For the past three decades, Cleveland Museum of Art’s Parade the Circle event has signaled the start of summer in the city. 

This year marks the 32nd annual event, where attendees can watch artists march the streets of University Circle with colorful costumes, crafted masks, eclectic floats, dancers, live music, stilt-walkers, and giant puppets crafter by local artists and volunteers.  

This year’s theme, “Visions of Harmony,” is inspired by lead artist Hector Castellanos Lara and his hope for neighbors, friends and family to gather in the spirit of art, culture and community in Cleveland. 

For Stefanie Lima Taub, director of community arts at the museum, the parade provides a unique experience for residents to get involved in the parade-making process. Taub, who has been participating in the process since 2015, said the best part is witnessing the spirit of collaboration between artists and community members. 

“When I see the parade tent functioning with artists and community members working side by side, I know all the work was worth it,” Taub said. “I’ve even learned skills and techniques from the generosity of the artists and their willingness to share.” 

Who can get involved with Parade the Circle tent workshops? 

While the deadline to enter the parade has past, parade tent participation is open to individuals, families, schools, neighborhood groups and community organizations. 

What will participants do? 

Participants will create costumes, masks and giant puppets with the assistance of staff artists at all public workshops in the parade tent. 

Can young children participate in the workshops? 

Workshop participation is open to all ages. However, children under the age of 15 must register and attend with someone who is 16 or older.

Is participation free? 

The cost is $10 per adult per workshop. For children under 18, it is $5. Registration for the parade is $10/adult and $5/child.

All participants must adhere to the Cleveland Museum of Art’s guidelines. 

How often are the workshops held? 

Cleveland Museum of Art Tent Workshops happen every Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

When is the last workshop? 

The last workshop is Tuesday, June 4, from 6 to 9 p.m. 

You can visit the museum’s website for more information.