YOUNGSTOWN — The Liberty High School marching band was one of many area bands that performed in the 2024 Holiday Parade in downtown Youngstown Friday evening.

Festivities began at 4 p.m. with lots of vendors at the Youngstown Flea on Phelps.

The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County sponsored a pop-up library and the Oh Wow! Children’s science museum was free from 4 to 6 p.m.

The lighting of the Christmas tree on Central Square followed the parade, which drew hundreds of people to downtown.

There also was a Santa’s Workshop at the DeYor Performing Arts Center.

Friday also was the first day of the downtown Youngstown Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), which allows customers to carry alcoholic beverages outside during designated hours.