No need to go on vacation this summer, Cleveland has got your fun covered. While the summer concert season rolls on with hall of famers and the best in 80’s glam rock, the Indians and Gladiators try to erase the bad taste left by a certain Florida team’s recent championship with wins of their own. Here’s a look at some of July’s most anticipated events.

(Photo by Mark Davis/Getty Images)

Neil Diamond – Quicken Loans Arena, July 1 at 8 p.m.

Considered one of the greatest songwriters of the last half century, Neil Diamond has sold more than 115 million records in his five-decade career. The 71-year-old hall of fame singer/songwriter kicks off July with a bang when he brings his blend of soft rock and folk to the Quicken Loans Arena Sunday the first. Tickets are available from $55 – $120.

Cleveland Indians Promotions – Progressive Field, Various Dates and Times through July

The Cleveland Indians promotions kick in to high gear this July. Fans can look forward to Dollar Dog nights, Student ID promotions, fireworks, Sandy Alomar Jr. Bobblehead night and maybe even some baseball. Click here for a full promotion schedule.

(Photo Credit: Carl Harp / 98.5 WNCX)

Def Leppard/Poison – Quicken Loans Arena, July 6 at 7 p.m.

Determined to prove 80’s hair metal only gets better with age, Def Leppard and Poison are bringing their glam metal and rock ballads to the Quicken Loans Arena Friday, July 6 at 7 p.m. It doesn’t matter if you’re determined to bob your head to “Pour Some Sugar on Me” or just want to relax and hold up a lighter to a live rendition of “Every Rose Has It’s Thorn,” it’s time to break out those
acid-washed jeans and faded concert T-shirts. Tickets are available ranging from $49 – $149.

Gratefulfest – Nelson Ledges Quarry Park, July 5 – July 8

Skip the barbecue this year and celebrate July 4th weekend at Gratefulfest in Nelson Ledges Quarry Park. Enjoy hiking, camping and swimming in the park’s expansive campgrounds and live music and fireworks at night. Click here for more information.

James Taylor – Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica, July 9 at 8 p.m.

James Taylor has been through a lot in the last 40 years. From a serious heroin addiction and critically panned albums to five Grammy wins and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Taylor has seen it all. And now his music is as popular as ever. Who hasn’t spent a morning commute lip-synching to “Carolina in My Mind?” The folk-rock legend is bringing his experience and rhythms to the Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica Monday, July 9 at 8 p.m. Tickets are available  ranging from $55 – $550.

Zappa Plays Zappa – House of Blues, July 18 at 7 p.m.

Frank Zappa was one of the most influential experimental rock guitarists of the 60s and 70s. Unfortunately, the hall of fame guitarist passed away at the age of 52 after battling prostate cancer. Even though Frank Zappa may be gone, Zappa Plays Zappa comes through with the next best thing. Led by Frank Zappa’s eldest son Dweezil, the band specializes in playing the late legend’s greatest hits. Zappa Plays Zappa brings their second-hand songs to the House of Blues Wednesday, July 18 at 7 p.m. Tickets are still available  HERE.

(Photo by Jim Dyson/Getty Images)

Rod Stewart and Stevie Nicks – Quicken Loans Arena, July 20 at 7:30 p.m.

Hall of fame singers Rod Stewart and Stevie Nicks are teaming up again after last year’s successful co-headlining tour. The English songwriter and Fleetwood Mac front woman received critical acclaim for their 2011 concert team-up. Now the Stewart/Nicks’ “Heart and Soul 2012” tour is stopping by Quicken Loans Arena Friday, July 20 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available ranging from $30 – $75.

Cleveland Gladiators versus Chicago Rush – Quicken Loans Arena, July 21 at 8 p.m.

While the Browns get ready for pre-season workouts (and an inevitable quarterback controversy) in Berea, the Gladiators wrap up their regular season Saturday, July 21 against the Chicago Rush. The Gladiators started the season strong but went winless throughout June. Sound familiar? Come support the Gladiators as they look to finish their season on a high note. Tickets start at just $13.

Brookstock at the Cleveland Metroparks – July 21 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Nothing is better than relaxing and listening to music — except relaxing and listening to music outside. WNCX and the Cleveland Metroparks are hosting “Brookstock – A Celebration of Music & Nature” Saturday, July 21. The concert showcases some of the best local bands around including 730 Club, Brittany Riley Band, Latin Crew and DC – 4. In addition to live music, the event features arts and crafts, games, activities, refreshments and a beer garden. Click here for more information.

Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival – Berea Fairgrounds, July 20-22

With blowout St. Patrick’s Day parades, Irish pubs and Irish-Catholic churches on every corner, it’s fair to say Cleveland loves the Irish. Whether you’re one of Ireland’s favorite sons or just love River dance and the color green, head over to the 30th Annual Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival July 20 – 22 at the Berea County Fairgrounds. The festival boasts authentic Irish food, games, music, dancers and exhibits. Click here for more information.

Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes – Cain Park, July 27th at 8:00pm

They will “Unchain Your Heart,” give you “Fever,” make you scream “I Don’t Want to Go Home” because you want Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes to play ‘All Night Long.’ Their newest CD is Pills and Ammo.
Tickets range are $25 & $35 plus fees and can be purchased HERE.

- John Milligan / 98.5 WNCX