There's So Much To Discover In These Exuberant Gardens In Cleveland
By Nikki Rhoades|Published April 05, 2019
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
While Cleveland is beautiful in every season, the warmer months are particularly beloved by locals. As the landscape is infused with new life and vitality, we are drawn to places seeped in natural splendor. One of the most vibrant parks in the entire city is Rockefeller Park, a plot of land donated by John D. Rockefeller himself in 1886. The land he provided connected Lake Erie to Shaker Heights via a chain of public parks, shaped by public roadways and the path of the mostly-underground Doan Brook. At the heart of his park is an incredible assortment of cultural gems, and they truly come to life in a magical way during the spring and summer months.
The Cultural Gardens add a bit of flair to an otherwise ordinary park, attracting visitors from all around the world.
More than 30 lovely gardens line the expanse of Rockefeller Park, each commemorating a unique culture. Infused with architectural elements and landscaped with unique plants, this fun destination is unlike anywhere else in the world.
As the weather warms up and the landscape begins to bloom, locals flock to these gardens for an unforgettable day in the sun.
Each trip to the gardens is unique, as each one contains different plant species that bloom at different times. And, of course, the amazing events hosted during the warmer months captivate audiences for hours on end.
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This year, one of the first events of the spring season is the Earth Day Clean-Up.
On May 11, locals prepare for a season of fun by carefully tending to the many gardens in this ever-evolving park. Volunteers are welcome to join in on the efforts, and they'll doubtlessly be treated to some stunning scenery while they work.
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On June 15, the African American Garden will be abuzz with excitement for the annual Juneteenth celebration.
Juneteenth is a holiday that celebrates the day that news of Civil War General Robert E. Lee's surrender reached Texas. The news of his surrender was followed by the announcement of the abolition of slavery on June 19, 1865. Today, the holiday has grown to symbolize a celebration of the abolition of slavery throughout the entire nation. It is often honored with a reading of the Emancipation Proclamation, as well as gatherings to enjoy cookouts and music.
On June 23, an incredible Liszt concert will be presented in the Hungarian Garden.
Pécs is an ancient city in Hungary with roots that date back to Roman times. The city, like the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, was a mishmash of multi-ethnic influences.
Summer will hit a high note on July 28 with the annual opera performance in the Italian Garden.
One World Day has been celebrated in the Cultural Gardens for decades, and locals have made this annual festivity into a beloved family tradition. Performances, parades, and hands-on activities allow visitors to travel the entire world without ever leaving Cleveland.
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The One World Day event first kicked off in 1945, making this year the 74th annual celebration.
This free event is one you won't want to miss. East Blvd. and MLK Blvd. overflow with excitement during this festival, and you won't be able to resist joining in on the fun.
In the summer months, locals know that some of Cleveland's most vibrant outdoor scenery can be found in the Cultural Gardens.
While celebration season slows down after One World Day, there’s never a bad time to visit this eclectic collection of gardens right here in Cleveland. As summer fades into fall, the beauty changes, but never fades.
You'll adore exploring the entire world without ever leaving Cleveland.
