Walt Whitman, who wasn’t from Akron but probably would’ve loved us, once wrote, “I celebrate myself, and sing myself/And what I assume you shall assume/For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you.”

If that doesn’t make sense here, let’s just say it’s time for Akron to celebrate itself, to sing itself. So on Saturday, July 29, we’re going to see how much great Akron stuff — food, music and culture — we can shove into Lock 3. You can get your fix of Classic Akron things and get some first-hand experience with the folks who are defining our culture and character right now.

We’ll share big details in the coming weeks, but you can be the first to find out by joining our newsletter at signaltreefest.com.

Other questions you may have and some answers we may have…

What’s up with the name?

The name honors the Signal Tree, which marked the Portage Path so the Wyandotte and the Mingo knew where they were on the river. Read more about the actual tree here.

So why does that matter?

For one, I figure we have enough Rubber City stuff now. But I still want to pay homage to the city. When I think about the Signal Tree, I think about our modern equivalents, the markers that tell you that this isn’t Anycity, USA. Some are classic Akron, like the Rubber Bowl, jojos, sauerkraut balls, Lawsons, etc. Some are Next Wave Akron, like R. Shea’s, Akron Honey, Zub’s, Not Yo Daddy’s Hot Sauce, Akron Coffee, Sweet Mary’s, etc. That’s what the Signal Tree Festival celebrates: the things that make Akron unique.

What’s it going to be like then?

Signal Tree will be a cross between a family reunion for all us pro-Akron folks and a homecoming for all our ex-pat friends. For example, folks will be able to line up for a Galley Boy at the Swensons food truck while The Dreemers play or, as Houseguest sets up for their reunion show, snack on the Square Scullery’s fried Brussels sprouts too. We’ll have outdoor movies, family-friends activities, competitions, weird stuff, etc.

But like when and where and which bands — you know, specifics?

It’ll be Sat., July 29 at Lock 3 in downtown Akron. We haven’t set the time exactly, but we’re thinking early afternoon and going as late as midnight. We’re talking to bands and will release that info as soon as we can, but rest assured that every band will have a strong Akron connection. And they’ll be amazing.

Any other arts, or just music?

You’re so nosey. Yes, other arts too. Akron has a substantial theatre community that produces everything from very recognizable fare to more avant garde work. Likewise, we have some incredible professional dance, and Akron is also home to people from several cultures, who we want to include too.

Who’s responsible for this?

The city of Akron called my bluff after posting a question on our Facebook page about whether anyone was interested in a festival like Signal Tree. (Short answer: Lots of positive response.) So, we’re working with them to create an annual event that shows off what we love about Akron.