Parade the Circle 2026 Returns with 'Momentum' Theme

Annual parade in Cleveland's University Circle set for June 13, with new makerspace in Ohio City

Apr. 6, 2026 at 12:23pm

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The 34th annual Parade the Circle in Cleveland will take place on June 13, 2026, with a 'Momentum' theme inspired by a silk exhibition at the Cleveland Museum of Art. The parade will feature colorful costumes, towering puppets, imaginative floats, and intricately crafted masks. This year, the parade's primary makerspace will be located at the Cleveland Museum of Art's Community Arts Center in the Ohio City neighborhood.

Why it matters

Parade the Circle is a beloved annual event that celebrates creativity, community, and the vibrant arts scene in Cleveland's University Circle. The new makerspace in Ohio City will provide more opportunities for local artists and community members to get involved in the parade's production, further strengthening the event's connection to the surrounding neighborhoods.

The details

The parade will step off at noon on June 13, 2026, from the Cleveland Museum of Art. This year's theme, 'Momentum,' is inspired by the museum's exhibition 'American Printed Silks, 1927–1947.' Organizers say the theme reflects the energy of everyday life and the creative forces that shape communities. Participants can attend costume-making workshops at the new makerspace in Ohio City's Pivot Center from May 1 to June 7. A final assembly and staging area will also be set up at East-Bell Commons starting May 29.

  • The 34th annual Parade the Circle will take place on June 13, 2026.
  • Costume-making workshops will be held at the Ohio City makerspace on Saturdays and Sundays from May 1 to June 7.
  • A final assembly and staging area will open at East-Bell Commons starting May 29.

The players

Héctor Castellanos Lara

The lead artist for Parade the Circle 2026, who says the 'Momentum' theme reflects the energy of everyday life and the creative forces that shape communities.

Jordan Jiménez

The Sally and Larry Sears Director of Community Arts at the Cleveland Museum of Art, who is excited to bring the parade's workshop space to the museum's Community Arts Center in Ohio City.

Sara Srun

A Cleveland Institute of Art student who created the poster design for Parade the Circle 2026, titled 'Forms of Life.'

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What they’re saying

“Our stories—some of sacrifice and resilience—are momentous and unyielding. Breathless and energized, our own momentum pushes us to innovate. Let's harness the power of this creative energy together, express ourselves, and keep celebrating. Creativity in motion stays in motion.”

— Héctor Castellanos Lara, Lead artist

“We are excited to bring the workshop space to the CAC. This year's artists have the opportunity to create their works while being inspired by past ensembles displayed in the CAC's gallery.”

— Jordan Jiménez, Sally and Larry Sears Director of Community Arts, Cleveland Museum of Art

What’s next

The parade's organizers are encouraging the public to get involved by either participating in the parade or attending as a spectator. More information on participation opportunities, including featured artist roles and group registration, is available through the Parade the Circle website.

The takeaway

Parade the Circle continues to be a vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and the arts in Cleveland's University Circle. The new makerspace in Ohio City will provide more avenues for local artists and residents to contribute to the parade's production, strengthening its connection to the surrounding neighborhoods and ensuring the event's enduring legacy.