane Ohio’s Pints for Pets contest for the chance to see your furry—or feathered—friend featured on a limited-edition Maumee Bay Brewing Company beer can and local billboards. Entries are $10, and votes are $1 each, with proceeds supporting Humane Ohio’s affordable spay-and-neuter programs.
Enter or vote in Pints for Pets
Whether your ideal week includes discovering a new local artist, dancing outdoors, finding a great deal or cheering on Toledo’s smallest creatures, there’s something happening nearby to help you make the most of late summer.
Dates and event details may change. Please confirm current information with the event host before attending.