Ohio Chautauqua kicks off in Warren with free family fun - WFMJ.com News weather sports for Youngstown-Warren Ohio

A five-day event that focuses on the history and culture of Ohio stops in Warren.

Families gathered near the downtown amphitheater along Mahoning Avenue NW, under a big red and white tent to kick off Ohio Chautauqua Live On Stage.

Children were taken on a tour along the Mahoning River Tuesday morning, where they were encouraged to have fun with nature.

"What I'm trying to do is just make them understand that it's fun to go outside," Gene Worthington said, a character actor for the tour.

A history lesson on how the "Skin Trade" changed traditional native values was also held at the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library Tuesday afternoon.

Warren was chosen as one of four cities across the state to host the week-long event that combines living history lessons and hands-on workshops.

The program runs from June 20-24 and admission is free.

Each evening families are encouraged to gather under the tent to enjoy live music and performers.

Click here for a full list of events happening all week in Warren.