Festive holiday spirit in Mahoning Commons

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Organizations and businesses in the Mahoning Commons area will celebrate the arts Saturday.

The Mahoning Commons Holiday Fest will feature open houses at nine facilities in or near the neighborhood, which is just west of downtown, from noon until at least 5 p.m. A free trolley will make a continuous loop between all locations.

Parking will be available at each location, which will be marked with balloons and banners.

Participating are:

Fellows Riverside Gardens, 123 McKinley Ave.: The Weller Gallery will exhibit Wildlife Art paintings by John Ruthven. The Garden Caf will be open until 3 p.m., and the Shop in the Gardens will be open until 5 p.m.

Star Supply Bargain Outlet, 875 Mahoning Ave.: The closeout store features bargain-priced goods.

Youngstown Maennerchor, 831 Mahoning Ave.: Founded in 1863 as a German men’s singing society, the148-year-old building is a Mahoning Commons landmark that offers German fare in a historic building.

Calvin Center Idea Incubator, 755 Mahoning Ave.: Youngstown’s newest venue for theater, art and music will be open from noon to midnight. The Calvin Center, home of The Rust Belt Theater Company, will host the Artists of the Rust Belt Art Market. Food and beer will be available for purchase, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting The Mahoning Commons Association. During the daylight hours, Viking Jim (of 93.3 The Wolf — Homegrown Show) will act as DJ. Bands will start at 8 p.m. with a $3 cover charge (18 and older).

Lemon Grove, 122 W. Federal St.: Will showcase artists painting live to music. The Lemon Grove offers a selection of coffee, beer, wine, liquor and food.

B&O Station, 530 Mahoning Ave.: Rust Belt Brewing Co. will give brewery tours and have its new IPA for sale. An outdoor fire pit will be active.

Victorian Players, 702 Mahoning Ave.: The little theater in a converted old church built in the 1890s will offer tours.

Santisi Wholesale Foods, 832 Mahoning Ave.: This specialty store offers holiday trays and gift baskets with a large selection of gourmet cheeses.

Ward Bakery Building, 1024 Mahoning Ave.: The Artists of the Mahoning Commons will have their annual Holiday Open Studio and Sale. Featured will be painting, jewelry, sculpture, pottery, fiber art, glass, mixed media, drawing, prints, photography and custom woodwork.