12-02-2025
Simply Slavic festival secures long-term home
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — Simply Slavic has announced a five-year commitment to hosting its annual festival at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre.
Organizers announced the agreement Wednesday, making Simply Slavic the first nonprofit event to sign a long-term contract with JAC Management Group for the venue's use.
After the explosion at the Realty Building last year, organizers had to relocate from the festival's usual spot downtown. JAC reached out to them and offered use of the amphitheater, which drew more than 5,000 attendees despite the last-minute changes and challenges.
'This partnership marks a major milestone for Simply Slavic,' said John Slanina, President of the Simply Slavic Board of Directors. 'We are thrilled to continue growing in a space that offers a premier festival experience for our guests while remaining rooted in downtown Youngstown, where our city's Slavic communities have long flourished.'
Organizers say although the venue has changed, Simply Slavic will continue to feature everything that makes it an annual highlight.
The 2025 festival dates are Friday, June 13 from 5-11 p.m. and Saturday, June 14 from noon to midnight.
Sponsorship opportunities are also available for this year's festival, which help to fund festival programming, scholarships and cultural preservation projects. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can visit or contact info@ for more details.
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