Good morning, Akron.

St. Herman House served Christmas-day meals and distributed winter gear to homeless residents in Akron, offering essential support during the holiday season.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park ended its 16-month celebration of its 50th anniversary this December, marking 50 years since President Ford signed the founding legislation on Dec.

27, 1974. Local gateway communities, including Akron and Peninsula, have supported the park’s growth (showing strong local partnerships).

Akron will host many New Year’s Eve events with family-friendly crafts at the Children’s Museum on Dec.

30 and exciting countdowns at the Zoo, libraries, and music venues on Dec. 31 — offering a variety of fun ways for locals to welcome 2026.

Square Records co-owner Juniper Sage discussed Highland Square store’s past plus its future plans in a recent discussion.

Sage said the store’s history will help shape updates to keep it a hub for local music lovers.

Akron-area writers including Rita Dove (former U.S. Poet Laureate) and Michael Buckley are featured in Words on the Street.

The list spotlights eight local authors whose work spans poetry to fantasy and invites readers to explore hometown talent.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad's North Pole Adventure was named the best holiday train ride by Newsweek for 2026.

It ran from Nov. 14 to Dec. 22, offering a 90-minute journey with milk, cookies, live elves and a Santa visit while donating $5 per ticket to a local food bank.

Springfield and Firestone high school girls basketball teams will face off Dec.

29 at Firestone in a nonleague game — both programs are set to rebuild their rosters and boost morale ahead of regular season play.

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.

Susan Carson Live at Front St Social

7-11 p.m. — Front St Social — Free entry — Experience an evening of diverse music by Susan Carson and Rikk Mayr.

Female Fronted Rock Night

7-10 p.m. — Musica — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy an evening filled with vibrant performances by talented female-fronted bands.