Celebrate Hudson!

Issue #10: August 18, 2026

Celebrate Hudson! is a free monthly email newsletter produced as a community service by Hudson Community Foundation and Destination Hudson (both local independent non-profit organizations) to showcase some of the incredible community events hosted by an array of non-profit organizations in Hudson. Scroll down and enjoy. 

Take a guess at Hudson Trivia Question #3 for a chance to win a prize. It’s mid-way below in this email.

Peg’s Foundation and Gallery: Two Exhibits

Now through Saturday, September 5, 2026

25 Years of Impact:

Mondays through Wednesdays, 11am to 4pm: Thursdays through Saturdays, 11am to 7pm

Eighty-Six Reasons:

Fridays and Saturdays, 11am to 4pm

53 First Street, Hudson

Peg’s invites the community to experience two new exhibits. 25 Years of Impact explores the foundation’s history through stories, images and artifacts highlighting initiatives, partnerships and lasting community change. Concurrently, Eighty-Six Reasons for Asylum Admission: A Domestic Beginning by Ohio porcelain artist Kimberly Chapman examines the gendered history of women’s institutionalization. Free and open to the public, with parking available throughout downtown Hudson.

Hudson Society of Artists Program

Mondays, September 21, October 5 and October 19, 2026

7pm to 9pm

Barlow Community Center, 41 S. Oviatt St., Hudson

The Hudson Society of Artists is an organization of individuals interested in furthering artistic endeavors in northeast Ohio. Membership is open to artists of all ages and abilities, from professionals to beginners, as well as those interested in the arts but not necessarily artists themselves. Visitors are welcome at all meetings.

Upcoming meetings will feature:

September 21, 2026: Alexandria Joliat, photomontage

October 5, 2026: laser and collage artist Susan Yingling

October 19, 2026: sculptor Katina Radwanski

For more information at www.hudsonsocietyofartists.com

Hudson Trivia Question #2:

In the 1950s, what Hudson location was our region’s favorite site for a picnic, often attracting more than 2,000 picnickers on weekends?

(scroll to the end of this email for the answer)

Door 2 Art Studio – Open Studio

Every Wednesday

4pm to 8pm

5374 Darrow Rd, Hudson

Door 2 is a multi-faceted art studio in Hudson with professional artists on staff. Door 2 hosts community events, Open Studio, an Artist Speaker Series, Art Classes, Artist Forum and more. All activities are free and open to the public.   

Current offerings:

• Open Studio every Wednesday (beginning September 9) from 4pm to 8pm welcomes budding artists ages 14+. There are free materials and instructions in painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, and more.
• At monthly Artist Features, hear from a local artist or creative professional about his/her background and work. On Wednesday, September 23, at 6:30pm, the featured artist is Kim Kapera.
• Door 2 offers Studio Classes once each month from 5pm to 8pm on selected Wednesdays (doors open at 4pm). On September 30, Drawing with Ron White. October 21, Color Theory with Adriana Caso. All classes are free. No registration is required and all materials will be provided.
• Art Capture Lab on Saturday, October 14, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, helps artists capture their artwork with photography for better promotion. Studio space is set up and registered artists will be assigned a 20-minute time slot.

Door2 is now accepting submissions for its 2026 Art Show – October 8 through October 11, 2026. This is a juried show with cash prizes up to a $1,000 grand prize. Artists may submit up to two works this year and will be notified if they have been accepted after the jury process. The awards ceremony will be at 7pm on Friday, October 9, 2026. This year’s show will have a special themed category: Darkness to Light.

For more information, visit www.door2art.com

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Upcoming Events: Learning & Education

Hudson Library: Underground Railroad Walking Tour

Thursday, September 24, 2026

10am

Hudson Library & Historical Society, 96 Library St., Hudson

Join a walking tour of Hudson’s sites related to the Underground Railroad. Hudson, once called the “citadel of abolitionism,” was an active stop on the Underground Railroad and was the childhood home of abolitionist John Brown. Discover the homes, sites and people that played a significant role in the anti-slavery movement of pre-Civil War Hudson. All walking tours are weather dependent and meet at the entrance to the library. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Registration is required. Register at Library Events – HUDSON LIBRARY & HISTORICAL SOCIETY or call 330/653-6658.

