The streets of the University Park neighborhood will come to life with a magical display of lantern lights, music, dance, performance art, food and fun on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 6 to 10 p.m., Presented by the University Park Business Association (UPBA) in cooperation with Leandra Drumm Designs Inc., this family-friendly event is free and open to the public.
Festivities will begin at 6 p.m. at Don Drumm Studios and Gallery, 437 Crouse St., Akron, with an exhibition by installation artists Dan Coffield and Kevin Smalley. A lantern procession will then wind its way through the streets of University Park to find music including bagpipes and an authentic hurdy gurdy, visual and theatrical performances, dance performances featuring renowned artist Lisa Lock, a stilt walker, free henna tattoos and many more talented artists, musicians and dancers. Lantern-making workshops have been held through University Park and on The University of Akron campus in preparation for this event. Crazy outfits and lanterns are encouraged!
In addition to UPBA and Leandra Drumm Designs as presenting sponsors, the “Light UP” Lantern
Festival in University Park is supported by premier sponsors University Park Alliance, Don Drumm Studios & Gallery, Summa Foundation, University Park Development Corporation, Immix Studio and WAPS 91.3 the Summit, and friend of the arts sponsor s Akron Children’s Hospital and The Akron Cooperative.
For details about the event and directions for making your own lantern, visit www.lightuplantern.com or e-mail info@lightuplantern.com.
UPBA works on behalf of University Park’s local business community, including property owners and developers, retail, service, medical and manufacturing, Summa Health System and The University of Akron. Signature events such as this help UPBA showcase University Park as a diverse urban neighborhood for those who want to pursue an active life of culture and community.