Organizers bringing 2025 Summer Festival of the Arts ‘back home’ to Youngstown State
Over the past few summers, a festival showcasing the artistic talent of the Mahoning Valley region has found a new home at Wean Park.
Ohio artists and creators are featured in the Summer Festival of the Arts each year gaining exposure for their work at the festival attended by an average of 15,000 visitors.
In 2025, the Summer Festival of the Arts is returning to the Youngstown State University campus, according to the university.
The twenty-seventh annual festival is scheduled for July 12 and 13 and is open to the public and free to attend.
“We are excited to bring the Summer Festival of the Arts back to its home at YSU,” said YSU President Bill Johnson. “Returning to the campus not only honors the festival’s rich history but also enhances the experience for both artists and attendees from throughout our region. We look forward to another year of celebrating creativity and community on our beautiful campus.”
Local organizations and performers are also participating in the festival by bringing family-friendly activities and entertainment.
“The YSU Summer Festival of the Arts has always been a highlight of our community’s cultural calendar,” said Johnson. “We are thrilled to see this cherished event return to its original venue and continue to attract artists and visitors from across the region.”
Organizers started Summer Festival of the Arts in 1999 finding its roots on and around Wick Avenue in Youngstown.
Phyllis Paul, dean of the YSU Cliffe College of Creative Arts, expressed her enthusiasm about the return.
“This festival is a testament to the Mahoning Valley’s deep appreciation for the arts. We are delighted to continue this tradition at YSU and offer an inspiring and enriching experience for everyone involved,” said Paul.
In 2020, the festival was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The following year, organizers with the Cultural Alliance moved the event to Wean Park.
Next year will be the first year the Summer Festival of the Arts returns to YSU.
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