WOW! Wade Oval Wednesdays Returns to University Circle for its 20th Anniversary!

For 20 years, Wade Oval has been the heartbeat of Cleveland summers. This year, University Circle Inc. (UCI) celebrates that milestone as WOW! Wade Oval Wednesdays returns for its 20th Anniversary Season, bringing free live music, community, and celebration back to University Circle from June 17 through August 19, every Wednesday evening from 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Jump To: June 17 June 24 July 1 July 8 July 15 July 22 July 29 August 5 August 12 August 19

2026 Headliner Lineup

June 17– Councilman Conwell & The Footprints (Jazz)

Led by Councilman Kevin Conwell, this dynamic ensemble weaves Jazz, Neo Soul, Funk, and R&B into a rich sonic tapestry, delivering infectious grooves and danceable rhythms that will have you on your feet.

The Cleveland Botanical Garden's Kohl Gate will be open allowing free access to the garden.

• Opening Performances: Line Dance is My Therapy (5:30 PM)
• Roaming Entertainment: Hula Hoops with Gerri

Food Vendors:

• Kernal's by Chrissie
• Deal's Fresh Lemonade
• Cleveland Cotton Candy Machines
• Juicy Vegan
• Okra & Honey Bakery Café
• Cle Sweet Cycle
• The Original Hot Dog Factory
• Freaky Fruits
• Zanzibar
• Blasian Fusion
• Barrio
• Delish Mobile Kitchen
• Bo's Smokey Sticks
• Thai it Up
• Feeling Good Ice Cream

Onsite Partners & Sponsors:

• Cuyahoga Community College
• Advantage Cleveland Tennis and Education
• Cleveland Botanical Garden
• 93.1 - WZAK

June 24 – Apostle Jones (Soul/Covers)

Inspired by a collective influence of rock, R’n’B, blues, gospel, and funk, Apostle Jones soars with original music and a contagious joy for their hometown Cleveland, OH. Apostle Jones is lead by Mikey Silas (singer, songwriter), Bria Miller (singer), Michael Haburay (guitar), Sebastain Mango (bass), Rashon Blake (drums) and features members Owen Brodhead (keys), Jinari Kemet (guitar/bass), Charlie Wilson (tenor sax) and Eric Levine (trumpet).

• LGBTQ Pride Night Partnered with Plexus LGBT + Allied Chamber of Commerce
• Opening Performances: Lip Sync Performances
• Roaming Entertainment: Pickup Stix Stilt Walking, Hula Hoops with Gerri

Food Vendors:

• Kernels by Chrissie
• Deal's Fresh Lemonade
• Deal's TacosThe Luxe CaféCorner 11
• CLE COTTON CANDY
• Carhops Diner Dogs
• Freaky Fruits
• Squash the Beef
• Bubble Time
• Smokin Babes
• Sig Tacos
• Jackpot Chicken
• Sundae Skool Bus

Onsite Partners & Sponsors:

• Cuyahoga Community College
• Plexus LGBT + Allied Chamber of Commerce

July 1 – Carlos Jones (+) (Reggae)

THIS EVENT IS CANCELED DUE AN EXTREME HEAT WARNING!

Carlos has been entertaining audiences for over 35 years and now has a solo career with his current group – the Peace, Love, Unity Syndicate (aka “The P.L.U.S. Band”). Choosing to focus on bringing a positive message with his music, Carlos has continued to win a diverse group of new fans everywhere he plays. With headline performances around the world, Carlos Jones and the P.L.U.S. Band will be rockin' the house with their unique brand of high energy "put yer dancin' shoes on" reggae.