Hudson Memorial Stair Climb

Friday, September 11, 2026

7:30am (arrival begins); 8am (opening ceremony)

Hudson Memorial Stadium (behind the high school), 2500 Hudson Aurora Rd., Hudson

Join the Hudson Military Veterans Commission and Hudson City School District in a 911 Stair Climb, a tribute to the 343 firefighters, law enforcement officers and EMS personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001. Participants will climb the equivalent of 110 stories, the height of the World Trade Center towers, to honor their bravery, dedication, and selflessness. Every step taken is a symbol of remembrance and a promise to never forget. Participant registration is open to the first 150 registrants (students are welcome).

Hudson Trivia Question #3:

What is the hottest temperature ever officially recorded for Hudson and the surrounding area?

(scroll to the end of this email to see how you can win a prize by guessing at the answer to this question)

Upcoming Events: Children's Activities

At the Hudson Library

Kids of all ages will enjoy these events at the Hudson Library & Historical Society, 96 Library St., Hudson. All are free and open to all. Registration is required for all events. To register, visit www.hudsonlibrary.org or call 330/653-6658.

Tea Towel Painting

Sunday, August 30, 2026

2pm



Make gifts to present on Grandparents Day (Sunday, September 13). Add some handprints, use stamps, pens or brushes and create something magical that you can give to those special mee-maws and papas in your life. All ages are welcome.  

Mini Makers

Fridays, September 11 and October 9

Both 10am and 11am (two different sessions each day)



Let creativity come to life with this process art opportunity for our smallest artists. Gather in the Teen Room for a story and some fun messy art. This event is geared towards children ages 1-3 with a grown up. Wear clothes that can get messy and bring your brightest ideas.

Hudson Trivia Question #4:

What familiar Hudson structure was built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in the 1930s?

(scroll to the end of this email for the answer)

Friends of Hudson Parks: Playground Palooza!

Friends of Hudson Parks’ 2026 Playground Palooza is underway and continues through Sept. 30.

Play on all seven playground areas, the splash pad at Veterans Way Park plus visit the Hudson Springs Park butterfly garden. Complete your Passport by finding that playground area’s symbol post and rubbing each symbol with a crayon or pencil into your Passport, with the date you visited there OR (if you forget your passport), take a photo, then have your child draw in the symbol when you get home.

Playground Palooza is open to children ages 2 through 12 years. Click here to download a Passport with the list and locations of the playgrounds. The first 100 participants to submit completed Passports by Sept. 30 win a free magnifying glass. Prizes can be claimed by turning in completed passports at Vertical Runner, 112 N Main St, Hudson.

New this year: Friends of Hudson Parks is partnering with Hudson Community First and Hudson Preschool Parents to create a “Children’s Guide to Hudson Parks.” Please help them by completing this short survey with your child.

Upcoming Events: Fun & Games

Hudson Farmers Market

Saturdays through October 10, 2026 (except for August 29, 2026)

9am to 12:30pm

Hudson Clocktower and Gazebo Greens

The Hudson Farmers Market is a collaborative effort dedicated to preserving the unique character of Hudson. Hudson Farmers Market is an independent nonprofit organization (not affiliated with or funded by the City of Hudson) managed entirely by civic-minded residents and volunteers. It began as a project of Leadership Hudson (Class of 2006-2007), a program sponsored by The Rotary Club of Hudson Clock Tower.

Opened in 2006, the market has grown to host more than 40 vendor tents, which represent businesses located within a 100-mile radius of Hudson. Learn more at www.hudsonohiofarmersmarket.org.

Note: there will be no Farmers Market on Saturday, August 29, during Art on the Green.

First & Main: Screen on the Green

Saturdays, August 22, September 6 and October 3, 2026

Beginning at dusk

August 22 -- Gazebo Green

September 6 & October 3 -- First & Main Green, downtown Hudson

First & Main’s Saturday night outdoor movies are free and open to everyone. On August 22, see Hook on the Gazebo Green. The showing of Hook will include a live Q&A at 7:45pm with two actors from the movie -- Dante Basco and Hudsonite James Madio.

On September 6, Night At The Museum will be showing. On October 3, it will be Hocus Pocus. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Movies will begin at dusk.

Hudson Trivia Question #5:

When did dial service become offered by Hudson’s telephone company?

