Good morning, Toledo!
Summer is heating up in Toledo, and so is the action! From the reveal of the city's favorite hotspots to outdoor concerts, movies under the stars, and even yoga at the zoo, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, we're shining a spotlight on the incredible community members making Toledo an even better place to call home.
News
Toledo's Favorite Places Named Again
The 2025 Best of Toledo winners are in, and over 60,000 readers weighed in on everything from breweries to bowling alleys. Inside the Five took top brewery honors, Cocina de Carlos won for Mexican food, and local institutions like Yark Automotive and Glass City Federal Credit Union earned recognition across categories.
It's a snapshot of what makes the city tick, from family-owned shops to community staples that have been around for decades.
Lake Erie Swimming Off Limits
Maumee Bay State Park is under a bacteria advisory after E. coli levels spiked beyond safe limits. More than two dozen spots along the lake are affected, stretching east toward Cleveland. Vulnerable groups—kids, elderly, anyone with a weakened immune system—should skip the water for now.
Visitors this week were caught off guard, with some learning about the contamination only after arriving. No word yet on when conditions will improve, but the state is tracking water quality in real time.
Community Spotlight
Caring Is Contagious
Betty Bassett and volunteers from Keep Toledo-Lucas County Beautiful showed up at Glass City Metropark this week to clear firework debris left behind after the Fourth. It's not glamorous work, but it matters—protecting our waterways from chemicals and microplastics while proving that when one person cares, others follow.
That's the kind of quiet leadership that keeps Toledo looking out for itself.
Longtime Educator Steps Up
Bill Miller has been part of Ottawa Hills schools for over two decades, starting as an English teacher in 2000. Now he's stepping into the interim superintendent role, bringing continuity and familiarity during a leadership transition.
It's the kind of homegrown leadership that keeps a district steady when things shift.
City Updates
July Brings Movies Under the Stars
Toledo's outdoor movie season is in full swing this month, with free screenings popping up across parks, breweries, and community spaces. From family-friendly double features at Twin Oast Brewing to documentaries and discussions at the Main Library, there's something for everyone who likes their cinema with fresh air.
The Jewish Toledo Film Festival continues with two compelling stories, while Toledo Parks hosts free movie nights with eSports gaming before showtime. Blankets and lawn chairs recommended.
Summer Sounds Fill Toledo Parks
Toledo's outdoor music scene is starting up with seven concert series happening across the area. From lunchtime performances at Levis Square to evening shows at the Rossford Library, there's live music almost every day of the week through September. Most events are free and family-friendly, with several offering food trucks and local vendors.
Events This Week
Step Into the Star Wars Universe This Summer
Science Strikes Back at Imagination Station
May 23 - August 23, 2026
Imagination Station, Toledo
Explore over 100 iconic pieces of Star Wars memorabilia including a real Landspeeder, screen-accurate costumes, signed scripts, and rare artifacts in this interactive exhibition blending science, technology, and cinematic history.
Rock Legends Collide at Free Summer Concert Series
Party in the Park: Legend2Legend Tribute
Friday, July 10
Promenade Park
Experience the timeless hits of Elton John and Billy Joel brought to life by Legend2Legend, with opening act Excaliber, plus food trucks and cold beer at this free weekly summer celebration.
Set Sail for Island Adventure This Summer
A Day at the Bay on the Glass City Pearl
Saturday, July 11, 2026 · 9:45 AM - 9:45 PM
Departing Downtown Toledo to Put-in-Bay
Cruise Lake Erie for a full day of island exploration featuring waterfront bars, live music, historic sites, and golf cart adventures—BYOB welcome onboard.
Summer Nights Come Alive at Toledo's Open-Air Market
Toledo Night Market
Saturday, July 11
Toledo Farmers' Market
Browse 85+ artisans, enjoy food trucks and live music from Mainstream and The Family while supporting local nonprofits in this vibrant evening market experience.
Find Your Flow at the Zoo
Zen at the Zoo
Sunday, July 12, 2026 · Times vary
Toledo Zoo
Choose between yoga or Pure Barre classes followed by exclusive animal encounters, refreshments, and optional mimosas for guests 21+. Get details →
Support Local at BREW's Monthly Community Market
SHOP419 at BREW Coffee Bar
Second Sunday of Every Month
BREW Coffee Bar, Toledo
Browse local vendors and organizations while enjoying seasonal drinks at this monthly community shopping event. Get details →
Toledo Choice Sponsors
Dave Crumbley Comedy Looking for live comedy in Toledo? Crumbley comedy features ticketed shows, free open mics, showcases, and special events throughout the area. Find upcoming dates, buy tickets, or sign up to perform at https://linktr.ee/toledocomedy
Jack and Irene’s WISH House You don’t have to choose between living alone and a nursing home. That’s why we created Jack & Irene’s WISH House, a welcoming, inviting, safe haven where adults who need a little extra support can continue living with dignity, independence, purpose, and a true sense of belonging in a place they can call home. Schedule a personal tour today. https://www.jackirenewish.com/
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Well that’s all for now, thanks for reading.
Hope you have a great weekend!
Sincerely, Eli