Event center with historic charm, modern elegance set to open in downtown Youngstown

A new event center offering historic charm and modern elegance is set to open in the Mahoning Valley.

The Apollo Event Center, owned by Tim Huber, will hold its ribbon cutting ceremony with the Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber, sign lighting event and official grand opening this week. At this time, the grand opening is by invitation only.

Director of sales and marketing Lucia Martuccio said The Apollo is the ultimate destination for creating unforgettable memories.

“With a capacity to host up to 150 guests, our stunning venue radiates a blend of style and versatility, making it the perfect backdrop for any celebration in mind,” she said.

The space was initially going to open as a garage but the inspiration for the building changed when Huber’s sister saw the potential for an event center to thrive in downtown Youngstown.

Huber’s daughter Karleigh Huber, who works as the center’s graphic designer, said her dad liked the concept.

“My dad immediately supported the idea, especially since my sister Kyleigh was studying hospitality at the time. While the concept started with my aunt Kelly, my dad’s drive to bring it to life was fueled by his desire to create something special for Kyleigh’s future,” she said. “So, The Apollo Event Center is a blend of their vision and my dad’s commitment to supporting my sister’s dreams.”

Karleigh said one of the standout features at The Apollo is the mural on the back wall. She said when it was finished, it really brought something positive to the community.

“The mural has become a visual symbol of creativity and adds a unique touch to the downtown landscape,” she said. “It’s a reminder of how something as simple as a piece of art can make a big impact, bringing people together and adding a sense of renewal to the area.”

The Apollo will be a meaningful addition to the community, providing a beautiful space for people to gather and celebrate life’s special moments, according to Karleigh.

She said it will help bring more visitors to downtown Youngstown while supporting local businesses, caterers, and vendors that the center will bring into its space, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire area.

Twin sister Kyleigh Huber said the center has both old and new elements that make it unique.

“It is a wonderful mix of historic charm with modern elegance. It’s in a beautifully renovated building that has a lot of history, and the art-deco-inspired interiors give a classy vibe for all kinds of events,” she said. “One of the coolest things is the impressive mural of the Greek god Apollo, painted by local artist Pat McGlone, which adds a unique artistic touch to the building.”

Martuccio said every occasion deserves a personal touch, and the passionate team at The Apollo will craft every detail to match the vision. From mouthwatering catering options to flawless sound and lighting, she said the staff ensure events dazzle from start to finish.

The Apollo Event Center is on the first floor at 117 South Champion Street in downtown Youngstown and can be reached at 330-301-5612.

This story was originally published March 5, 2025 at 5:00 AM.