State of the Arts, 2026
About this Event
Join ArtsNow for the fifth annual State of the Arts: Summit County on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at House Three Thirty.
Part community report, part celebration, and part fundraiser, State of the Arts brings together artists, nonprofit leaders, business and civic partners, elected officials, funders, and residents who care deeply about the future of arts and culture in Summit County.
The evening will include:
- Recognition of the 2026 Patron of the Arts Award recipient, Dave Lieberth
- Recognition of the 2026 ArtsNow Visionary Leader Award recipient, Kendra Myers
- An update on the state of Summit County’s arts, culture, and entertainment sector
- Reflections on the progress and impact of the Akron/Summit Cultural Plan
- Updates on ArtsNow’s work and community partnerships
- Opportunities to connect with leaders and supporters from across the region
State of the Arts is designed to help our community better understand how arts and culture contribute to economic vitality, neighborhood development, tourism, education, public life, and quality of life across Summit County.
Whether you are deeply involved in the sector or simply someone who values a vibrant and resilient community, we would love to have you join us.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship opportunities for State of the Arts: Summit County 2026 are available through ArtsNow. We invite businesses, organizations, and community leaders who believe in the importance of arts and culture to consider sponsorship as a meaningful way to invest in a vibrant and resilient Summit County while helping sustain this important work.
View Sponsorship Opportunities and Benefits
Community Access Tickets
Discounted Community Access Tickets will be available starting September 1, 2026.
We’re committed to ensuring that financial barriers don’t prevent anyone from participating. If needed, contact for a promo code.
Support Community Participation
In addition to sponsorship opportunities, individuals and organizations may support State of the Arts by donating Community Tickets. Each $100 donation provides one complimentary ticket and helps ensure a broad range of community voices are represented in the conversation. To donate Community Tickets, please follow the link below.
Photo Release
A local photographer will be present at State of the Arts to capture images from the event. By registering for this event, you consent to ArtsNow using photographs and video captured during the program for promotional, marketing, and archival purposes.
Ticketing Information
Printed tickets are not required. Upon arrival, your name and nametag will be available at the registration table.
Accessibility
House Three Thirty is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are welcome. State of the Arts will take place in Hometown Hall, which is accessible for wheelchairs and most mobility devices.
If you have additional accessibility needs or accommodation requests, please contact Nicole Mullet at ArtsNow in advance of the event so we can help ensure a welcoming and comfortable experience for all attendees.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 81.88
