Release Date: November 2,2026

City of Akron’s Lock 3 Kicks Off Winterblast on November 27

Welcome Santa Parade back to start Lock 3’s 22nd winter season

Akron, Ohio, Nov. 2, 2026 —The City of Akron's Lock 3 will kick off its 22nd season of winter fun on Friday, November 27, with a full day of festivities, including ice skating, holiday shopping, the return of the Welcome Santa Illuminated Parade, and an evening drone show and fireworks display.

Opening day activities run from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., with ice skating available throughout the day. The Akron Bazaar Holiday Market opens at 5 p.m., offering handmade gifts and unique creations from local artists and vendors. Visitors can also reconnect with Archie the Talking Snowman and explore beloved holiday displays from the former O'Neil's and Polsky's department stores, featuring classics like The Wizard of Oz and Peter Pan.

At 6 p.m., the Welcome Santa Illuminated Parade will travel north along South Main Street from Cedar Street to West Bowery Street, featuring illuminated floats, costumed characters, and Santa himself. Immediately following the parade, visitors can enjoy a drone show, fireworks, and the lighting of Lock 3 to officially welcome the holiday season.

"Winterblast is one of Akron's favorite holiday traditions, and Lock 3 is a wonderful place to bring our community together during this special time of year," said Akron Mayor Shammas Malik. "From the Welcome Santa Parade to ice skating, holiday markets, and activities for the whole family, we're excited to welcome residents and visitors downtown to celebrate the season and support our local businesses."

Winter Activities at Lock 3

Lock 3 will offer a variety of winter attractions throughout the season, including ice skating, ice bikes, and the popular ice bumper cars. Holiday music from 91.3 The Summit will help set the festive atmosphere.

Regular Winter Hours:

Monday–Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday–Thursday: 3–9 p.m.

Friday–Saturday: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

Extended holiday hours will be available December 21–31. Visit lock3live.com for the full schedule, pricing, and additional information.

Ice Skating:

Admission with skate rental: $10

Admission with your own skates: $5

Double-blade buckle skates: $8 (no reservations required)

Rental skate sizes: Child 9 through Adult 13

Ice Bikes: $10 per bike for 15 minute ride. No reservations needed.

Ice Bumper Cars: $12 for a 10-minute ride. Walk-up reservations are available Wednesdays and Thursdays, with online reservations required Friday through Sunday. Reservations open November 2 at lock3live.com.

Evelyn's Coffee & Banh Mi Cafe, located inside Lock 3, will also be open throughout the season. Visit Evelynscoffee.com for hours.

Holiday Attractions and Special Events

Archie the Talking Snowman and Holiday Lane

Archie the Talking Snowman returns to Lock 3, where visitors can chat with him and explore Holiday Lane, featuring nostalgic displays from the former O'Neil's and Polsky's department stores. The displays are located in the former O'Neil's basement, accessible near Skate Rental.

Admission is free, and the attraction is open during regular Lock 3 hours. Sponsored by NECA/Electricians Local 306.

Archie the Snowman Fan Club Day will take place Saturday, December 19, from 11 a.m.–7 p.m.

Visits with Santa

Santa will be available for visits and photos on December 2, 9, 16, and 23, from 6–8 p.m. Families are encouraged to bring their cameras. Admission is free, and no registration is required.

Artists Weekend Holiday Market | November 27–29

Lock 3, Summit Artspace, and Akron Bazaar are partnering to bring Artists Weekend to Downtown Akron over Thanksgiving weekend. Shoppers can browse unique gifts from local artists, craftspeople, and vendors while supporting Akron's creative community.

The free markets will take place:

Friday, November 27: 5–9 p.m.

Saturday, November 28: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Sunday, November 29: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Hands-On Holidays & Hotcakes | December 6

The Akron Children's Museum will host Hands-On Holidays & Hotcakes on Sunday, December 6, from 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Families can enjoy interactive activities, a hotcake bar, and meet-and-greets with Santa and his friend.

Tickets are on sale now, and families are encouraged to reserve their preferred time slot early. More information is available at www.akronkids.org.

Akron's Sauerkraut Ball | December 12

Presented by Stray Dog, Akron's Sauerkraut Ball returns Saturday, December 12, for a festive celebration of one of Northeast Ohio's favorite local delicacies. Guests can sample sauerkraut balls from a variety of local restaurants and enjoy a holiday gathering at Lock 3. Visit lock3live.com for more information.

Make Believe Midnight | December 30

Families can ring in 2027 a little early at the Akron Children's Museum's annual Make Believe Midnight celebration on Wednesday, December 30. Three sessions will be offered between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., giving children and families a chance to celebrate the new year without staying up until midnight.

Tickets are on sale now, and advance reservations are encouraged. Visit the event ticket page for more information.

Snowball Crawl | January 16

Presented by Thirsty Dog, the Snowball Crawl returns Saturday, January 16, featuring participating Akron breweries. Tickets will be available at the door, with samples priced at $3 each or $28 for 10 tickets.

Frost Fest | January 23

Frost Fest returns Saturday, January 23, from noon–5 p.m., with an afternoon of winter fun featuring ice sculptures, a hot cocoa crawl, music, and more. Visit downtownakron.com for details.

Weekly Specials

College ID Nights: Every Thursday from 3–9 p.m., college students receive $5 off skating. DJ Xay joins the fun from 6–9 p.m. with music, food specials, and themed activities, including Karaoke Bingo.

Downtown Resident Days: Every Wednesday, downtown residents receive $5 off skating. Sponsored by Downtown Akron Partnership.

For a complete calendar of attractions, operating hours, and additional information, visit lock3live.com. For group sales or private rentals, call 330-375-2877 or email lock3@akronohio.gov.