09/04/2026
First Fridays Downtown Youngstown: Welcome Back YSU! 🐧
Friday, September 4
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Phelps Street Gateway, Downtown Youngstown (IF STORMS PERSIST WE WILL MOVE INDOORS TO OUR GRACIOUS HOSTS AT The Federal & Twisted Roots-Mb)
Kick off the new academic year with First Fridays: Welcome Back Youngstown State University!
Whether you're a first-year student, returning Penguin, faculty or staff member, alumni, or a community resident, join us in Downtown Youngstown for an evening celebrating the people, places, and organizations that make the Mahoning Valley a vibrant place to live, learn, and create.
Enjoy an evening featuring:
-Live music with Erin "Thelosttribe" Stubbs on the Phelps Gateway
-Karaoke with DJ Lou at The Federal
-Delicious food from local restaurants and food vendors
-Shopping with local businesses, artists, and makers
-Mahoning Valley arts organizations showcasing creative opportunities
-Local nonprofits and community organizations sharing ways to -get involved and make a difference
-Interactive activities for all ages
Whether you're new to Youngstown or have called it home for years, this is the perfect opportunity to discover everything Downtown Youngstown has to offer, connect with your community, and experience the creativity, culture, and collaboration that define the Mahoning Valley.
Bring your friends, classmates, coworkers, and family for a fun evening exploring local businesses, supporting community organizations, and celebrating the start of another exciting year in Youngstown.
Admission is free and everyone is welcome!
American Red Cross of Northern Ohio
Sweet Society Treat Co
YSU Campus Recreation
Fred Astaire Dance Studios - Youngstown
The Butler Institute of American Art
Summit Academy Schools
Downtown Youngstown Partnership
Economic Action Group
City of YOUngstown
Youngstown State Alumni Engagement
YSU First Year Student Services
Youngstown State University
Department of Art • YSU
