Cleveland's Marijuana Revenue Soars, Lottery League Draft Returns

From concerts to film festivals, there's plenty happening in Cleveland this week.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:52pm

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This week in Cleveland, the city sees a spike in marijuana tax revenue, the Lottery League Draft returns for its seventh season, and several major entertainment events are taking place, including concerts by John Legend and Bob Dylan as well as the opening night of the Cleveland International Film Festival.

Why it matters

Cleveland's marijuana tax revenue boost highlights the growing economic impact of cannabis legalization, while the Lottery League Draft showcases the city's vibrant local music scene. The diverse lineup of entertainment events also reflects Cleveland's thriving arts and culture landscape.

The details

Cleveland has seen a significant increase in tax revenue from marijuana sales, with the city collecting over $2 million in the first quarter of 2026. This is attributed to the state's legalization of recreational cannabis in 2024 and the opening of several new dispensaries in the Cleveland area. Meanwhile, the Lottery League Draft returns for its seventh season, pairing over 170 local musicians into new bands through a random selection process. Other notable events include concerts by John Legend and Bob Dylan, as well as the opening night of the 50th Cleveland International Film Festival.

  • Cleveland saw a $2 million increase in marijuana tax revenue in the first quarter of 2026.
  • The Lottery League Draft takes place on April 12, 2026.
  • John Legend performs at the Akron Civic Theatre on April 11, 2026.
  • The Cleveland International Film Festival opens on April 9, 2026.
  • Bob Dylan performs at the State Theatre on April 10, 2026.

The players

Cleveland

The city of Cleveland, Ohio, which has seen a significant increase in tax revenue from marijuana sales and hosts a variety of entertainment events.

Lottery League

An annual event in Cleveland that randomly pairs local musicians into new bands, now in its seventh season.

John Legend

A Grammy-winning singer-songwriter who is performing a concert of songs and stories at the Akron Civic Theatre.

Bob Dylan

The legendary singer-songwriter who is bringing his Rough and Rowdy Ways tour to the State Theatre in Cleveland.

Cleveland International Film Festival

A long-running film festival in Cleveland that is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special opening night event.

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The takeaway

Cleveland's diverse lineup of entertainment events, from concerts and film festivals to the unique Lottery League Draft, showcases the city's thriving arts and culture scene and the economic benefits of marijuana legalization.