Ohio Magazine November December 2023

Holiday Baking FESTIVE RECIPES TO MAKE TOGETHER THIS SEASON

NOV/DEC 2023

Best Hometowns 2023-24: Visit This Year’s Honorees

Holiday Memories of Ohio’s Bygone Department Stores

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Refined Luxury Design for your entire home

Design Center | Leather & Upholstery Gallery | Hardwood Gallery | Outdoor Gallery 8233 State Route 241, Mt Hope, Ohio | Homestead-Furniture.com

NOV./DEC.

// 2023

76 FEATURES //

34 Best Hometowns GROVE CITY HISTORIC HOME: MEGAN LEIGH BARNARD; SHOPPING: CMC PHOTOGRAPHS, PRINTS, AND MEDIA COLLECTION, PROVIDED COURTESY OF CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER; HOLIDAY: CHECKMATE PHOTOS; FOCACCIA: MEGANN GALEHOUSE

Visit five places that make life in Ohio special: Celina, Cuyahoga Falls, Grove City, Lancaster and Sharonville.

68 Holiday Baking

From simple gingerbread cookies to a beautiful Buche de Noel, make these recipes together this season.

76 Shopping Trips

Department stores once ruled retail in our big cities, and the holidays were when they shined the most.

DEPARTMENTS //

5 Connect 6 Editor’s Note 7 1803

Historic mills find new purpose in modern times, and author Joe Boyle tells Toledo’s World War II story.

34

11 Datebook

The Taft Museum of Art shares how women’s sporting fashion evolved, and a quilted circus comes to Canton.

15 Calendar of Events 25 Farm & Table

Visit Springfield’s Speakeasy Ramen, and experience the food-and-beer pairings at Wolf’s Ridge Brewing.

31 LiveWell

Try these skin care tips as winter weather takes hold, and learn what you need to know about diabetes screening.

120 Milestones

Beginning in 1923, Dayton’s Rike-Kumler Co. department store enchanted audiences with its annual Thanksgiving Day Toy Parade.

TRAVEL //

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81 Holiday Travel 97 Columbus ON THE COVER: Our 2023–24 Best Hometowns issue features five different subscriber covers. Megan Leigh Barnard photographed Grove City and Lancaster. Kevin Kopanski photographed Cuyahoga Falls. Matthew Allen photographed Sharonville. Doug Hinebaugh photographed Celina.

Newsstand cover photographed by Megann Galehouse, food styling by Katy Hale, set styling by Magan McLaughlin.

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OHIO, Vol. 46, No. 9 OHIO (ISSN–0279–3504) is published monthly, with the exception of February, October and December for a total of 9 issues. ©2023 Great Lakes Publishing, 1422 Euclid Ave., Suite 730, Cleveland, Ohio 44115. Periodicals postage paid at Cleveland, Ohio, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to OHIO, 1422 Euclid Ave., Suite 730, Cleveland, Ohio 44115. Subscription prices: Ohio residents, residents of other states and possessions, one year–$17; foreign–$86.

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

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NOV./DEC.

CONNECT

SPECIAL

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HOLIDAY SHOPPING

SAVE THE DATE

Holiday Kickoff

101

special adve rt i si ng sect ion

While you’re on the hunt for great gifts this season, take time to explore these exceptional destinations for a day or weekend trip.

Make your list, check it twice and head out to visit these great spots for gifts.

HOLIDAY SALE & EVENT

November 20-25, 2023 More Details to come.

Keim will be Closed on

Thursday, November, 23

THE HOME, BUILDING, & WOODWOR K ING DEST IN AT ION

Holiday Recipes: Baking can bring the family together during the holidays, and Ohio’s Inns, B&Bs and bakeries have the perfect recipe to satisfy every sweet tooth. From sweet Pumpkin Drop Cookies to Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies from the kitchens of Ohio’s Amish Country, whip up these recipes for all your holiday gatherings. ohiomagaizne.com/cookies

Buckeyes Football: Ohio State football has seen many great seasons, but the 1968 campaign that ended at the Rose Bowl is one of the most storied. In 2018, we revisited that season and told it in the words of those whom head coach Woody Hayes led to glory during a Jan 1. finale against the University of Southern California. ohiomagazine.com/68season

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In This Issue: 14

18 5 10 8 1

2 9

16 6

11

7 12 17

15 4

Which cover did you get? Here are the others!

Each fall, we feature our Best Hometown honorees on regionally zoned covers for subscribers. Our holiday baking feature is this year’s newsstand cover. Learn more about Best Hometowns at ohiomagazine.com/besthometowns.

BEST HOMETOWN

S

BEST HOMETOWNS

A FALLS CELINA • CUYAHOG ER GROVE CITY • LANCAST SHARONVILLE

CELINA • CUYAHOGA FALLS GROVE CITY • LANCASTER SHARONVILLE

Holiday Baking FESTIVE RECIPES TO MAKE TOGETHER THIS SEASON

Outdoor recreation and downtown revival meet in this riverfront community

This lakeside city offers ses new downtown busines and shoreline fun

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3

Plus:

Canton p. 14 2 Celina, p. 37 3 Chillicothe, p. 74 4 Cincinnati, p. 8, 11, 12, 78 5 Cleveland, p. 14, 26, 79 6 Clifton, p. 9 7 Columbus, p. 14, 27, 78, 97 8 Cuyahoga Falls, p. 46 9 Delaware, p. 71 10 Garrettsville, p. 9 1

25 Destinations for Holiday Fun Grove City, p. 50 Lancaster, p. 55 13 Marietta, p. 14 14 Perrysburg, p. 70 15 Sharonville, p. 60 16 Springfield, p. 25 17 Stockport, p. 9 18 Toledo, p. 5, 77 11 12

STAY IN TOUCH WITH US BETWEEN ISSUES. NOV/DEC 2023

Best Hometowns 2023-24: Visit This Year’s Honorees

$5.99

Holiday Memories of Ohio’s Bygone Department Stores

Holiday Memories of Ohio’s Bygone Department Stores

BEST HOMETOWNS

Make These Festive Recipes Together This Season

Holiday Memories of Ohio’s Bygone Department Stores

BEST HOMETOWNS

CELINA • CUYAHOGA FALLS GROVE CITY • LANCASTER SHARONVILLE

BEST HOMETOWNS CELINA • CUYAHOGA FALLS GROVE CITY • LANCASTER SHARONVILLE

CELINA • CUYAHOGA FALLS GROVE CITY • LANCASTER SHARONVILLE

History and heritage are celebrated every day in this welcoming city

This suburban city merges history and community with new development

A strong business base supports this thriving suburban community

Holiday Memories of Ohio’s Bygone Department Stores

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Make These Festive Recipes Together This Season

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

Holiday Memories of Ohio’s Bygone Department Stores

Make These Festive Recipes Together This Season

Make These Festive Recipes Together This Season

Holiday Memories of Ohio’s Bygone Department Stores

Make These Festive Recipes Together This Season

Ohio Magazine encourages you to recycle this magazine. Great Lakes Publishing supports the use of paper milled from replanted forests as a renewable resource and purchases paper from Sustainable Forestry Initiativecertified sources when available. We have also taken steps to reduce the amount of plastic used when mailing issues to subscribers.

COOKIES: KARIN MCKENNA; FOOTBALL: COURTESY OF THE PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES/ROSE BOWL GAME

4465 SR 557

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF DESTINATIONS LISTED

for Thanksgiving.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

EDITOR’S NOTE

Hometown Pride F

or the past 10 years, I’ve spent a portion of my summer traveling the state and talking to people about why they love the place they call home. This experience has allowed me to walk in the footsteps of history, eat great food and browse interesting shops. But what I remember most from all of these trips is the people I have met along the way who were eager to share their town’s story and help us see it as they do.

We have recognized communities with our annual Best Hometown honor since 2006, and we share our selection each autumn as the leaves fall and the upcoming holidays have us all thinking about home, be it the place where we grew up or the one where we live today.

What I’ve learned since becoming editor in 2013 is that the celebration of these places isn’t about streets and shops or parks and playgrounds — they are just the backdrop. The real strength of our Best Hometown communities lies with those who work to build a better life for their families, friends and neighbors.

Pride in the place we call home comes in many forms, be it volunteering, serving in a public office or just being a good neighbor to those who live beside us.

When it comes to making positive change in the world, there is no better place to start than your street, your neighborhood and your town. We often say that the best things about living in Ohio are reflected in our Best Hometown communities, and that is true for those we showcase this year: Celina, Cuyahoga Falls, Grove City, Lancaster and Sharonville.

All these places have unique stories, and you can begin reading them on page 34. We hope our glimpse into each of these communities inspires you to visit them during your travels throughout our state, so you can experience what makes each of them such an inviting place to live, work and play.

If reading about these towns makes you want to share what is great about your community, we’d love to hear from you. The path to our Best Hometown honor often starts with a single email from a resident who is passionate about the place they call home. You can share what makes your community special by filling out the Best Hometown nomination form on our website at ohiomagazine.com/nominate.

Chairman Lute Harmon Sr. President & Publisher Lute Harmon Jr.

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL@OHIOMAGAZINE.COM

Editor Jim Vickers Associate Editors Erin Finan, Gracie Wilson Contributing Writers Nicholas Dekker, Vince Guerrieri,

Kristen Hampshire, Nathan Havenner, Richard Jeffers, Sarah Miller, David Nilsen, Ilona Westfall Digital Content Assistant Kelly Powell Editorial Interns Lauren Keep, Hosna Sadaqat, Varad Raigaonkar

Art Director Rachael Jirousek Contributing Artists Matthew Allen, Megan Leigh Barnard, Megann Galehouse, Katy Hale, Doug Hinebaugh, Chelsea Irons-Light, Kristen Jones, Kevin Kopanski, Magan McLaughlin

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Ohio Magazine is not responsible for the care and/or return of unsolicited photographs, illustrations, manuscripts, books or any other material submitted for possible publication. All photographs are courtesy of the event or organization listed, unless otherwise credited.

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Snow Days hen a fresh blanket of snow falls over the forests and fields of Toledo’s Wildwood Preserve Metropark, the historic Oak Grove School provides a splash of color to the achromatic landscape. Built in 1893, the one-room, brick schoolhouse stands near the park’s east entrance where it was moved in 1998 from its original location about a quarter mile away. Several trails within the 493-acre park provide visitors the opportunity for both hiking and cross-country skiing once the snowy season arrives.

Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 Central Ave., Toledo 43615, metroparkstoledo.com

W

CHELSEA IRONS-LIGHT

Ink Insight: Cincinnati-based relief printmaker Emily Cooper draws inspiration from nature, people and books to craft pieces she hopes evoke a sense of serenity.

Historic Charm: These 19th-century mills across our state

now live on as attractions with purposes that go far beyond the properties’ original ones.

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Ink Insight

Cincinnati-based relief printmaker Emily Cooper draws inspiration from nature, people and books to craft pieces she hopes evoke a sense of serenity in those who view them.

E

image of what she wants to create. She uses different-sized gouges to carve away the negative space of her design on a linoleum or wood block, leaving raised lines behind. Cooper then uses a hand roller to cover these areas with ink. Finally, she puts the block on her printmaking press and cranks the machine to transfer the inked design to paper.

Cooper prints some of her designs on sheet music and book pages as well as plain paper. She says she is particularly proud of a recent series depicting a dozen women in the water, whom she wrote individual stories about. Cooper adds that a “quiet admiration” for the world around her informs the designs she makes and that she aims for her pieces to evoke a sense of serenity in those who view them.

“I’m hoping that my art gives people that disconnect they need from the fast-paced world we’re living in,” Cooper says, “that the wonder of the great outdoors is brought inside people’s houses and up on their wall, so they look at it and can be reminded to go outside or just calm down a little bit.” — Kelly Powell For more information, visit emilycoopercreations.com.

PERRY HOLSER

mily Cooper had always made art as a hobby — an independent class here, a meetup there — but it was her degree in American Sign Language that led her down her current creative path. One day, Cooper was asked to be a substitute interpreter for a high school art class teaching an introduction to block printing, and memories of working on a linoleum block-printing project in her own high school art class flooded back.

“I immediately went to my nearest art store and just grabbed the beginner tools,” she recalls. “I sat down, I did it and it wasn’t great. With time, I learned the medium.”

In 2023, she took her printmaking from a side quest to a business known as Emily Cooper Creations and began crafting more pieces influenced by nature, people-watching and books.

“I love to read,” says Cooper, who works out of her Cincinnati studio. “Sometimes [there are] just visions from the pages that come into my mind whether or not that’s what the writer intended. I just have these vivid pictures of what they’re explaining in the pages, and sometimes that translates into my art.”

To start her printing process, Cooper first envisions the mirror

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OHIO FINDS

FASCINATING OBJECTS FROM OUR PAST

1802 HAND-DRAWN MARIETTA PLAT MAP Bearing the Ohio Company seal and signatures of officials

The Historic Clifton Mill is aglow in millions of lights at Christmastime.

Historic Charm MILL: COURTESY OF HISTORIC CLIFTON MILL; OHIO FINDS: COURTESY OF GARTH’S AUCTIONEERS & APPRAISERS

These 19th-century mills across our state now live on as attractions with purposes that go far beyond the properties’ original ones.

Historic Clifton Mill, Clifton Built along the Little Miami River in 1802 by Revolutionary War veteran Owen Davis, the Historic Clifton Mill has come a long way since its days of supplying cornmeal to soldiers during the War of 1812. Today, the property houses a restaurant and country store, and a 1940s Gas Station Museum stocked with original products is located next to the mill. The annual Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill event runs Nov. 24 through Dec. 30. Visitors can see the structure lit up for the holidays with a display of over 4 million lights and enjoy a light show synched to music as well as a collection of 3,000 antique Santa statues and a half-acre miniature village. 75 Water St., Clifton 45316, 937/767-5501, cliftonmill.com

Garrett’s Mill & Brewing Co., Garrettsville This former flour mill turned craft brewery sits on the banks of Eagle Creek in Garrettsville, and since its construction in 1804, it has evolved to hold a restaurant offering elevated pub fare such as sandwiches, flatbreads, appetizers and entrees as well as a brewery that produces a wide range of craft beers. Weather permitting, visitors can enjoy an outdoor dining experience on the lower or upper deck of the patio or in the windowed dining room that provides a scenic view of the creek. Interesting features of the property include the 1977 waterwheel and three large copper vats located upstairs on a balcony overlooking the bar. 8148 Main St., Garrettsville 44231, 330/527-8080, garrettsmillbrewing.com

Stockport Mill Inn, Stockport Originally built in 1842, Stockport Mill Inn has had many incarnations over the decades, the current being a 14-room hotel that offers guests a tranquil stay surrounded by the forests and hills of southeast Ohio. Powered by hydroelectricity, the mill showcases old-fashioned hospitality with a southern-style restaurant that offers locally sourced, homemade cornbread, fried chicken and beef pot roast. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities during their stay thanks to the abundance of hiking and fishing spots in the area. Each room at the mill is different, and with options like the Captain Hook Suite on the fourth floor, with a vaulted ceiling and spiral staircase, they certainly make for a unique and cozy stay. 1995 Broadway St., Stockport 43787, 740/559-2822, getaway.stockportmill.com — Varad Raigaonkar

F

rom an aesthetic viewpoint, plat maps tend to be a bit boring, but there is no arguing with the history they convey. This is especially true of “Plan of the Town of Marietta,” a plat map from 1802 that depicts the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory.

The city’s growth was charted in pen and ink, depicting hundreds of properties within Marietta itself, as well as those in a separate town on the opposite side of the Muskingum River. The map indicates streets, structures, cemeteries, Native American earthworks and Campus Martius, a civilian fortification.

The document offers a signpost to the past, depicting Marietta not long after 1788, when Rufus Putnam led a group of Revolutionary War veterans and members of the Ohio Company into what was largely uncharted territory. Although only 48 men founded Marietta, the community quickly established itself as a cornerstone of a developing country by the turn of the 19th century.

This map includes the official seal of the Ohio Company and the signatures of officials Rufus Putnam, William Rufus Putnam, Griffin Greene and Dudley Woodbridge.

— Richard “Jeff” Jeffers

$40,800 SOLD AT AUCTION

Richard Jeffers is the owner of Garth’s Auctioneers & Appraisers in Columbus.

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War Stories What started as a class project has grown into Toledo history teacher Joe Boyle’s multivolume look at World War II through the lens of a major American city.

J

oe Boyle has a passion for helping people connect with their history. From the students he teaches in his history classes to the readers of his book series, he challenges them to look beyond the narrative that we’ve come to expect from written history.

What started as a project for his elective Author Joe Boyle shares the stories of men World War II history course in 2012 has and women from Toledo who served in evolved into a five-volume, 230,000-word World War II in his new book series. series called Toledo’s War that provides a comprehensive, yet individualistic retelling of the stories of WWII through the lens of the Glass City. But getting there was no easy feat.

To prepare for the course, which tasked his students with uncovering the stories of fallen soldiers from Toledo, Boyle spent months poring over 14 years’ worth of newspapers, eventually compiling a list of over 1,100 names. When complications from a previous cancer diagnosis arose in 2016, it prompted Boyle to seek out new ways to document what he found.

“I distinctly remember saying to my wife one night, ‘I can’t believe I know all this stuff about Toledo in the Second World War, and it’s going to die with me,’ ” he says.

The first volume of Toledo’s War is scheduled to be released this fall. We asked Boyle about his process, motivation and what this collection means for future historians. — Erin Finan How has writing this book changed your perspective on how we document history?

A: It changed my view of storytelling, even in my personal life. Every time I interviewed someone, I would go home and write something about my own life for my kids. I realized that there are a lot of things we might see as insignificant that are, in fact, incredibly significant and are so incredibly important to understanding what these massive global events were like for the average person who lived through them.

What do you hope readers will take away from this series?

A: These stories are fairly universal, but they’re not always the ones that get told. What was true for people from Toledo experiencing the war was also true for people from other cities in Ohio. I felt that writing this, not just as a history of the city during the war but as a history of the war as seen through the city, would create a more authentic experience for people.

I hope they copy me and do the same thing for their city.

For more information, visit utoledopress.com.

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COURTESY OF JOE BOYLE

Why was it so important to you that this information be brought together and that these stories be told?

A: The best historians don’t write a comprehensive history. It’s like a football game where you want to move the ball forward in the hopes that the next person can pick it up and make another first down. There’s no touchdown and there’s no goal line. You just hope to take the research a little bit further, and that’s what I wanted to do with this project.

DATEBOOK

Aladdin

Nov. 14-19: Cincinnati

T

ales from a faraway land spill out of the lamp and onto the stage as “Aladdin” visits Cincinnati’s Aronoff Center. This classic Disney tale tells the story of a young man living on the streets of Agrabah who falls in love with princess Jasmine. This show and its message of being true to oneself has dazzled audiences since it premiered on Broadway in 2014 with beloved songs such as a “A Whole New World” and “Prince Ali” as well as new works written for the stage production like “Proud of Your Boy.” cincinnati.broadway.com

DEEN VAN MEER

Style Revolution: The Taft Museum of Art’s “Sporting Fashion: Outdoor Girls 1800 to 1960” explores how women’s activewear has evolved over the years.

Calendar of Events: Your holiday plans start here. Check out our guide to exhibitions, shows and other events happening between now and the end of the year.

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

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S T Y L E

DATEBOOK

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RE VO LU TI ON

PROMENADING ENSEMBLE WITH PATOU SWEATER, 1920S

The Taft Museum of Art’s “Sporting Fashion: Outdoor Girls 1800 to 1960” examines how women’s active attire evolved through the years.

By Ilona Westfall

RIDING ENSEMBLE: BRIAN SANDERSON; ALL OTHER PHOTOS: BRIAN DAVIS, © FIDM MUSEUM COURTESY AMERICAN FEDERATION OF ARTS

RIDING ENSEMBLE, 1890s; APRÈS SKI ENSEMBLE WITH PUCCI SKI PANTS AND BARUFFALDI SNOW GLASSES, 1950s

ith a brown jacket and matching boots, red plaid pants and a skullcap and mittens

by Abercrombie & Fitch, the outfit looks plucked from the pages of this month’s Vogue. Yet the women’s piloting ensemble from 1930 — as well as over 60 other outfits in “Sporting Fashion: Outdoor Girls 1800 to 1960” — are far different than the sportswear worn today.

“It’s a stylish ensemble, but it makes you realize that early on, women had to piece together these outfits from things intended for other sports,” says Ann Glasscock, associate curator at the Taft Museum of Art, where the exhibition runs through Jan. 14. “There was no market for manufacturers of these different sports for women, so they had to pull from other ensembles or from menswear to put together something that worked.”

The exhibition, which is co-organized by the American Federation of Arts and the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising Museum in Los Angeles, is the first to examine how women’s sporting attire evolved in western fashion and how women broke barriers to participate in sports.

