Discover holiday joy in Youngstown with our comprehensive event guide.
Experience the enchanting Boardman Park - Holiday Light Display, where twinkling lights create a magical winter wonderland. Next, browse unique, handmade gifts and festive decorations at the American Holiday Fine Arts and Crafts Show. And Christmas at the Mill is something you definitely don't want to miss, with its charming historical atmosphere and festive activities. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Youngstown
- American Holiday Fine Arts and Crafts Show
- Memories of Christmas Past
- The Nutcracker Ballet
- Winter Market
- TubaChristmas
- Polar Express Pajama Party
Youngstown Holiday Markets and Shopping
American Holiday Fine Arts and Crafts Show
What to Expect:
Juried show featuring high-quality American-made crafts
Description:
Artisans from across the nation converge in Youngstown for this prestigious holiday craft show. The event showcases exquisite handmade items, from intricate jewelry to custom furniture. Visitors can watch live demonstrations of traditional crafting techniques. The show celebrates American craftsmanship, with each piece telling a story of skill and dedication. Youngstown's rich industrial heritage provides a fitting backdrop for this celebration of artisanal work. The aroma of cinnamon and spices wafts through the air as visitors browse the unique offerings.
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American Holiday Fine Arts and Crafts Show
Winter Market
What to Expect:
Indoor/outdoor market featuring local artisans and food producers
Description:
Youngstown's Winter Market brings together the best of local craftsmanship and culinary talent. The market spans both indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a diverse shopping experience regardless of weather. Visitors can sample artisanal foods and beverages unique to the Youngstown area. The event showcases the city's burgeoning maker movement, with many vendors repurposing materials from Youngstown's industrial past. You can participate in hands-on workshops led by local artists. The market's location in downtown Youngstown highlights the city's ongoing revitalization efforts.
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Youngstown Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Nutcracker Ballet
What to Expect:
Local production with community involvement
Description:
Youngstown's rendition of The Nutcracker ballet sparkles with local talent. The production involves dancers from area schools, creating a true community performance. Elaborate sets and costumes transport the audience to a world of sugar plum fairies and toy soldiers. Visitors can attend a pre-show talk to learn about the ballet's history and symbolism. The performance takes place in the historic Powers Auditorium, built in 1931 as the Warner Theatre. The orchestra pit comes alive with Tchaikovsky's iconic score, filling the theater with joyous melodies.
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TubaChristmas
What to Expect:
Concert featuring only tuba and euphonium players
Description:
Youngstown's TubaChristmas fills the air with the rich, resonant tones of low brass instruments. This unique concert brings together tuba and euphonium players of all ages and skill levels. The ensemble performs holiday classics arranged specifically for these deep-voiced instruments. Visitors can join a sing-along, accompanied by the mellow sounds of the tuba choir. TubaChristmas, a nationwide phenomenon, began in 1974 as a tribute to the late artist/teacher William J. Bell. The unusual combination of instruments creates a surprisingly warm and festive atmosphere.
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Youngstown Other Holiday Activities
Memories of Christmas Past
What to Expect:
Vintage Christmas decorations and traditions exhibit
Description:
The Arms Family Museum unveils a treasure trove of vintage holiday decor. Rooms brim with antique ornaments, toys, and decorations from the early to mid-20th century. Visitors explore how Christmas celebrations evolved over the decades. The exhibit features rare pieces from local families, offering a glimpse into Youngstown's holiday history. You can try your hand at identifying obsolete Christmas items in an interactive display. The museum, housed in a 1905 Arts and Crafts mansion, provides a stunning backdrop for this nostalgic journey.
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Polar Express Pajama Party
What to Expect:
Interactive storytelling experience based on the popular book
Description:
Youngstown's Polar Express Pajama Party brings the beloved children's book to life. Attendees, dressed in pajamas, board a "train" for an immersive journey to the North Pole. The event features a dramatic reading of the story, complete with sound effects and visual elements. You can sip on hot chocolate served by dancing waiters, just like in the book. The party takes place in a historic Youngstown building, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere. The gentle tinkling of sleigh bells fills the air, transporting guests into the heart of the story.
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Nearby Events
Boardman Park - Holiday Light Display (Boardman)
What to Expect:
Drive-through light display in a park setting
Description:
Boardman Park transforms into a twinkling wonderland for the holidays. Visitors cruise through a mile-long path adorned with over 100,000 LED lights, creating dazzling displays. The park's natural beauty enhances the experience, with illuminated trees and themed vignettes. You'll spot familiar holiday characters and local landmarks recreated in lights. Boardman Park, established in 1947, has been a community gathering place for generations. The display incorporates eco-friendly practices, using energy-efficient bulbs to minimize environmental impact.
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Boardman Park - Holiday Light Display
Christmas at the Mill (Canfield)
What to Expect:
Historic mill setting with period-appropriate decorations
Description:
Step back in time at Canfield's historic Lanterman's Mill this holiday season. The 19th-century gristmill dons period-appropriate decorations, transporting visitors to Christmases past. Costumed interpreters share tales of holiday traditions from the mill's heyday. You can participate in old-fashioned ornament making using materials that would have been available in the 1800s. The mill, built in 1845-46, played a crucial role in the area's early development. The gentle sound of the mill wheel turning adds to the authentic atmosphere.
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Christmas on the Farm (Canfield)
What to Expect:
Interactive farm experience with holiday twist
Description:
Canfield's working farm embraces the holiday spirit with a unique agricultural twist. Visitors interact with farm animals adorned in festive attire. The event highlights traditional rural Christmas customs, including sleigh rides and cookie baking in a wood-fired oven. You can help decorate the farm's Christmas tree with handmade, natural ornaments. The farm, which dates back to the 1800s, offers insight into Ohio's agricultural heritage. The crisp winter air carries the scent of fresh hay and pine, immersing guests in a genuine farm experience.