First Fridays Downtown Youngstown takes place every first Friday of the month in and around Downtown Youngstown at various locations.  During First Fridays, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy live music, shopping, local dining, entertainment, arts, activities, recreation, and more.

Follow DOWNTOWN YOUNGSTOWN PARTNERSHIP on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-date event information.

Upcoming First Friday – Downtown Youngstown Events

April 2026

First Fridays Downtown Youngstown

April 3, 2026 | 5-7:30PM- Adults Only

Let's Glow! A Neon Night at OH WOW!

OH WOW! 15 Central Square, Youngstown, OH 44503

Featuring Live Music with Andrae Reed & Karaoke with DJ Lou

Get ready for a night full of light, music, science, and activities!
 
Recommended Attire: Neon & Glow in the Dark
 
💜 Cost: FREE & open to Adults 18 and over!
 
LET’S GLOW!

Andrae Reed

Andrae Reed is a dynamic keyboardist from Youngstown whose experience reflects the rigorous discipline required on the professional stage. His career includes touring with the acclaimed Magic of Motown and performing alongside notable figures such as jazz fusion pioneer Jerald Daemyon and the late Shock G of Digital Underground.

His distinctive musical style is built upon a profound foundation of Gospel, Neo-Soul, and R&B. Whether engaged in a studio recording session or executing a live performance, Mr. Reed consistently delivers a caliber of musicality and depth that is the product of extensive professional experience and elevates the artistic quality of the engagement.

DJ Lou

Lou Ronghi is quickly becoming a recognizable name in the local entertainment scene, bringing energy, personality, and a genuine love of music to every performance. Though relatively new to the singing and DJ circuit, Lou has rapidly built a reputation across the tri-county area for creating lively, welcoming atmospheres wherever he performs. From hosting high-energy karaoke nights around the Youngstown State University campus to engaging crowds with his smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence, Lou has a natural ability to connect with audiences and make every event feel special.

What truly sets Lou apart is his versatility as an entertainer. He can just as easily energize a college crowd as he can provide the perfect musical backdrop for a relaxed dinner at some of the area’s favorite restaurants. Beyond the nightlife and dining scene, Lou is also known for sharing his music at local nursing homes and rest centers, bringing joy and nostalgia to residents through classic songs and heartfelt performances. Whether entertaining students, families, or seniors, Lou Ronghi’s passion for music and people shines through, making him one of the area’s most engaging rising performers.

Live Music Initiative

Live Music Initiative – April Downtown Programming

The Live Music Initiative is funded by The Youngstown Foundation and driven by implementation of the Downtown Strategic Plan. Facilitated by the Economic Action Group and supported by Youngstown Cityscape, Downtown Youngstown Partnership, and the Regional Chamber, the initiative supports four months of live music across downtown venues (February–May 2026).

March Participating Venues

  • The Avalon

  • Draught House

  • Penguin City

Contact participating venues for live music details.

Future First Fridays Schedule

🔬 April 3, 2026: OH WOW! Neon Light
Concept: An adult-focused event blending science, light, and technology. Highlights include music, activities, and technology!

🌸 May 1, 2026: 
Theme: Cinco de Mayo
Concept: Celebrate Cinco De Mayo in collaboration with THRIVE & The City of Youngstown along N. Phelps Street.

🎶 June 5, 2026: Sounds of Summer & Chalk the Walk
Theme: Sounds of Summer & Chalk the Walk
Concept: A downtown-wide chalk and music celebration with live music,  linking local venues. Features a Chalk the Walk Contest.

🌠 July 3, 2026: 
Theme: Celebrating America 250
Concept: A celebration of America 250. 

🍝 August 2026: OFF for Greater Italian Fest

🏙️ September 4, 2026: 
Theme: Welcome Back, Youngstown!
Concept: A partnership event with local restaurants and businesses to welcome new and returning students. 

🎃 October 9, 2026: 
Theme: Fall Festival
Concept: A harvest celebration featuring autumn crafts, seasonal food vendors, and themed art activities.

Youngstown CityScape’s mission is to strengthen Youngstown’s revitalized urban core that connects downtown, the YSU campus and adjacent neighborhoods and gateways through strategic partnerships.

The Downtown Youngstown Partnership (DYP) is a component of Youngstown CityScape. This stakeholder group promotes and supports downtown businesses, hosts events and encourages area-wide involvement of fun, community building activities. DYP rotates its quarterly meetings from member to member, sharing news, exploring projects, and creating events downtown like our upcoming First Fridays. In conjunction with the Mahoning Valley Historical Society, DYP helps organize “Happy Birthday Youngstown!” an annual party celebrating the city and offering walking tours. The group also conducts service projects downtown, planting bulbs, removing graffiti, and cleaning sidewalks. We hope you’ll consider joining DYP as we bring more live music, fun, food, and exciting events downtown!