Good morning, Mansfield.

Renaissance Theatre announced its 2026-27 season in downtown Mansfield featuring Broadway shows, concerts, symphony performances and youth programs.

The venue also upgraded its seating (improving guest comfort) ahead of upcoming performances.

Today, Renaissance Theatre removed all seats from its auditorium to launch its (Road to 100) renovation ahead of its 100th anniversary in 2028.

New seating, floor resurfacing and exterior upgrades will update the historic venue with state grants and local contributions.

Mansfield’s Pride parade began Saturday morning on Park Avenue West from Penn Street to South Park (despite wet conditions that did not slow the celebration) as participants expressed community pride.

A $5M tax credit will finance the transformation of 14 historic downtown buildings into housing and commercial space, and construction will begin in Q3.

Project partners include the Fernyak family, the Richland County Foundation and developer Windsor Development.

A poll of 16 top high school football stadiums — including Mansfield Senior’s Arlin Field — is open from June 28 to July 3 and invites local fans to vote for their favorite venue as part of USA Today’s 250 for 250 celebration.

The Mansfield News Journal invites local readers to vote for the best high school sports team of the season spanning 2025 and 2026, and voting closes at 7 p.m. on July 3.

Voting for the Reader's Choice Mansfield News Journal Athlete of the Year is open and will end at 7 p.m. on July 3 (29 top high school athletes were nominated based on last season's performances).

Cast your vote early to choose this season's standout athlete.

Open Mic Night at The 101

5-6 p.m. — The 101 Tea Company — Free entry — Experience a vibrant showcase of local talent with performances from singers, poets, and musicians.

Freedom 250 Festival Truck & Tractor Pull

9 AM - 9 PM — Mansfield Speedway — Family-friendly fun awaits with classic cars, hot dogs, demolition derbies, and live music.

4th of July Horse Parade

2-5 p.m. — Raemelton Therapeutic Equestrian Center — Food options available — Enjoy a festive horse parade with delicious wood-fired pizza and fun raffles.

Plantasaurus

2-4 p.m. — Crestview Branch Library — Free entry — Create a cute planter and unleash your creativity with plants.

Mid-Ohio Annual Bike Fest

12-5 p.m. — Buckeye Imagination Museum — Free entry with donations welcomed — Enjoy a day filled with fun, food trucks, family activities, and live music in support of local kids.

Closing Reception for Jo Westfall’s Solo Show

2-4 p.m. — The 101 Tea Company — Snacks provided — Meet artist Jo Westfall, learn about her techniques, and explore her use of recycled materials.

Inkcarceration Music Festival 2026 - Friday

5:00 p.m. — The Ohio State Reformatory — Check ticket availability — Experience a unique blend of music and history at a stunning venue.

Mansfield Speedway’s Mini Mayhem

6-10 p.m. — Mansfield Speedway — Ticket info unavailable — Experience thrilling legends and go-kart racing at the Mansfield Speedway mini mayhem night event.

Live on the Lawn – Willie Phoenix

7-9 p.m. — Kingwood Center Gardens — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxing evening of live music surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Richland Early American Center Open Weekend

1-3 p.m. — Richland Early American Center for History — Free entry — Explore fascinating historical buildings in an engaging and educational setting.