Cleveland Auto Show and Broadway Premieres Headline Friday Night
A Vibrant Friday in the Land
Cleveland is buzzing this Friday, February 20, 2026, as the city kicks off a weekend packed with high-octane excitement, world-class theater, and rich cultural celebrations. Whether you are an automotive enthusiast, a lover of the arts, or looking for a community meetup, today offers a diverse array of activities across the downtown area and beyond.
The 2026 Cleveland Auto Show Kicks Off
The highly anticipated Cleveland Auto Show officially opens its doors today at the I-X Center. Opening night runs from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., inviting guests to be among the first to see the latest vehicle models and cutting-edge technology. A special highlight for tonight is the appearance of Steve Saleen, the legendary founder of Saleen Automotive, who will be meeting fans and signing autographs from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. It is a perfect evening for families and car buffs to explore the "Millionaire's Row" and interactive ride-and-drive experiences.
Theater and Broadway at Playhouse Square
Downtown's Playhouse Square is the center of the cultural scene tonight with several major productions taking the stage. At the Connor Palace, the Tony-winning musical Suffs continues its run at 7:30 p.m., offering a powerful look at the women's suffrage movement. Simultaneously, the Cleveland Play House premieres its production of Primary Trust at the Outcalt Theatre, a touching story of friendship and new beginnings. For those seeking adventure, Great Lakes Theater presents The Heart of Robin Hood at the Hanna Theatre, bringing a swashbuckling twist to the classic legend at 7:30 p.m.
Art, Music, and Literary Insights
Music lovers can head to MGM Northfield Park for a nostalgic evening with KC and The Sunshine Band, starting at 8:00 p.m. For a more intimate local vibe, Beachland Tavern hosts the Cleveland-based rock group Honeyland, while The Winchester Music Tavern invites the crowd for a high-energy Emo Night Karaoke session.
Earlier in the day, the Cleveland Museum of Art remains a top destination with its featured exhibition, "still/emerging: Native American Works on Paper," which showcases rare prints and drawings. Literature fans should not miss the City Club of Cleveland's 11:30 a.m. session featuring author Namwali Serpell in a deep-dive conversation about the legacy of Toni Morrison. Later this evening, Hexagon Books in Cleveland Heights hosts "Girl Talk," a community discussion focused on Morrison's profound impact on the literary world.
Community and Family Meetups
For the youngest Clevelanders, the Cleveland Public Library’s Jefferson Branch is hosting a "Read to Me Playdate" at 10:30 a.m., providing a space for toddlers and caregivers to connect through stories and songs. It is a full day of activity that truly offers something for everyone in the community.