SUMMER FESTIVAL
OF THE ARTS

July 12 and 13
2025

A
ABOUT THIS EVENT
A Celebration of Art, Music, and Community

Join us for one of the region’s most vibrant summer traditions — the Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University!

This two-day celebration features a diverse lineup of artists showcasing everything from painting and sculpture to jewelry, ceramics, photography, textiles, and more. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and family-friendly activities as YSU’s campus transforms into a colorful hub of creativity and community.

Whether you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind piece, looking to enjoy a day outdoors with loved ones, or simply exploring what makes Youngstown shine, the Summer Festival of the Arts is the perfect summer destination.

WHERE

Youngstown State University

WHEN

July 12 and 13, 2025

July 12 and 13

%D
%H
%M
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Meet Our Artists

Discover the incredible talent featured at this year’s Summer Festival of the Arts! Our participating artists represent a wide range of styles and mediums, bringing creativity and craftsmanship to every corner of the event. This gallery displays artists in random order to celebrate everyone equally—be sure to explore and find your next favorite piece!

S
THE BEST IN GROWTH
Many Talent Experts

July 2019 will bring together over 100 founders, start-up enthusiasts, corporates, angel investors, VCs, and media from across the globe.

Daily Calendar

2025-07-12
2025-07-12
SFA Main Stage
Around the Festival
2025-07-13
2025-07-13
SFA Main Stage
SFA Community Stage
Around the Festival
SFA Main Stage
Around the Festival
SFA Main Stage
SFA Community Stage
Around the Festival
10:00 - 18:00
YSU Campus Rec and Athletics Tent

YSU Campus Recreation and YSU Athletics will have cornhole, giant Connect Four, and coloring pages at the Summer Festival of the Arts. Stop by and enter for a chance to win a Campus Rec prize basket or ticket vouchers for the upcoming season.

10:00 - 18:00
Skye’s the Limit Face Painting Tent

Family-friendly activities including face painting, hair tinsel, a glitter bar, princess crowns, glitter tattoos, and hair feathers.

10:00 - 18:00
SMARTS Hands-On Children’s Art Tent

SMARTS, your community art school will be leading hands-on arts activities for children of all ages at the YSU Summer Festival of the Arts. SMARTS has provided free PK-12 classes in visual art, music, dance, theater and creative writing since 1997 and is conveniently located in historic downtown Youngstown. For more information about SMARTS, visit www.SMARTSArtSchool.org or call 330-574-2787.

10:00 - 18:00
Melnick Medical Museum

Located in room 241 on the lower level of Cushwa Hall, explore the history of medicine & dentistry including an Iron Lung respirator! Then have some fun guessing the use of historical medical tools from the collection before checking your answers with images of the modern tools. Entrances near Lincoln Avenue. Activities for all ages.

10:00 - 16:00
McDonough Museum of Art

The McDonough Museum will offer an art scavenger hunt for all ages. The artwork of alumni Jason Van Hoose and Jeffrey Piper will be featured, along with internationally renowned artist Mike Egan and student artwork from the Inspiring Minds program.

10:00 - 18:00
Maag Library Book Sale

Calling all book lovers! Stop by the outdoor book sale on the Butler Art side of Maag Library and browse a wide selection of gently used books at bargain prices. Whether you’re hunting for summer reads, academic gems, or hidden literary treasures, there’s something for everyone.

Folk IndieBob image
10:00
Folk IndieBob

Also known as Bob Augustine, Folk Indie Bob brings heartfelt lyrics and acoustic charm straight from Pittsburgh’s vibrant folk scene. His thoughtful songwriting, soulful vocals, and laid-back melodies are sure to start the day on a reflective, feel-good note. Expect memorable originals like “Smile for Peace” and “Dropped Off Dog” that stay with you long after the last chord.

11:00
Steel Museum Guided Tour – Grit and Glow Exhibition

Step into the rich industrial history of the Mahoning Valley with a special guided tour of the Grit and Glow exhibition at the Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor. Explore the stories, artifacts, and innovations that defined generations of local steelworkers.

