Good morning, Akron.

Akron native LeBron James, with Travis and Jason Kelce from Ohio, is partnering with Amazon during the holiday season to donate over 1 million gifts, essentials, and clothing to families in need — supporting the work of the LeBron James Family Foundation.

On Dec. 5, the GAR Foundation awarded 1.3 million dollars in grants to 20 Akron nonprofits; Bounce Innovation Hub + Western Reserve Community Fund received support to boost local entrepreneurship and small business growth.

Aaron Lewis and the Stateliners will perform at MGM Northfield Park on Wednesday, Dec.

10 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets went on sale on May 23 at 10:00 a.m. and the venue is 21+.

Castle Noel in Medina, near Akron, offers a year-round Christmas experience with movie props, animatronic displays, and new exhibits.

The museum will host a Starlight Dining Experience and breakfast with the Grinch on Dec. 13 (additional events include a summer luau and Independence Day celebration).

The Akron Sneaker Academy received a $2,000 Millennium Fund grant to expand its SOLE Box STEM kits for local middle schoolers and will host workshops in February in Summit and surrounding counties — connecting sneaker culture to STEM education and Akron’s polymer history.

Chase's Akron Community Manager, Ace Epps, is hosting free workshops on budgeting, saving, and credit management for residents to prepare for 2026 — interested neighbors can visit a local branch for a free financial check-up.

Supplemental Security Income recipients will receive two checks in December because the January payment is issued early on Dec.

31 due to the New Year holiday. Regular Social Security retirement benefits follow their usual schedule (Dec. 10, 17, 24) and will increase in January with a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment.

Akron updated its leaf pickup schedule after weather slowed crews; pickup in Ward 1 is underway while removal in Ward 2 is set for Dec.8 and Ward 9 for Dec.12 (dates may change if weather worsens).

Boston Mills and Brandywine ski resorts in northern Summit County have begun making snow; Boston Mills installed new machines and Brandywine added a conveyor deck to its tubing park, though neither has set a firm opening date yet.

Local athletic administrators and state lawmakers voiced concerns about high school NIL deals after a recent referendum passed with 447 votes in favor, saying new money opportunities might pressure young athletes and shift the emphasis from fun and team development to financial gain.

The 2025-26 OHSAA boys basketball season has begun with Greater Akron teams showcasing fresh local talent.

Recent state champions Archbishop Hoban and Buchtel set high standards + several new players are ready to shine this season.

Chili Cook-Off

1-10 p.m. — Mercedes Neighborhood Tavern — Cash prizes available — Showcase your cooking talents at this exciting culinary competition.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Free parking — Experience a festive holiday atmosphere with beautiful decorations and seasonal charm.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Free parking — Experience a festive holiday celebration in a stunning historic venue.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Free parking — Experience the enchanting holiday display in a historic setting.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Free parking — Experience the festive decorations at this enchanting historic estate during the holiday season.

The Anime Night Before Christmas

5:30-7 p.m. — Musica — General Admission — Embrace the holiday spirit with anime-themed festivities and a cosplay contest.

RustFed 'Voracious' Album Release Party

7-11 p.m. — Musica — $10 online / $12 at the door — Celebrate RustFed's debut LP with special guests and an energetic night of music.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — $15-$28 — Celebrate the holidays with 1.4 million lights and festive decorations throughout the estate.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — EJ Thomas Hall — Tickets starting at $49 — Enjoy a lively evening with the energetic tunes of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

Holiday Lights Celebration at Stan Hywet

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Adults $28, Youth $15 — Experience 1.4 million lights and festive displays amidst a magical holiday atmosphere.