AKRON, Ohio — Akron Children's is settling into its holiday spirit this weekend as it kicks off its 43rd annual Holiday Tree Festival. 

Founded in 1982, the free event returns each year for families to celebrate the holidays. 

What You Need To Know

  • The Holiday Tree Festival was founded at Akron Children's in 1982

  • There will be 165 decorated trees, 80 wreaths and 155 gifts
  • Since its inception, the festival has raised more than $7.3 million for research, education and patient care

  • The free event runs from Nov. 16 to Nov. 24

“For 43 years, the Holiday Tree Festival has been a holiday tradition for families in Akron and the surrounding communities, bringing joy and excitement to the start of the holiday season,” said Mary Leuca, festival chairperson. “We hope the community enjoys this beautiful display as we welcome the 2024 holiday season.”

There will be 165 decorated trees, 80 wreaths and 155 gifts at the festival. There will also be a retail table for visitors to buy decorations, gifts and small toys to be taken home on the same day.

Items displayed are donated by local groups, individuals and corporation and will be available for purchase to benefit the hospital.

Since the festival’s inception, it has raised more than $7.3 million to go toward medical research, education and patient care programs at Akron Children’s. In 2023, the festival raised more than $310,000.

The free event runs from Nov. 16 to Nov. 24 at the John S. Knight Center with specific timings for when the public can access the festival.

Saturday, Nov. 16: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 17: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 18: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 19: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 20: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 21: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 22: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 23: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 24: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on Nov. 16 at 10 a.m. to officially open the festival to the public. Local entertainment will also occur throughout the festival. To see a schedule of the performances, click here.