11:00 - 16:00
Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor (Steel Museum)

Visit the Grit and Glow exhibition at the Steel Museum, celebrating the legacy of Greater Mahoning Valley steelworkers. Special guided tours are available during festival weekend.

11:00 - 18:00
Clarence R. Smith Mineral Museum

Located in the first floor lobby of Moser Hall, visitors of all ages are welcome to stroll through the museum at their leisure.  Short activity sheets that relate to the displays will be provided including scavenger hunt and “I Spy” type activities.  Admission is always free!

Tundra Tuxedo image
11:00
Tundra Tuxedo

Get ready to rock with Tundra Tuxedo, one of the most exciting young bands in the region! Rooted in rock ’n’ roll and powered by raw talent, this group brings high-energy performances and crowd-pleasing sound to every stage. All members are alumni or students of YSU’s Dana School of Music, making their homecoming performance one you won’t want to miss.

12:00 - 16:00
Ward Beecher Planetarium

Hourly shows starting at 12pm through 4:00pm. Doors open at 11:30am both days.

12pm – One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure
1pm- Moons Worlds of Mystery
2pm – Perfect Little Planet
3pm – Summer Skywatch
4pm – First and Farthest

12:00
McDonough Museum of Art Exhibit Tour

Join a knowledgeable museum guide for a walkthrough of the McDonough Museum’s featured exhibitions. You’ll explore works by alumni artists Jason Van Hoose and Jeffrey Piper, internationally acclaimed artist Mike Egan, and powerful pieces by local students in the Inspiring Minds program. Learn the stories behind the artwork and gain a deeper appreciation for the creative voices shaping our region. Perfect for families, art lovers, and the simply curious!

The Gary Markasky Project image
13:00
The Gary Markasky Project

Featuring former Michael Stanley Band guitarist Gary Markasky, this powerhouse group brings classic rock flair with soaring solos and tight musicianship. Backed by a seasoned crew of Ohio-based pros, The Gary Markasky Project delivers electrifying performances filled with decades of rock history and a love for the stage you can feel.

13:30
Steel Museum Guided Tour – Grit and Glow Exhibition

Step into the rich industrial history of the Mahoning Valley with a special guided tour of the Grit and Glow exhibition at the Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor. Explore the stories, artifacts, and innovations that defined generations of local steelworkers.

14:00 - 16:00
YSU Humanities and Social Sciences Department

Encounter a celebration of art and culture through the Humanities and Social Sciences. These disciplines are not dusty books; they are active and vital explorations of human creativity. Located at the entrance to Cushwa Hall.

14:00
McDonough Museum of Art Exhibit Tour

Join a knowledgeable museum guide for a walkthrough of the McDonough Museum’s featured exhibitions. You’ll explore works by alumni artists Jason Van Hoose and Jeffrey Piper, internationally acclaimed artist Mike Egan, and powerful pieces by local students in the Inspiring Minds program. Learn the stories behind the artwork and gain a deeper appreciation for the creative voices shaping our region. Perfect for families, art lovers, and the simply curious!

11:00 - 17:00
YSU Campus Rec and Athletics Tent

YSU Campus Recreation and YSU Athletics will have cornhole, giant Connect Four, and coloring pages at the Summer Festival of the Arts. Stop by and enter for a chance to win a Campus Rec prize basket or ticket vouchers for the upcoming season.

11:00 - 17:00
Skye’s the Limit Face Painting Tent

Family-friendly activities including face painting, hair tinsel, a glitter bar, princess crowns, glitter tattoos, and hair feathers.

11:00 - 17:00
SMARTS Hands-On Children’s Art Tent

SMARTS, your community art school will be leading hands-on arts activities for children of all ages at the YSU Summer Festival of the Arts. SMARTS has provided free PK-12 classes in visual art, music, dance, theater and creative writing since 1997 and is conveniently located in historic downtown Youngstown. For more information about SMARTS, visit www.SMARTSArtSchool.org or call 330-574-2787.