On view are fully accessorized outfits worn for activities including horseback riding, ice skating, cheerleading, roller derby, baseball and more. Famous designers are represented, including a dress designed by Coco Chanel for a 1920s promenading outfit and a 1950s après ski outfit with vibrant pants by Emilio Pucci.

Daily-use items are part of the exhibition too, such as undergarments, swim caps and a personal changing tent from 1900. It fastened around the neck and draped around the body for privacy while changing at the beach.

The modesty expected of women’s garments in the 1800s were an obstacle for participation in sports. Women wore restrictive corsets, the body had to be covered and pants were unacceptable.

An 1890s mountaineering outfit was designed to get around these restrictions with what appears to be an ankle-length skirt that is actually culotte-style pants.

As time went on, hemlines got higher, sportswear was designed to be more fitted and pants became standard. Fabric technology improved, and women no longer had to play sports in materials like wool. Visitors to the exhibition can even touch swatches on a fabric wall to see firsthand how sportswear has evolved.

“We hope that visitors will understand how the clothes on display influenced and impacted what we wear now,” Glasscock says.

SWIMMING ENSEMBLE, 1950s

316 Pike St., Cincinnati 45202, 513/241-0343, taftmuseum.org

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DATEBOOK exhibit

Without a Net Nov. 21–March 3: Canton, cantonart.org

A

theater

Cirque De Soleil: Corteo Nov. 22–26: Cleveland

with its collection of inviting and interesting works, touching on how such attractions of years gone by often exploited animals and people who were different. “When Ponies Dream,” a piece featured in “Without A Net,” examines that idea in the form of a spinning merry-goround where horses sit atop human-like figures.

“I want people to look at my work and slow down,” Else says. “They can’t believe it’s made of cloth first of all, and then when you walk up to it … it’s kind of mesmerizing to stare at. Then there is always a moment when people realize the joke.” — Hosna Sadaqat

The stunning acrobatics of Cirque de Soleil visit Cleveland State University’s Wolstein Center.

Enjoy the show during one of six performances that transports audiences through a clown’s introspective look back at his life. wolsteincenter.com

music

Grand Funk Railroad exhibit

Barbie You Can Be Anything: The Experience Oct. 4–Jan. 7: Columbus

Since the late 1950s, Barbie has pursued more than 200 careers, and 11 of them, including airline pilot and wildlife photographer, can be explored at this COSI exhibition’s interactive stations. Digital kiosks invite kids to design new fashion trends and run a chef’s kitchen, while hands-on activities allow them to become a rock climber or surfer. The exhibition also highlights Barbie’s beginnings from the mind of her creator, Ruth Handler, and highlights the stories of those who have paved the way for women’s success. cosi.org 14

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Dec. 14: Marietta

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the group’s 1973 “We’re an American Band” single and album, Grand Funk Railroad plays at Peoples Bank Theatre.

Other favorites from this five-piece act include “Some Kind of Wonderful” and “I’m Your Captain.” peoplesbank theatre.com

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ORGANIZATIONS OR DESTINATIONS LISTED

n elephant balances on a tightrope while riding a unicycle. A trapeze performer hangs frozen in midair, reaching out toward a perch already occupied by a brilliantly colored bird.

California-based artist Susan Else sculpted these whimsical scenes using fabric and quilting materials to create a three-dimensional spectacle that invites a closer look.

“It lulls the viewer into a sense of comfort,” Else says of working with cloth, especially quilted cloth, as an artistic medium. “People can approach my work.”

“Without a Net,” on display at the Canton Museum of Art from Nov. 21 through March 3, is presented alongside another exhibition, “Quilt National 2023: The Best of Contemporary Quilts.” The latter includes pieces that were part of the biennial exhibition hosted over the summer at The Dairy Barn Arts Center in Athens.

“I was looking for exhibits that we thought would pair well with ‘Quilt National,’ and that’s when I came upon Susan Else’s work,” says Christy Davis, curator of exhibitions at the Canton Museum of Art. “It [is] just a perfect blend to showcase together.”

Else began working with three-dimensional cloth elements in 1998 and eventually added movement and light to her pieces. “Without a Net” depicts a circus,

CALENDAR

State Regions Because dates, times and locations are subject to change, please call ahead to confirm all details before traveling. For a more complete listing of events, visit ohiomagazine.com/events.

FOR A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF EVENTS ACROSS OHIO, VISIT OHIOMAGAZINE.COM/EVENTS.

NOVEMBER Central Festivals

artists throughout history who have brought the artform to life. This exhibit was curated by Maria Burke. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster, 740/681-1423. decartsohio. org. Visit website for times. Free.

THRU DEC 31

It's an Honor to Be Here

THRU JAN 7

Wildlights

To submit event information, visit ohiomagazine.com/submit. Events must be submitted at least 8 weeks in advance. Include the date, cost, address of the event, phone number and website, as well as a brief description of the event. Events are published on a space-available basis; however, all events submitted 8 weeks in advance appear on ohiomagazine. com/events.

Listings with photos are paid for by advertisers. For more information on enhanced listings, email us at adsales@ohiomagazine.com.

Take part in this yuletide tradition, and view millions of LED lights, reindeer, animated musical light shows and more holiday festivities. The annual spectacle is now in its 35th year. Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, 4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, 614/645-3400. columbuszoo.org. 5–9 p.m. $25.

break boundaries imposed by colonialization.

Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/221-6801. columbusmuseum. org. Visit website for times and prices.

NOV 26

NOV 17–18

Holiday Open House + Tree Lighting

Bring the family for this spirited event jampacked with horse-drawn carriage rides, live music, local vendors and photo opportunities with Santa himself. Downtown Worthington, St. Rte. 161 and High Street, Worthington, 614/8412545. experienceworthington.com. Noon–6 p.m. Free

Museums + Exhibits THRU DEC 8

Ohio Art League 2023 Fall Juried Exhibition

music + theater Exploring the backgrounds and relationships between artists and the natural world, this exhibition inspires curiosity and respect for the natural diversity of our state. Ohio-based artists share their interpretations of the nature that surrounds us all. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster, 740/681-1423. decartsohio.org. Visit website for times. Free.

THRU JAN 5

2023 Biennial Juried Exhibition

Visit this innovative biannual tradition, which has been a mainstay in Ohio art for several years.

This year’s exhibition juror is Bellamy Printz, co-founder of Cleveland’s Zygote Press. The Blackmore Library, 2309 E. Main St., Bexley, oal.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU DEC 15

Chapa Sari: The Story of Cotton

View this solo exhibition of fiber art by Minneapolis-based artist Anita Gopalaswamy, who works with textiles that feed the senses and the soul, engaging artistic partners around the globe who are honored and rewarded for their contribution to her practice. Dublin Arts Council, 7125 Riverside Dr., Dublin, 614/889-7444. dublinarts. org. Tues.–Fri. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

THRU DEC 29

Barbie: Special Exhibit at the Doll Museum

Embrace your inner Barbie girl at this exhibition illustrating her 200-plus careers. The iconic Mattell doll’s popularity has spanned 60 years, giving visitors plenty of fashion outfits, adventures and accessories to peruse. Worthington Historical Society, 50 W. New England Ave., Worthington, 614/885-1247. worthingtonhistory. org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU DEC 31

Duck Decoys of Ohio

Get acquainted with the rich history of Ohio decoy art, its influence on wildlife conservation and

Beethoven Pastoral Symphony

This exhibition presented at the Ohio Arts Council’s Riffe Gallery features works by 63 Ohio artists. Ohio Arts Council’s Riffe Gallery, 77 S. High St., Columbus, 614/544-9624. riffegallery. org. Tues.–Fri. Noon–5 p.m. Free.

THRU JAN 28

Accra! The Rise of a Global Art Community

Take a closer look at the work of 18 artists who have deep connections to Accra, Ghana, and their impact on global art discourse. The exhibition features 28 pieces, including portraiture, abstraction, textiles and sculptures. Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/221-6801. columbusmuseum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU FEB 4

Sarah Rosalena: In All Directions

View this exhibition celebrating Sarah Rosalena’s style, which fuses the materiality of traditional and indigenous craft techniques with emerging technology to produce pieces that

Performed by the Columbus Symphony, this rendition of Beethoven’s cherished “Pastoral” symphony expresses serene feelings of being in the natural world. The performance is followed

by Gabriela Lena Frank’s Conquest Requiem, featuring the vocals of Jessica Rivera and Andrew Garland. Ohio Theatre, 55 E. State St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony. com. 7:30 p.m. $10–$90.

THRU DEC 31

Kinky Boots

See the Tony Award-winning hit with a joyous score by Cyndi Lauper and hilarious script by Harvey Fierstein. The musical tells the tale of Charlie Price, a man working to save his family’s shoe factory with the help of fabulous entertainer Lola. Short North Stage, 1187 N. High St., Columbus, 614/725-4042. shortnorthstage.org.

Visit website for times and prices.

Other Events THRU NOV 19

Franklin: The Peoples Park

View the works of local photographer Steve Harrison, who documented activity in Franklin Park over the last 50 years. Preserved as blackand-white images, the scenes offer viewers an opportunity to reflect. Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/715-8000. fpconservatory.org.

Visit website for times and prices.

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

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NOV 17–DEC 24

Holiday Happenings at Easton

NOV 17–19

Medina Candlelight Walk

ultimately knowing — uncharted realms. Allen Memorial Art Museum, 87 N. Main St., Oberlin, 440/775-8665. amam.oberlin.edu. Visit website for times. Free.

THRU FEB 4

Barbara Stanczak Spirit and Matter

Celebrate the holidays at Easton Town Center with Grand Illumination and Menorah Lighting events, horse-drawn carriage rides and special visits with Saint Nick throughout the season. 160 Easton Town Center, Columbus, 614/337-2200. eastontowncenter.com/holiday-happenings.

Visit website for times and prices.

Get into the Christmas spirit with this holiday tradition that includes a parade heralding Santa's arrival, a tree-lighting ceremony, fireworks, food and shopping in the renovated South Town district. Medina Square, 39 Public Square, Suite 305, Medina, 330/722-6186. mainstreetmedina. com/events. 5 p.m. Free.

NOV 19

NOV 24–JAN 6

Gahanna Holiday Lights Celebration

Spend a spirited afternoon in Gahanna with free holiday activities including a touch-a-truck, a giant snow globe and an opportunity to decorate a snowplow. Enjoy live music, carriage rides, an ice-sculpting show and the chance to see Santa. The event ends with an annual tree-lighting ceremony and fireworks. Creekside Park, 123 Mill St., Gahanna, 614/418-9114. visitgahanna.com. 3–6:30 p.m. Free.

Northeast Festivals NOV 11–19

30th Annual Warther’s Tree Festival

Take part in this yearly festival that has been delighting families for generations. Festivalgoers can enjoy over 100 themed and decorated trees, wreaths and home decor as well as vote on their favorite large and small tree. Proceeds from the event benefit the Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital Auxiliary and the community.

Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens, 331 Karl Ave., Dover, 330/505-6003. thewarthermuseum. com. 11 a.m.–7 p.m. $5, kids 12 and under free.

NOV 17

Wadsworth Candlelight Walk

Take a deeper look into artist Barbara Stanczak’s works made using primarily wood and stone. Stanczak remains inspired by nature’s rings, layers and subtle features. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron, 330/376-9186. akronartmuseum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

NOV 18–DEC 31

Memories of Christmas Past

Steubenville Nutcracker Village

More than 200 unique, larger-than-life nutcrackers are on display throughout the historic downtown and Fort Steuben Park. The nutcrackers are accompanied by a variety of events and activities, lights, music and trolley rides as well as a Holiday Market. Downtown Steubenville, 120 S. Third St., Steubenville, 866/301-1787. steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com. Free.

NOV 25

Winterfest at Fairview Park

Holiday cheer abounds at this third annual event full of live entertainment, food trucks, community vendors, children’s activities and, of course, Santa. Historic Bain Park Cabin, 21077 North Park Dr., Fairview Park, 440/356-4444. fairviewparkrec.com. 5:30–7:30 p.m. Free.

Museums + Exhibits

This 15th annual holiday spectacular features vintage and contemporary decorations including ornaments, lighting, trees and toys ­­— all arranged in vignettes that continue to delight generations, young and old. Arms Family Museum, 648 Wick Ave., Youngstown, 330/743-2589, mahoninghistory.org. Tues.–Sun. Noon– 4 p.m., Thurs. Noon–7 p.m. Adults $10, seniors $9, kids 3–18 $8.

music + theater NOV 15

A Conversation with Nick Offerman

Be entertained and inspired as actor, comedian and author Nick Offerman takes the stage with WKYC anchor Betsy Kling. Offerman will share anecdotes, the story of his career and insights into the world of literature and creativity. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, 330/2532488. akroncivic.com. 7:30 p.m. $45–$75.

Other Events NOV 10–11

Christmas Shop Open House

THRU DEC 17

Reflections

Stroll the decorated downtown sidewalks, gaze at beautifully illuminated buildings and trees and support small local businesses all while enjoying the magic of Christmas in Wadsworth.

Downtown Wadsworth, 102 Main St., Suite 20, Wadsworth, 330/331-4414. facebook.com/ events/6501646406551385. 5:30 p.m. Free.

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See work from Bahareh and Farzaneh, known as the Safarini Sisters, that navigates the twins’ painting career, which began at age 13 in Iran.

The sisters have since relocated to Boston, and today, they incorporate painting with video and performance art, creating thought-provoking hybrid pieces. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron, 330/376-9186. akronartmuseum.org.

Visit website for times and prices.

THRU DEC 23

Everything Is Stardust: Artmaking and the Knowability of the Universe

View this thought-provoking exhibition, examining distant galaxies to the depths of the ocean.

The presentation highlights how artistic rendering is an essential tool for imagining — and

Join Hartville Hardware for caroling, photos with Santa, window displays and more holiday fun.

The store is filled with Christmas decor, stocking stuffers, over 2,500 customizable ornaments and much more. Hartville Hardware, 1315 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330/877-3631. hartvillehardware.com. Fri. 8 a.m.–7 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Free.

NOV 16

NOV 17–DEC 31

NOV 20–25

Grab your favorite girls and your holiday spirit, and head to Lehman’s for a night of fun. Shop with help from Mrs. Claus to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list while enjoying music, delicious treats, demonstrations and free swag.

Don’t forget to enter for door prizes. Lehman’s, 4779 Kidron Rd., Kidron, 800/438-5346. lehmans.com/events. 5:30–8:30 p.m. Free.

Celebrate the holidays by enjoying dinner with loved ones, listening to traditional carolers or having lunch with Santa and the Grinch. Visit The Marketplace for gifting ideas, wine and spirits.

Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330/497-1000. gervasivineyard. com. Visit website for times and prices.

Keim is hosting its annual Holiday Kickoff event where shoppers can enjoy a week of discounts, demonstrations, refreshments and festivities.

Keim Home Center, 4465 St. Rte. 557, Charm, 330/893-2251. keimhome.com. Mon. 7 a.m.– 7 p.m., Tues.–Wed. & Fri. 7 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Sat. 7:30 a.m.–noon, closed Thurs. Free.

DEC 17–19

NOV 18–19

2023 Strongsville Fall Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show

Northwest

Get in a holiday state of mind and start your shopping early at this show featuring artists and crafters selling original, handmade items.

The event offers concessions, and a portion of admission proceeds benefit local nonprofit Project Night Night. Strongsville Ehrnfelt Recreation Center, 18100 Royalton Rd., Strongsville, 440/227-8794. avantgardeshows. com. Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Adults $3, kids under 12 free.

Festivals

Ladies Night Out

2023 Christmas Connection

The 37th year of this holiday event is back at the I-X Center. Experience the magic of Christmas while finding great gift ideas from the more than 500 exhibitors in attendance. Cleveland I-X Center, 1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland, 440/591-6985. clevelandchristmasconnection.com. Fri. 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. VIP shopper morning $20, adults and seniors $14, online $12, kids12 and under free.

Sleigh the Holidays at Gervasi Vineyard

Keim Holiday Kickoff

THRU DEC 3

Christmas Tree Festival

View more than 100 trees and wreaths decorated by local businesses and organizations.

Plus, participate in several activities, including speaking with Evergreen the Talking Tree.

Allen County Museum, 620 W Market St., Lima, 419/222-9426. allencountymuseum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

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Museums + Exhibits

gatewayartscouncil.org. 7–9 p.m. Adults $46, AAA members $45.

ONGOING

Chasing Totality: The History and Science of Eclipses

Other Events

This exhibition explores humanity’s fascination with eclipses as well as the science and history of astronomy’s attempts to understand them.

Take a look at the solar eclipse that drove Americans across the country to western territories.

Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Spiegel Grove, Fremont, 419/332-2081. rbhayes.org.

Visit website for times and prices.

NOV 18

THRU NOV 26

NOV 30

View this artist’s first solo presentation in the United States. The immersive display simulates calls performed by birds in the spring and summer months as they defend their territory and call for mates. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, 419/255-8000. toledomuseum. org. Visit website for times and prices

Get in the holiday spirit with warm hot chocolate and popcorn as the museum campus is lit up for the holidays. See Kris Kringle, view a train display, take a first-floor tour of the home and enjoy other holiday activities. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Spiegel Grove, Fremont, 419/332-2081. rbhayes.org.

6–7:30 p.m. Free.

Alexandra Daisy Ginsberg — Machine Auguries: Toledo

Don’t miss this event featuring craft vendors from all over Ohio and the surrounding states showing and selling unique items and one-ofa-kind gifts. Allen County Fairgrounds, 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, 419/648-3747. facebook. com/kuntreefriends 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $4.

NOV 3–DEC 17

“Magic of Christmas” Victorian Mansion Museum Tours

Lights of Spiegel Grove

music + theater

Southeast

NOV 5

Gateway Arts Council Presents The Guess Who

Country Collections Christmas Craft Show

understanding of southern Ohio’s Hopewell and Adena cultures by browsing thousands of artifacts from the historic eras. Southern Ohio Museum, 825 Gallia St., Portsmouth, 740/3545629. somacc.com. Tues.–Fri. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. 1–5 p.m. Visit website for prices.

Museums + Exhibits

Listen to this legendary Canadian band that created chart-topping hits in the late ’60s and early ’70s. The group’s impressive catalog of songs including “American Woman,” “These Eyes” and “No Time.” Sidney High School Auditorium, 1215 Campbell Rd., Sidney, 937/498-2787.

Enjoy the “Magic of Christmas” on display at the Victorian Mansion Museum as it transforms the Romanesque style mansion into Christmas splendor. Travel back in time through the 26 rooms of Victorian historical elegance. Victorian Mansion Museum, 532 N. Chestnut St., Barnesville, 740/425-2926. belmontcountymuseum. com. Fri. 5–8 p.m., Sat.–Sun. 1–4 p.m. $8.

ONGOING

music + theater

This museum housed in a former bank building along the Ohio River offers insight into Ohio’s history through permanent collections and traveling exhibitions. Guests can gain a deeper

NOV 3–4

Southern Ohio Museum

Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Weekend Join your fellow partners in crime for this threeday event where you can formulate theories,

The best memories are made together.

featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains

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N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

discuss them with the local authorities and London’s unofficial police detectives and search for clues. Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center, 7033 Glenn Hwy., Cambridge, 740/432-2022. visitguernseycounty.com. Visit website for times and prices.

Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 740/772-1500. adenamansion.com. Fri.–Sat. 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–7 p.m. $25–$130.

NOV 17

Festivals

THRU JAN 7

Spend an evening with singer Chris Isaak. The Grammy Award-nominated musician will play music from the second Christmas album of his career. Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 740/371-5152. peoplesbanktheatre. com. 8 p.m. $62–$168.

NOV 10–12

This event carries on the tradition of museum founders Charles and Anna Taft, who hosted an afternoon tea reception annually on New Year’s Day. Today, guests can take part in an afternoon tea that includes tea and coffee services as well as a variety of sweet treats in the museum’s dining room. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati, 513/241-0343. taftmuseum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Chris Isaak: It’s Almost Christmas Tour

NOV 19

Zanesville Handbell Festival

Southwest

Museums + Exhibits A Taft Holiday Tradition

Sugarplum Festival of Trees

This 56th annual festival sparkles and shines with holiday lights and benefits kids at the Dayton Children’s Hospital. American Legion, 5700 Kentshire Dr., Kettering, 937/641-3405. childrensdayton.org/twigs. Visit website for times and prices.

Enjoy a merry and bright evening at this event featuring six local church handbell choirs performing a holiday season concert. Each handbell choir will perform individual numbers followed by a group performance. This year’s guest director for the mass ring is Jane Irvine, adjunct professor of music at Marietta College.

Grace United Methodist Church, 516 Shinnick St., Zanesville, 740/452-3241. 7–8:30 p.m. Free (freewill offerings accepted).

