The "Festival of Trees" began today as a part of the Frost & Lights holiday season at Fellows Riverside Gardens inside the Mill Creek MetroParks in Youngstown. 

The festival includes 88 uniquely decorated trees created by local nonprofit organizations to help bring the excitement indoors for the winter season. 

"So we've brought the beauty of the gardens inside to give the community something to do over the next month," Jessica Jablonski, services manager at Fellows Riverside Gardens, said. "It's a great family tradition, there's lots of people who come back year after year." 

Festival of Trees is open December 7, 2025, to January 4, 2026
Tuesday through Friday: 10 a.m.to 5 p.m.
Saturdays & Sundays: until 7 p.m.
Closed: December 24, December 25 and January 1

The holiday season at Mill Creek also includes Holiday Nights at Lanterman's Mill, a one-weekend-only event starting on Dec. 13 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The weekend will include Lanternman's Mill decorated in garland as well as festive music and a visit from Santa Claus.

Also starting on Dec. 13 is a weekend of Festive Finds from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the park. Over 35 local vendors will fill the Davis Center with gift options, handmade items and seasonal treats.

On select Saturday and Sunday evenings—December 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28—Fellows Riverside Gardens will present Winter Nights, a free outdoor light experience from 5 to 7 p.m. 

Winter Nights includes character appearances from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Character appearance schedule: 
Elsa and Olaf on Sunday, December 7
Santa and The Grinch on Sunday, December 14
Bluey and Bingo on Sunday, December 21