11:00 - 17:59
Melnick Medical Museum

Located in room 241 on the lower level of Cushwa Hall, explore the history of medicine & dentistry including an Iron Lung respirator! Then have some fun guessing the use of historical medical tools from the collection before checking your answers with images of the modern tools. Entrances near Lincoln Avenue. Activities for all ages.

11:00 - 17:00
Clarence R. Smith Mineral Museum

Located in the first floor lobby of Moser Hall, visitors of all ages are welcome to stroll through the museum at their leisure.  Short activity sheets that relate to the displays will be provided including scavenger hunt and “I Spy” type activities.  Admission is always free!

11:00 - 17:00
Maag Library Book Sale

Calling all book lovers! Stop by the outdoor book sale on the Butler Art side of Maag Library and browse a wide selection of gently used books at bargain prices. Whether you’re hunting for summer reads, academic gems, or hidden literary treasures, there’s something for everyone.

Brian Bonhomme image
11:00
Brian Bonhomme

Professor by day and rock troubadour by night, Brian Bonhomme brings a rich musical history from the UK to the YSU stage. Formerly of the chart-topping band Roman Holliday, his solo performances feature timeless hits from The Beatles, Elton John, Simon & Garfunkel, and more—blending nostalgia with masterful guitar work and a smooth voice.

Rachell Joy-Tupaj image
12:00
Rachell Joy-Tupaj

Experience the powerful and soulful voice of Rachell Joy-Tupaj, a celebrated vocalist with a dynamic background in gospel, musical theater, and community performance. From USO tours to local stages, Rachell brings decades of heartfelt music and storytelling to every show. Her performance promises a moving and inspiring set you won’t want to miss.

12:00 - 16:00
Ward Beecher Planetarium

Hourly shows starting at 12pm through 4:00pm. Doors open at 11:30am both days.

12pm – One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure
1pm- Moons Worlds of Mystery
2pm – Perfect Little Planet
3pm – Summer Skywatch
4pm – First and Farthest

12:00 - 16:00
Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor (Steel Museum)

Visit the Grit and Glow exhibition at the Steel Museum, celebrating the legacy of Greater Mahoning Valley steelworkers. Special guided tours are available during festival weekend.

Leanne Binder image
12:00
Leanne Binder

With a voice that hits your soul and songwriting that cuts to the heart, Leanne Binder is a force of nature. Her blend of rock, blues, and gospel has taken her from Youngstown to Nashville and stages across the UK. Binder’s powerful presence and heartfelt delivery are sure to be one of the weekend’s standout performances.

Chris Higbee image
13:00
Chris Higbee

Get ready for a high-octane country-rock show with Chris Higbee, the fiddle-playing showman behind hits like “Fiddles Rock” and “Barn Party.” A founding member of the PovertyNeck Hillbillies, Higbee’s wild stage energy, heartfelt lyrics, and incredible musicianship make for a can’t-miss set that blends country charm with rock edge.

13:30
Steel Museum Guided Tour – Grit and Glow Exhibition

Step into the rich industrial history of the Mahoning Valley with a special guided tour of the Grit and Glow exhibition at the Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor. Explore the stories, artifacts, and innovations that defined generations of local steelworkers.

JD Eicher image
15:00
JD Eicher

Closing out the festival is JD Eicher, a celebrated singer-songwriter with national acclaim and deep Youngstown roots. Known for his smooth vocals and introspective lyrics, Eicher’s music has been featured alongside author Nicholas Sparks and heard on radio, TV, and stages across the country. His heartfelt melodies and warm storytelling are the perfect way to wrap up a weekend of celebration.