NOV 17–19

Other Events

NOV 24

NOV 3–5

Kick off Thanksgiving weekend with this storied festival that includes the Grande Illumination Tree Lighting and the Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights. Families can also enjoy live main stage entertainment, a gingerbread

36th Annual Christmas in Historic Springboro Festival

Fall Scrapbooking Crop

Get creative during these 31 peaceful hours of crafting and preserving your favorite memories of families, friends, vacations and more. Adena

THRU JAN 14

Explore this winter wonderland, complete with children’s entertaiment, beer tents and over 100 craft and food vendors. Head to the 5K run/walk Sat. at 9 a.m., and enjoy a parade the same day.

Downtown Springboro, N. Main St., Springboro, facebook.com/christmasinspringboro. Visit website for times. Free.

Dayton Holiday Festival

house contest, a street fair, horse-drawn wagon rides, a magical holiday village and more.

Courthouse Square, 23 N. Main St., Dayton, downtowndayton.org. 3–8 p.m. Free.

Sporting Fashion: Outdoor Girls 1800 to 1960

Explore themes of fashion, function and feminine decorum in this exhibit that highlights the evolution of women’s sporting and leisure attire and features clothing used in a variety of sports.

Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati, 513/241-0343. taftmuseum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Other Events NOV 18

Books by the Banks

Calling all bookworms to this day-long festival featuring inspiring national, regional and local

The Holidays WELCOME

November 18 - December 31 Photo: Leanne Lee

Our calendar is packed with special holiday events! For a complete list, visit youngstownlive.com.

youngstownlive.com 800.447.8201 @youngstownlive N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

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authors and illustrators. Attend book signings, panel discussions and activities for the entire family to enjoy. Duke Energy Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Cincinnati, duke-energycenter. com. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

NOV 18

Super Science Saturdays at the Boonshoft Museum

Enjoy STEM-focused programming at this science festival for the entire family, which includes access to special exhibitions, space theater shows and public events. Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, 2600 Deweese Pkwy., Dayton, 937/275-7431. boonshoft.org. Visit website for times and prices.

DECEMBER Central Festivals DEC 1–3

Columbus Winterfair

A tradition for 48 years, this holiday event draws nearly 15,000 shoppers on the lookout for thoughtful and unique gifts. Explore the fine arts and craft fair for the ultimate handmade, local selection. Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, 614/486-4402. winterfair.org. Fri.– Sat. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Visit website for prices.

music + theater DEC 1–3

Holiday Pops

The Columbus Symphony is bringing holiday magic to the Ohio Theatre, transforming it with beautiful decorations, wonderful music, heavenly voices and seasonal cheer. Ohio Theatre, 55 E. State St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony.com. Fri. 8 p.m., Sat.–Sun. 3 p.m. $25–$88.

Snow and the courts of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The sounds of Tchaikovsky’s classic symphony fills the theater for a magical holiday experience fit for ballet lovers of all ages. Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. capa.com.

Visit website for times and prices.

The Nutcracker

Join Clara on her journey through the Land of 20

N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

DEC 8

Winterfest

“Elf” in Concert

Watch the heartwarming holiday classic staring Will Farrell on the big screen while John Debney’s joyful score is performed live by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony.com. Sat. 7 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Adults starting at $60, kids starting at $25.

DEC 15

Jim Brickman: A Joyful Christmas

Get in the holiday spirit with this captivating concert experience full of Brickman’s signature piano and soothing vocals. The heartwarming evening will be filled with yuletide carols, holiday classics and the performer’s biggest hits. Southern Theatre, 21 E. Main St., Columbus, 614/3401896. capa.com. 7:30–9:30 p.m. $34–$69.

Experience a fun-filled evening with horsedrawn carriage rides, ice carvings, delicious treats, pictures with Santa and much more at this festive, family-friendly event that has something for everyone to enjoy. Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330/877-9860. hartvillemarketplace.com.

5–9 p.m. Free.

music + theater DEC 7

The Craguns Concert

Other Events DEC 5–6

Winter Wreath Workshop

Get creative at this hands-on class, led by conservatory educator Nicole Tabit. Learn how to create a wreath to adorn your front door with supplies like greenery, cones, berries and other plant parts included in the class cost. Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/715-8000. fpconservatory.org. 6–8 p.m. $80–$90.

Prepare for a night of laughter and encouragement as this dynamic, family group entertains with a lively musical show at Hartville Kitchen.

Plus, enjoy a homestyle meal in the dining room before the performance. Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery, 1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330/877-9353. hartvillekitchen.com. 6:30– 9 p.m. $30–$40.

DEC 9

DEC 8

Christmas with the Hardings

Short North Holiday Hop

DEC 7–23

Festivals

DEC 9–10

DEC 2

Experience this legendary Columbus tradition in holiday style. Enjoy an evening of exploring art at dozens of galleries and nontraditional exhibit spaces throughout the district. Short North Arts District, N. High Street, Columbus, 614/299-8050. shortnorth.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Northeast

Enjoy a holiday lunch buffet followed by a special program by Jon Anderson titled “Christmas at the White House.” The event will be hosted in the auditorium. Harding Presidential Library and Museum, 355 E. Church St., Marion, 800/6006894. hardingpresidentialsites.org. Noon.

General admission $30, Ohio History Connection members $25.

The Hip Hop Nutrcracker

Dance the night away with this holiday mashup, directed and choreographed by Tony and Olivier Award nominee Jennifer Weber. The contemporary performance reimagines classic Tchaikovsky tunes by pairing them with modern hip hop dance, a DJ, a violinst and MC Kurtis Blow. KeyBank State Theatre, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216/771-4444. playhousesquare. org. 7 p.m. $28–$68.

DEC 14

Straight No Chaser: Sleighin’ It Tour

Swing into holiday cheer with this a capella group phenomenon that boasts a massive fanbase and long list of accomplishments. Their signature sound and cheeky sense of humor are sure to make the season a little brighter. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, 330/2532488. akroncivic.com. 7:30 p.m. $29.50–$69.50.

DEC 16

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Tribute: The Prophecy

Other Events

DEC 10

720 MKT in Downtown Canton

DEC 2

Old-Fashioned Christmas

North America’s most popular tribute to TransSiberian Orchestra, The Prophecy entertains with a show featuring elaborate costumes, choreography, music, lasers and fog. Ohio Star Theater, 1387 Old Route 39, Sugarcreek, 855/344-7547. ohiostartheater.com. 1 & 7 p.m.

Reserved $58.

DEC 23

A Magical Cirque Christmas

Gather the family to celebrate and embrace the magic of the season with this nostalgic, charming and awe-inspiring variety show. This performance is perfect for all ages, and audience members will be dazzled and enchanted by the incredible talents of world-class entertainers performing to beloved holiday music. KeyBank State Theatre, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216/771-4444. playhousesquare.org. 4 p.m. $35–$99.

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N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

Lehman’s is inviting shoppers to share in the holiday spirit as the store hosts its annual OldFashioned Christmas event. Enjoy demonstrations, live music and more. Lehman’s, 4779 Kidron Rd., Kidron, 800/438-5346. lehmans. com/events. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.

DEC 2–3

’Tis the Season Vendor and Craft Show

Shop from more than 60 small and local business owners at this craft show in Lorain County.

Each day offers a different selection of vendor products to browse, including seasonal and holiday items, homemade crafts and cards, totes, wreaths, jewelry, baked goods, home decor, wood crafts, tumblers, apparel, personal care items and much more Lorain Community College, 1005 N. Abbe Rd., Elyria, 216/2222223. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Free.

Shop this festive holiday market spanning two landmarks of Downtown Canton. Spend the day shopping at Santa’s Workshop, Mrs. Claus’ Gift Boutique and the Village of Shops. Canton Civic Center & Cultural Center for the Arts, 1101 Market Ave. N, Canton, 330/571-0367. eventsby720.com. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

DEC 14

Akron Roundtable: Theron Brown

Zanesville native Theron Brown talks about his life growing up in Ohio and the musical influences from his childhood that informed his knowledge, curiosity and passion for the art form. Brown persued a bachelor’s degree in jazz studies and a master’s degree in piano performance at the University of Akron and is now a professor of practice at the school teaching jazz piano. Quaker Station at the University of Akron, 135 S. Broadway St., Akron, 330/247-8682. akronroundtable.org. Noon. $25.

DEC 16

The Cave Wine Tasting and Barrel Room Tour

Southeast Festivals DEC 1

Marietta’s First Friday: Moonlight Madness

DEC 15

Girl Named Tom: One More Christmas

Listen to the harmonies of this sibling trio, who made history as the only group act to win “The Voice.” The Midwestern musicians will be sure to impress with memorable vocal performances and their spectacular holiday lineup. Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 740/371-5152. peoplesbanktheatre.com.

8 p.m. $29–$89.

DEC 16

Indulge in a premium guided wine tasting that includes four wine samples and an antipasti cup followed by a tour of the underground barrel room. Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330/487-1000, gervasivineyard. com. Visit website for times. $29.

Northwest Festivals DEC 10

Winter Festival of Crafts

Help make the season merry and bright by picking up last-minute holiday gifts and decorations in a beautiful setting. Enjoy perusing handcrafted wares while partaking in the on-site conesssions. Franciscan Theater and Conference Center, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania, facebook.com/fransicancentersylvania.

9 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

James Tormé Holiday Concert

Experience the holiday charm of Marietta during this one-night event featuring Christmas festivities, a DORA and more. Plus, enjoy shopping at a selection of over 70 locally owned shops and restaurants. Downtown Marietta, 241 Front St., Marietta, 740/373-5178. mariettaohio.org.

5–11 p.m. Free.

Christmas Open House

Walk through the museum’s campus for a historical take on the holiday season. Join the Hull family’s 1890s Christmas, sit by the Crawford Log House and savor hot cider and seasonal goodies. Children can enjoy crafts, games and a visit from Father Christmas. Hancock Historical Museum, 422 W. Sandusky St., Findlay, 419/423-4433. hancockhistoricalmuseum.org.

Sat. 5–8 p.m., Sun. 1–4 p.m. $1.

DEC 21–22

Hayes Home Holidays

Spend an evening touring this storied home, lightly decorated for the holiday season in a historically accurate manner, while learning about Christmas and New Year’s traditions of yore. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Spiegel Grove, Fremont, 419/3322081. rbhayes.org. 5–8 p.m. Free.

Stroll through Historic Roscoe Village and ring in the holiday season with shopping, dining and family fun. Gather beneath the tree for stories and carols at the 54th annual candlelighting ceremonies. Roscoe Village, 600 N. Whitewoman St., Coshocton, 740/622-4877. visitcoshocton. com. Dec. 2 & 9, 6 p.m. Free.

music + theater

The Columbus Symphony performs its spectacular holiday concert that promises to delight families with festive music and put showgoers in the spirirt of the season. Ohio University Chillicothe Shoemaker Center, 101 University Dr., Chillicothe, 740/702-7677. visitchillicotheohio. com. 5–8 p.m. $5–$25.

Other Events DEC 2

A Storybook Christmas 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run

DEC 6

Scotty McCreery

Buckle up for a night of country music with American Idol winner Scotty McCreery. Enjoy songs from his newest album, “Same Truck,” including hit singles like “You Time” and “Damn Straight.” Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium, 47 E. Union St., Athens, 740/593-1780. ohio.edu/performing-arts.

7:30 p.m. $35–$55.

DEC 10

DEC 15

The Zanesville Civic Chorus and Orchestra performs its 94th annual production of Handel’s “Messiah.” The beloved piece of choral music will be brought to life with the 80-voice choir and five soloists. The orchestra will be lead by music director Ann Lillie Briggs. Central Trinity United Methodist Church, 62 S. Seventh St., Zanesville, 740/453-1210. centraltrinityumc.com. 6–8:30 p.m. Freewill offering.

Join a group in watching the 1959 film “Holiday Affair,” starring Robert Mitchum and Janet Leigh. The public event includes a presentation of historical information before and after the showing as well as popcorn and refreshments.

Hancock Historical Museum, 422 W. Sandusky St., Findlay, 419/423-4433. hancockhistorical museum.org. 7–9 p.m. Free.

Columbus Symphony: Holiday Pops Spectacular

Roscoe Village Christmas Candlelighting

Other Events Classic Movie Night: Holiday Affair

DEC 17

DEC 2 & 9

Museums + Exhibits DEC 9–10

Listen to James Tormé and his band during this New American Songbook holiday concert.

The award-winning recording artist is a gifted singer whose music infuses older classics with contemporary influences. Secrest Auditorium, 334 Shinnick St., Zanesville, 740/588-0871. zanesvilleconcertassociation.org. 7:30–9:30 p.m. Visit website for prices.

Handel’s Messiah Oratorio

Take part in a fun evening in downtown Zanesville while running or walking under the twinkling Christmas lights and beautifully decorated storefronts and parks. Downtown Zanesville, 205 N. Fifth St., Zanesville, 740/455-8282, ext.

104. runsignup.com/Race/OH/Zanesville/ StorybookChristmas5k. 5 p.m. 5K $30, 1 Mile Fun Run $15.

DEC 2

Downtown Logan Christmas Parade

Experience a cinematic Christmas and cheer on movie-themed floats at this year’s Hollywood-themed parade. The event begins at the fair grounds, provides announcements

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at Worthington Park and ends at Hocking Mall.

Downtown Logan, E. Main St., Logan, 740/3856836. explorehockinghills.com. Visit website for times. Free.

DEC 2–10

Holidays at Adena

This season, the gorgeous venue will be decorated in 19th-century yuletide splendor and offer guided tours, live entertainment and much more. Adena Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 740/772-1500. adenamansion. com. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $6–$12.

With our menu constantly changing to reflect the local produce from our surrounding farms, our dishes provide intense freshness and flavor that is sure to capture the seasons in each bite.

DEC 9

Gather your loved ones at Silas Creative Kitchen + Cocktails this holiday season.

Christmas in Ash Cave

Come bundled for wintry weather for this lighted stroll to Ash Cave. Once there, visitors can stay warm with hot refreshements and an open fire.

Listen to holiday tunes, let the kids visit with Santa and help decorate a Christmas tree for wildlife. Hocking Hills State Park, St. Rte. 56, Logan, 740/385-6841. explorehockinghills.com.

5–7 p.m. Free.

DEC 19

Paint & Pour

22 North Center Street Versailles, OH 45308 937.526.3020 | hotelversaillesohio.com

Join the folks at Stuart’s Opera House for a night of community and flexing your creative muscles.

Participants will be instructed to paint a one-ofa-kind masterpiece with the help of a talented teacher. Paints, canvases and brushes will be provided. Stuart’s Opera House, 52 Public Square, Nelsonville, 740/753-1924. stuartsoperahouse.org. 7–9 p.m. $30–$40.

Southwest Festivals

2023 Biennial Juried Exhibition

DEC 16

Christmas in Loveland

Kick back at this spirited downtown event packed with carriage, train and trolley rides, crafts, holiday beverages and complimentary tastings. Downtown Loveland, 206 Railroad Ave., Loveland, 513/683-1544. lovinlifeloveland. com. Visit website for times and prices.

music + theater

JURORS:

DEC 13–14

CCJO Big Band Series: Jingle Jazz

Dr. Melissa Crum Yusuf A. Lateef Jolene Powell

Celebrate the season with the Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra at their popular annual concert featuring swinging remixes of holiday classics. The Redmoor, 3187 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, cincinnatijazz.org/big-bandjingle-jazz. Tues.–Thurs. 7–9:30 p.m. Adults $25, children $10.

Featuring works by 63 ohio artists

DEC 20–23

Christmas With C.S. Lewis

Oct. 28 - Jan. 5, 2024 ALL EVENTS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. LOCATION Vern Riffe Center for Government & the Arts 77 S. High St., First Floor Lobby 614-644-9624 MEDIA SPONSORS

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MORE INFORMATION Visit riffegallery.org

HOURS Tue. – Fri. Noon – 5 p.m Gallery will be closed Nov. 10 and 23.

Image credit: David Denniston, Welcome to Ice Cream Land, 2023, Oil, 96" x 96" x 2"

This performance, starring acclaimed actor David Payne, invites audiences to join the renowned author at his home in England as he hosts a group of Americans for the holidays.

Enjoy an unforgettable assortment of yuletide recollections that stimulate curiosity, laughter and even some tears. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, 513/621-2787. cincinnatiarts. org. Visit website for times and prices.

FARM & TABLE Warm Welcome Housed in a former neighborhood bar in Springfield, Speakeasy Ramen’s Japanese-inspired menu draws diners from near and far.

»

COURTESY OF SPEAKEASY RAMEN

Cool Beans: Scoot! Cold Brew on the west side of

Cleveland is changing coffee culture with its fresh approach to the classic morning pick-me-up.

Wolf’s Ridge Brewing: The Columbus brewery is known for its beer, but there is more than just hops and malt to be excited about at this downtown favorite.

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FARM & TABLE

Cool Beans

W

T

ho would have thought that you’d find great ramen in a Springfield dive bar? While Speakeasy Ramen isn’t hard to find, it still feels like a hidden gem.

Kim Frazier opened the place in the summer of 2019. She had been on the lookout for a restaurant to run when she discovered the Ludlow Avenue space south of downtown Springfield, blocks away from the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Westcott House.

“She always wanted to have a bar and restaurant as a retirement plan,” says Frazier’s niece Brittany Waters, who serves as general manager. “It’s a little hole in the wall in the middle of the neighborhood. In Springfield, they had more bars on every corner than churches — this is one of those bars.”

Waters estimates the cozy ramen joint covers about 800 square feet, joking that the front patio is bigger than the interior dining room.

“When Kim found this building, it had an area that was a pool hall, but you could only fit one pool table,” Waters adds. “That’s our kitchen now.”

Heading up that tiny kitchen is Waters’ fiancé, Clayton Horrighs. The two were living in South Carolina when Frazier convinced them to come to Ohio. Horrighs trained under a Japanese chef in Charleston, which led him to develop a Japanese-inspired menu.

Waters recommends first-timers taste the tonkotsu ramen. The rich, complex broth

Cleveland’s Scoot! Cold Brew is changing coffee culture with its fresh approach.

serves as the base for four varieties of ramen bowls, all loaded with proteins like pork, shrimp, soft-boiled eggs and plenty of veggies. She also suggests trying the JFC taco and the rangoons. The “JFC” stands for Japanese fried chicken, while the rangoons are packed with savory shrimp, scallions and cream cheese.

Speakeasy Ramen also serves sushi on Wednesdays, with four different rolls plus a weekly special, while the full bar serves Ohio beers, sake, wine and boba tea. The place has retained the charm of a neighborhood watering hole, but the food has drawn visitors from across the state.

“We still get new people coming in,” Waters says. “A lot of people traveling through Ohio will find us on Google. I’ve heard of people driving two hours, three hours before.

One year, Yelp voted us best ramen in Ohio — that really got people out. People say we’re a five-star dive bar.” — Nicholas Dekker 365 Ludlow Ave., Springfield 45505, 937/324-3722, speakeasyramen.com

ucked away on a brick-lined stretch of Cleveland’s West 114th Street, Scoot! Cold Brew embraces a fresh philosophy when serving up hot and cold coffee drinks ranging from lattes and mochas to nitro cold brew.

The shop’s beans come from a sustainable farm in Honduras and are roasted in Cleveland. But the biggest difference between Scoot! and other shops is that instead of relying on drip espresso, it uses cold-brew concentrate it calls “estratto” to craft its drinks.

“You don’t have to be dependent on the brewing process when you go in and get your mocha,” says owner Kari DeGraff. “... It’s the future of coffee.”

The shop’s most popular offerings are mochas and its lavender vanilla latte. Scoot! also sells bottles of its cold-brew concentrate to take home.

As a woman-, veteran- and LGBTQowned business, Scoot! is committed to creating an inclusive operation.

For DeGraff, that means building a human-centered company with a pleasant work environment and a consistent product.

“I want to see businesses change,” DeGraff says. “Put your money where your mouth is and start leading the way.” — Lauren Keep

Clockwise from top: Ramen bowls, sushi rolls and vegan Thai curry are all offered at Speakeasy Ramen.

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COURTESY OF LOCATIONS LISTED

2085 W. 114th St., Cleveland 44102, 216/801-5664, scootcoldbrew.com

PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE IN CLERMONT COUNTY

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE VISITORS GUIDE

Wolf’s Ridge Brewing The Columbus brewery is known for its beer, but there is more than just hops and malt to be excited about at this downtown favorite.

S

COURTESY OF WOLF’S RIDGE BREWING

ince opening in 2013, Wolf ’s Ridge Brewing in Columbus has been winning awards for its flagship Daybreak Coffee Vanilla Cream Ale and its barrel-aged rarities. But while Wolf’s Ridge enjoys a national reputation as a purveyor of excellent beer, the brewery focuses on the visitor experience at its downtown taproom and restaurant.

