Sure the Olympics will officially kick-off Friday night (even though Soccer/Football competition is currently underway) and you could waste away the weekend cheering on the Red, White and Blue or you could make the most out of your two days away from the office and catch some live music, support charities, or watch a few eaters go head to head in Wing Bowl II. Below, you’ll find some of the most exciting things to enjoy this weekend.

Photo by Owen Carey for Portland Center Stage. Used with Permission.

One Night w/ Janis Joplin: Allen Theater – Friday, July 27 at 7:30 p.m.

It’s been more than 40 years since Janis Joplin’s untimely death, but the “Queen of Rock and Roll’s” music lives on. “One Night w/ Janis Joplin” brings some of the influential songstress’s hits to the stage while highlighting some trailblazers (Bessie Smith, Etta James and Aretha Franklin) who helped influence the “Queen” herself. The show kicks off Friday night at the Allen Theater and runs through August 19. But you might want to act quick, this show will sell out fast. Click here for more information.

Wing Bowl 2 2012: Wing Warehouse – Friday, July 27 from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for. After three weeks of intense competition between some of the fiercest competitive eaters in Northeast Ohio, it’s time to crown the 2012 Wing Bowl champion. Sponsored by 98.5 WNCX and 92.3 The Fan, the second annual Wing Bowl comes to a close Friday night at Wing Warehouse. Now we’ll find out who has the appetite to go down in competitive chicken-wing eating history!

Photo Courtesy of Southside Johnny

Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes: Cain Park – Friday, July 27 at 8 p.m.

John Lyon, better known by the stage name Southside Johnny, has released more than 20 albums in his 42-year career. Proving you don’t get to be the Grandfather of “New Jersey Sound” for nothing, Southside Johnny is bringing his blend of rock and blues to Can Park Friday night. Click here for more info.

Wigs for Kids Walk and 5K Run: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo – Saturday, July 28 at 7 a.m.

People hate running. Alright maybe that’s a sweeping generalization but really people, running is miserable. It’s the reason cars exist. But everyone can agree running, or walking, for a good cause is just about the best motivation one can have for exercising.

The seventh annual “Wigs for Kids Zoo Walk and Run” is a fundraising event to benefit children who suffer from premature hair loss. Participants can sign up to either run or walk and are eligible for prizes, food and T-shirts. At the very least you can get some exercise while enjoying all the zoo has to offer. Click here for more information and sign-up details.

Summer Hookah: Nelson Ledges Quarry Park – Friday, July 27 – Sunday, July 29 at 3 p.m.

Boasting some of the most beautiful real estate in Northeast Ohio, hiking, swimming and camping, Nelson Ledges is hosting yet another music festival just in case you want awesome live music to accompany one of the state’s most gorgeous parks. The Summer Hookah music fest features alternative rock from local favorites like Ekoostic Hookah, John Mullins Band, Miz Band and Turbine. If you haven’t made the pilgrimage to Nelson Ledges Quarry Park, we only have one question for you – What are you waiting for? Click here for more info.

TNA Impact Wrestling: Akron Civic Theater – Sunday, July 29 at 6 p.m.

If wrestling has taught us anything, it’s that pretending to hit another grown man solves just about any problem. Also, wrestling fans are insane. Let’s face it, if you’re reading this, you probably don’t need to be reminded that TNA Impact Wrestling and its superstars are coming to the Akron Civic Theater Sunday night. Featuring “performances” by stars like Bobby Roode, Kurt Angle, Jeff Hardy and AJ Styles, fans have the opportunity to take part in a special “meet and greet” with the crew two hours before show time. Click here for more information or to buy tickets.

- John Milligan / 98.5 WNCX