Select date to see events.
TESTIMONIALS
Landon Mason
CEO of Proximity
Jeffery Berry
Creative Director
Mark Crawford
Security Officer
Donald Simpson
envato.com

“It was really fun getting to know the team during the project. They were all helpful in answering my questions and made me feel at ease. “

“Thanks again for the terrific digital marketing training last month. Hardly a day has gone by where I haven't called upon the knowledge shared.“

“I really want to share our project sponsor’s feedback to you immediately, as I'm so proud of you and it's a pity that I did not join the May session! “

“I'd never seen the evidence for business change presented so clearly. Now I understand what's happening and what we've got to do.“

Summer Festival of the Arts gratefully acknowledges support from the following

Sponsors

Latest Updates

Updates
6 days ago
Creative Fun for Kids at the SMARTS Children’s Arts Tent!
Creative Fun for Kids at the SMARTS Children’s Arts Tent!

We’re thrilled to welcome SMARTS (Students Motivated by the Arts) to the 2025 Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University! As your community art school, SMARTS will host the Children’s Arts Tent, offering hands-on arts activities for children of all ages throughout the weekend. SMARTS, your community art school will be leading hands-on …

READ MORE
Updates
May 7, 2025
Live Music Lineup Set for the 2025 Summer Festival of the Arts!
Live Music Lineup Set for the 2025 Summer Festival of the Arts!

Get ready to sing, dance, and groove your way through the weekend at the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University! Our live music lineup features an incredible mix of local legends, soulful voices, rising talent, and high-energy performers you won’t want to miss. From indie folk to bluesy rock to …

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Updates
May 6, 2025
Get a Sneak Peek – Meet Our Artists!
Get a Sneak Peek – Meet Our Artists!

We’re excited to give you an early look at the incredible talent joining us for the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University! Visit our Meet Our Artists page to preview the amazing creators who will be showcasing their work across a variety of mediums—from painting and pottery to jewelry, sculpture, …

READ MORE
Updates
April 3, 2025
Artist Submissions Are In – Thank You!
Artist Submissions Are In – Thank You!

A heartfelt thank you to the nearly 90 incredible artists who submitted applications for the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University! We’re thrilled by the creativity, talent, and passion shown across all submissions. We are now officially in the jurying phase of the process. Each application is being carefully reviewed …

READ MORE
Updates
January 28, 2025
Artist Applications Now Open for the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts!
Artist Applications Now Open for the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts!

Calling all artists! Applications are now open for the 27th Annual Summer Festival of the Arts, taking place July 12 and 13, 2025, on the beautiful campus of Youngstown State University. This is your opportunity to showcase your work at one of the region’s most celebrated arts events! The festival welcomes artists of all mediums, …

READ MORE
Updates
January 8, 2025
What to Expect at This Year’s Summer Festival of the Arts
What to Expect at This Year’s Summer Festival of the Arts

The countdown to the Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University has begun, and we can’t wait to share everything we have in store! This year’s festival promises to be a dynamic celebration of art, culture, and community, with something for everyone to enjoy. From stunning works by talented artists to live performances …

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Updates
January 8, 2025
Calling All Artists: Applications Now Open for the Summer Festival of the Arts!
Calling All Artists: Applications Now Open for the Summer Festival of the Arts!

We’re excited to announce that applications are now open for artists to participate in this year’s Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University! This is your chance to showcase your creativity and connect with thousands of art enthusiasts in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. The festival celebrates a wide range of artistic disciplines, including …

READ MORE
Updates
January 8, 2025
Summer Festival of the Arts celebrates 27th year back on YSU campus
Summer Festival of the Arts celebrates 27th year back on YSU campus

The Youngstown State University Summer Festival of the Arts is thrilled to announce its return to the YSU campus for its 27th year! This beloved annual event, renowned for showcasing the rich artistic talent of our region, will once again take place on the university grounds, continuing its tradition of bringing art and culture to …

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VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION

Children's Crafts
Children's Entertainment Booth Sitting
Performance Tents
Info Booth

ARTIST APPLICATION

Submit Artwork
Jury Selection Process
Booth Space for the Festival
Secure Overnight Storage
Awards Eligibility

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

Engage Attendees
Showcase Your Impact
Distribute Your Materials
Create Interactive Experiences
Find Us
1 Tressel Way Youngstown, Ohio 44555