The location has two distinct spaces: a more traditional taproom in the back of the building, with a food menu focused on classic pub fare, and a fancy-casual restaurant up front with a seasonal, often farm-to-table menu. Bob Szuter, who co-founded the brewery with his father, Alan, says the restaurant was his focus, and along with executive chef Kris Ludwig, he wants it to hold its own among the best in Columbus.

“We’ve built really strong partnerships with our [local] suppliers, so we’re focused specifically on seasonal ingredients,” Szuter explains. “We’re really trying to push those exciting dishes that people are going to respond to.”

He highlights the duck breast as a yearround favorite. The dish includes Hawaiian stir-fried veggies, ginger sauce and a chutney made with cherries and the brewery’s hefeweizen. The seasonal menu is as eclectic as the brewery’s beer offerings, and vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available. Ludwig and head brewer Francis Kunkler are always in communication about upcoming beers, many of which get incorporated into new dishes and pair beautifully with the restaurant’s food.

“We take pairing pretty seriously,” says Szuter. “It’s a big component of what we do.

We want to make sure our servers have the knowledge to help guests with that.”

While a rotating cast of barrel-aged beers have earned the brewery many of its accolades, the year-round bestseller on the menu is Daybreak, which has won multiple awards at both the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup. If you’re looking for something more familiar, Wolf’s Ridge IPA is a classic take on the popular style.

For those who aren’t interested in beer, a full bar offers wine, cocktails and Mad Moon Cider. There are non-alcoholic options available as well, including mocktails and a new NA beer from Columbus’ Seventh Son Brewing. — David Nilsen

CLERMONT COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

VISIT US ONLINE AT

DISCOVERCLERMONT.COM

A weekly email newsletter featuring Ohio chefs, food, drink, produce and more! Sign up today!

OhioMagazine.com/newsletters

215 N. Fourth St., Columbus 43215, 614/429-3936, wolfsridgebrewing.com N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

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Holiday Gift Guide Visit Canton

A ticket to art, history, and culture — the Canton Museum Pass includes admission to eight museums! Check off a few bucket list visits including the Pro Football Hall of Fame, McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, and National First Ladies Library.

Conveniently send a digital pass for the perfect holiday gift. visitcanton.com | (330) 454-1439

BELDEN VILLAGE MALL

Tis the season for everyone’s favorite present — a gift card from Belden Village Mall — where you find holiday magic with family and friends! Share your wish list and find the perfect gift with over 100-plus specialty shops, restaurants, and entertainment. beldenvillagemall.com | (330) 494-8815

Experience Hartville

Experience Hartville’s enchanting Christmas transformation with twinkling lights and festive events. Savor homestyle meals and desserts at Hartville Kitchen, creating cherished memories. Explore boutique shopping at the Shops and enjoy a campus-wide toy-shopping experience. Discover Hartville MarketPlace’s 60-plus unique shops, and at Hartville Hardware, explore a special Christmas Shop with personalized ornaments for one-of-a-kind gifts and charming holiday decor. experiencehartville.com/visit | (330) 877-9353

GERVASI VINEYARD RESORT & SPA

Sleigh the holidays at Gervasi Vineyard! Surprise a loved one or co-worker with a little piece of Tuscany from Canton, Ohio. Shop at The Marketplace boutique gift shop for wine, spirits, unique and beautiful home decor, decorative homeware, jewelry, wall art, and more! A Gervasi Vineyard gift card always make the perfect gift! gervasivineyard.com | (330) 497-1000

Holiday Gift Guide OHIO AMISH COUNTRY

Looking for a unique gift this holiday season? Ohio Amish Country is home to a variety of unforgettable experiences. Whether you want to plan a romantic getaway, discover boutique shops, or explore the beautiful landscape, there are endless ways to enjoy all that makes our region special. visitamishcountry.com | (330) 674-3975

Lehman’s

Lehman’s has the recipe for the perfect gift. Give a gift that will last for generations to come like our striped stoneware. Shop our candle- or soapmaking kits to gift your loved ones a handmade gift. From toys to the practical and the pretty, Lehman’s is your one-stop holiday shop. Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. lehmans.com | 800-438-5346

DUTCHMAN HOSPITALITY

Holiday shopping at Dutch Valley Gifts Sugarcreek and Carlisle Gifts Walnut Creek includes free gift wrapping — saving you time and money. When there’s no time to shop, consider giving Dutchman Hospitality gift cards, which can be used at all Dutchman Hospitality restaurants, shops, inns, and theater. dhgroup.com | (330) 893-2926

KEIM

At Keim we care for your project like we care for our own, whether you are building a house, remodeling your kitchen or selecting the perfect holiday gift. Visit our destination home center in the rolling hills of Holmes County this holiday season for an uncommon shopping experience. keimlumber.com | (330) 893-5009

ADVERTISEMENT

Rocky Point Winery’s The Red Fern Inn in Marblehead

Stay & Play

Spend a cozy weekend away at wineries around the state.

By Emily Swick These wineries around Ohio offer perfect weekend getaways to coast into the new year relaxed. Enjoy a glass of wine and a warm, soft bed as the year winds down.

Housed in an 1890s home in Bellville, The Wishmaker House B&B, Winery and Restaurant offers eight guest rooms and several common areas to explore. Snuggle up in front of the common living room fireplace to enjoy a glass of their house-made Starry Night or expand your palate with their 50-cent wine samples.

which includes a serum made from winery grapes and is the perfect addition to a girls’ getaway weekend or romantic trip with a partner.

Stay at Rocky Point Winery’s adjoining inn, The Red Fern Inn, in Marblehead. Rent one of their five rooms and receive a complimentary bottle of wine (your choice of red or white) to take back to your room for a nightcap. Their winery offers 12 different wines, and the Cabernet Sauvignon, made from grapes grown on Lake Erie, is guaranteed to be delicious.

For a more intimate stay, visit Le Petit Chevalier Farm The Lakehouse Inn Winery Winery located in Creola. You in Geneva can find the private entrance to their lodging, The Winery Loft, directly above the winery. From the deck of the loft, admire the stunning, rolling hills of this estate — a view you’ll never want to leave.

Of course, unless you venture downstairs to try a glass of their 2021 Oaked Norton.

Perfect for relaxing, The Lakehouse Inn Winery in Geneva has stunning lakeview suites and cottages. Each room comes with complimentary breakfast baskets and snacks to nibble on while you sip a bottle of wine in the comfort of your suite. Try the Merlot Massage at their spa,

French Ridge Vineyards in Killbuck offers private cabins with decks that overlook their sprawling 23-acre grounds. Each cabin comes with a free wine tasting, which is the perfect moment to try their apple wine, served slightly warmed to heat you up on cold nights.

614-728-6438 614-728-6438 ohiowinesvip.com ohiowinesvip.com findohiowines.com findohiowines.com

LIVEWell

Winter Wellness

Follow these five strategies to combat dry, cracked skin as the weather turns cold.

A

ISTOCK

s if pulling on boots and clearing the driveway wasn’t enough this time of year, there is windburn, cracked hands, chapped lips and dry skin to contend with once the cold arrives. You can avoid such ailments associated with dry winter weather by following these five strategies courtesy of Chelsea Zastrow, a nurse practitioner with Kettering Health Medical Group in Dayton.

— Kristen Hampshire

Just Add Water. We avoid humidity all summer, but it’s a crucial component to winter skin health. “We have our heat turned up at home, and many do not implement humidifiers, so the air dries out our skin,” Zastrow says. A simple hack for those who don’t own a humidifier: “Put a bowl of water in your bedroom. The water will evaporate into the air.”

Shorten Shower Time. A hot shower is tempting, but Zastrow advises not to overdo it. “In general, you should shower for 10 minutes or less and turn down the temperature,” she says, noting that long, hot showers exacerbate skin dryness.

Moisturize with Care. Within five to 10 minutes of showering, apply a fragrance-

and alcohol-free moisturizer to reduce dryness. Select a facial moisturizer and one for the body, ideally including SPF to cover all the bases, Zastrow advises.

Opt for Ointment. Feet and hands get dry, chapped, cracked and irritated in cold weather. “Using some ointment instead of a cream can be more effective to trap in moisture,” Zastrow says. Before bed, work ointment into your hands and feet and put on breathable, cotton gloves and socks.

Suit Up. Make sure you have the proper winter gear. “Wear hats, gloves and scarves to protect from the wind and harsh weather,” Zastrow advises. It may be faster to bolt from the car into the store without bundling up, but you’ll pay for it later.

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LIVEWell

If you are at risk for diabetes, there are some simple lifestyle modifications that can help get you on the road to better health.

Y

ou’re thirstier than usual. You feel more tired. Your appetite has spiked. It must be from stress, a busy schedule and not getting enough sleep, right? Not necessarily.

“There is a period of time when diabetes is silent,” says Lori Gilhousen, RN and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist at the Ashtabula County Medical Center.

“You write it off as being tired, getting older, and signs like frequent urination and hunger are often even later signs.”

You can be doing all the right things to eat well and stay active but still develop diabetes because the pancreas isn’t making enough insulin or your body is not using the insulin efficiently.

“You don’t have to be overweight or not taking care of your health to have diabetes,” Gilhousen says. “That stigma is what keeps people from getting screened, but in the last 20 years, we have so many more tools to manage blood sugar more efficiently and to tailor treatment to each individual. One person’s journey with diabetes is not everyone else’s.”

November is American Diabetes Month, a reminder to screen for early diagnosis and intervention. The American Diabetes Association says 1 in 3 adults is at risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes. The latest ADA 32

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Standards in Medical Care in Diabetes advises screening for prediabetes and diabetes beginning at age 35 for all people and every three years following if results are normal.

If the results are showing warning signs, Gilhousen says there are a lifestyle changes you can make under the advisement of your doctor. — Kristen Hampshire Eat Smart. First, read labels — and this can be a great first “change” if you generally add grocery items to the cart without a glance. Include more whole foods, pay attention to the carbohydrate content, be mindful of serving sizes and don’t get overwhelmed. Downsize your plate too. Rather than the typical 12-inch round, choose an 8- or 9-inch sized plate that will set the stage for proper portions.

Get Moving. Exercise can help lower blood sugar levels because muscle cells can more effectively use insulin. When muscles contract during activity, cells absorb glucose and use it for energy. Physical activity can lower blood glucose for up to 24 hours or longer, according to the American Diabetes Association. “Even if all you can do is walk to the mailbox and back, start there,” Gilhousen says. “Then walk to the mailbox when you don’t need to get the mail. Work up to 150 minutes per week of moderately intense to intense exercise.”

Check In. “One of the most important things is to keep follow-up appointments, even if you’re struggling to make the changes your doctor suggested,” Gilhousen says.

“Ignoring your diabetes won’t make it go away.” If you experience complications or the lifestyle changes are no longer working, be sure to touch base with your doctor.

ISTOCK

Little Changes, Big Impact

Your Medicare Advantage Shopping Guide and Medical Mutual is my Medicare Advantage.

A Medicare Advantage plan can be a great option when choosing Medicare coverage. Medicare Advantage plans include hospital, medical and often Part D prescription drug coverage — plus extras like dental, vision and hearing coverage — all in one plan. Read through this guide for help choosing the right Medicare Advantage plan to fit your lifestyle, health needs and budget.

The Annual Enrollment Period for Medicare Advantage plans runs through December 7, 2023. During this time, you can make changes to your Medicare coverage for January 1, 2024.

Medicare Advantage

Save on the Care You Use the Most — and Get Added Protection Against the Unexpected If finding an affordable Medicare Advantage plan is important to you, choose a plan that lets you save money on routine care and offers protection against unexpected healthcare costs.

Find Low-Cost Care & Prescriptions Many Medicare Advantage plans start at $0 per month and include low copays for doctor visits, prescription drugs and more. When shopping for a plan, be sure to review the plan’s formulary, or list of covered drugs, to make sure your prescriptions are covered and find out what they will cost.

My Medical Mutual plan is excellent, and it’s very economical.

I looked at all my options and this was the best plan for me.”

Medical Mutual plans include money-saving benefits such as: n

$0 copays for primary care visits

n

$0 copays for specialist visits*

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$0 prescription drugs through mail-order and retail*

n

Plus, you’ll never pay more than $35 per month for insulin

Stay Protected from Unexpected Expenses Medicare Advantage plans have a maximum out-ofpocket (MOOP) amount, which is the most one could pay each year on covered healthcare services before the plan covers the full cost for the rest of the year.

Choosing a plan with a lower MOOP helps to protect you against unexpected healthcare costs like a hospital stay or surgery.

Medical Mutual’s Medicare Advantage plans have MOOPs as low as $3,000, so you can rest assured you’re protected against the unexpected.*

and Medical Mutual is my Medicare Advantage.

Get Added Value with Extra Benefits Another way to get added value from your Medicare Advantage plan is through extra benefits and services, often available at no additional cost. These extra benefits include things like dental and vision coverage or wellness services to help you manage chronic health conditions and maintain an active lifestyle.

Medical Mutual offers a variety of extra benefits and wellness programs at no additional cost, including: n

Up to $3,000 in dental coverage — including dentures and implants*

n

Up to a $250 eyewear allowance for glasses or contacts*

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Hearing coverage plus hearing aids for as low as $499

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Up to $340 per year to spend on over-the-counter items*

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SilverSneakers® fitness membership with access to more than 17,000 fitness center locations Programs to help you manage chronic health conditions, quit smoking and transition home after a hospital stay

Medicare Advantage

Look for Convenience and Quality To ensure you have the best possible experience with your health plan, choose a Medicare Advantage plan that offers convenient access to quality care and excellent customer service.

Get Access to Quality Care Anywhere Medicare Advantage plans have networks of providers, and many plans require you to get all of your care from providers who are part of their network. Medicare Advantage plans from Medical Mutual offer access to more than 54,000 network providers across Ohio. Plus, members receive up to $7,500 to use on routine care received when traveling outside of Ohio and $50,000 in coverage for urgent and emergency care worldwide.

2 Fulton

Ottawa

Williams

Geauga Cuyahoga

Defiance

Sandusky

Wood

Henry

Erie

Lorain

Medina

Huron

Seneca

Paulding

Ashtabula

Lake

1

Lucas

5

Trumbull

6

Portage

Summit

Mahoning

MedMutual Advantage® HMO and PPO plans earned 4.5 out of 5 Stars from Medicare for 2024.** This means our members can count on us to help them get the care they need quickly from highquality healthcare providers.

Hancock

Putnam

Van Wert

Ashland

Crawford

Wyandot

Wayne

Stark

Columbiana

Richland Allen Hardin

Carroll

Holmes Marion

Jefferson

Morrow

Auglaize

Mercer

Tuscarawas Knox

Union

Delaware

3

Champaign

Darke

Guernsey

Licking

7

Franklin Madison

Clark

Noble Fairfield

Perry

Montgomery Fayette

Washington

Hocking

4

Warren

Clinton

Hamilton

Ross

Athens Vinton

Highland

Meigs Pike

Clermont

Monroe

Morgan

Pickaway

Greene

Butler

Belmont

Muskingum

Miami

Preble

Harrison

Coshocton

Logan Shelby

Jackson

Brown Adams

Gallia

Scioto

Lawrence

Major In-Network Hospital Systems 1 Cleveland

Cleveland Clinic n University Hospitals n MetroHealth n

2 Toledo

Mercy Health n University of Toledo Medical Center n

3 Columbus

OhioHealth n Mount Carmel n The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital

5

4 Cincinnati

Mercy Health n The Christ Hospital n TriHealth n University of Cincinnati Medical Center

Akron

Cleveland Clinic Akron General n Summa Health

n

n

6

Youngstown n

7

Mercy Health

Dayton n

n

n

Premier Health Kettering Health

...and more!

Medicare Advantage

Look for Excellent Customer Service Whether you have questions about a claim, want help enrolling in a plan or need assistance finding a doctor, it helps to talk to someone.

Medical Mutual’s Customer Care team is friendly, knowledgeable and based right here in Ohio. Plus, they’ve earned a 5-Star Customer Service rating from Medicare six years in a row!**

Customer service is one of the reasons we choose to stay with Medical Mutual. When we ask a question, they do the research and get us the information we need .”

and Medical Mutual is my Medicare Advantage.

Commitment to Ohio Communities For 89 years, Medical Mutual has been committed to the Ohio communities we serve.

Our employees live and work right here in Ohio, and we donate millions of dollars and thousands of volunteer hours each year to help improve the lives of our fellow Ohioans.

Your Hometown Medicare Insurer

Ready to join the other Medical Mutual members who are happy with their Medicare Advantage plans?

Call 1-877-583-3181 (TTY 711) or visit MedMutual.com/MyMedAdvantage *Benefits vary by region and plan type. ** MedMutual Advantage PPO plans earned 5 out of 5 Stars for Customer Service from 2019-2024. MedMutual Advantage HMO and PPO plans earned a 4.5-Star Overall Plan Rating in 2024. Every year, CMS evaluates plans based on a 5-Star rating system.

MedMutual Advantage plans are HMO and PPO plans offered by Medical Mutual of Ohio with a Medicare contract.

Enrollment in a MedMutual Advantage plan depends on contract renewal. SilverSneakers is a registered trademark of Tivity Health, Inc. Other providers are available in our network. ©2023 Medical Mutual of Ohio. Medical Mutual is a registered trademark of Medical Mutual of Ohio.

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Medicare Advantage

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2023–24 BEST HOMETOWN HONOREES

during these scheduled presentations at events in this year’s Best Hometown communities Nov. 25: Cuyahoga Falls Tree Lighting at City Hall, 4–7 p.m.

City of Cuyahoga Falls Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau RDA Hotel Management Company/Sheraton Suites Cuyahoga Falls

Dec. 2: Lancaster Winterfest & Tree Lighting Festival, Noon–5:30 p.m.

Ale House 1890 Fairfield County Economic Development Destination Downtown Lancaster

Dec. 1: Celina First Friday Event, 5 p.m.

Dec. 9: Sharonville Christmas on The Loop, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Grand Lake Region Mercer County Community & Economic Development Celina-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce

Sharonville Convention Center Visit Cincy Great Oaks Career Campuses

To read more about our 2023-24 Best Hometown communities, visit ohiomagazine.com/besthometowns

Share your experience with us!

Remember to tag @ohiomagazine and use the hashtag #besthometowns in your social media posts so we can share them with our audience.

BEST Visit five communities that embody what makes life here special. We honor Celina, Cuyahoga Falls, Grove City, Lancaster and Sharonville.

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CELINA CUYAHOGA FALLS GROVE CITY LANCASTER SHARONVILLE

FAR LEFT: MEGAN LEIGH BARNARD; RIGHT BOTTOM: MATTHEW ALLEN; ALL OTHER PHOTOS: RACHAEL JIROUSEK

Clockwise from far left: Transcend Coffee + Roastery in Grove City; marina on Grand Lake St. Marys in Celina; Front Street in Cuyahoga Falls; splash pad in Sharonville; historic home in Lancaster

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Located along the expansive Grand Lake St. Marys, this agricultural area of Ohio embraces its shore-town appeal with waterfront development and downtown businesses that cater to residents and travelers alike. By Jim Vickers

DOUG HINEBAUGH

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lighthouse built by Celina’s Rotary Club rises at the lake’s edge, while the bright hues of the city’s Boardwalk Village — the first phase of a new waterfront development — stands out against the summer sky.

Covering 13,500 surface acres, Grand Lake St. Marys is the largest manmade body

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Enjoy the holidays at a hometown Christmas. Downtown, Celina, OH Follow us on Facebook @downtown Celina Ohio or visit www.celinamercer.com

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PHOTOS BY RACHAEL JIROUSEK

tanding at the edge of Grand Lake St. Marys in June, it is easy to see how the enormous body of water shapes life for those who live along it. Kids with fishing rods cast lines near the shore, and leisure boats cut across the lake’s wind-rippled surface. A working

of water completely in the state of Ohio.

Prior to construction of the Hoover Dam, it had the distinction of being the largest manmade lake in the world. Maybe most surprising is that Grand Lake St. Marys was dug by hand — an effort that began in 1837 to create a feeder for the Ohio & Miami Canal to ensure the vital waterway maintained a depth of 5 feet.

Today, the lake is the centerpiece of life in Celina. The community, which has a population of around 10,900, sits along its northwest corner. Just off the water, there is a city park and beyond that a small coffee shop where you are likely to run into Mayor Jeffrey Hazel — not at a table drinking his morning cup of joe but behind the counter pouring yours.

Along with a manufacturing company that makes overhead conveyors for businesses such as dry cleaners, the mayor owns Hazelnut Coffeehouse. He also roasts coffee beans for several other shops in northwest Ohio and across the border in Indiana.

