Akron Children's Museum: A 2026 Program Recap
A family donating new books to the MLK Jr. Day book drive,
Your name, organization, or business as you would like it to appear when we celebrate you!:
Akron Children's Museum
Which Akron/Summit Cultural Plan priorities does this work help advance? Please select no more than two.:
#2: Access, #3: Education
Tell us what happened and why it matters. In 200 to 400 words, share an overview of the project, accomplishment, partnership, milestone, or impact you would like us to celebrate. What did you do? Who participated or benefited? What changed, became possible, or was learned? Please include any results, numbers, or memorable moments that help bring the story to life.:
In 2026, Akron Children’s Museum has been incredibly fortunate to partner with community sponsors who make free programming and admission days possible for families across our region. These partnerships ensure that every child has access to hands-on learning, creative exploration, and meaningful play, regardless of financial barriers.
We began the year with InventHERS (February–March 2026), a free four-week workshop for middle school girls across Akron and Summit County. With support from The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, 35 participants explored engineering through team-based design challenges, building confidence and interest in STEM fields.
On January 19, 2026, we hosted our Martin Luther King Jr. Free Community Day, sponsored by Community Action Akron Summit. This special day honored Dr. King’s vision of service, equity, and opportunity for all through hands-on activities and a community-wide book drive benefiting Akron Public Schools students. By removing barriers to access, families learned, played, and gave back together. We proudly served 651 guests.
On June 6, 2026, Polymer Palooza brought science to life in partnership with the Greater Akron Chamber, Polymer Industry Cluster, the City of Akron, and Lock3. Families explored interactive exhibits and connected with local experts, serving 258 guests inside the Museum and more than 600 total attendees throughout the event.
We continued with Grandparents Day on September 13, 2026, offering free admission for all, thanks to the Robert O. & AnnaMae Orr Family Foundation. Families celebrated the important role grandparents play through hands-on activities centered on growth and nurturing. With early access for members and a full day of programming, we welcomed 555 visitors to honor these meaningful connections.
Finally, Free Fall Fun Day on October 17, 2026, sponsored by the H. Peter Burg Family Foundation, invites families to enjoy pumpkin science, leaf art, and seasonal play experiences. This festive day of learning through play is expected to serve between 500-600 guests and will create lasting memories for families throughout our community.
These programs are more than just days on the calendar, they represent access, opportunity, and impact. Because of our sponsors, we can open our doors to every child, ensuring that play, imagination, and discovery are never limited by cost. These experiences are not extras; they are essential. Every child deserves a safe, inspiring place to explore who they are, imagine who they can become, and feel that they matter.
Website : www.akronkids.org
Where in Summit County did this work take place, or which communities did it serve?:
It occurred in Akron, but we serve Summit and surrounding counties. As well as out of town guests visiting the area.