• Opener: Nasir Wilson & The Afrofunk Revolution
• Roaming Entertainment: Hula Hoops with Gerri

Food Vendors:

• Kernels by Chrissie
• Deal's Fresh Lemonade
• Cleveland Cotton Candy Machines
• Carter's BBQ
• Juicy Vegan
• Moose's Tornado Potatoes
• The Original Hot Dog Factory
• Rooster Kitchen
• Empanada Errthing
• Cheesy Dave's
• Cle Fish & Seafood
• Jackpot Chicken
• The Twisted Jerk
• Fried
• Feeling Good Ice Cream

Onsite Partners & Sponsors:

• Cuyahoga Community College
• Department of Public Utilities
• University Circle, Inc. - Summer Intern Tent - Free Bracelet Making
• Calhoun Funeral Home

July 8 – 1o1ón (Latin Rap)

1o1ón is a rising force in hip-hop, delivering an electrifying blend of melodic rap, raw emotion, and undeniable energy. Fusing bilingual influences with powerful storytelling, his sound captures real-life experiences, resilience, and growth over immersive, hard-hitting production. Known for commanding the stage and connecting with every crowd, 1o1ón brings a performance that’s equal parts passion, intensity, and vibe—setting the tone for an unforgettable night

• Opener: Prince Ish
• Roaming Entertainment: Hula Hoops with Gerri

Food Vendors:

• Kernels by Chrissie
• Deal's Fresh Lemonade
• Sweet Doughlights (tent/cart)
• Kochi Flava Factory (trailer)
• The Original Hot Dog Factory (trailer)
• Blasian Fusion
• The Food Factory FT
• Delish
• Zanzibar
• Bubble Time
• Cheesy Dave's
• Signature Slush and Cream

Onsite Partners & Sponsors:

• Cuyahoga Community College
• Advantage Cleveland Tennis and Education
• Cleveland Public Library

July 15 – Old Skool (Covers)

Cleveland’s own Old Skool brings a high-energy, nonstop party to the stage, blending the best of ’80s and ’90s hip-hop, R&B, pop, rock, and funk. Known for their dynamic performances and crowd-moving medleys, they deliver a throwback experience that will keep you dancing all night long.

The Cleveland Botanical Garden's Kohl Gate will be open allowing free access to the garden.

• Disability Pride Night Partnered with Northeast Ohio Coalition of Disability Organizations - participate in art and advocacy activities beginning at 4:00 p.m.
• Opening Performances: Dancing Wheels and Community Sign Choir
• Roaming Entertainment: Pickup Stix Stilt Walking, Hula Hoops with Gerri

Accessibility Services:

• ASL Interpretation
• Wheelchair charging stations
• Wheelchair accessible restrooms
• Universal Changing Table

Onsite Sponsors & Partners:

• Cuyahoga Community College
• Northeast Ohio Coalition of Disability Organizations
• Cleveland Botanical Garden
• 93.1 WZAK

Food Vendors:

• Kernels by Chrissie
• Deal's Fresh Lemonade
• Cleveland Cotton Candy Machines
• Cle Sweet Cycle (bike/tent)
• Carter's BBQ (trailer)
• Rooster Kitchen (trailer)
• Carhops Diner Dogs (trailer)
• The Food Depot
• Fried
• Barrio
• Yum Village
• Soul City BBQ
• Kona Ice

July 22 – Hubb's Groove (Soul Funk R&B)

Cleveland turns 230 and we're celebrating in style! Led by drummer Robert Hubbard Jr., Hubb’s Groove is a Cleveland-based all-star band blending soul, jazz, R&B, and gospel into a smooth yet high-energy sound. Known for playing straight from the heart, they’ve earned honors like Band of the Year (2019) and Best Jazz Band by the Cleveland Music Awards (2022), and have shared the stage with icons like Earth, Wind & Fire, Najee, and Gerald Albright.