“I stay really busy with a myriad of things. I just have fun,” says Hazel, who will begin his fourth term as mayor of Celina in January. “That’s kind of my happy spot: in

Young person fishing along Grand Lake St. Marys (opposite page); lighthouse along the lake’s shoreline (above); Mercer County Courthouse rotunda (right)

the shop. I get the chance to talk to all kinds of people — a lot of visitors —but I also get the chance to talk to a lot of people who would not come to the mayor’s office.”

Hazel, a native of Indianapolis, mentions with a chuckle that he is the only person ever elected mayor of Celina who didn’t grow up in the area. His wife did though.

Like a lot of small towns, tradition is woven into daily life here, be it the architectural gem that is the 100-year-old Mercer County Courthouse with its ornate central stairway or The James Watson House, an elegant yet accessible restaurant that opened this year in a 19th-century building downtown.

James Watson Riley founded Celina (pronounced sa-line-a) in 1834. He named it after the lakeside town of Salina, New York, which he visited during his travels, but changed the spelling to avoid confusion at the post office.

Celina grew slowly over the decades, but the discovery of oil and gas in the area saw the town’s population nearly double to 2,684 residents between 1880 and 1890.

Today, agriculture is a major part of the regional economy, but Celina also has a solid industrial base. Crown Equipment Corp. employs 1,050 in the city. Celina Aluminum

Precision Technology, which is owned by Honda and makes parts for the company’s cars, has 612 workers. The Dayton-based Reynolds & Reynolds employs 400 people in Celina. Other large job providers include Mercer Health, which employs just under 850, and the Celina City School District, which employs around 600. In all, Hazel estimates there are approximately 600 businesses located within 1 mile of Celina.

The community is also focused on upgrading its schools. In 2021, voters ap-

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The Anchor

Bella’s Italian Grille

The James Watson House

The Bay

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Lake Area Arts Group Gallery

The Anchor 109 S. Main St., Celina 45822 theanchor-celina.com The Anchor in downtown Celina, Ohio, offers a big-city feel in a small town. Enjoy delicious American food, craft beers and cocktails in this charming eatery.

The Bay 117 Lake Shore Dr., Celina 45822 419-586-1664 | facebook.com/ thebaycelina The Bay restaurant offers a lake view experience, featuring impeccable service, breakfast and lunch, and amazing homemade pies to enjoy.

Bella’s Italian Grille 1081 W. Bank Rd., Celina 45822 419-586-9545 | bellasitaliangrille.com Stop by today and savor Bella’s Italian Grille, an authentic Italian restaurant with American favorites. Enjoy a full-service bar while experiencing the beauty of Grand Lake and appreciating fantastic customer service.

Hazelnut Coffeehouse 318 S. Ash St., Celina 45822 567-890-5500 | hazelnutcoffeehouse.com Hazelnut Coffeehouse, a family-owned gourmet coffee shop, serves a variety of coffee and non-coffee drinks and homemade pastries. Treat yourself to the Hazelnut experience.

The James Watson House 202 S. Main St., Celina 45822 567-510-5015 | thejameswatsonhouse.com In a beautifully renovated historical building, The James Watson House provides unique feel in a small town. The scratch kitchen and expansive bar will surely impress.

Lake Area Arts Group Gallery 108 S. Main St., Celina 45822 facebook.com/lakeareaartsgroup At the Lake Area Arts Group Gallery inside Lake Rat Brewing, you’ll find original art by local artists and tasty homemade brews.

MADE Apparel

Speakeasy Steak & Ale House

Studio H Salon

The Nest Event Space

Stammen Insurance

West Bank Inn

MADE Apparel 216 W. Fayette St., Celina 45822 419-544-2752 | shopmadeapparel.com MADE, an area favorite located 1.5 blocks from Main Street, features a variety of goods from local makers and apparel that is designed and screen-printed by the owners.

Speakeasy Steak & Ale House 211 S. Main St., Celina 45822 567-890-7000 | 211speakeasy.com Located in Celina’s historic downtown, “the best steakhouse you’ve never heard of” offers the area’s greatest selection of fresh steaks, fine seafood, craft beer and rare bourbon.

Studio H Salon 122 S. Main St., Celina 45822 567-890-9410 | facebook.com/shopstudioh Studio H, your local hair and extension experts. A full-service Kevin.Murphy salon.

Book and manage your appointments online 24/7 at studioh.beauty. @studiohofficial

The Nest Event Space 215 S. Main St., Celina 45822 419-953-9292 | nesteventspace.com The Nest offers two renovated downtown event spaces with first- and second-floor options. Book your next special event, baby shower or wedding here.

Stammen Insurance 115 S. Main St., Celina 45822 419-586-7500 | stammeninsurance.com Stammen Insurance is backed by over a century of commitment to our clients and community. Located in downtown Celina and protecting you and what matters most.

West Bank Inn 1055 West Bank Rd., Celina 45822 419-584-3625 | westbankinn.com Our quaint, one-of-a-kind boutique hotel features 14 rooms, each with a private patio and lake views. Book a room today and enjoy stunning sunsets, boating, swimming and fishing on Ohio’s largest inland lake.

proved a levy to fund the construction of new buildings. An addition to the existing Celina Intermediate School Building, which will now house elementary students, and the construction of a new junior-senior high school are scheduled to be completed for the 2025-26 school year.

Over the past decade, Celina has taken a big step forward in becoming a destination for travelers as well. When Grand Lake St. Marys experienced harmful algal blooms in 2010, a consortium of organizations banded together to find a solution to help restore the lake as a focal point of which the community could be proud.

“Mercer County and Auglaize County are hardworking German Americans and they just do not give up,” says Dave Faler, manager at Grand Lake St. Marys State Park.

“This was kind of Ground Zero for harmful algae blooms, and we’ve done all kinds of things to get to the point where we are now.

We found the best way to treat the water and clean it is to run it through wetlands.”

Water from tributaries are pumped into wetlands along the lake. Aquatic vegetation in these wetlands slows the flow of water, allowing solids in the water to drop. The plants also help consume the excess nutrients in the water before they reach the lake. Grand Lake St. Marys has long been vital to the local economy, but recreation became part of that equation after the body of water was one of the first dedicated as an Ohio State Park in

1949. Fishing, boating and a campground draw travelers to the area.

In recent years, downtown Celina has seen the opening of new restaurants, a brewery, shops and other businesses that provide a place for travelers to explore and enjoy when they’re not on the water. Along South Main Street, historic downtown buildings are filled with the types of businesses one expects to find in a shore town. The 419 Collective, which is housed in a large down-

Chicken-and-waffle entree at The James Watson House restaurant in downtown Celina (top); hats for sale at the 419 Collective (above); a playground at a public park along the lake near downtown (left)

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YOUR ALL-IN-ONE EXPERIENCE AT THE VILLAGE.

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Boardwalk Village opened in 2022 and provides a fun spot to stay along Grand Lake St. Marys (above). The Anchor restaurant in downtown Celina is a local favorite. (left)

TOP: COURTESY OF BOARDWALK VILLAGE

town space, bills itself as a modern-day boutique, mercantile and gift shop. It sells products ranging from locally made goods to vintage finds from a variety of vendors.

Owner Steph Piper opened the place as a one-off test during a downtown event, and the response was so good, she kept it going.

“We started off with maybe just one or two people I knew who had some stuff, and we now have 60 vendors from all over,” she says. “People tell me, ‘We came from an hour away because we saw you had vintage. … Once I saw that, I thought, ‘We can totally do this.’ ” Elsewhere on Main Street, longtime local establishments like Wilson Shoe Store and Jones Jeweler operate alongside spots like Lake Rat Brewing and Brew Nation.

The Anchor serves up a selection of great casual fare and is known for its burgers, while The James Watson House offers an evolving menu that spans items from sandwiches and tacos to steaks and chops to entrees like truffle mushroom ravioli and lobster mac and cheese.

The opening of the Boardwalk Village in summer 2022 rekindled the resort vibe for which Celina was once known. The first phase included the construction of eight brightly colored individual cottages, four townhomes and two penthouses that can be rented for overnight stays. There is a salt-water swimming pool in the center of them and the on-site Boardwalk Grill offers travelers an island-style hangout. Partnerships with Helton Lodge Boat Rentals and Rush Sports Complex’s Par-Tee Golf Lounge and Bar allow guests access to on- or off-the-water recreation, while the Blue Goose weekend shuttle provides rides downtown.

Boardwalk Village property manager Nikki Herring says more rental properties and individually owned vacation homes will bring the total number of units to 48 by the time the project’s second phase is complete.

A second swimming pool and green space for gatherings are in those plans as well.

“We’re already booking out next summer. We have some weekends where we have a waitlist going,” Herring says. “I pride myself on customer service … having a place that people feel comfortable staying in — making sure it is top-notch, five-star, clean and fully furnished … so all they need to do is pack a bag.”

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This riverfront city offers easy access to both Cleveland and Akron, a revitalized downtown district and a range of outdoor recreation options that span hiking, climbing and kayaking.

KEVIN KOPANSKI

By Kelly Powell

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tepping inside the Falls Theater building along Front Street, it is tough to imagine a time when the historic structure almost had a date with the wrecking ball. Today, the original stained glass is back, the crown molding has been restored and the building that opened as a theater in 1925 serves as a downtown entertainment destination called The Workz.

Duckpin bowling as well as vintage and modern arcade games ranging from SkeeBall to a 5,000-square-foot Nerf Arcade bring the fun, as does a full-service bar. A speakeasy that simply requires asking an employee for an entry card is tucked away for visitors to discover.

The Workz is just one of the success stories along Cuyahoga Falls’ Front Street, a bustling strip filled with businesses like the craft coffee and cocktail spot Asterisk Coffee Bar, the handcrafted-gift shop Reverie and the plant-based skin and hair care boutique Hope Soap.

Much of downtown’s building stock was built between 1900 and 1930 and a few properties date back to the 1800s, including the Italianate-style Comstock Building next to Crave Cantina. A Romanesque revival style is reflected in the 1908 George C. Tifft & Co. Building occupied by Justin Gamble Photography and the Natural Wonders Shop. A 1910 art nouveau structure now houses Metropolis Popcorn.

“This side of our downtown is a historical district,” says Kaylee Piper, executive director of Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership, as we talk over drinks at Asterisk Coffee Bar. The city’s local historic district encompasses most of North Front Street and downtown from Stow Avenue to near Broad Boulevard, then from Riverfront Parkway to Third Street. “It would be such a shame to lose these buildings that have so much history and stories to tell.”

ALL OTHER PHOTOS BY RACHAEL JIROUSEK

Kayakers on a scenic stretch of the Cuyahoga River in Cuyahoga Falls (opposite page); Falls River Square (above left); The Workz (left)

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As recent as the first half of the 2010s though, businesses populating Front Street were in decline — both in visitors and appearance. Most notably, the Falls Theater had sat vacant for over a decade and fallen into disrepair. The downturn began when Akron’s now-closed Chapel Hill Mall opened in 1967, leading to a decrease in traffic to downtown Cuyahoga Falls. The city administration at the time proposed an urban renewal project called Front & Center, an eventual $6 million process that led to restricting vehicles from Front Street to develop a pedestrian mall that would act as competition for Chapel Hill.

The city closed the street on Nov. 8, 1976, with the ribbon-cutting ceremony for

the pedestrian mall following in 1978. Yet the attempt to create a thriving shopping district failed and left buildings deserted. It remained that way for four decades.

“Retail demands visibility and accessibility, and a pedestrian mall offers neither,” says Mayor Don Walters, who has held the city’s top office since the start of 2014. “You can’t drive through and see what’s new.”

Walters began his tenure by almost immediately seeking solutions to the many downtown vacancies and heavy disrepair of properties. He took members of city council and the chamber of commerce to Valparaiso, Indiana; Oak Park, Illinois; and South Bend, Indiana, to see what was working for similarly sized cities and hired a con-

Sculpture at High Bridge Glens Park by artist Don Drumm (top); clothing store Jean + Lou (above right); skin and hair care boutique Hope Soap (above)

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sultant to survey city demographics, overall landscape and resident opinions.

In 2015, work on Cuyahoga Falls’ transformation began, which included an inventory of historical architecture, studies on local and regional retail and residential markets, meetings with stakeholders and conceptual plans for bringing two-way vehicular traffic back to Front Street. City council unanimously approved the $13.6 million project in 2017.

Property owners began making significant investments in their buildings. Public and private investment spurred new and existing entities alike to find a home downtown. All spaces are currently spoken for — 85% with active tenants and 15% with in-progress or planned renovations.

“We’re in our fifth year, and it’s at capacity,” Walters says. “There are people seven days a week ... There are older people. There are people pushing strollers.”

Located along a scenic stretch of the winding Cuyahoga River, Cuyahoga Falls

covers nearly 26 square miles, is home to more than 51,000 residents and is the second-largest city in Summit County. Some of the community’s biggest businesses include Associated Materials, a maker of exterior building products for residential and commercial remodeling that employs 1,244.

Western Reserve Hospital employs 1,067, while GOJO Industries, the maker of Purell products, follows closely behind with 1,037.

The city is served by five different public school districts with Cuyahoga Falls City School District and Woodridge Local School District educating most of the city’s students. Enrollment for Cuyahoga Falls is 4,149 across its one high school, two middle schools and six elementary schools, and Woodridge’s enrollment, across one high school, one middle school and one elementary school, stands at 1,984 students. (Hudson City Schools, Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools and Revere Local Schools serve a small portion of residents.)

Cuyahoga Falls sits along a handful of state Route 8 exits with big-box stores and car dealerships just off the highway. Yet the community also offers access to Cuyahoga Valley National Park and is home to Blos-

som Music Center, an outdoor concert venue that is the summer home of the Cleveland Orchestra and hosts a range of national touring acts throughout its season.

During warm months, that access to outdoor recreation draws visitors to the city to hike the Gorge Metro Park’s Gorge Trail (three Summit Metroparks locations are within the city), climb at High Bridge Glens Park’s River Rock or kayak the Cuyahoga River. In 2023, the city opened Paddle Park,

a downtown hub with a stage, solar umbrellas with phone charging stations and 16 Jackson Kayaks that provide seating and a photo opportunity.

The river, which offers Class I, II, III and V rapids, is easily accessible through Burning River Adventures, which started operations in the city in 2015. It provides single and tandem kayak rentals. Customers can choose between 2-, 4.5- and 6.5-mile trips, the longest of which takes about three hours, and peak season runs from around Memorial Day to Labor Day. “Our section of the river is serene,” says Moneen McBride, co-founder of Burning River Adventures. “... You are submerged in nature. … It gives you a different appreciation for the river.”

That mix of a downtown revival, a strong industrial base and access to outdoor recreation are what Walters says he sees as the balance that makes Cuyahoga Falls such an attractive place to call home.

“We’re just the right size to where we have massive revenue to have all the parks and the beautiful amenities,” he adds. “But we’re small enough that I’ll still see you at the grocery store.”

Cuyahoga River as it passes through Cuyahoga Falls (top);. overlook on Gorge Metro Park’s Gorge Trail (above); Flury’s Cafe on Front Street (left); beer in a downtown outdoor refreshment area cup at HiHo Brewing Co. (below)

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PHOTOS BY MEGAN LEIGH BARNARD

This Columbus suburb embraces new development that connects past and present and creates a small-town atmosphere with the amenities of city living. By Gracie Wilson

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Artifacts on display at the Grove City Welcome Center and Museum (left); Grove City Brewing Co (bottom left); The Chandler (bottom middle); Skylarks Toys & Comics (bottom right)

hile the thundering of hooves on a dirt track once filled the air at Beulah Park, today the grounds where the racetrack stood are covered with manicured lawns, beautiful homes and a glimmering pond. Sidewalks connect the expansive development to the center of Grove City, creating a sense of place that helps this suburban community stand out while also having the benefit of being just a short drive from Columbus.

Yet as recent as a decade ago, Beulah Park was still hosting live racing as it had since it opened as the state’s first thoroughbred

track in 1923. After the track’s license was moved to a new facility near Youngstown in 2014, developer Grove City Beulah Park Investment purchased the track in 2019 with a plan to build single-family homes, condominiums, apartments, a senior-care facility and community park. Today, Beulah Park spans more than 220 acres with a total of over 900 housing units. “[Beulah Park] continues to add diversity in our housing stock,” says Mayor Richard “Ike” Stage, who started his fourth-consecutive term in 2019. “The diversity not only includes demographic diversity, but also the

geographic diversity … It’s now incorporated into our overall hub of the city versus some other housing that is more dispersed.”

Grove City’s growth reflects the boom in the Columbus metropolitan area during the previous two decades. From 2000 to 2021, the metro region’s population increased by a third, adding more than 500,000 residents.

Between the 2000 and 2020 U.S. Census counts, Grove City’s population increased from 27,708 to 41,252, growing by more than 50%.

“We wanted to be a self-supporting community [where] about anything and everything you would need as a citizen, would be available in the community: medical care, education, housing, retail,” Stage says. “Except for higher learning, we have pretty well reached all those goals.”

The 19-square-mile city is located along Interstate 71 about 9 miles southwest of downtown Columbus. Boasting 1,600 hotel rooms, the city is the second-largest collector of bed taxes in Franklin County behind Columbus. Part of the South-Western City School District, Grove City has 15 of the district’s 34 buildings — one preschool, six elementary, three intermediate, two middle schools, two high schools and a career center — that educate nearly 10,000 students.

The school system is one of the city’s largest employers with more than 1,400 staff members, while Grove City Methodist Hospital and Mount Carmel Grove City together employ nearly 2,000. Other large employers in Grove City include FedEx and Walmart distribution centers — with 1,800 and 1,742 workers, respectively — and chemical manufacturer Tosoh America, which employs 350.

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The suspension bridge at Scioto Grove Metro Park (above); a monument at the Purple Heart Memorial Walkway at Henceroth Park; exterior of the Grove City Public Library, which opened in 2016.

The suburban community also has a walkable core, known as Grove City Town Center, which is dotted with shops and restaurants that give the place the atmosphere of a smaller town. The old-school bar and grill, Plank’s on Broadway, is housed in a building that dates to the 1850s, while Little Theatre Off Broadway has been staging community theater productions since 1966. Down the street, Skylarks Toys & Comics brims with playthings of years gone by. Country Hearth Primitives stocks home 52

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goods, antiques and furniture, while The Chandler invites groups to visit together and create scented candles in a fun and fragrant environment. Grove City Brewing Co. and Plum Run Winery share a space along Broadway.

“When you visit or you work here, you see that small-town character and charm and you just fall in love with it,” says Jodi Burroughs, who owns the winery and brewery.

“I built my house here, and I just grew with the community and the Columbus area.”

These downtown businesses are complemented by the beautiful 48,000-squarefoot Grove City Library, which opened its doors in 2016 and sports a modern look with a glass facade that flows with the curve of the building. Across the street, sitting just behind a row of businesses, a new public park with an amphitheater was completed in summer 2023.

On the community’s eastern edge, the Scioto Grove Metro Park — a mix of prairie, forest and river that is part of the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system — built a fire tower in 2023 that offers a new way to see the 620-acre park.

In 2017, the city unveiled its Purple Heart Memorial Walkway at Henceroth

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Park, a tranquil setting that offers a place of contemplation and reflection. Trees along the walkway bear plaques that commemorate Grove City’s fallen soldiers, and from the air, the looping path resembles the shape of a heart.

The Gardens at Gantz, an area of Gantz Park next to the historic Gantz farmhouse, opened in 1991. It offers a look at horticulture through time and demonstrates a variety of garden styles. The Garden of Yesterday, The Garden of Today and The Garden of Tomorrow can be explored by way of a self-guided tour that illustrates how our connection to growing plants has evolved and where it is going next.

That focus on community and history is obvious throughout town. Murals along Broadway depict scenes from Grove City’s past, while at Century Village, historic structures stand alongside a one-room schoolhouse to illustrate how people lived during the 1800s.

The Southwest Franklin County Historical Society operates a welcome center and museum in the middle of town. It showcases artifacts that commemorate the city’s history, ranging from a Model T Ford car that sits in the center of the space to wedding dresses originating from the 1880s

Home goods at The Farm Table on 62 (above); pickleball courts at Windsor Park (top right); downtown mural (above right).

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to the 1950s. Steven Jackson, president of the Southwest Franklin County Historical Society, heads the group that oversees the collection, which is displayed in the former First National Bank of Grove City.

In recent years, the city also got the opportunity to take ownership of and preserve the oldest home still standing within the city limits thanks to the generosity of its former owner. The federal-style abode sits at the end of Park Street, just a few blocks from the historical society’s museum. The Grant-Sawyer Home (formerly known as the A.G. Grant Homestead), was built in 1830, a little more than two decades before Grove City’s 1852 founding. The land had been overlooked by early settlers of the Northwest Territory that migrated north due to the dense trees and amount of log-

ging that would have to take place in order to build — hence the name Grove City.

