Good morning, Summit County. The holiday spirit is lighting up Akron early this year as the 44th annual Holiday Tree Festival transforms the John S. Knight Center into a winter wonderland starting November 15. With 153 decorated trees ranging from classic themes to pop culture icons like Barbie and "The Golden Girls," this free nine-day celebration offers a magical experience while supporting Akron Children's Hospital's vital work—having raised over $7.6 million since its inception.
While festive trees brighten downtown, Bar Phoenix is adding sparkle of a different kind with its theatrical cocktails and live jazz performances. The new hotspot's Campfire Old Fashioned, complete with toasted marshmallows, provides the perfect sip to contemplate upcoming changes to your utility bills—Akron's natural gas rates will jump nearly 20% next month, with the city's aggregation program rates increasing from $3.81 to $4.55/Mcf starting in November 2025.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🎄 Akron's holiday magic returns with nine days of dazzling trees. The 44th annual Holiday Tree Festival, running November 15-23 at the John S. Knight Center, features 153 decorated trees, 70 wreaths, and live entertainment—all free to the public. Themes range from classic holiday motifs to pop culture icons like Barbie and "The Golden Girls." As Akron Children's Hospital's biggest fundraiser, the festival has raised over $7.6 million since its inception for medical research and patient care. "We love keeping this a free event for the community," says event chair Susan Berk, crediting sponsors, decorators, and hundreds of volunteers for making the magic happen.
🍹 Downtown Akron's new cocktail haven brings flair and flavor. Bar Phoenix, opened by Andrew Dible in late June, offers spectacularly crafted drinks including the Blackberry Collins and theatrical Campfire Old Fashioned complete with toasted marshmallows. The menu features comfort foods like baked wings, gyros, and personal pizzas to complement the innovative cocktail selection. Beyond food and drinks, Bar Phoenix has established itself as a jazz destination with regular performances by talented local musicians including saxophonists Justin Tibbs and Chris Coles.
💰 Akron's natural gas rates to jump nearly 20% next month. Participants in the city's natural gas aggregation program will see fixed rates increase from $3.81/Mcf to $4.55/Mcf starting in November 2025. The higher rates, supplied by IGS Energy, will first appear on December bills and remain in effect through October 2026. Residents can opt out by October 31 or choose to shop around for different suppliers without penalties. The city notes that customers can join or leave the program at any time without early termination fees.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
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Modern spacious home bonus barn: Priced at $480,000, this modern cape cod home offers 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, and nearly 3,000 sq. ft. of living space, featuring a bonus pole barn with finished loft space, updated kitchen, and primary suite with spa-like amenities.
Wooded Retreat Near Park: This modern custom-built home in Nordonia Hills School District is listed at $485,000, offering three bedrooms, peaceful wooded views, and proximity to amenities while sitting on a serene one-acre lot backing to Sagamore Hills Park.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
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