• Opener: Black Voltron
• Roaming Entertainment: Pickup Stix Stilt Walking, hula hoops with Gerri

Onsite Sponsors & Partners:

• Calhoun Funeral Home
• Cleveland Public Library
• Cuyahoga Community College
• Desination Cleveland
• Department of Public Utilities

Food Vendors:

• Kernels by Chrissie
• Deal's Fresh Lemonade
• Deal's Tacos
• CLE COTTON CANDY
• The Original Hot Dog Factory (trailer)
• Kochi Flava Factory (trailer)
• Moose's Tornado Potatoes (trailer)
• Bo's Smokey Sticks
• Squash the Beef
• Cle Fish & Seafood
• Jackpot Chicken
• Kind Tapas and Creations
• Soul City BBQ
• Signature Slush and Cream

July 29 – Kor4 feat. K. Shanea (hip hop, soul, DC gogo)

K. Shanéa & Kor4 Band is a popular R&B and Go-Go musical collaboration based in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) area. They are well-known for their residency at Piano Keys Restaurant & Lounge, where they headline weekly "Dinner Theater" performances

• Opener: Free Black!
• Roaming Entertainment: Hula Hoops with Gerri

Onsite Partners & Sponsors:

• Cuyahoga Community College
• Department of Public Utilities

Food Vendors:

• Kernels by Chrissie
• Deal's Fresh Lemonade
• Cleveland Cotton Candy Machines
• The Luxe Café
• Juicy Vegan
• The Original Hot Dog Factory (trailer)
• Zanzibar
• Cheesy Dave's
• Fried
• SIG Tacos
• Grateful Grub
• The Food Factory FT
• Sundae Skool Bus

August 5– Son Gitano (Latin Fusion Orchestra)

Son Gitano, a vibrando and impassioned Latino Band, ignites stages with their fusion of traditional Latino Rhythms and contemporary musical styles.

• International Night in Partnership with the Cleveland Cultural Gardens
• Openers: Black Beanz
• Roaming Entertainment: Pickup Stix Stilt Walking, Hula Hoops with Gerri

Food Vendors:

• Kernels by Chrissie
• Deal's Fresh Lemonade
• Okra and Honey Bakery Café
• Corner 11 Bowl and Wrap
• CLE COTTON CANDY
• Kochi Flava Factory (trailer)
• Bubble Time Mobile Kitchen (truck)
• Sweet Doughlights (tent)
• Yum Village
• Empanada Errthang
• Rooster Kitchen
• Thai It Up
• Kona Ice
• Kind Tapas
• The Eccentric Panda (truck)
• Falafel Café (tent)

Onsite Partners & Sponsors:

• Cuyahoga Community College
• Cleveland Cultural Gardens
• Calhoun Funeral Home
• Cleveland Neighborhood Progress

August 12 – Quenton Rubin Band (Funk/Rock/Blues)

Quenton “Que” Rubin is a world class guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer from Cleveland, Ohio, who blends the best of funk, rock and soul.

At age 19, Que made the bold decision to leave Berklee College of Music to pursue his dream of landing a record deal and arrived in NYC with seven dollars in his wallet This gutsy move led to him performing with a range of artists from two-time Grammy-nominated and AMA-winning R&B artist Al B. Sure on the 1988 Heartbreak Tour with New Edition and Bobby Brown, to collaborating with Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner, George Clinton and the P-Funk All Stars on the Que & Malaika HipRocSoul project in 2004. Que’s career has been a series of significant milestones, from playing with Levert, Meli’sa Morgan and Keith Sweat, working with Brenda K. Starr, and signing his first record deal when he became a member of the R & B group EnTouch.

Since 2025, Que has continued to ignite the stage with his own band, The Quenton Rubin Band, bringing a new wave of irresistible grooves and soulful funk. With each phase, Que has pushed the boundaries of his artistry, leaving a legacy of innovation and passion in the world of music.

Special Activation by the Garden Club of Cleveland. This Wednesday, we'll have a Flower Flash popping up, featuring dried florals and tropical foliage arranged into a botanical structure inspired by the beauty of the season. While you're there, be sure to pick up a FREE fresh floral bundle to take home. Available while supplies last!

