America250-Ohio Programs & Events

Garden City Dreams: Shaker Heights and the Van Sweringens

NEW DATE: January 22, 2026 | 7-8:30pm | Shaker Library | REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Due to inclement weather, this program has been rescheduled to January 22 from its original date of January 15. Current registrations will still be valid for the rescheduled program.

Join Makialani Kanewa-Mariano, Education & Outreach Manager at the Shaker Historical Society, on January 22 to explore how the innovative Garden City Movement inspired the Van Sweringen brothers to develop Shaker Heights, Ohio’s first planned garden style suburb. Discover how their vision blended nature, architecture, and modern infrastructure into a model of early 20th-century community design that continues to be studied, admired, and celebrated today.

Presented in partnership with the Shaker Heights Public Library, this talk will be held on January 22, 2026 from 7:00-8:30pm in the Shaker Library’s Boulevard and Fernway rooms as part of the America250-Ohio celebration of Ohio’s Firsts and Originals. This is a free event, but registration is required: givebutter.com/gardencitydreams

The History of Shaker Square: Innovative Planning and Community-Centered Design

February 12, 2026 | 7-8:30pm | Shaker Library | REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Join historian Virginia Dawson to discover how Shaker Square emerged as an innovative business district that combined visionary urban planning, modern retail concepts, and community-centered design. Tania Menesse, President and CEO of Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, will also speak on the commercial development of Shaker Square, offering insight into its economic vision and evolution. Learn how this landmark development reflected Ohio’s spirit of enterprise and continues to serve as a model of thoughtful commercial innovation nearly a century later.

Presented in partnership with the Shaker Heights Public Library, this talk will be held on February 12, 2026 from 7:00-8:30pm in the Shaker Library’s Boulevard and Fernway rooms as part of the America250-Ohio celebration of Ohio Works: Innovation, Business, and Work. This is a free event, but registration is required: givebutter.com/ShakerSquareHistory

Best in Show Screening

March 29, 2026 | 1:30-3:30pm | Cedar Lee Theatre, 2163 Lee Rd | TICKETS REQUIRED

Celebrate Shaker Heights native Fred Willard with a free community screening of Best in Show (2000), the beloved mockumentary that perfectly showcases his legendary improvisation and impeccable comedic timing. A 10-15 minute introduction will reflect on Willard’s life, career, and enduring legacy in American comedy. From his Ohio roots to his unforgettable performances on stage, television, and film, Willard’s work exemplifies the warmth, wit, and quick-thinking humor that made him a standout among his peers.

In the spirit of celebration, a themed cocktail inspired by the film will be available for purchase.

This free screening at the Cedar Lee Theatre is presented as part of the statewide America250-Ohio celebration of Ohio Entertains: Music & Entertainment, honoring the many Ohioans who have left their mark on the performing arts. Join us for an afternoon of laughter, local pride, and cinematic comedy at its finest.

Best in Show is rated PG-13. Parental guidance is suggested.

Historic Homes Tour: How Transportation Shaped the Heights

April 19, 2026 | Two Sessions: 10am & 12pm | $130/member, $160/non-member | TICKETS REQUIRED

As part of the America250-Ohio celebration of Ohio Transportation, the 2026 Historic Homes Tour, in partnership with the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, will explore how rapid transit shaped the growth and character of Shaker and Cleveland Heights. Following a presentation and light brunch, guests will enjoy a trolley tour of Shaker Heights homes located along or near the city’s historic rapid transit routes.

Registration required. $160 for non-members, $130 for members at the Individual Level and above. Storm/weather date: April 26.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Culture, Writing, Identity: A Conversation with Melody Chu and Margaret Wong

May 5, 2026 | 7-8:30pm | Shaker Library | REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 24

Join Shaker Library and the Shaker Historical Society for an engaging conversation about the writing process, the Chinese American community of Cleveland, the state of U.S. immigration policy, living in Shaker, and more!

Shaker residents and longtime family friends Melody Chu, author of Mathey Girls, and renowned immigration attorney Margaret Wong, author of The Immigrant's Way, will speak at Shaker Main Library about writing, friendship, identity, and culture. Books will be available for sale and signing.

Presented as part of the America 250-Ohio celebration of Ohio Arts, Culture & Literature, and recognizing May as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Doan Brook Gorge Hike

SAVE THE DATE: June 13, 2026

Join Shaker Historical Society and Doan Brook Watershed Partnership on a hike through the Doan Brook Gorge to learn about the ecology and history of this unique area. This hike is presented as part of the America250-Ohio celebration of Ohio Outdoors: Exploring Ohio's Natural Resources.

United by Lee Community Picnic

SAVE THE DATE: July 19, 2026

Browns Memorabilia Exhibition Opening

DETAILS TBA