SOLON, Ohio -- Inflatables, hands-on crafts and a sensory-friendly performance of “Peter and the Wolf” will fill the Solon Community Center as the city debuts its new Family Fun Fest.
The free event -- hosted by Solon Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation in collaboration with Solon O.P.E.N. and the Solon Community Band -- is designed to create a welcoming space where children of all abilities can play, explore and experience live music together.
Family Fun Fest will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. March 15 at the Solon Community Center, 35000 Portz Parkway.
Activities begin at 1 p.m., with the Solon Community Band’s sensory-friendly concert scheduled from 3 to 4 p.m.
Brianne Sumser, adaptive and inclusive coordinator for the Solon Recreation Department, said the festival reflects the city’s long-standing commitment to accessible recreation.
“The City of Solon has long been committed to ensuring that recreation is accessible to everyone, regardless of ability,” Sumser said.
“Our Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation (AIR) program -- formerly known as ‘Blue Ribbon’ before its rebranding several years ago -- provides year-round opportunities designed to be welcoming and accessible to individuals of all abilities.
“Through AIR, we strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued, empowered and supported in pursuing their recreational interests.
“By promoting inclusivity and celebrating diversity, we foster a culture of acceptance and belonging that strengthens our entire community.
“Family Fun Fest is a natural extension of that mission -- bringing families together in a space intentionally designed for connection, accessibility and shared experiences.”
Organizers said accessibility considerations shaped the event from the start.
Sumser said the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities will bring its Assistive Technology Vehicle to serve as a designated sensory-friendly space for individuals and families who may need a quieter area away from the excitement.
“Accessibility and thoughtful planning have been at the forefront of this event,” she said.
A second quiet space will also be available inside the Kid Zone, Sumser said, and families will have access to a universal changing table in the family locker room, as well as sensory headphones available to borrow during the event.
More than 25 organizations from across Northeast Ohio will participate, offering information and resources to families.
The afternoon will feature crafts, inflatables, a photo booth, a balloon artist, musical exploration through Instrument Alley and inclusive sports demonstrations by Empower Sports.
The event will conclude with the Solon Community Band’s sensory-friendly performance.
The idea to pair a festival atmosphere with a sensory-friendly concert began through conversations with Solon O.P.E.N.
“While the City of Solon has hosted similar events in the past, we wanted to reintroduce Family Fun Fest in 2026 in a bigger and more impactful way,” Sumser said.
“Halfway through the year, when we were just starting to put ideas together for Family Fun Fest, Joanna Innes from Solon O.P.E.N. approached us with the idea of offering a sensory-friendly band concert for families in and around Solon.
“That conversation sparked a collaborative effort,” she said.
“Working alongside Solon O.P.E.N., the Solon Community Band, the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Empower Sports and other partners, we were able to create a reimagined event centered on inclusion and accessibility.
“This event truly would not have been possible without the dedication, collaboration and behind-the-scenes efforts of these organizations working alongside the city.”
Looking ahead, Sumser said the city plans to continue expanding inclusive offerings through the AIR program.
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