Good morning, Akron.

Retail stores in Summit County and Greater Akron will shorten hours on Christmas Eve, Dec.

24, and remain closed on Christmas Day, Dec. 25 to serve last-minute shoppers (Walmart, Target, and Best Buy also adjust schedules).

Gov. Mike DeWine announced 17 projects on Dec.

15 that will create 2,347 jobs and retain 8,592 positions in Ohio. The projects are expected to add over $148 million in annual payroll and more than $1.1 billion in investments.

On Friday, Akron-based FirstEnergy announced that its three utilities agreed to a $275M settlement to reimburse customers and end investigations into HB 6 violations (the agreement now awaits PUCO approval).

Former Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan will serve as interim CEO of Catholic Charities starting in January after Jim Mullen resigned to take a role closer to home; Horrigan joined the organization in August as senior director of government relations + advocacy and served as mayor from 2016 to 2023.

Akron men's basketball will open MAC play Friday night at home against Eastern Michigan.

Coach John Groce said the Zips, who average 95.8 points a game, plan to bolster their defense after a recent loss to Murray State (115-100 on Dec. 13).

On Friday, Dec. 19, the Cavaliers played the Bulls at Rocket Arena as they tried to reverse their season, with rookie Tyrese Proctor sparking an 8-0 run early while injuries sidelined key players & the team prepares for home games against the Hornets and Pelicans.

Two Akron Zips soccer players were selected in the MLS SuperDraft on Dec.

19. Senior forward Stefan Dobrijevic was drafted by Austin FC with the 17th pick and sophomore Remi Agunbiade was chosen by San Diego FC, adding to the school’s record of professional selections.

Sunday Afternoon Charcuterie Wreath Workshop

2-4:30 p.m. — Constance Fromagerie & Café — Ticket price includes materials and a glass of champagne — Create a stunning cheese and charcuterie wreath for your holiday gatherings.

Holiday Lantern Tours

5:00 PM – 8:40 PM — Hale Farm & Village — Ticket purchase required — Experience a nostalgic lantern-lit walking tour through a festive 19th-century village.

Holiday Lantern Tours

5-8:40 p.m. — Hale Farm & Village — Ticket purchase required — Experience the charm of a lantern-lit village tour showcasing festive 19th-century traditions.

Deck the Hall Event

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Free parking — Celebrate the holiday season with an enchanting experience at this historic venue.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Free Parking — Experience the festive charm of the season at a historic venue filled with holiday spirit.

Deck the Hall Celebration

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Adults $28, Youth $15 — Experience 1.4 million lights and festive fun with family and friends.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — $15-$28 — Experience holiday magic with dazzling lights, festive décor, and visits with Santa in a beautiful estate setting.

Deck the Hall

3-8 p.m. — Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens — Adults $28, Youth $15 — Experience a magical holiday season with 1.4 million lights and festive decor throughout the estate.

SmokeFace NYE Jam Session

9 PM–1 AM — Musica — $7 — Experience an exciting NYE jam session with Akron's own SmokeFace featuring music and creativity.

Richard Lloyd Live Performance

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Musica — $23 — Experience the legendary guitarist Richard Lloyd as he showcases classic rock sounds in an intimate setting.