Happy New Year, Mahoning Valley!

Downtown Youngstown was the happening destination for people all over the Mahoning Valley on Tuesday as they chose to ring in the new year with First Night Youngstown.

From free public ice skating at the Covelli Centre to two fireworks displays and ball-dropping ceremonies, those who came said they were drawn to the event because it is safe, family friendly and affordable.

At the Covelli, Wesley Rodocker of Lowellville and his brother, Scott Egan, were celebrating their second New Year’s Eve in the area. The former Floridians said — tongue firmly in cheek — that the holiday is a lot different here from in the Sunshine State because of the weather.

They said they got passes through their work and decided to check it out.

“We thought we’d bring the kids and have some fun,” Egan said.

Tom Macabobby of Canfield was inside checking on his son after he fell on the ice. Macabobby said he likes the variety of things offered for families.

“It seems like a lot more things to do for the family,” Macabobby said.

Read more about how we rang in the New Year in today's Vindicator and on Vindy.com.