The Ultimate Kent and Cleveland Language Lover’s Guide

Kent and Cleveland are home to a vibrant mix of cultures, languages, and communities that make language learning more than just classroom study. From their diverse local businesses and cultural centers to festivals, events, and historic landmarks, these cities offer countless opportunities to engage with language and culture in meaningful ways.

Whether you’re a student or simply a cultural and language enthusiast, northeast Ohio is the perfect place to immerse yourself and explore.

Top Spots and Experiences for Language Lovers in Cleveland and Kent

Cleveland and Kent are rich with opportunities that make language learning feel real and personal. Here are some of the best ways you can practice languages, engage with the Deaf or hard-of-hearing community, and explore classical literature.

French

• French Cultural Garden – This beautiful section of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens celebrates French history, language, and culture through statues, floral spaces, and annual community events
• La Maison Française de Cleveland –The nonprofit organization highlights French language and culture through conversation groups, lectures, and social gatherings open to all levels
• La Petite École Française de Cleveland – This French immersion school champions language learning through interactive lessons, songs, and activities for children
• Annual Bastille Day – Cleveland’s annual community event celebrates French National Day with live music, authentic food, games, and cultural activities

ASL and Deaf Culture

• Community Center for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing – This full-service community center offers ASL classes, interpreting services, and even ASL Coffee Social Wednesdays to let visitors meet, socialize, and play games
• Deaf and HOH Night at the Cleveland Guardians – Cleveland’s own pro baseball team offers this community event where Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals and their friends and families can gather at a game for a shared cultural and social experience
• Cleveland Association of the Deaf – This social community group hosts a wide range of gatherings and events throughout the year such as ASL bingo, cornhole, and more
• Hands in Hands ASL Learning Series – The Cuyahoga County Public Library event series is designed for learners of ASL, combining instruction and social practice

Spanish

• Kent State’s “A Taste of Spain” – Kent’s own cultural immersion event features live flamenco guitar, authentic Spanish cuisine, and a celebration of Spanish music and traditions
• CentroVilla25 – This cultural center in the Clark-Fulton neighborhood hosts Latino cultural events, markets, dance nights, and more
• Julia De Burgos Cultural Arts Center – Check out this cultural arts center that’s dedicated to preserving and promoting Latino heritage through the visual, performing, and literary arts
• Spanish American Committee – This language school offers immersion Spanish classes for adults, children, private groups, and corporate clients
• Hispanic Heritage Month in Cleveland – Watch for this month-long celebration featuring cultural events, music, food, art, and community gatherings throughout the city

Classics and Multicultural

• Greek Cultural Garden – This public garden in Cleveland’s Cultural Gardens Federation is themed around Greek culture, and includes Greek-inspired plants and an inscribed Parthenon Wall with figures like Socrates, Homer, and more
• Hellenic Preservation Society of Northeastern Ohio – This cultural-heritage society is dedicated to Greek culture with a Classics and Mythology committee that explores ancient Greek influence in Cleveland through events, lectures, and community programs
• Cleveland Archaeological Society – With a mission that promotes the study and appreciation of the ancient world, this society features public lectures, presentations, and events focused on classical archaeology, history, and culture
• Cleveland Museum of Art – The city’s prominent art museum hosts the annual Dr. John and Helen Collis Lecture in Greek and Byzantine Art, featuring renowned scholars discussing ancient Greek and Roman art, history, and culture
• Kent State’s Office of Global Education – The monthly “Cultural Café” series allows international students to share their cultures, food, music, and traditions through talks and interactive presentations

Benefits of Immersing Yourself in Diverse Languages and Cultures

As a student, language learner, or cultural enthusiast, it’s important to find ways to make language learning more than just something that happens in a classroom.

When you visit these language centers and enjoy these experiences in Cleveland and Kent, you will: 

Enhance Your Language Journey at Kent State MCLS

If you’re already passionate about language, Kent State offers opportunities to continue to grow these skills and interests in a meaningful way. Our Department of Modern and Classical Language Studies (MCLS) provides programs that combine classroom learning with immersive, real-world experiences that help students strengthen their language abilities and broaden their cultural understanding.

Our language coursework offerings include: 

We offer both undergraduate and graduate programs in these languages, giving you the opportunity to begin or seamlessly continue your language journey in ways that fit your goals. Apply today to take the next step!

Contact Our Team

If you have any questions about MCLS or would just like to know more about our language programs, be sure to reach out to our team for more information! We’re here to support you every step of the way on your language journey.