The 2026 Parade the Circle

Summer is quickly moving into Northeast Ohio, bringing warmer temperatures, sunnier days, and a full calendar of fun seasonal events throughout the region.

We are now less than one month away from the Cleveland Museum of Art’s 34^th Parade the Circle on Saturday, June 13 (rain date is Sunday, June 14).

This year's celebration marks a shift as parade preparations move from the traditional Parade Tent in University Circle to the CMA's Community Arts Center in the Clark-Fulton neighborhood, bringing new energy to the museum’s tradition.

Gaining momentum
The 2026 parade theme, "Momentum," draws inspiration from the museum's exhibition "American Printed Silks, 1927–1947," running through Monday, Nov. 9/ The theme also reflects the lived experiences of lead artist Hector Castellanos Lara and the legacy of the local artist community.

Castellanos Lara says he has a personal connection to this year’s concept and its emphasis on textiles and movement.

"I usually come up with the theme,” says Castellanos Lara. “But this year, the museum suggested [we use] the exhibition about silk. Immediately, it sent me back to my childhood home in Guatemala, and our small textile factory."

Castellanos Lara recalls his mother and grandmother's textile business, the handmade clothing they designed, and the three local women who embroidered garments before they were sold.

He says the family business became the foundation for Parade the Circle’s artistic vision this year, especially when he paired his memories with the “American Printed Silks” exhibition.

Rhapsody No. 700, 1927 from the exhibit 'American Printed Silks'Castellanos Lara says the combined imagery resonated with him immediately.

“My mom and grandma were the designers—that was the way to make a living in my house,” he says, adding that the exhibit’s focus on movement, fashion, and evolving design traditions helped shape this year’s parade concept.

“We went with the phrase, creativity is in motion, is still in motion, and will stay in motion,” Castellanos Lara explains. He adds that he sees the theme also celebrating creative community across generations.

New location, fresh opportunities
While the Clark-Fulton Community Arts Center has historically housed Parade the Circle materials in a dedicated storage area, this year marks the first time artists will create new works there for the event.

Héctor Castellanos Lara, Lead Artist, Parade the Circle working in the artist tentCastellanos Lara says the move offers a couple of advantages.

"The accommodations are really great—there is more access to the restrooms and air conditioning all the time—it’s a big difference,” he says. “This part of the west side has been excited about having this center here.

“Now they have the connection, and they can see what's going on,” he continues. “And they want to go to the museum—for many people, for the first time.”

Expanded artist participation
Parade the Circle organizers shifted to an open application process for about 15 featured artist positions.

New partnerships this year include collaborations with Ingenuity Cleveland, the Morgan Conservatory, and Future Ink Graphics.

"I think they're going to be making dresses with paper," says Castellanos Lara of Morgan Conservatory's planned contribution.

Work on the parade materials will primarily occur at the Community Arts Center, with pieces transported to the traditional University Circle tent setup in late May.

Little Miss Sunshine.Castellanos Lara says volunteers are always welcome. Those interested in getting involved can email parade organizers.

Additionally, the Community Arts Center is hosting hands-on papier-mâché and mask-making workshops on Fridays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. through Sunday, June 7.

“There’s no age to be there and helping out and being part of the parade,” Castellanos Lara says, adding that last year’s volunteers included seniors in their 80s and even a 94-year-old helper nicknamed Captain Jack, who assisted with painting and papier mâché.

“It is a very, very beautiful thing,” he says. “You just want to stay there a little longer.”

Unity and celebration
Reflecting on current global challenges, Castellanos Lara says he sees the parade as a unifying force.

“At least we all agree that this Parade the Circle event will bring us together for a day for a moment of peace and happiness and fun,” he says. “A day for all to celebrate life in a good way."

The 34th annual Parade the Circle takes place on Saturday, June 13, on Wade Oval in University Circle. The event runs from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Individuals who want to join existing groups walking in the parade can do so by registering before Wednesday, June 10. Registration is $10 for adults and $5 for children.