City of Akron to host 10th Annual Blue Heron Homecoming Festival

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The City of Akron is delighted to host its 9th annual Blue Heron Homecoming on Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 10 AM to 2 PM at the The Mustill Store and surrounding park, located at 57 W. North Street, Akron. This free, family-friendly event will be a day of education and fun for residents of all ages. The zero-waste event will take place rain or shine.

The Blue Heron Homecoming is an annual environmental festival that provides community members with a chance to learn about the Akron Waterways Renewed! (AWR!) program. The festival features representatives from the City of Akron, firms involved with the AWR! program, and community partners, including local non-profits and environmental groups. This year’s theme is “Where Does Your Water Shed?”

Highlights of the event include the following:

  • free seedlings;

  • multiple chances to win a rain barrel;

  • tours of the Ohio Canal Interceptor Tunnel and the Howard Basin;

  • free lunch provided by The Ice Bucket;

  • two dozen exhibits with fun activities; and

  • live music for kids and adults

The Blue Heron Homecoming festival started in 2015 and is named for the great blue herons that nest nearby. This four-foot-tall bird is native to Ohio and was in serious decline due to the poor water quality of the Cuyahoga River. Since efforts have been made to improve water quality, the great blue heron has returned to the area, and is commonly seen along the Towpath Trail, Ohio & Erie Canal, Cuyahoga River, and Little Cuyahoga River. This year’s homecoming is all about Watershed Education with hands on exhibits.

There is no public parking on site so parking locations will be clearly marked at: St. Vincent St. Mary Highschool (15 N Maple Street) and the Northside Station (27 Ridge St, Akron). Shuttles will run in continuous loops to transport guests to and from the entrance back to both parking locations.

Please note: the festival is outside therefore please use the below precautions:

  • Wear sunscreen and closed-toe shoes;
  • Be prepared to do plenty of walking if enjoying one of the tours;
  • The festival will be rain or shine so be prepared for unexpected rain;
  • Be aware of traffic crossing North Street and listen to the officer directing traffic.