Youngstown State University’s Penguin Productions announces the 12th Annual Fall Fire Fest. Featuring Youngstown’s very own local artists, Negative Zen and Nineteenth Paradise, Fall Fire Fest will be take place 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 23 at the Daniel H. Becker Family Fountain Commons, at the center of YSU’s campus.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with the first live performance from Negative Zen beginning at 7 p.m. At 8 p.m. Nineteenth Paradise will take the stage.

At 8:45 p.m., the pep rally will begin featuring a performance from YSU’s marching band, the Marching Pride, as well as speeches from student athletes, the homecoming court and YSU President Bill Johnson.

Throughout the event, students can visit a curation of vendors by Penguin City Night Market, and student organization activities. Delicious treats will be available for purchase from AVI Fresh.

Parking will be available at the M-30 Wick Parking Deck, for $5 cash for those without parking passes (459 Wick Ave, Youngstown, Ohio 44503).

Admission is free and the event is open to the public. No tickets are required.

Negative Zen is a four-piece rock band based in Youngstown, Ohio. Their music can be described as a blend of 1990s grunge and 2000s alternative rock. This is not their first time working with Penguin Productions; recently, they performed at Federal Frenzy 2025. Currently, Negative Zen is preparing to release their debut album.

Nineteenth Paradise is another local artist from Youngstown, Ohio. Their music can be described as a blend of hard rock and punk. With a total of three albums, they provide YSU an exciting experience!

“Fall Fire Fest has always been a great way to bring everyone together and kick off Homecoming weekend, and we’re so excited to keep that tradition going,” said Event Lead, Brynn Brunton. “Our team has both new and returning members, and I’m proud of how everyone has come together, learned the ropes and worked hard to make this event happen. This year we’ve got some exciting new changes along with the things people look forward to every year, and I can’t wait to see it all come together and see everyone there.”

For more information, visit the Penguin Productions website, Facebook, Instagram or call (330) 941-3575.

YSU Penguin Productions is a student organization aimed at bringing campus unity through musical events. The volunteer student committee and staff work tirelessly to create a great experience for YSU’s community. Whether that be creating, producing or organizing these events.