(scroll to the end of this email for the answer)

Hudson Senior Network Classes and Events

Registration is open for wellness classes, page turners, social gatherings and special events hosted on two Wednesdays each month by Hudson Senior Network. Ways to Register:

• Online: Visit https://letstalk.hudson.oh.us/senior-activities for full details and to register.
• Direct Link:  3^rd Quarter Registration Form.
• By Phone: For events and classes at City Hall, call (234) 293-9983 and leave a message. A volunteer will return your call.

All Hudson Senior Network classes, social events, and special events are held in the City Hall Community Rooms, 1140 Terex Road, unless otherwise indicated. Coming up:

• August 26: Soft Landing Gardens (Snack & Refreshment). Sponsor: Laurel Lake
• September 9: The Real Elliot Ness (Lunch & Learn). Sponsor: Blossom Care Center
• September 23: Our Lower GI (Snack & Refreshment). Sponsor: Western Reserve Hospital



Also, Seniors are invited to play bocce at 2pm each Friday at Hudson Springs Park, weather permitting. If bocce cannot be played because of weather, gather at Barlow Community Center for board games from 2pm to 3:30pm on Fridays through October.

First & Main: Summer Music Nights



Grab your blankets and lawn chairs and head over to the First & Main Green to enjoy free concerts for the entire family. Join your neighbors for live music, dancing, raffles, and giveaways on most Friday and Saturday evenings from 7pm to 9pm. The final weekend of the summer includes The Good Knights on Friday, August 21 and Railshakers on Saturday, August 22. Visit www.firstandmainhudson.com for details and updates for inclement weather.

City of Hudson: Community Picinic

Sunday, September 6, 2026

5pm to 8pm

Clocktower and Gazebo Greens, downtown Hudson



Celebrate Hudson's America250 at this free, family-friendly community picnic – an evening of food, music and fun. Western Reserve Community Band provides the music. Food includes hotdogs and sausages for sale by the Rotary of Hudson Clocktower and food trucks. Also enjoy carnival games, inflatables, 360-photo booth and a pie-eating contest. Stick around afterwards for Screen on the Green movie at the First & Main Green at 8pm.

Case-Barlow Farm Fall Fest

Sunday, September 20, 2026

12noon to 5pm

Case-Barlow farm, 1931 Barlow Rd., Hudson

Case-Barlow Farm's annual Fall Harvest Fest offers activities for all ages, including hay rides, games and food. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad will transform the barn into a model railroad station with working trains and hands-on activities.

Children can dip a candle, wash clothes the old-fashioned way, churn butter, decorate pumpkins and make a craft to take home. They also can pet and feed small farm animals and climb a hay mountain.

Visitors can tour the farmhouse and see demonstrations of crafts. Music will be provided throughout the farm. Admission is $10 per adult and $8 per child, age 3-18. Children under age 2 are free. See complete details at www.casebarlow.com.

Hudson Trivia Question #6:

How many gas stations are located in Hudson?

(scroll to the end of this email for the answer)

Save the Date

The Hudson Players 82nd Season

The Hudson Players kicks off its 82^nd season in October. The 2026-2027 season includes three shows at Barlow Community Center, 41 S. Oviatt St.:

• A “musical that brings people together” (with a title to be revealed on September 5) runs from October 30 through November 21, 2026;
•  Mornings At Seven, a warm, character-driven family story about four sisters and their intertwined lives, runs from February 5 through February 27, 2027;
• You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown, a gentle, heartfelt musical celebrating vulnerability, optimism and the innocence of seeing the world with fresh eyes, runs from April 23 through May 15, 2027.

Season tickets for the entire three-show run are available for $36. Go to www.hudsonplayers.com

A Look Back to Recent Events

This enthusiastic lineup was part of the volunteer crew supporting the inaugural Destination Hudson Art & Wine event held on the Clocktower and Gazebo Greens on July 25, blending art, food, wine and community.

On Friday and Saturday nights throughout the summer, First & Main hosted free Summer Music Nights for large and enthusiastic audiences. This was the scene at the opening concert on July 10 by the Swizzle Stick Band.

Hudson Community Foundation sponsored a Family Philanthropy Workshop on July 22 as a small group setting for various generations of a family to discuss charitable giving aspirations, strategies and legacies. Look for a similar workshop later this year.

