The annual Tri-C JazzFest returns to Cleveland this weekend, marking its 45th anniversary at Playhouse Square. This year’s event features a number of Grammy Award-winning vocalists and musicians, including Take 6, Jason Moran and The Bandwagon and Cécile McLorin Salvant, just to name a few who will be performing this weekend. 

“The core truth of jazz music is that it always swings,” said Terri Pontremoli, director of Tri-C JazzFest. “That’s the theme for this year’s event.” 

She said each year the festival draws tens of thousands of people downtown for a three-day concert experience. It’s also the perfect opportunity for attendees to discover new music. 

45th Annual Tri-C JazzFest (June 21-22) : 

The weekend-long party begins at 5 p.m. this Friday and provides Clevelanders the opportunity to listen to local and regional jazz artists with free outdoor concerts. For more information or tickets, visit the event’s website. 

Ohio Scottish Games & Celtic Festival (June 21-22)

The Ohio Scottish Games & Celtic Festival will take place at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Middleburg Heights starting at 5 p.m. This year’s event will have a live competitive jousting tournament with the troupe The Knights of Valour. Other activities include Friday’s Calling of the Clans event, a Scottish tradition of uniting before kicking off a competitive event. There’s also Saturday’s Grande Parade and Twilight Tattoo event. For more information, visit the event website. 

New Ground Theatre Festival (June 22)

Every year, the Cleveland Play House celebrates the art of the playwright by inviting actors, directors and audience members to participate in workshops and readings of new plays. Participants can offer suggestions to visiting playwrights as they work on script development. This Saturday, June 22, is your last chance to offer feedback on “Standardized Patient,” by playwright Phillip Christan Smith, and “The Unexpected 3rd,” by playwright Kathyrn Grody. For more information, visit the theater’s website.