Big Numbers at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens
For Immediate Release
July 10, 2026
Cleveland, OH – Two big numbers will be celebrated at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on Sunday August 30 from 11 am to 6 pm.
Since 1946, the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) has celebrated One World Day which exemplifies the theme of the Gardens: “Peace through Mutual Understanding.” So 2026 marks the historic 80th anniversary of One World Day. This festive one-day event drew more than 40,000 visitors last year.
With the country celebrating America 250 this year, the Gardens are working with America 250 Ohio to make this a very special event. “The story of immigrants and ethnic groups is the story of Cleveland and America,” says Tom Turkaly, Executive Director of the CCGF.
As always, the streets will be closed to traffic and the tens of thousands of visitors can stroll, bike, scoot or ride the free shuttles throughout the 250 acre footprint and visit many of the 40 or so Gardens. They will experience diversity in people, heritages, entertainment and food under the watchful eyes of Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Copernicus, Bach, Confucius, Tesla, Dante and dozens of others all in one day.
The Naturalization Ceremony, where people from 25 countries will become US citizens, will be especially moving in this America 250 year.
The Parade of Flags at noon will also be special this year with thousands of people from over 60 cultures marching with flags and traditional clothing of their heritage. Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb will lead the Parade.
Special this year because of America 250, each Garden will showcase three people of their heritage who have made significant contributions to America. Signs in each Garden will provide information and conversation starters. For example, did you know that Andy Warhol was Carpatho-Rusyn? Or that Walt Disney had German, Irish and English heritage?
Throughout the day there will be ethnic and cultural performances on the main stage at the Centennial Peace Plaza on MLK. Almost every garden will have activities, performances and food. Market Place shopping opportunities have expanded as have the number of food trucks. Adults can relax in one of the 2 Beer Gardens in the German and Irish Gardens.
The event is free as is parking and the trams to help get people around. Find out more about the special 80th One World Day at https://clevelandoneworldday.org/2026/
Global Sponsors are America 250-Ohio, Cuyahoga Arts and Culture, Cuyahoga County and Key Bank. Platinum Sponsors are the City of Cleveland and Cleveland City Council.
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Contact us for pre-event and on-site interviews.
One World Day Producer
Johnny Wu johnny@mdifilm.com 216-539-4634
OWD Branding and Marketing Chair
Dan Hanson dan@clevelandpeople.com 216-990-5925
