Akron Christmas Tree Festival: A Holiday Wonderland Awaits

The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting the Akron Christmas Tree Festival? This annual event has been a beloved tradition in Akron, Ohio, for over 40 years, attracting visitors from all over the country. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what makes this festival so special and why it's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of the holiday season.

A Brief History of the Akron Christmas Tree Festival

The Akron Christmas Tree Festival was first held in 1979, and it has since become a staple of the city's holiday celebrations. The festival was started by a group of local business owners who wanted to create a fun and festive event that would bring the community together. Over the years, the festival has grown in size and popularity, featuring a wide range of activities, entertainment, and exhibits.

A Holiday Wonderland Awaits

One of the main attractions of the Akron Christmas Tree Festival is the stunning display of Christmas trees. Each year, local businesses and organizations sponsor and decorate a tree, which is then displayed in the festival's main hall. The trees are adorned with lights, ornaments, and other festive decorations, creating a breathtaking sight that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

In addition to the Christmas tree display, the festival also features a wide range of activities and entertainment, including live music, craft demonstrations, and visits with Santa Claus. You can also browse the festival's many vendor booths, which offer a variety of holiday-themed goods, including handmade crafts, decorations, and gifts.

Things to Do at the Akron Christmas Tree Festival

So, what can you expect to see and do at the Akron Christmas Tree Festival? Here are just a few of the many activities and attractions that await you:

• Christmas Tree Display: Marvel at the stunning display of Christmas trees, each one uniquely decorated by local businesses and organizations.
• Live Music: Enjoy live music performances by local musicians, ranging from classical to contemporary.
• Craft Demonstrations: Watch local artisans demonstrate their crafts, including woodworking, pottery, and more.
• Visits with Santa: Bring the kids to meet Santa Claus and take part in a holiday tradition.
• Vendor Booths: Browse the many vendor booths offering holiday-themed goods, including handmade crafts, decorations, and gifts.
• Food and Drink: Savor the flavors of the holiday season with a variety of food and drink options, including hot cocoa, cookies, and more.

Special Events and Activities

In addition to the regular activities and attractions, the Akron Christmas Tree Festival also features a number of special events and activities throughout the season. These may include:

• Tree Lighting Ceremony: Join in the official tree lighting ceremony, which kicks off the festival.
• Parade of Trees: Watch as local businesses and organizations parade their decorated trees through the streets of Akron.
• Holiday Movie Screenings: Catch a screening of a classic holiday movie, such as "It's a Wonderful Life" or "Miracle on 34th Street."
• Santa's Workshop: Bring the kids to Santa's workshop, where they can make their own holiday crafts and decorations.

Plan Your Visit to the Akron Christmas Tree Festival

If you're planning to visit the Akron Christmas Tree Festival, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Dates and Times: The festival typically takes place over several weekends in December, with hours of operation varying each day.
• Admission: Admission to the festival is free, although some activities and events may require a small fee.
• Parking and Transportation: Parking is available on site, although it may be limited. Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid congestion.
• Accommodations: If you're planning to stay overnight, there are a number of hotels and bed-and-breakfasts in the area that offer special festival packages and rates.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Most of Your Visit

Here are a few tips and tricks for making the most of your visit to the Akron Christmas Tree Festival:

• Arrive Early: Get there early to beat the crowds and make the most of your visit.
• Dress Warmly: The festival is held indoors, but it can still get chilly, especially in the evenings. Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring Cash: Some vendors may not accept credit or debit cards, so be sure to bring cash to avoid disappointment.
• Take Breaks: The festival can be overwhelming, especially for young children. Take breaks to rest and recharge.

Conclusion

The Akron Christmas Tree Festival is a holiday wonderland that awaits you and your family. With its stunning display of Christmas trees, live music, craft demonstrations, and visits with Santa Claus, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this festival is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of the holiday season.

We hope you've enjoyed this article about the Akron Christmas Tree Festival. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below. And don't forget to share this article with your friends and family to help spread the word about this wonderful holiday event!