The Grant-Sawyer Home opened as a museum in 2017 following its restoration with period-appropriate furnishings and paint that matches the original color of the home. The operating season runs March through December, and tours are available for a nominal fee. The home is also open for free during select community events.

“Towns that have a sense of place that are willing to invest in their sense of place, they tend to be stronger and more successful,” Jackson says. “It’s amazing how many members of our historical society are people that have no connection to the town at all. They moved here and said, ‘this is cool,’ and some of them are our most committed and dedicated.”

A rich history, downtown revival and location with easy access to both Columbus and the Hocking Hills make this Fairfield County community a great place to live and visit.

By Gracie Wilson

MEGAN LEIGH BARNARD

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Lancaster’s downtown fountain (above left); Sherman House Museum and artifacts (above and left); exhibit at Decorative Arts Center of Ohio (opposite page)

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ALL OTHER PHOTOS BY RACHAEL JIROUSEK

he Sherman House Museum sits along East Main Street, commanding your attention with its brick facade and Civil War-era cannon sitting out front. A wrought-iron fence hems in a small front yard that is accessible from the sidewalk by way of a short concrete staircase.

The original portion of the home dates to 1811, but the Sherman family built onto it five years later. The brick facade was added in 1870. Today, the museum it houses tells the family’s story, including that of Lancaster’s most famous former resident, Civil War Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, who was born in the home.

“The bottom [floor] and a couple of rooms upstairs are laid out the way it would have been when General Sherman was born, so you get to experience what it was like when he was a young child in that house,” says Michael Johnson, director of the Sherman House Museum. “The descendants of Sherman have been excellent about giving what they have to the museum, so we have a lot of pieces that belonged to the general.”

In one room, a canvas field tent frames a screen that shifts through images of the general and depictions of the war, setting the

tone for a neighboring upstairs room that houses Civil War artifacts, including parts of uniforms and weaponry.

The home next door, the Reese-Peters House, was built for the general’s sister, Mary Elisabeth Sherman, and her husband in 1835. Today, it houses the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, a nonprofit museum that preserves the home’s beauty and history while hosting a diverse range of art exhibitions. History runs deep in Lancaster, which is evidenced not only in attractions like the Sherman House Museum and Decorative Arts Center of Ohio but also the beautiful and well-maintained homes in the Square 13 Historic District that were all built in the early 19th century.

Pioneer Ebenezer Zane founded Lancaster in 1800 after blazing the trail known as Zane’s Trace through the Ohio wilderness between West Virginia and Kentucky.

Soon after, Zane’s sons, John and Noah, began selling land in Lancaster.

Today, the city of 41,600 residents is positioned on the cusp of both central and southeast Ohio. Depending which way one is headed, it is either the last stop before Columbus’ booming southeastern suburbs such as Canal Winchester and Pickerington or a gateway to the Hocking Hills region’s forests, caves and trails. This juxtaposition, along with new development and economic growth, has led to a revived and attractive place to call home.

“Economic development provides opportunities for your kids and your grandkids, so they don’t graduate from high

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september 30 through

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school and move away,” says Mayor David Scheffler. “If you’re a new high school graduate or new college graduate, and if there’s opportunities that present themselves here, you’re more likely to stay.”

Lancaster City Schools is composed of nine different school buildings — with a new high school set to be completed in 2025 — that serve the district’s more than 6,000 students. Additionally, the city is home to a branch of Ohio University. The largest industry is manufacturing, with many residents working at Rock Mill or East Side industrial parks. Magna, an auto supplier that opened in 2021, now employs 600.

Since 2018, economic development has brought an additional 1,500 jobs to the city.

That total is projected to grow as well due to a Google Data Center that opened in September 2023, with others to come, according to Scheffler.

“Our median family income is increasing because of all those jobs,” he says, citing a report showing an average 35% wage increase in Fairfield County since 2019.

“Fewer people are commuting outside the community to work.”

Although Lancaster is not usually the first Ohio city people associate with glassmaking — that distinction belongs to Toledo, the home of Libbey Glassware Co. — the Anchor Hocking Co. started here in 1905, making kitchen and tableware. The

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Wednesday–Friday, 11am–4pm Saturday & Sunday, 1–4pm 145 E. Main St. | Lancaster, Ohio | 740-681-1423

www.decartsohio.org 58

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Homes in the Square 13 Historic District (top); brisket sandwich at Bob’s Backyard Barbeque (middle); William Tecumseh Sherman statue and historical marker downtown (above)

company still operates here today and recently added more than 300 jobs, showing that its relevance to Lancaster is more than just a matter of history.

Yet that rich history is also alive, as shown by the Ohio Glass Museum along West Main Street downtown, which features colorful exhibitions of glassware, displays dedicated to Anchor Hocking and live glass-blowing demonstrations. In the front window sits a giant globe covered in glass bulbs made by residents throughout the year. Each New Year’s Eve it is hoisted high above the city’s Zane Square for the annual Glass Town Countdown.

Lancaster’s downtown has been on the rise since 2015, starting with the municipal court’s $11 million purchase of the historic

Columbian Building for city offices. This inspired local business owner Matt Brady to make investments of his own. Brady set out on a multimillion-dollar renovation of the building next to his Minute Bar pub that he expanded and rebranded as 1890 Ale House. His effort led to similar renovations of other downtown establishments that now house local restaurants and shops. “[My husband and I] might get tired and not want to cook dinner after work, and so we’ll decide to meet each other at the Irish pub,” says Amanda Everitt, executive director of Destination Downtown Lancaster, who lives less than two blocks from the middle of downtown. “Inevitably, we’ll run into neighbors who are walking their dogs, and they’ll say, ‘Hey, we would like to grab a pint with you.’ ” The downtown businesses that help create that sense of community range from Provisions Bakery and Deli to the paint-yourown-pottery lounge Art & Clay on Main and Double Edge Brewing Co. Lancaster also has access to outdoor recreation across its more than 19 square miles.

From the bandstand at Zane Square to the disc golf courses at Keller-Kirn Park and Alley Park, 32 parks fall under the over-

sight of the city of Lancaster. The most wellknown outdoor spot is Rising Park, which boasts a short trail, a steep climb up 250 feet and beautiful views. Plus, with the Hocking Hills nearby, getting out on the trails is only ever a short drive away.

“We are so beautifully positioned,” Everitt says. “To be able to hop in a car and be in downtown Columbus in 35 minutes … and then to know we’re 30 minutes outside this thriving vacation spot … it really feels like we’ve got this perfect little slice of really authentic small-city living.”

L-City Coffee (top); glassware from Gay Fad Studios (above left); Square Seven Coffee House and Art & Clay on Main (left); glass blowing at the Ohio Glass Museum (above).

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A strong business base supports this suburban city just outside Cincinnati that is updating its historic core to further build a sense of place and community. By Jim Vickers

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PHOTOS BY MATTHEW ALLEN

ust like it did when it opened in 1957, The Root Beer Stand still draws residents and hungry workers to the middle of Sharonville. Cars fill the small parking lot, and customers wait patiently in line at the window for togo orders. Others grab a seat at the counter or a table under the covered patio to order from the classic menu of coneys, hot dogs and burgers. Of course, no visit is complete without ordering an ice-cold mug of root beer, crafted using water from a 280-footdeep well that is said to give the stand’s drink its unique flavor.

Sharonville was a small railroad town when The Root Beer Stand served its first customers, and that spirit is still alive in the community. Less than a mile away in The Loop district, the Society of Historic Sharonville operates a small museum. A series of round markers at a park on the opposite side of The Loop traces the town’s rich railroad heritage.

But Sharonville is clearly a modern suburban city with a strong business base, and it has the enormous manufacturing facilities to prove it. Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Cincinnati and located at the conjunction of Interstates 75 and 275, Sharonville offers an attractive home for both businesses and residents and a convenient place to stay for travelers. Yet with a population of just over 14,000, the 9.8-square-mile community still falls within the realm of a smaller city.

That population of around 14,000 swells to more than 35,000 during the day given the number of people commuting to Sharonville for work. Ford Motor Co.’s Sharonville Transmission Plant and The Gorilla Glue Co. are both located here, employing approximately 2,000 and 650, respectively. So are a General Mills facility that makes cereals, including Chex brands and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and the United Parcel Service center that provides logistics for the Greater Cincinnati area. But there are also a multitude of smaller businesses in Sharonville that are vital to the city’s success, according to Mayor Kevin Hardman.

“We’ve got some commercial, some industrial, some education,” he says. “There’s a little bit of everything from our business sectors, which has really helped us to succeed and not see huge bumps in our earnings tax, which is what makes us work and makes us function.”

Recent upgrades in The Loop district created a new space for community gatherings (opposite page). Cliff Hardware (above) and The Root Beer Stand (left) are two classic Sharonville businesses.

The hospitality industry is one of those sectors. Sharonville has more than 20 hotels and is second only to Cincinnati in Hamilton County when it comes to generating taxes collected from overnight stays. Many of those hotels sit along Chester Road near the Sharonville Convention Center, which recently completed an expansion project that doubled its main exhibit hall space to 90,000 square feet.

“One of the reasons I think we’ve been successful is that we don’t’ really compete with the downtown market — it’s really a complement to it,” says Jim Downton, executive director of the Sharonville Convention Center. “We’re at a much smaller scale, but if someone outgrows us, the downtown convention center is there for them to stay in the county.”

Just down the street from the convention center sits Third Eye Brewing Co., which in fall 2023 was awarded Brewery of the Year at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival in Denver, Colorado, for producers that make between 1,000 and 2,000 barrels annually. Light fills the brewery’s large and inviting taproom where patrons can grab a table and choose from a selection of award-winning beers and casual pub fare.

Less than a mile south down Chester Road sits Princeton High School, which serves students from Sharonville as well as six other nearby communities that are part of the Princeton City School District. With a student body of almost 1,600 students, the high school is also one of the most diN O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

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sharonville.org

Alreddy Cafe

Arcade Legacy

Cincy Book Bus

Angilo’s Pizza

Blue Goose Sports Cafe

Delta Hotels

Alreddy Cafe 11083 Reading Rd., Sharonville 45241 513-563-4550 | alreddycafe.com Alreddy Cafe, family owned since 2003, offers a complete breakfast, lunch and dinner menu along with spirits and a fullserve espresso bar. Everything is made to order with the freshest ingredients.

Arcade Legacy 2241 Crowne Point Dr., Sharonville 45241 513-874-8766 | arcadelegacyohio.com Arcade Legacy is a family-friendly 15,000-square foot-gaming utopia featuring 80+ arcade and 70+ pinball machines, a console room, media store, restaurant and bar.

Cincy Book Bus 10936 Reading Rd., Sharonville 45241 facebook.com/cincybookbus The Book Bus Depot is the home to the 1962 VW Book Bus truck. New and used books are sold. All profits are used to buy new children’s books to donate back into the community.

Angilo’s Pizza 11102 Main St., Sharonville 45241 513-563-9320 | angilosonline.com Angilo’s Pizza is a staple in the Sharonville community, serving up the best steak hoagie in town! In addition to the traditional Italian Pizza menu, our location also serves a unique breakfast menu!

Blue Goose Sports Cafe 11060 Reading Rd., Sharonville 45241 513-769-5700 | bluegoosesportscafe.com Blue Goose Sports Cafe is the gathering place for family, friends and coworkers.

This sports-themed casual restaurant serves up tasty burgers and bar food with frosty beverages.

Delta Hotels 11400 Chester Rd., Sharonville 45246 513-771-2080 | deltahotelscincinnati.com Delta Hotels by Marriott creates a fullservice hotel experience designed with the needs and wants of frequent travelers in mind. Amenities include fast free WiFi, a fitness facility, two dining outlets a bourbon bar and more.

Make Our Community Entertainment District Your Next Visit!

Housley Institute

Northern Cincy Chamber

Sharonville Cultural Arts Center

Hyatt Place

Roc-A-Fellas Pizza

Tru by Hilton Sharonville

Housley Institute 11096 Reading Rd., Cincinnati 45241 513-454-6911 | housleyinstitute.com Housley Institute is southwest Ohio’s premier paramedical and cosmetic tattooing studio. We offer skincare, 3D areola tattoos, scar camouflage, permanent brows, lips and eyeliner to improve self-confidence.

Northern Cincy Chamber northcincychamber.com We are proud to support our business community! Our mission is to help businesses increase their visibility through networking, marketing, and education.

Hyatt Place 11345 Chester Rd., Sharonville 45246 513-771-1718 | hyatt.com Hyatt Place offers a direct connection to the Sharonville Convention Center, modern amenities, distinctively appointed guestrooms, 24-hour food offerings, an indoor pool, flexible meeting space options and more.

Roc-A-Fellas Pizza 11055 Reading Rd., Sharonville 45241 513-769-3128 | rocafellas.com Roc-A-Fellas Pizza is home to the famous Bronx Bomber Pizza and was featured on “Man v. Food.” This family-owned establishment has been a cornerstone of downtown Sharonville for 20 years!

Sharonville Cultural Arts Center 11165 Reading Rd., Sharonville 45241 513-554-1014 | sharonvilleculturalarts.org The Sharonville Cultural Arts Center features an adult community theater company, kids theatrer programs and the Westheimer Gallery’s monthly art exhibitions, inviting all to “come be a part of what we’re creating!”

Tru by Hilton Sharonville 11155 Dowlin Dr., Sharonville 45241 513-493-4200 | hilton.com Tru by Hilton Sharonville is a hotel experience that is vibrant, affordable and young at heart. If you’re in it for the stay, Stay Tru.

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verse in Ohio with nearly 79% minority enrollment, according to U.S. News and World Report. Hardman graduated from Princeton High School and his four kids have attended or currently attend the school.

“Any opportunity you would want your kid to have, you can get it at Princeton,” he says. “International Baccalaureate programs, college-prep programs, Advanced Placement programs — you name it. If you want it, it’s available to you.”

The community’s business strength and what it affords Sharonville is only part of the city’s appeal. Sharon Woods, which sits along Lebanon Road, offers residents and travelers a 730-acre park to explore and is counted among the most visited in the Great Parks of Hamilton County system. Offering short trails and picturesque waterfalls, it is also the home of the Heritage Village Museum, a living-history attraction with a collection of structures that have been moved here to give a picture of what life in this part of Ohio looked like during the 1800s. Pathways connect the buildings and costumed interpreters bring the experience to life during events.

The first of the 13 buildings were placed on the property in 1967, with the Heritage

Village Museum being an outgrowth of the Miami Purchase Association, which had bought up historic homes in the Cincinnati area. The group eventually split into the Cincinnati Preservation Society and the Heritage Village Museum.

“We try to bring 19th-century southwest Ohio back to life through some really focused events such as period dinners that highlight not only the table fare of the time but also what was going on in Cincinnati, be it architecture, be it politics,” says Steve Preston, executive director of Heritage

Village Museum. “We have a first-person program where we highlight either national figures or regional figures. People come in and portray them to our guests to talk about specific events.”

A more recent history of the area can be explored in The Loop district, which sits less than a mile south of The Root Beer Stand. The cute neighborhood is located on a one-way oval upon which you’ll encounter throwback finds like the 150-seat Sharonville Cultural Arts Center located in a historic theater building and Cliff Hard-

Sprinklers that pop up at Depot Square create a place where local little ones can splash seasonally (top). Costumed reenactors bring to life the stories of 19th-century southwest Ohioans during special events at the Heritage Village Museum, a collection of historic structures (above).

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ware that has been serving locals for more than 90 years.

Depot Square, a community gathering spot across the road from the hardware store, was remade in 2023. It offers sprinklers that pop up that kids can play in seasonally. The depot building at the site houses Charcuterie Creations, a small business that specializes in crafting food boards as well as lunch and brunch boxes, while also teaching charcuterie-design workshops. It also serves sandwiches and is open for dinner.

The updated Depot Square and recently completed work on Creek Road and Walnut Street was the first of three phases of improvements to The Loop that the city has in the works. A short walk away, The Book Bus Depot — complete with a vintage Volkswagen-bus bookmobile that parks in the space — and the connected Adesso Coffee are two of the city’s newest shops, both having opened within the past year.

The city is focused on the revival of The Loop to both give new life to this historic core of the city and create a place that can be a focal point for community gatherings.

Even though Sharonville often gets lumped in with Cincinnati, Hardman says the city has a distinctive personality that is reflected in the diversity of its business base, its housing and those who call it home.

“Not only is our business community diversified but our residential community is diversified,” he says. “You could have your CEO sitting next to your line worker as they’re watching their kids play soccer on the field. That’s just who we are.”

Sharon Woods spans 730 acres in Sharonville (above). The Book Bus Depot (far left) and Firecracker Bakery (left) are two of the city’s many small businesses.

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Feeling Creative?

Double the Buche de Noel recipe on page 74 to make an even grander dessert.

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Baking

Memories Warm holiday gatherings start in the kitchen, and making these recipes courtesy of bakeries across our state is a fun way to spend time together.

Stories by Sarah Miller Photography by Megann Galehouse Food styling by Katy Hale | Set styling by Magan McLaughlin

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Sur Le Pouce & 7 Little Cupcakes Perrysburg

Croissants, cupcakes and camaraderie are the secret ingredients behind Perrysburg bakeries Sur Le Pouce and 7 Little Cupcakes. These separate businesses under one roof share kitchen space, creative ideas and coffee — lots of coffee — to get through busy baking days.

On one side, Sur Le Pouce makes baguettes, croissants and pain au chocolat — a croissantlike dessert with dark chocolate bits. On the other side, 7 Little Cupcakes’ shelves are filled with beautifully frosted cupcakes and perfectly decorated cutout cookies.

Nathalie Cottier, owner of Sur Le Pouce (which translates to “on the go”), came to the United States from France, and her gingerbread cookie recipe is inspired by her background.

“This recipe I developed is French, with some adjustments,” she says, adding that it is easy to make with kids. “Be creative with decorating, and eat a few while they’re still warm from the oven.”

Erin Liedigk, owner of 7 Little Cupcakes, named her bakery for her seven nieces and nephews. The northwest Ohio native studied art education and now creates memories for life’s big moments: smash cakes for first birthdays, celebration cookies and bridal cakes. Her chocolate peppermint cake recipe is a perfect baking project for the holidays.

“You can also use this recipe for cupcakes,” she says. “Crushed candy canes make great sprinkles.”

122 W. South Boundary St., Perrysburg 43551; facebook.com/SurLePouceOhio, 7littlecupcakes.com

Chocolate Peppermint Cake

Courtesy of 7 Little Cupcakes in Perrysburg For the Cake: INGREDIENTS 10 ounces chocolate bar (we use Hershey bars), finely chopped 2/3 cup dark cocoa powder 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder 1 cup warm water 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature 70

1/2 cup vegetable oil 4 large eggs, at room temperature 2 large egg yolks, at room temperature 1 tablespoon white vinegar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

cake cool before popping it out of pan. Cover the bottom cake layer with buttercream frosting (recipe below). Add a second cake layer and cover with frosting. Decorate with melted chocolate using a piping bag (instructions below).

DIRECTIONS Beat oil, sour cream, eggs, vinegar and vanilla in a stand mixer at slow speed until incorporated.

Slowly add remaining ingredients until incorporated.

For the Buttercream: INGREDIENTS 3 pounds Crisco 4 pounds powdered sugar 1 to 2 cups water 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

Preheat oven to 325 F. Spray two 8-inch round cake pans with vegetable spray and evenly distribute batter into each. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, rotating halfway through baking time. Let the

DIRECTIONS Beat Crisco in stand mixer for approximately 1 minute. Add powdered sugar and water and beat on low while periodically scraping the sides (add more

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water if needed to reach your desired consistency). Turn mixer to medium for approximately 1 minute. Add extract by hand.

For the Chocolate Drip: INGREDIENTS 2 1/2 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips, finely chopped 2 1/2 ounces heavy cream DIRECTIONS Melt chocolates in the microwave in 30 second intervals until melted. Stir in heavy cream until desired consistency is reached.

Decorate using a small-tipped piping bag.

Fresh Start Cafe and Bakery Delaware

Sometimes you need a fresh start. That’s what Todd Daughenbaugh decided after working in accounting for 25 years. His wife, Leigh, mentioned that the city of Delaware needed a bakery, and today it has one in Fresh Start Cafe and Bakery.

Its bakery cases are filled with cinnamon rolls, Danishes, muffins, scones and even “Pop-Starts,” or homemade Pop-Tarts. Rotating gluten-free desserts like Buckeye Bars are a favorite. The holidays bring specialty treats that must be ordered ahead, including Christmas-cookie trays, sugared-cranberry cakes and ganache-covered cheesecakes.

The Daughenbaughs have recipes they hold close to their hearts that you won’t find in their bakery, but they are more than happy to share.

“We do have a special-order focaccia at our shop, but our family Christmas focaccia is pared down for the home cook, and it comes out beautifully every time,” Leigh says, noting that she recommends adorning it with basil and pomegranate arils to resemble holly.

