Good morning, Akron.

The 44th Akron Children’s Hospital Holiday Tree Festival begins today at 10 a.m. and runs until November 23, showing 153 trees, 70 wreaths and 172 holiday gifts for sale.

The free event, which has raised nearly $8 million for the hospital over the years, will feature themed displays honoring children with health challenges+several choirs, orchestras and performers will entertain visitors.

Many Northeast Ohio cities, including Akron, Canton and Cleveland, have announced a range of festive Christmas events with parades, light displays and family activities scheduled from later this month through early January.

More details will be updated as organizers finalize plans — ensuring a joyful holiday season for local residents.

A local entrepreneur is leading plans to transform a fire-damaged building on W.

Exchange into the Yellow Brick Road Entertainment District with community support. The project will create a pop-up public market and flexible workspaces, with NR Design set to move in (January) and the market expected to thrive (by August).

The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad hosted tours on its North Pole Adventure train as holiday runs officially kicked off Nov.

14. The train featured festive decor — a special treat for riders.

After the government shutdown ended November 12th, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services began partial SNAP payments while the USDA said most benefits will arrive within 24 hours—helping 1.45 million Ohioans who now receive an average monthly benefit of $186.02.

Since Sept. 30, Ohio law requires 18- to 21-year-olds to complete driver’s education before getting a license, and 911 Driving School in Rocky River has seen a 35% increase in calls—police have also reported more stops for young drivers who have not taken the course.

Governor DeWine backed the law and a $6 million grant will help driving schools offer affordable programs—efforts that may lead to safer roads.

Akron confirmed it will demolish Firestone Plant #1 and its clock tower after rejecting a proposal by Amerimar Realty to convert the 115-year-old building into the new police headquarters (demolition begins Dec.

8, with the front bay in March and full demolition in April).

Browns rookie Carson Schwesinger faced Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in Week 2 and said that the experience builds his confidence for the rematch on November 16 in Ohio.

He recorded key defensive stats in his last game (the Browns lost 41-17 in Baltimore) and now plans to adjust his play for the upcoming challenge.

Avon and Wadsworth faced off in a Division II, Region 6 football semifinal rematch on Nov.

14, with Avon led by quarterback Blake Elder and Wadsworth featuring running backs Gavin Madigan and Cooper Gray. The winner will advance to face a top-seeded team in a regional title game—intensifying the playoff race.

Eight Akron-area high school football teams will compete in the OHSAA third-round regional semifinals on Friday, Nov.

21 — with matchups in Divisions II, III, and VII — as games will begin at 7 p.m. The contests include Hudson versus Hoban, Fitch versus Walsh Jesuit, North Ridgeville versus Highland, Avon versus Wadsworth, East versus CVCA, and East Canton versus Mogadore.

Midday Mingle Networking Event

11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. — Beau's Bar & Bistro — Supported by local cuisine — Casual networking over lunch to build connections and strengthen community ties.

Mike Reyes Live Music

6-9 p.m. — Old 97 — Good food and drinks — Mike Reyes brings the tunes for a night of great vibes.

56th Annual Red Wagon Luncheon and Boutique

9 AM – 3 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Akron Fairlawn — Free admission — Experience a day of unique handcrafted items and a fashion show while supporting local children in need.

Local Artists Showcase

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Musica — $10 online / $12 at the door — Experience a vibrant mixed-genre showcase featuring some of NE Ohio's best local artists.

Gennesaret’s 34th Annual Home Run for the Homeless

Event Time TBA — 419 W Exchange St, Akron, OH — Registration fees apply — Participate in a meaningful race supporting families seeking to improve their lives.

Artists Sunday Weekend Shopping Event

5-9 p.m. — Lock 3 Park — Free entry — Celebrate local artists and find unique holiday gifts at this vibrant holiday market.

Akron Realtist Association Holiday Gala

5-9 p.m. — Hilton Garden Inn Akron — Cash bar available — Enjoy a night of music, dancing, and holiday cheer at the gala supporting first-time homebuyers.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Free parking — Celebrate the season with holiday decorations and festive ambiance in a stunning venue.

Deck the Hall Celebration

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Free parking — Experience a festive walking tour at one of Akron's most beautiful locations.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Free parking — Experience the festive spirit of the holiday season in a beautiful historic setting.