• Opener: Herb Wilborn Jr.
• Roaming Entertainment: Hula Hoops with Gerri

Food Vendors:

• Kernels by Chrissie
• Deal's Fresh Lemonade
• Cleveland Cotton Candy Machines
• Moose's Tornado Potatoes
• Carter's BBQ
• Delish
• Fried
• Empanada Errthang
• SIG Tacos
• The Eccentric Panda
• The Food Depot
• Feeling Good Ice Cream

Onsite Partners & Sponsors:

• Cuayhoga Community College
• Cleveland Public Library
• Department of Public Utilities
• Garden Club of Cleveland

August 19 – Da Land Brass Band (Jazz/Funk/Hip-Hop)

Da Land Brass Band is an energetic, Cleveland-based ensemble known for blending the traditional New Orleans street band sound with modern funk. Formed in 2016, they are often described as "Cleveland's own hype band" and are recognized for their bombastic, high-energy live performances that encourage audience participation.

• Opener: Nasir Wilson & The Afrofunk Revolution
• Roaming Entertainment: Pickup Stix Stilt Walking & Hula Hoops with Gerri

Food Vendors:

• Deal's Fresh Lemonade
• CLE COTTON CANDY
• Okra and Honey Bakery Cafe
• The Luxe Café
• Fried
• Barrio
• Jackpot Chicken
• Grateful Grub
• Smokin Babes
• The Twisted Jerk
• The Food Factory FT
• Cle Fish and Seafood
• Feeling Good

Onsite Partners & Sponsors:

• Cuyahoga Community College
• Calhoun Funeral Home
• Rekindle/NAACP
• Creative Ohio
• Department of Public Utilities

For the comfort and safety of our guests

• Do not set up tents. We understand wanting some shade, but it blocks the view of the stage and is a potential safety hazard in windy conditions.
• No outside alcohol is permitted.
• No open flames or charcoal grills.
• If you need to smoke, please move to the outer portion of Wade Oval.

Weather and photography notices

WOW! is a rain or shine event. If the weather becomes unsafe, we will update this website and post on social media if we cancel the event.

Photography and/or videos are taken during events for promotional use. Please click here to read our disclaimer

Plan your trip to Wade Oval Wednesdays. Visit riderta.com or ugointhecircle.com for information on busing, rapid transit, and parking.

Though there will be plenty of parking in and around University Circle garages and along streets, we highly encourage alternate methods of transportation.

By Car

University Circle is easily accessible by car from all directions. For driving directions to our University Circle Visitor Center use Google Maps to map your own route. Before you leave, check our Map for available parking locations and our Transportation Alerts Page.

Accessible Parking

There will be bagged meters along Wade Oval Drive in front of the North entrance of The Cleveland Museum of Art for handicap parking.

By Public Transit

Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates six (6) bus routes, plus the Euclid Avenue Health Line (bus rapid transit) and the Red Line (heavy rail) routes to and through the district. Use the Transit app for real-time bus and train info on the go and to purchase your ticket.

By Bike

Cleveland is a Bicycle Friendly Community and getting to and around University Circle by bicycle is getting easier every year. Don't have your own bike? Use a shared e-scooter or e-bike provided by one of the participating companies in the City of Cleveland’s shared mobility program. Before you ride, consult this helpful guide from Bike Cleveland and this network map of cycling routes in the area, provided by the Heights Bicycle Coalition. View recommended bike routes to University Circle on uGO’s biking page.

The BlueLink connects Wade Oval, Uptown, Little Italy, Coventry and provides access to the Little Italy - University Circle Rapid Station. BlueLink shuttles arrive every 30 minutes 6:30am - 6:00pm (Mon-Fri).

The GreenLink connects the Cedar-University Circle Rapid Station to the University Hospitals and CWRU campuses. GreenLink service runs on a continuous loop between CWRU North and South campuses, with arrivals approximately every 30 minutes during operating hours and 20-minute peak service (Mon-Fri) between 6:30am - 10:00am and 4:00pm - 6:30pm.

Click here to view CircleLink schedule and route information.