“It’s a great recipe for people to play with,” Todd adds. “They can make it their own.”

Mom’s Cherry Squares are treasured Christmas treats in the Daughenbaughs’ home as well.

Leigh says her mother had these cherry-topped bars waiting for her any time she returned home, and she has since passed the recipe on to her daughter-in-law. 24 N. Sandusky St., Delaware 43015, freshstartcafeandbakery.com

Christmas Focaccia Courtesy of Fresh Start Cafe & Bakery in Delaware Yield: 1 9-by-13-inch pan INGREDIENTS 1 3/4 cups lukewarm water 2 teaspoons yeast 4 cups bread flour 1 teaspoon table salt 2 tablespoons olive oil Fresh basil leaves Pomegranate arils 1/3 tablespoon sea salt DIRECTIONS Combine flour and salt in a bowl and set aside. Combine yeast and water in a mixing bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes to get frothy. Add the flour and salt mixture and combine well. (The dough will be very sticky.)

Form into a rough ball. Drizzle with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and cover with plastic wrap.

Let rise in a warm space until doubled in size (about an hour, depending on room temperature).

Coat your 9-by-13-inch baking dish with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil. Pour the dough into the baking dish and stretch it into the corners, making it as even as possible. Cover the dough with 1 tablespoon olive oil and spread with a spatula or your fingers. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm space until doubled in size, about an hour.

Preheat oven to 400 F. Remove plastic wrap. Use your fingers to make dimples all over the dough. (Press down until touching the bottom of the pan.) Arrange your basil leaves and pomegranate arils to look like holly bunches.

Sprinkle with sea salt. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes.

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Gingerbread Cookies

Courtesy of Sur Le Pouce in Perrysburg Yield: 12 to 24 cookies, depending on size INGREDIENTS 1 cup of brown sugar 1/2 cup of almond flour 2 tablespoons of pumpkin spice 1 stick of butter, at room temperature 1 egg 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon of baking powder 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda DIRECTIONS Mix the sugar, almond flour and pumpkin spice in a bowl. Add the butter and mix by hand. Add the eggs and whisk together. Add the flour, baking soda and baking powder and mix by hand. Wrap the dough and chill for at least an hour.

Spread some flour on a clean, flat surface and roll out the dough (1/4-inch thick). Cut out the cookies and place them on a baking sheet. Put the baking sheet in the refrigerator to chill for another hour before baking. Preheat oven to 350 F. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes (conventional oven) or 6 to 8 minutes (convection oven). Let cool. Decorate.

Mom’s Cherry Squares

“This [gingerbread] recipe I developed is French, with some adjustments.

Be creative with decorating and eat a few while they’re still warm from the oven.”

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Courtesy of Fresh Start Cafe & Bakery in Delaware Yield: 12 cherry squares INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 cups sugar 8 ounces margarine, softened 4 eggs 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/8 teaspoon iodized salt 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 can cherry pie filling Powdered sugar for dusting over the top DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350 F. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine all ingredients except for the cherry pie filling and powdered sugar. Grease and flour a 10-by-15-inch rimmed sheet pan.

Pour the batter into the pan. With a knife, score the batter into 12 squares. Place a spoonful of 3 cherries from filling in the center of each square. Bake for 35 minutes. Let cool. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

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Buche de Noel

Courtesy of High Five Cakes in Chillicothe INGREDIENTS Chocolate Sponge Cake 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/3 cup Dutch cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 4 large eggs, divided 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1/3 cup sour cream 1/4 cup butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Whipped Cream Filling with Mascarpone 1 1/4 cups cold heavy whipping cream 3/4 cups powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 8 ounces mascarpone cheese softened but not warm Chocolate Ganache 10 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chips or chopped) 1 cup heavy whipping cream 2 tablespoons salted butter

High Five Cakes Chillicothe

Sarah Myers traded the corporate world for cakes, and her career has been an adventure ever since. After binge-watching celebrity bakers Duff Goldman and Buddy Valastro on the Food Network, she found herself on the channel in the 2015 series “Duff Till Dawn.”

“It was serendipitous,” she says. “I ended up filming on the Food Network with people that inspired my start.”

In 2019, she opened High Five Cakes Bakery & Tea House in downtown Chillicothe. Myers, the bakery’s lead cake artist, co-owns the shop with head baker Shauna Shanks. The duo’s cakes and teas are playful and sophisticated, just like the shop itself.

“My business partner is a genius,” says Myers. “She created the Kerfluffle — the turducken of the dessert world.”

The seven-layer dessert is built on a base of brownie or blondie and features different types of cakes, cheesecakes, creams, ganache and fruit fillings. Plan to order the holiday Kerfluffle or the shop’s signature Buche de Noel (Yule Log) in advance.

Myers offers some advice on attempting her home-baker’s version of the latter. “[The trick] is to roll the cake when it’s warm and let it set up once it’s rolled,” she says, adding that the nature-inspired appearance should help ease any intimidation. “There’s lots of room for error. It’s organic looking.” 81 N. Paint St., Chillicothe 45601, 740/775-2253, highfivecakes.com 74

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DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a 17-by-12inch jelly roll sheet pan with parchment paper. (It helps when removing if the parchment paper sticks up about an inch on the sides.)

Whisk the flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt together in a medium bowl.

In a large bowl, combine the egg yolks and sugar and whisk together until well combined. Add the sour cream, melted butter and vanilla extract and whisk together until well combined. Add the dry ingredients and gently whisk together until well combined.

In a large mixing bowl, whip egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form.

Gradually fold the egg whites into batter, roughly a third at a time. Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the top of the cake springs back when touched and an inserted toothpick comes out clean.

Meringue Mushrooms

Remove the cake from the oven and immediately flip from the pan onto another sheet of parchment paper.

Keep the parchment that was baked with the cake attached as well.

INGREDIENTS 1/2 cup egg whites (can use pasteurized egg whites) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup white sugar 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder or ground cinnamon 4 ounces chocolate or chocolate confectioner’s coating

While the cake is hot, use the parchment paper the cake was baked in and start at the shorter end to slowly roll the cake up. Set the cake aside to cool completely.

While the cake is cooling, begin making the filling. Add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract and salt to a large mixing bowl and whip on high speed until soft peaks form. Add the mascarpone cheese to the whipped cream and whip until stiff peaks form.

Unroll the cake roll very carefully. Watch for areas where it may stick, being careful to keep the cake intact. Remove parchment paper from inside. Spread the filling evenly onto the unrolled cake, then roll it back while removing the exterior parchment paper. Wrap it in plastic wrap with the seam side down and refrigerate for at least an hour until it firms up.

Once cooled and firm, you can make the chocolate ganache. Add the chocolate to a medium-sized bowl. Heat the cream in the microwave just until it begins to boil. Pour the cream over the chocolate. Cover with a plate to keep the heat in.

Allow the chocolate and cream to sit for a few minutes, then whisk until smooth. Let the ganache cool to about room temperature or cooler. You do not want it to be too thin. (It should be close to the consistency of peanut butter.)

To decorate, use a large, serrated knife to gently cut off a piece of the log about 3 inches in length. Make the cut on a slight diagonal. Use some of the chocolate ganache to attach the small log to the side of the larger log.

Spread the remaining chocolate ganache all over the cake. Use a fork to create lines resembling tree bark or woodgrain.

Top with sugared cranberries, meringue mushrooms and fresh rosemary.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 225 F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Sugared Cranberries INGREDIENTS Fresh cranberries 1/2 cup water 1 1/2 cups sugar DIRECTIONS Heat 1/2 cup sugar and water on medium heat in a saucepan until the sugar is completely dissolved and just comes to a low boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken syrup.

Remove syrup from heat.

Add the cranberries and stir until coated. Do not stir too long as the cranberries will begin to pop from the heat.

Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries and spread on a sheet of parchment paper. Let them dry for approximately an hour.

Roll the sticky cranberries in the remaining cup of sugar. (You will need to do this in small batches.)

Beat the egg whites in a large, glass or metal bowl with an electric mixer until foamy. Add vanilla, cream of tartar and salt. Continue whipping until soft peaks form. Gradually sprinkle in the sugar so that it does not sink to the bottom. Continue whipping until meringue holds stiff, shiny peaks.

Place a large round tip into a pastry bag and fill the bag halfway with the meringue.

To pipe the mushroom caps, squeeze out circular mounds of meringue onto one of the prepared cookie sheets. Pull the bag off to the side to avoid making peaks on the top. If you have peaks on the tops of your caps, lightly wet a clean finger and smooth. Refill the bag with meringue as needed.

To pipe the mushroom stems, pipe a small amount of meringue onto parchment and then pull straight up. It will look similar to a chocolate kiss. (Do not worry about the stems being uniform as different shapes and sizes lend to the organic nature of mushrooms.)

Using a small sifter or strainer, lightly dust mushroom caps with cocoa powder or ground cinnamon. (Either will work, so it depends on personal preference.)

Bake until meringues are dry enough to be easily removed from the cookie sheets, about one hour. Cool completely.

Melt chocolate in bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Stir until smooth. Rotate the tip of a paring knife in the bottom of a mushroom cap to create a small hole. Spread chocolate over the bottom of the cap. Dip the tip of a stem in chocolate and press lightly into the hole.

Set mushrooms upside down on their caps to cool. When the chocolate sets, the cap and stem will hold together.

Repeat with remaining meringues. Store at room temperature in an airtight container.

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LEFT: PHOTO BY MILTON ZINK TOLEDO LUCAS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Tiedtke’s was located at Adams and Summit streets in Toledo. It’s huge cheese wheel (opposite page) was a longstanding store tradition.

SH PPING

Tr ps Department stores once ruled the retail landscape with their wealth of offerings and festive approaches to the holidays.

These four are long gone, but the memories they helped create still burn brightly for many Ohioans.

By Vince Guerrieri

Tiedtke’s | Toledo

BACKGROUND: ISTOCK

Charles and Ernest Tiedtke founded their namesake business as a grocery store at the corner of Toledo’s Monroe and Summit streets in 1894, and for the rest of its existence, it was known as much for its food as for its apparel, furniture and other items. Tiedtke’s has been gone for years, but Bill Klatt keeps its memory alive with the help of a familiar smell.

Coffee was the store’s hallmark, with shoppers being greeted by the aroma of roasting beans and brewing kettles. The Tiedtke brothers even installed a special ventilation system to keep the store smelling like coffee. The scent has been re-created at Tiedtke’s Coffee, a Maumee shop Klatt opened in 2022 that brings people back to a different time and place.

“You wouldn’t believe how many people come in and tell us about working there or shopping there,” he says. “A couple people told us they got their wedding dresses there.”

The Tiedtke brothers expanded their grocery store to sell “dry goods” — the catchall term that became the forerunner for department stores — and leased out space to smaller merchants, leading to lots of little stores inside one big building, Klatt says. But it was the grocery store that was responsible for Tiedtke’s enduring and endearing appeal, making it stand out in a downtown retail environment that also included “The Three Ls” — the Lion Store, Lamson’s and LaSalle’s.

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For generations of central Ohioans, there was no store like Lazarus. In fact, for many, there was no store but Lazarus.

“It really was an icon of retailing,” says Marlise Schoeny, a curator at the Ohio History Connection. “There were other department stores, but they never reached that status. Lazarus was so much larger and more prominent.”

Simon Lazarus opened his menswear store in downtown Columbus in 1851, and it soon gained a reputation as a place where soldiers could walk in wearing their uniforms and walk out in a new suit.

The store continued to expand, and in 1909, a new six-story building opened on the corner of Town and High streets. Its opulence was unparalleled, with electric lights, oak flooring, an aviary and the city’s first escalator. By this time, the second and third generations of the Lazarus family had gotten involved, and the retail experience started to resemble how most of us think of it.

“The Lazarus family saw what was coming,” Schoeny says. “There were so many things that we take for granted now that they really pushed. They posted one price,

Lazarus

Columbus

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so there was no haggling. They started grouping women’s dresses by size, not price, and they found people spent more than they were planning because they found something they liked.”

In the late 1920s, Lazarus went from an icon to an empire, buying Shillito’s, a Cincinnati department store that had fallen on hard times, and forming Federated Department Stores, a holding company that included Filene’s, a Boston department store, and Bloomingdale’s in New York.

But the Columbus store chugged on due in no small part to continued family involvement and its unparalleled customer service, and never was that more apparent than at Christmastime. There was the Secret Santa’s Workshop, where children could shop with store employees to buy presents for their parents — unsupervised. The store sponsored a Christmas parade downtown, and its entire sixth floor became Santaland, built to look like the North Pole. There was even a tree populated by a Lazarus employee that would talk to the kids. And of course, there was Santa.

“People have told me that they knew there were other Santas at Christmas, but the real Santa was at Lazarus,” Schoeny says.

Growing up in Cincinnati’s Hyde Park neighborhood, Anne Shepherd said her family didn’t venture much farther to shop than Hyde Park Square. But there was one exception: a trip downtown to Shillito’s.

“It was an event,” says Shepherd, who works for the Cincinnati History Library and Archives. “We got dressed up, and we’d have lunch there. They brought us food in little children’s ovens.

It was all just lovely. … And of course, there were the elves.”

Many department stores were known for their ornate window displays, especially during the holidays, and Shillito’s was one of them. In the 1950s, the store displayed a series of mechanized elves, which has gotten new life as an annual Christmas display in Cincinnati.

John Shillito came to the city from Western Pennsylvania as a boy in 1817, and after two previous business ventures, he established a store in his own name in 1837. His success led him to build a bigger store in 1857, and after outgrowing that one, opening a massive retail palace at Seventh and Race streets in 1878. The six-story, 250,000-square-foot “dry goods palace of the world” was billed as the largest department store west of New York City, featuring an ostentatious atrium with a skylight and everything from clothes to home goods.

Shillito’s

Cincinnati

This display titled “Christmas at Grandma’s” graced the window of the Lazarus department store in downtown Columbus in 1969.

LAZARUS: PHOTO BY WILLIAM H. SHUPE /COURTESY OF OHIO HISTORY CONNECTION

There was also a carnival atmosphere to Tiedtke’s. Every Christmas, the store would bring in an enormous wheel of cheese, sometimes weighing one ton or more. Produce vendors would juggle grapefruits, and fresh fish was trucked in and sold.

“People could take the bus and go there to buy clothes or whatever and do their grocery shopping,” says Klatt, who remembers having lunch at Tiedtke’s with his mother.

The brothers sold the store in 1925, and the new owners carried on unchanged. The business was sold again in the 1960s — in a markedly different retail landscape as stores were moving away from downtown areas — and finally closed in 1972.

The building was slated to be demolished, but a fire mostly did that job. As Toledoans gathered on the night of May 7, 1975, to celebrate their International Hockey League team’s return after winning the Turner Cup in Saginaw, Michigan, their attention was soon drawn to flames rising from the property. The cause of the blaze was never determined, but a crowd of thousands assembled outside Tiedtke’s that night to watch its end.

A 1949 photo of Shillito’s, which sat at the corner of Race and Seventh streets in Cincinnati (left); Higbee’s 50-foot Christmas tree at the Terminal Tower entrance to the store during its 1968 open house (above)

SHILLITO’S: COURTESY OF KENTON COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY HIGBEE’S: PHOTO BY HERMAN SEID/CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY. MICHAEL SCHWARTZ LIBRARY. SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

The Shillito family exited the retail business in 1928, and although the store was sold to Columbus’ Lazarus family, the Shillito’s name lived on for generations. The sale to Lazarus brought an infusion of cash and new ideas, including a hospital room, a new 300-car garage and air conditioning for the building as part of a $4 million renovation.

The 1950s were halcyon years for downtown department stores in general and Shillito’s in particular. By then, the store had more than 1,500 parking spaces to accommodate shoppers, and it outsold its next three biggest local competitors combined.

But like many downtown department stores, it fell victim to suburbanization, with shoppers preferring to stay closer to home at one of Shillito’s new mall locations. It also fell victim to the other great slayer of department stores: consolidation. In 1982, it merged with Rike’s, a Dayton-area store, and four years later, the Shillito name disappeared, as its stores were renamed Lazarus, which would eventually meet its end when all the Federated stores were rebranded as Macy’s.

There were many reasons Higbee’s became an essential part of the Cleveland shopping experience, not the least of which was its location. When Hower & Higbee started in 1860, like many retailers in Cleveland, it was on Superior Avenue near Public Square — close to the docks on the Cuyahoga River as well as the city’s train station along the railroad tracks near what is now West Sixth Street.

In 1910, the store moved to Euclid Avenue and East 16th Street. When the Van Sweringen brothers, Oris and Mantis, were building Terminal Tower, they looked for a department store for part of the space. Finding no willing partners, they bought Higbee’s and relocated the store to its location on Public Square, right across from rival May Company. (The former Higbee’s site became home to another historic retailer, Sterling Linder Davis.)

Higbee’s was easily accessible for travelers from the new union station as well as upper-middle-class commuters coming from Cleveland’s growing eastern suburbs, including the Van Sweringens’ planned community of Shaker Heights. But it wasn’t just the location that made it a success, says Michael DeAloia, the author of three books on Cleveland history, including Lost Department Stores of Cleveland.

Higbee’s

Cleveland

“They had amazing managers who understood the market and delivered good value for your money,” he says. “They had 48 buyers, which was just astounding for a regional department store.”

When Terminal Tower opened, the 12th floor of Higbee’s became the home for WHK-AM. After it moved, the space was converted into a music school. Students taking music lessons in area schools were usually sent to Higbee’s, cultivating another generation of shoppers, DeAloia says.

One of the last Christmas memories at Higbee’s — but one of its most enduring — was fictional, with Ralphie Parker begging Santa for a Red Ryder BB gun in “A Christmas Story.” In fact, one of the reasons the movie was filmed in Cleveland was because of access to Higbee’s. When the film was made in 1983, it was one of the last department stores downtown, even adopting holiday traditions from its fallen rivals. It became Mr. Jingeling’s home after Halle’s demise in 1982 and put up a giant Christmas tree after Sterling Linder Davis closed.

Higbee’s eventually became Dillard’s and, it too, ultimately closed. Today the building it called home houses Jack Casino. Yet a reminder of Higbee’s enduring holiday appeal appears each year as “24 Hours of A Christmas Story” arrives on television screens.

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Exactly where you should be.

When you’re true to who you are, you’re true to where you are.

Come join us.

TraverseCity.com

HOLIDAY FUN

From illuminated evenings to imaginative attractions, our state is full of ways to make the most of the season together. By Erin Finan, Lauren Keep, Varad Raigaonkar and Hosna Sadaqat

CHECKMATE PHOTOS

YULETIDE VILLAGE

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Night Lights Toledo he Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is once again brightening the darkness of winter with its 38th annual Lights Before Christmas, a six-week event that has historically drawn 175,000 visitors to its 72-acre destination each holiday season.

When the event began in 1986, there were around just 50,000 lights on display.

Today, zoo workers begin setting up five to six months in advance to ensure that the over 1 million lights are ready for the event’s Nov. 17 kickoff. The tree-lighting ceremony and the 35,000 lights strung upon the zoo’s 75-foot Norway Spruce, marks the beginning of the festivities. Visitors can marvel at the ever-changing patterns and designs in

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its branches throughout the season, which runs through Dec. 31.

The perennial winter village in the zoo’s historic 4,000-seat amphitheater has been upgraded this year. Visitors can enjoy concessions provided by Mrs. Claus, ride the three-lane ice slide, get a photo with Santa and enjoy ice-carving demonstrations

Thursdays in December.

“It’s a fun tradition and a busy six weeks for us,” says Chris Martin, vice president of park operations. “But we’re getting ready and doing everything we can to make as many memories as possible for our guests this season.” Visit website for hours. 2 Hippo Way, Toledo 43609, 419/385-5721, toledozoo.org/lights

KATELYN WESSLING / TOLEDO ZOO & AQUARIUM

Lights Before Christmas

PNC Festival of Lights Cincinnati

Conservatory Aglow • Columbus With over 400,000 individual lights, this immersive experience at Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Garden in Columbus enchants new and returning visitors year after year. The 13-acre space is seasonally decorated with festive light displays, illuminated topiaries and visitor favorites like the colorful Rainbow Tunnel. Spend an evening strolling the outdoor gardens or visit the conservatory’s interior spaces for a cozy candlelit walk. From Nov. 18 through Jan. 7, Holiday Blooms runs during the day, while Conservatory Aglow arrives each evening. (Holiday Blooms is included with general admission. Conservatory Aglow requires a separate ticket.) Visit website for hours. fpconservatory.org

Celebrate this classic wintertime tradition with a visit to the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden between Nov. 17 and Jan. 7. For over 40 years, the PNC Festival of Lights has transformed the grounds with over 4 million LED lights, 30 animal-shaped lanterns and a variety of other illuminated displays. Visitors can take a ride through the zoo’s light tunnel on the North Polar Express Train and enjoy nightly performances in the amphitheater while cozying up with a cup of hot chocolate. Returning this year is the 24-foot-tall Fiona nutcracker statue, which welcomes visitors to the zoo’s front entrance. Visit website for hours. cincinnatizoo.org

Guernsey County Courthouse Light Show • Cambridge

AGLOW: COURTESY OF FRANKLIN PARK CONSERVATORY; CHRISTMAS STORY: MIKKI SCHAFFNER

From early November until the end of the year, more than 80,000 lights and 60 animated displays illuminate the Guernsey County Courthouse in Cambridge during its annual holiday light show. The mix of LED, strobe and laser lights are synchronized to music in a presentation that runs continuously throughout the evening. Now in its 18th year, the impressive, community-funded display draws thousands of people each season for the free light shows.

