Parade, food, rides and visit with Santa kick off Youngstown holiday festivities today

YOUNGSTOWN

Downtown Youngstown was beginning to look a lot like Christmas this weekend with a holiday parade, festival and tree-lighting ceremony that attracted spectators by the hundreds.

The inside of the former Pharmor building at 20 Federal Plaza West was transformed Saturday into a hub of activity for the holiday celebration. Throngs of festival participants were treated to free cocoa, a Santa workshop, train rides for kids and a visit with Santa.

Those people walking along Federal Plaza were tempted with the smell of roasted walnuts, freshly made popcorn, wreaths that could be purchased and the sounds of holiday music. There was also a parade with more than 60 floats and displays, and candy for the young people standing along the street.

Kristy McFarland of Boardman said a return to the city for fun and games is what prompted her to come out to the holiday festival with her 2-year-old son Laddie and 5-year-old son Cassidy. She said the community has to support such events to keep them going.

“We just wanted to support the city and have fun." Youngstown CityScape, WFMJ, Youngstown State University, First Night and Choffin Career Center teamed up to make it a bigger event than in past years.

For the complete story and photo gallery, read Sunday's Vindicator or Vindy.com