Hudson has a comprehensive Community Events Calendar!

Hudson Community Foundation has launched Hudson Happenings, a new, all-encompassing community events calendar created in partnership with Hudson City Schools, Hudson Library and the City of Hudson. This new calendar is one place for everything happening around town. From nonprofit programs and community events to school activities and city government happenings, it’s all in one easy, convenient place. View it online: https://events.hudsonhappenings.org/

Answers to trivia questions in this issue:

#1: James W. Ellsworth was born in Hudson in 1849, grew up here and attended the Preparatory Department of Western Reserve College. He left to build a fortune in various industries, including coal and transportation, owning homes in various cities in the U.S. and Europe. In the early 1900s, he returned to restore Hudson to a level of excellence that remains today. In 1889, Ellsworth purchased Rembrandt’s 1632 Portrait of a Man and brought it to his home in Chicago, where it was displayed along with his 1455 Gutenberg Bible and other significant works. In 1964, Ellsworth’s daughter-in-law (Mary Louise Ulmer Ellsworth) gifted Portrait of a Man to The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, where it hangs today. 

#2: Hudson Springs Park on Stow Road, featuring its scenic 50-acre lake, was known in the 1950s as May Lake and owned privately by the May family of Hudson. It served as a popular gathering, fishing and swimming destination for the Greater Cleveland and Akron areas. The May family operated the park until 1965. It was later acquired by the City of Hudson and today is the city’s keystone park, with hiking trails, fishing, a disc golf course, children’s play area and an emerging pollinator meadow.

#3: To guess at this answer, email us at celebratehudson@myhcf.org. A fabulous prize will be awarded to a person whose guess is correct. In the event of multiple correct answers, the winner will be selected in a random drawing. Even if you have won previously, you have the opportunity to win again. So don’t hold back.

#4: The entrance wall at Markillie Cemetery in Hudson was built as a WPA project in the summer of 1937. It was apparently the only local structure built by WPA. The WPA, however, actively documented Western Reserve College and featured Hudson in state guidebooks. The WPA, created in 1935 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as part of the New Deal, provided pay for millions of unemployed Americans during the Great Depression. 

#5: The Hudson Telephone Company (later the Western Reserve Telephone Company) converted Hudson to dial service in 1954. Previously, manual switchboard operators were based on the second floor of the First National Bank of Hudson, across from the Clocktower. Shortly thereafter, the company pioneered unassisted long-distance dialing.

#6: You can fill up your car (and your snack cupboard) at four service stations in Hudson – BP and Shell in the downtown area, Sunoco on Darrow Road south of downtown, and Circle K on Norton Road. 

The answer from last month’s trivia contest (from our

July 14, 2026, issue):

In the July issue, we asked readers to submit their best answer to: What is the route number of the Akron Metro bus line that runs through Hudson?

The correct answer: Akron Metro Route 32 runs back and forth between downtown Akron (with transfers throughout Summit County) and the Greater Cleveland RTA Southgate Transit Center in Maple Heights (with transfers throughout Greater Cleveland). Route 32 runs essentially once every hour from Monday through Saturday with 10 stops in each direction along Route 91 (Darrow Road) within the City of Hudson. Other stops are included in Stow, Twinsburg, Macedonia. Also, Akron Metro Route 31, with similar starting and ending points, stops at the park-and-ride lot on Chittenden Road, near the intersection of Ohio 8 and Ohio 303.

The winner of our July trivia contest was Shannon McDonald.

Shannon is seen below with her prizes -- $25 gift cards from each of 4 delicious Hudson businesses that are located near a few of the Route 32 bus stops along Route 91 (Darrow Road):

• North End 2.0, 7542 Darrow Rd., for fine dining, wine and beer in a relaxed atmosphere;
• Nona’s Hudson Crafted Confectionery, 51 South Main Street, for handcrafted chocolates and sweets with premium ingredients;
• Awaken Bake Company, 85 South Main St., for artisan breads, pizza and pastries baked daily;
• Olive My Heart, 5108 Darrow Rd., for premium olive oil, balsamic vinegar and related gourmet items.

Email us at celebratehudson@myhcf.org with comments, questions or to add your Hudson non-profit organization’s event to future issues of Celebrate Hudson!

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