perfectly season-ed

From snowy winter mornings to bright summer afternoons, there’s something for everyone in every season in Fayette County. Whether you’re looking to soak up some sunshine in the great outdoors or stay cozy inside on a cold and rainy day, you’ll find fun and entertainment around every corner of the county.

By Ann Fazzini

Winter Wandering

Escape the cold and take a step back in time at the Fayette County Historical Society & Museum to see historical artifacts and exhibits that spotlight the history and heroes of the area — plus, the stunning 148-year-old Victorian Italianate home that houses the museum is a piece of history itself. The museum regularly rotates artifacts in and out of exhibit spaces, and is only open by appointment in the winter, so make sure to call ahead to plan your visit. Before leaving, take a trip up the spiral stairs to the museum’s tower for a lovely view of the city. For another trip back in time — this time to the ‘80s and the golden age of video games — indulge in a little friendly competition at Game On Arcade In between friendly rounds of Pac-Man and Mortal Kombat, grab pizza and wings from the in-house restaurant. Shopping for the holidays? Destination Outlets makes it easy, with outlet shops like Coach, Michael Kors and Polo Ralph Lauren offering great deals on designer items and mall favorites like Nike and Eddie Bauer. Look for special events throughout the year at the Outlets, too, including an Ohio Author Book Fair in May, trick-or-treat at Halloween and sidewalk sales with amazing deals during Black Friday Weekend.

Ring in the holiday season at the annual Christmas Parade in Washington Court House on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving. And in December, experience more festive fun for the entire family at Washington Court House’s Downtown LIVE!, featuring music and caroling, special shopping deals at local businesses and a visit from Jolly Old St. Nick himself. Don’t miss the holiday-themed window displays featuring “live mannequins” at businesses downtown — it’s a beloved annual tradition

Spring Forward

It’s the perfect time of year to refresh and renew, and new treasures await at Washington Court House’s many locally owned shops. Find beautiful floral arrangements, home décor and heartfelt gifts at Back-En-Thyme Flower & Gift Shop; sweet-smelling candles and colonial, country decor at North Shore Primitives & Antiques; unique clothing and jewelry for a variety of sizes and tastes at Three Birds Boutique; and good-vibe crystals, healing tools and adornments at New Moon Market The downtown area also offers family-friendly events throughout the year, such as themed store window displays, outdoor sidewalk sales and shop hops, live music paired with food trucks and Dog Days of Summer, which welcomes leashed pooches and hosts pup-friendly vendors and giveaways.

On those dreary, rainy days, escape with some indoor rollerskating fun at Roller Haven Fun Center, a local favorite since 1948. Be sure to check for special events, like all-night skates, holiday celebrations and matinee deals.

Get loud at the spring smash Courthouse Crash, a demolition derby that challenges down-and-dirty drivers to be the last car standing for cash and prizes. Held at the county fairgrounds, the event is designed to offer fun for car-lovers of all ages. You know summer is around the corner when the Fayette County Farmers’ Market kicks off in mid-May — the outdoor shop brings handmade crafts, home-grown flowers and, of course, farm-fresh produce every Saturday morning through October.

Summer Love

Sunny summer days call for time spent in the great outdoors, and Paint Creek Recreational Trail offers a 32-mile paved path that takes hikers, joggers and cyclists all the way from Washington Court House to Chillicothe. The multi-use trail follows old B&O railroad routes through forests, fields, farmland, across a covered bridge and through several small towns that make for perfect pit stops.

For lazier days, pack a picnic and enjoy a lunch in the shade and nature of Christman Park The park includes a playground for kids and an off-leash play area just for pups. Don’t forget to bring binoculars — the park is also a favorite with birders. Waterfowl, songbirds and prey birds, like hawks and falcons, are frequently spotted. For those extra simmering-hot days, cool off with a refreshing dip in the Jeffersonville Pool, a local hot spot where you can make a splash with a jump off the high dive or a trip down one of two covered slides.

When Independence Day rolls around, Fire in the Sky is a must-see. The fireworks display, choreographed to music, is one of the premiere celebrations in southcentral Ohio. Plus, no summer is complete without a day at the fair, and the Fayette County Fair features all the classic favorites: rides, animals and, of course, decadent, deep-fried fair food! This year’s line-up features truck and tractor pulls, rodeo events and harness racing.

Autumn Allure

There’s nothing like taking a relaxing hike, bike ride or drive on a crisp fall day to take in the beauty of the season, and Paint Creek Recreational Trail and Deer Creek State Park are just two of Fayette County’s fall-color hot spots. Check out the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ website for an up-to-date Fall Color Report to see weather predictions and help plan your visit at the most vibrant times.

Inspired by the bright palette of fall color? Pick up a brush and let the creativity flow with a painting class at White Fence Gallery in Washington Court House. No previous artistic skill necessary — classes are open to all ages and skill levels and taught by local master artists who can help you bring out your inner da Vinci.

If football is more your speed, cheer on your favorite teams with good company and good brews at a local sports bar; the Rusty Keg Tavern and Champion’s Grill at the Greens Golf Course are just two of several across the county.

Keep an eye out for special fall events, too. Join the community in celebrating everything fall at Washington Court House’s annual Scarecrow Festival, where the entire family can enjoy three days of food, festivities and fun, including a benefit 5K/10K run. History buffs: don’t miss History Comes Alive in Washington Cemetery, where guests can take an old-fashioned hayride and hear tales of the area’s heroes and legends from in-character historical interpreters.

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