Where to find holiday events in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties
Throughout December, communities are hosting holiday get-togethers and family-friendly festivities in northeast Ohio.
Looking for something to do during upcoming chilly evenings?
Here are several events and festivals for the holidays, including pop-up bars, concerts, light displays and celebrations in the Mahoning Valley region starting Dec. 5.
Mahoning County
In Youngstown, festivities begin on Dec. 5 with the Flea on Phelps from 4 - 8 p.m. and downtown Central Square holiday parade at 6 p.m., followed by the tree lighting at 7:15 p.m.
The Flea on Phelps is happening on the city’s newest pedestrian pathway on Phelps Street in downtown Youngstown.
The fun continues throughout the weekend with Santa Shuffle happening Dec. 6 at 11 downtown bars and restaurants and at each stop on the crawl, you’ll be supporting local charity organizations.
Tickets for the fourteenth annual Santa Shuffle are $10 per person and can be purchased online.
Participants will need to sign in at the Draught House in downtown Youngstown to start.
If you’re looking for an outdoor winter activity, mark your calendars for the free Community Christmas Walk on Dec. 7 at Boardman Park.
Head to the Lariccia Community Center between 3 - 5 p.m. at the park to warm up by the fire pits on the back patio, sip free hot chocolate, play games and make holiday crafts.
Starting Dec. 7 through the beginning of January, take an evening to peruse the drive-thru winter wonderland holiday lights display at Boardman Park. Tune in to 88.9 FM to listen to holiday music that’s synchronized with the 21 flashing light creations all part of the display.
On Dec. 14, Boardman Park is hosting a free holiday concert at 3 p.m. featuring The Park Avenue Brass Quintet in the St. James Meeting House.
The Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber and the Mahoning Valley Young Professionals are hosting a holiday celebration at The Lake Club of Ohio in Poland.
The Taste of the Holidays Mixer is at 6 p.m. on Dec. 11. Guests can expect a night of networking with regional professionals, community leaders and Regional Chamber members from across the region.
Tickets to the mixer are available to purchase online, which includes two drinks and light hors d’oeuvres.
Columbiana County
In Columbiana, the Joy of Christmas Light Show is now open from 6 -9 p.m. on select days in late November and December including: Dec. 4–7, Dec. 11–23 and Dec. 24-28.
Head to The Harvey S. Firestone Recreational Park and Columbiana Cemetery on East Park Ave. to drive through the Joy of Christmas Light Show, which is on The Heart of it All’s 2025 Ohio Holiday Lights Trail.
Admission costs $20 vehicle or you can get a season pass for $40.
On Sundays, there’s a 50% discount for veterans, seniors and first responders.
Beyond enjoying the displays, visitors can get pictures with Santa Claus who will be greeting guests in the Ice Castle through Dec. 23, with Mrs. Claus joining him on Thursdays and Sundays.
There’s new Candy Land-theme decor and over 100 handcrafted gingerbread displays inside the Gingerbread House, also part the light show.
Before heading out, visit the Joy of Christmas Light website for updates, more information and specific events happening throughout the season.
Trumbull County
In Warren, visit the holiday pop-up experience at the Darlene Lounge known as A Modern Methods Christmas.
Enjoy festive cocktails and a rotating seasonal menu during the pop-up experience at the lounge.
Families in the Mahoning Valley can book a stay-cation at Residence Inn by Marriott Niles for the Night at the North Pole starting on three select weekends: Dec. 5 - 7, Dec. 12 - 14 and Dec. 21 - 23.
The holiday package is available Friday and Saturday nights in December including a one-night stay in a suite, hot cocoa, cookies and a family movie night in the lobby.
Each child will get a keepsake ornament to take home and remember their Night at the North Pole.
To book, call the hotel directly at (330) 505-3655.