Good morning, Akron.

A local nonprofit will deliver 5,037 toys to Akron Children's Hospital on Thursday morning as U.S. Navy members help bring gifts inside, aiming to lift the spirits of young patients during the holidays.

Yesterday, Christopher Hardesty, CEO of the Downtown Akron Development Corporation, outlined plans at the Akron Press Club to revitalize downtown by converting commercial buildings into residences and supporting local businesses to boost the area's population to 5,000 by 2030; the plan includes code amendments + improved transit connections.

After a fire on Dec. 9 left her without a home, a local mother is seeking a permanent place to live while community services explore ways to assist her.

Akron City Council approved Amazon's plan to build the city's first sub same-day fulfillment center at the former Word Church site on Manchester Rd in Kenmore.

Construction will begin in Q1 2026 and finish in summer, and a study shows the project will not affect local traffic (2322 Manchester Rd).

Michael Allio of St. James Therapeutics is sending free skincare samples to patients with hand-foot syndrome to gather feedback as he plans a new capital round.

The Copley-based company, supported by local investors and experts, developed the product to ease chemo side effects — a promise honoring his late wife.

Akron’s new Sauerkraut Ball event will take place at Lock 3 on Dec.

13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Lock 3 Wonderland Room (200 S. Main St.), featuring unlimited tastings from local restaurants and live music plus ice skating; tickets cost $25.

Chef Aaron Blank of House Three Thirty in Akron shared his Three Thirty Garlic Bread Tree recipe for holiday gatherings on Dec.

9, featuring mozzarella, pepperoni, rosemary, and Parmesan — a creative twist that brings festive flavor to seasonal celebrations.

Over 700 pickleball players from 16 states and Canada will compete at Huntington Convention Center from Dec.

11 to 14 in the Midwest's largest tournament, presented by Akron Children's Hospital with free spectator admission. A free all-abilities clinic for youth will occur Saturday, led by Greater Cleveland Sports Commission+ ZenWorks.

The RubberDucks now have new owners as Prospector Baseball Group finalized the sale with MLB approval on Tuesday, Dec.

9, ending Ken Babby's ownership that began in 2012 when he renamed the team for the 2013 season (thirteen years). The move sets a new chapter for Akron’s minor league club.

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.

Charcuterie Wreath Workshop

6 PM – 8 PM — Constance Fromagerie & Café — Ticket price includes materials — Create a beautiful charcuterie wreath while enjoying champagne in a relaxed atmosphere.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — $15-$28 — Experience festive lights and holiday cheer with family and friends at this enchanting winter event.

Poetry Night with CC Speaks

7:30-10 p.m. — House Three Thirty — Specialty food and beverages for purchase — Experience a moving evening of poetic expressions from the local community.

Akron's ReaL DeaL ~ Old School & Motown Concert

7:30 PM - 1:30 AM — House Three Thirty — Specialty food and beverages available — Dance to the classic hits from renowned artists like The Temptations and Earth, Wind & Fire.