Good morning, Akron.

On Christmas Eve a century ago, Goodyear rebranded its blimp as the Santa Claus Express for a flight over Akron that dropped parachutes laden with dolls, wreaths, and goodies over local institutions; pilots Jack Yolton and Carl Wollam guided the near two-hour flight as tens of thousands watched.

On Dec. 20, the 45th TubaChristmas concert at E.J.

Thomas Performing Arts Hall in Akron featured nearly 600 musicians in two free shows with decorated instruments and festive carols; University of Akron professor Tucker Jolly was honored with a proclamation from Mayor Shammas Malik naming the day 'Tucker Jolly Day'.

The University of Akron finalized a 50-year, $91.6 million deal with Radnor Property Group for on-campus housing that will mothball three dorms and invest $50.6 million to upgrade Spanton and Bulger halls (including upgrades like private bathrooms and a connector) with work scheduled to begin next fall and spring 2027.

Browns defensive end Myles Garrett needed just half a sack to tie the NFL single-season record during the Dec.

21 game against Buffalo, finishing with 22 sacks as he focused on the win despite the 23-20 loss.

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.

Spiritual New Year's Resolution Discussion

9:30-11:30 a.m. — Portage Path CLC — Free entry — Explore the spiritual path to happiness and personal growth inspired by Bahá’í teachings.

Karaoke Thursday at Musica

9 PM - 1 AM — Musica — Free entry — Grab a drink and take the mic at this fun karaoke night.