Downtown Youngstown businesses cash in on Y-Live crowds

It’s not just the stage at Wean Park that’s filling up this weekend — downtown Youngstown businesses are, too.

With John Mayer performing Friday night and Tim McGraw headlining Saturday, Y-Live is expected to draw tens of thousands of concertgoers downtown. Restaurant and bar owners say that’s a lifeline after a slower summer.

“This is very important for our business, because not a lot was going on down here in the summer, there were not a lot of concerts,” said Anne Massullo-Sabella, owner of Avalon Pizza. “So this is very important for our businesses down here, for all of the businesses downtown that are in the service-oriented industry. It’s a definite boost for all of us.”

At West 34, General Manager Steven Bernard said his team has doubled staff and stocked up on food and drinks to meet demand. “We’re expecting a huge influx of existing and new customers,” Bernard said. “We have a lot of specials, drinks and food wise, going on. We’re really excited to get them out to everybody.”

Longtime downtown spot V2 is also expecting a packed weekend. “A tremendous amount of people,  it's going to be a great crowd, just as exciting with it being back to back,” co-owner Edward Moses said. “It's a good weekend for downtown. Youngstown brings people from other areas downtown, and people are able to see what we have down here.”

And just steps away from the amphitheater, Ohio One and the Apollo Event Center are hosting pre-concert parties both nights, with live bands, food trucks, and a pop-up bar. Michelle Wells of Ohio One said the idea is to capture the concert energy and keep people downtown longer.

“We’re hoping to capture all the energy coming through, getting the good vibes of everyone, and again, showcasing why it’s important to work in Youngstown, live in Youngstown and support Youngstown,” Wells said.

Business owners say the two-night event also draws people from Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Columbus, and beyond — exposure that could turn first-time visitors into regular customers.

From extra staff to extended hours and special menus, downtown leaders agree Y-Live weekend is more than music — it’s momentum for the city.