While visiting Cambridge, be sure to check out Dickens Victorian Village, which features more than 90 scenes of 180 life-size figures from author Charles Dickens’ era displayed downtown. Visit website for hours. visitguernseycounty.com

Pyramid Hill Lights • Hamilton For over 20 years, the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum in Hamilton has dazzled visitors with its seasonal drive-through display of holiday lights. The 2-mile route features over a million lights and draws approximately 50,000 people each year, with some traveling from Kentucky and Indiana to see the favorite regional display. This

year’s new installations include artist-created light projections inspired by the surrounding environment and a stained-glass feature on one of the buildings at Pyramid Hill. Families can also take part in a fun bingo game as they peacefully drive through the festive display, which runs from Nov. 17 through Dec. 31. Visit website for hours. pyramidhill.org Lights Before Christmas (opposite page), Conservatory Aglow (above), Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (right)

On Stage “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)”

Cincinnati n 2006, members of the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company put together the first showing of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!),” a production that begins with the first lines of “A Christmas Carol” before quickly devolving into a hilariously twisted retelling of other beloved holiday classics.

Since its first iteration, the production has added new elements each season.

From moments of audience participation in which some theater goers are invited on-stage to play characters like Cindy-Lou Who to up-to-date pop-culture references, the show remains original and increasingly imaginative year after year and offers repeat viewers an inventive and high-energy experience each holiday season.

“I love the cast,” says Candice Hardy, a Cincinnati Shakespeare Company cast member and education director. “It’s quite a silly show, but it is very much an artistic, creative, collaborative process.”

This collaboration has led to the creation of fan-favorite touches like the tipsy Santa Claus character who welcomes showgoers

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HOLIDAY FUN

BalletMet’s “The Nutcracker” Columbus

“The Christmas Tree Ship” Sugarcreek

For over three decades, Captain Herman Schuenemann, affectionately known as Captain Santa, spent the holiday season ferrying Christmas trees across Lake Michigan to sell at the docks of Chicago Harbor. In late November 1912, a fateful voyage on the tempestuous waves threatened to bring the tradition to an abrupt end. The inspiring true story of the schooner captain and the family that worked to carry on his legacy takes the stage at the Ohio Star Theater

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in Sugarcreek Nov. 9 through Dec. 30, reminding us of the importance of kindness, perseverance and the Christmas spirit. Visit website for show dates and times. dhgroup.com

Great Lakes Theater’s “A Christmas Carol” • Cleveland Cleveland’s Great Lakes Theater has been warming hearts and lifting spirits with its annual production of Charles Dickens’ endur-

Tchaikovsky’s impassioned and familiar melodies fill the air as BalletMet’s professional and student dancers bring the timeless tale of “The Nutcracker” to life on the Ohio Theatre stage Dec. 7 through 23. The story of Clara and her adventures through the court of the Sugar Plum Fairy is presented through the choreography of Gerard Charles and has become a capital-city holiday tradition over the years. The performance’s dreamlike music and entrancing visuals whisk audience members away to a toy-inspired wonderland, while the show’s elegant simplicity also makes the production a treat for younger theatergoers. Visit website for show dates and times. balletmet.org ing classic “A Christmas Carol” for more than 30 years. Adapted by original director Gerald Freedman, the production features an artful

JENNIFER ZMUDA

prior to each performance and entertains them during intermission by reading letters submitted by audience members.

The show runs Dec. 7 through 30 at The Otto M. Budig Theatre in the Over-theRhine neighborhood. It is considered family-friendly but not recommended for little ones who believe in Santa Claus. Visit website for show dates and times. 1195 Elm St., Cincinnati 45202, 513/381-2273, cincyshakes.com

Enchanting Visitors Since 1788

Celebrate The Holidays In Merry-Etta We were the first settlement in a new frontier over 235 years ago and our early pioneer spirit can still be felt throughout our community. Navigate our rivers, explore our shops, taste our cuisine and immerse yourself in our rich culture and history.

Visit our web site for a listing of Marietta holiday events: MariettaOhio.org/events

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ET HERE GRAB LIF RIGH 1) Cuyahoga Falls

3) Conservancy for Cuyahoga Celebrate the magic of the holiday season Valley National Park

5) BLU-Tique Hotel

in Cuyahoga Falls. Enjoy shopping, dining and ice skating in our historic downtown with views of the Cuyahoga River. For winter adventurers, explore the outdoors and take in the beautiful winter scenery in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the Summit Metro Parks. cityofcf.com

Looking for a holiday gift for Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) lovers in your life? Find unique accessories, art, apparel, local food, children’s toys and more in the Conservancy for CVNP’s stores. forcvnp.org/park-stores

2) Akron Zoo

4) Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

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BLU-Tique Hotel in Akron offers an urban retreat with 71 stylish rooms, modern amenities and a vibrant downtown location.

Guests enjoy comfort, artful design and proximity to Akron’s cultural attractions, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. blu-tique.com

6) Akron/Summit CVB

Let it glow at your Akron Zoo during our Visit Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens during Deck holiday lighting event, Wild Lights, on the Hall, all decorated for Christmas and Nov. 24–Dec. 29 from 5–9 p.m. You can featuring 1.2 million lights illuminating the also enjoy a regular day at the zoo daily Manor House and gardens. Hours: 3–8 p.m.

ICONS & SOCIAL M E DIA LOGOS FOR B USINESS CARD Nov. 24–26, 30 and Dec. 1–2, 7–23, 26–30. from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. akronzoo.org Visit website for more information and tickets. stanhywet.org

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Tis the season! Visit Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens for Deck the Hall and check out Wild Lights at the Akron Zoo. Ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for the North Pole Adventure and enjoy Holiday Lantern Tours at Hale Farm & Village. visitakron-summit.org

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visitakron-summit.org • 800-245-4254

Images courtesy of Akron/Summit CVB

Make your stay with StayInAkron.com Your mobile resource for all that is great about hotel and lodging at our destination. Find, explore and book your adventure, learn about local partner experiences and take part in events.

GREATER AKRON LODGING COUNCIL

wardrobe and striking visual effects. From the opening scene of a mother reciting the book’s iconic opening lines to her children to the curtain falling on the smiling face of a now-redeemed Scrooge, audiences are captivated by the family-friendly, 1-hour-45-minute-show (including intermission). It plays at Cleveland’s Mimi Ohio Theatre Nov. 24 through Dec. 23. Visit website for show dates and times. greatlakestheater.org

Homes & Estates

Jim Brickman: A Joyful Christmas • Multiple Locations This December, Ohio native Jim Brickman brings the songs and sounds of his 2017 release, “A Joyful Christmas,” to stages in Cleveland, Columbus and Youngstown.

The holiday show features Brickman’s signature piano renditions of familiar favorites like “Joy to the World” and “O Come All Ye Faithful” as well as original works such as “The Gift” and “If You Believe.” (Chrissy Metz, star of the television series “This Is Us,” joins Brickman for two performances

Rutherford B. Hayes Home at Playhouse Square in Cleveland.) Brickman’s holiday shows offer a kinder, gentler way to celebrate the season, and he has plenty of Christmas joy to share. For more information, visit jimbrickman.com.

Fremont elive the Victorian-inspired holidays of 19th century America as you learn about and celebrate the traditions of President Rutherford B.

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You’ll find the origin stories of the plain people are complex & colorful. Plan your visit today!

Behalt.com | Berlin, Ohio

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COURTESY OF RUTHERFORD B. HAYES HOME

HOLIDAY FUN

Always in Season?

IT’S A SHORE THING

Shores & Islands Ohio has something for everyone. Hike and bike miles of natural trails, explore quaint downtowns and museums, witness fall bird migration, and enjoy the beauty of changing colors.

Visit an orchard to pick a peck of apples or sample other fresh-from-the-farm produce at a farmer’s market. Take a tour of a local winery at the peak of harvest season and taste craft beverages at a brewery or distillery on the Shores & Islands Ohio Cheers Trail.

Find your Lake Erie Love at SHORESandISLANDS.com.

HOLIDAY FUN Hayes and his family through a variety of events scheduled at the Hayes Presidential Library and Museums in Fremont from late November through December.

A visit during Hayes Home Holidays on Dec. 21 and 22 immerses guests in the 19th U.S. president’s era with traditional decorations adorning the rooms. Reenactors throughout the home share stories and play out scenes of Christmases past. From Dec. 26 through 31, visitors can enjoy a favorite pastime of the former president by traversing the 25-acre grounds in a horsedrawn sleigh.

A highlight for generations has been the multilevel miniature train display in the museum’s auditorium that is free to view all season long. Visitors can marvel at the tiny, whimsical world and even activate elements such as dancing ice skaters or the turning of the Ferris wheel with the push of a button.

“You don’t have to have kids to enjoy the trains,” says Christie Weininger, executive director of Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums. “Trains have this way of bringing out the kid in everybody … and that’s what we like to do — unlock memories and help you connect with warm memories from your childhood.” Visit website for hours. Spiegel Grove, Fremont 43420, 419/332-2081, rbhayes.org

Deck the Hall at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens • Akron Since the early 2000s, Stan Hywet Hall and Garden’s Deck the Hall event has been bringing people together to celebrate the season with decorations, dazzling light shows, music and more. On select evenings

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I’ll be for Christmas!

from Nov. 24 through Dec. 30, the 65-room manor is adorned with decorations evoking the feeling of the type of traditional Christmas that original homeowner F.A. Seiberling and his family once enjoyed there.

Visitors can look forward to exploring the beautifully decorated garden, encountering amusing scenes throughout the home (like Mr. and Mrs. Claus’ date night or a mermaid’s party) and take in the 1.2 million lights that illuminate the exterior of the manor. Visit website for hours. stanhywet.org

Christmas at Kingwood Mansfield

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DESTINATIONS LISTED

Charles Kelley King, who loved Christmas, built the regal Kingwood Hall on his 47acre Mansfield estate in 1926. His joy for the season lives on through Christmas at Kingwood, one of the longest-standing traditions at Kingwood Center Gardens. The event that runs between Nov. 26 and Dec. 27 sees the historic mansion decorated with an 18-foot-tall tree in the foyer, a display of original handmade Christmas ornaments and an assortment of themed decorations in each room of the home. Families can wander through the elaborate tree walk, visit with Santa, meet the reindeer resting in the garden and more. Visit website for dates and times. kingwoodcenter.org

Victorian Christmas Tours at The Castle • Marietta The Castle in Marietta opened as a historic house museum in 1994 with guided

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens’ Deck the Hall event has been a holiday favorite since the early 2000s (opposite page). The Castle in Marietta offers a glimpse of a Victorian Christmas (above).

tours showcasing the background and furnishings of the nearly 170-year-old home.

During the holidays, it tells the story of a Victorian Christmas with tours running Dec. 7, 14 and 16 that seek to educate visitors on the origins of some of our holiday practices. Alongside traditional decorations, tours feature displays of artwork that reflect the feasting and gifting customs that were popular during the Victorian era. These include figgy pudding on the dining table or the animals of Noah’s Ark underneath the tree. Visit website for times. mariettacastle.org

Memories of Christmas Past at Arms Family Museum Youngstown

The Mahoning Valley Historical Society rekindles Memories of Christmas Past at Youngstown’s Arms Family Museum. This season will mark the exhibition’s 15th year showcasing toys and other holiday items that spark feelings of nostalgia for those who visit the home each year. Seven rooms are thematically decorated with familiar pieces like the fan-favorite crystal tree as well as new items not seen in previous years that have been supplied by collectors. Memories of Christmas Past runs Nov. 18 through Dec. 31. Visit website for hours. mahoninghistory.org

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Tuscarawas County, Ohio The Other Side of Amish Country

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HOLIDAY FUN

Christmas Classics Yuletide Village

Waynesville eneath drooping eaves, towering steeples and branches wrapped in twinkling lights, a storybook Christmas unfolds within Renaissance Park’s 15-acre Yuletide Village in Warren County.

Since the event began in 2020, visitors who enjoy the fantasy and medieval atmosphere of the Ohio Renaissance Festival each fall have been eager to bring their families along to see the venue decorated in a more festive manner.

“We decided that everyone needed something a little different,” says Yuletide Village entertainment director David Smith on the creation of the holiday attraction.

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“[We wanted] something that took a little bit of a step back and had a more relaxed approach but a more magical approach at the same time.”

With a mix of festive performances, a marketplace stocked with handcrafted wares and fantasy characters to meet such as a woodland Santa Claus and Krampus, a different brand of holiday magic is alive at Yuletide Village.

While cozying up by the outdoor firepits with a mug of hot chocolate or warm spiced cider, keep an ear open for the tunes of the Toy Box Brass band or the cheerful melodies of carolers ringing through the old-world village. Yuletide Village runs Fridays from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 3 to 9 p.m., Nov. 24 through Dec. 16. 10542 St. Rte. 73, Waynesville 45068, 513/8977000, yuletidevillage.com

CHECKMATE PHOTOS

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HOLIDAY FUN Old West Christmas Fest at Dogwood Pass • Beaver Saddle up for a holiday celebration that combines the thrill of the Wild West with the joy of an old-fashioned family Christmas. With over 30 reenactors wandering the town, tending shops and participating in lively shows, visitors can immerse themselves in a western town turned winter wonderland. While adults peruse the holiday gift offerings from on-site craft vendors, kids can take in performances that run three times each day and feature beloved holiday characters like Santa Claus and the Grinch, who can be spotted slinking through crowds, dancing with kids or fighting off a gang of cowboys. Visit Facebook page for dates and times. facebook.com/dogwoodpassoldwesttown

A Christmas Story House and Museum • Cleveland For those who love “A Christmas Story,” a trip to the home where exterior scenes for

the famous film were shot is a must. After Brian Jones purchased the home in 2004, he restored it to its on-screen glory and artfully crafted its interior to resemble the Parker home as it appeared in the film. Tourists visit to reenact their favorite movie moments, like hiding under the kitchen sink or posing with a bar of soap in the bathroom. Check out the small museum across the street and the gift shop that sells replicas of props from the film, including the iconic leg lamp. Visit website for hours. achristmasstoryhouse.com

Castle Noel • Medina

This downtown Medina attraction serves as one big, interactive love letter to our holiday memories. Castle Noel has been bringing year-round joy to kids and adults alike since 2013, thanks to Christmas enthusiast and artist Mark Klaus, who has assembled an impressive collection of holiday movie memorabilia. The museum contains hundreds of props, costumes and set pieces from beloved holiday films and even pays tribute to the art of department-store-window displays. The grand finale is a trip down a sliding board like the one Ralphie Parker encountered in “A Christmas Story.” The

latest addition to Klaus’ whimsical world is a fun, winter-themed entertainment bar called the Polar Bear Club. Reservations required. Visit website for hours. castlenoel.com

Christmas Candelighting at Roscoe Village • Coshocton Embrace the warmth of the season by participating in the Christmas Candelighting ceremony at Roscoe Village. For over 50 years, this tradition has brought visitors back to a simpler time and allows the chance for them to share in peace and togetherness. Partici-

Winter Weekend Getaway DINE • STAY • PL AY

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pants gather around the outdoor tree to light candles in honor of a specific group in the community and join in a reading and song.

Earlier in the day, attendees can take part in Christmas crafts like holiday card-making and candle-dipping while enjoying hot cider and cookies. This year’s celebrations will take place Dec. 2 and 9. Visit website for more information. roscoevillage.com

Festive Events

Sandusky Winter Wonderland • Sandusky

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CASTLE NOEL: KRISTEN JONES; SANDUSKY AND LOCK 3: COURTESY OF DESTINATIONS

he warm and sunny days of a lakeside summer may be over for this year, but Sandusky Winter Wonderland is bringing the holiday spirit to this community along the Lake Erie shore for a third consecutive season. This family-friendly winter festival at the Jackson Street Pier on Dec. 8 and 9 promises an array of fun activities.

Live music, a Christmas market featuring handcrafted items from local artisans and small businesses, an ice-skating rink and even a visit from Santa Claus and his reindeer will take over the pier during the event.

“In Sandusky, there are four seasons to love, and we want folks to enjoy the uniqueness of each one,” says McKenzie Spriggs, executive director of Destination Sandusky.

The event kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. with

live music, festive drink offerings, such as Christmas ales and a boozy hot chocolate bar, and a visit from Santa’s reindeer.

From noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, visitors can enjoy local high school and colligate choir performances, DJs, watch Christmas movies on a big screen and visit with Santa Claus. The ice-skating rink, holiday market and food trucks will be available to enjoy throughout the weekend. 233 W. Shoreline Dr., Sandusky 44870, shoresandislands.com

Steubenville Nutcracker Village & Advent Market Steubenville

The friendly faces of over 200 life-sized nutcrackers greet those who visit downtown Steubenville between Nov. 21 and Jan. 6.

The collection began in 2015 when business owners and residents worked together to inspire a sense of pride for their downtown.

Dreamt up by father-daughter duo Mark Nelson and Therese Fedoryka and crafted

by Brodie Stutzman, the holiday attraction features nutcrackers inspired by famous figures and characters with a few new ones added each year. This year’s additions are Mrs. Claus, a Fiesta Tableware-inspired nutcracker and a West Virginia University Mountaineer. steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com

Winterblast at Lock 3 • Akron Outdoor fun returns to Lock 3 in downtown Akron for the city’s 19th year of Winterblast.

Join in the frosty festivities with a ride on the ice bumper cars or ice bikes, a game of

miniature golf on the outdoor course or a glide on the 10,000-square-foot ice rink. The season kicks off on Nov. 24 with a nighttime lighted parade that features Santa Claus rolling through downtown and ends near West Bowery Street for a tree lighting and fireworks. Attendees can check out the animated window displays or pay a visit to Archie, a 22-foot-tall talking snowman. The wintertime activities continue at Lock 3 through Feb. 19. Visit website for hours. lock3live.com

Holiday Junction • Cincinnati This longstanding holiday favorite in Cincinnati sparks childlike fantasy and imagination with music, lights and toy trains in a tradition that started back in 1946. From Nov. 10 through Jan. 8 the Cincinnati Museum Center’s Union Terminal transforms into Holiday Junction Featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains. More than 1,000 feet of model railroad track winds through a miniature city. Visitors are invited to stroll through the whimsical scenes, take part in a holiday scavenger hunt, marvel at the LEGO-made city of Brickopolis and even pay a visit to Santa beginning on Nov. 24. Visit website for hours. cincymuseum.org

A Carillon Christmas • Dayton

Retired holiday window displays are part of the fun at Castle Noel in Medina (opposite page).

Sandusky Winter Wonderland brings holiday fun to Jackson Street Pier (above). Winterblast at Lock 3 is a beloved downtown Akron event that kicks off with Santa rolling through town (top).

From Nov. 21 through Dec. 30, Carillon Historical Park’s 65-acre campus in Dayton celebrates the season with a bit of history.

Dayton’s iconic bell tower is draped in glittering strands to become the Carillon Tree of Light, and the park’s historical buildings host a Christmas puppet show, a hearth cooking demonstration with chestnuts roasting over a fire and an antique 1930s printing press that makes cards visitors can take home with them.

Christmas lights, model train displays and train rides are also part of the seasonal fun.

Visit website for hours. daytonhistory.org N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

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CELEBRATE NEW TRADITIONS IN COLUMBUS. In Columbus, we celebrate everything. From that spur-of-themoment trip to that first-taste feeling; from creating new memories to celebrating you, for simply being you. Celebrate with us, because there’s no place like Columbus for the holidays. Plan your trip at ExperienceColumbus.com/Holidays.

COLUMBUS

From holiday attractions and food finds to shopping destinations and outdoor fun, here are ideas for making new memories with your family and friends in our capital city this season. By Nicholas Dekker

COURTESY OF OHIO HISTORY CONNECTION

DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS AT OHIO VILLAGE

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COLUMBUS Holiday Attractions

Left to right from above: Village Lights in German Village, Dickens of a Christmas at Ohio Village, keg curling on the ice rink at Land-Grant Brewing Co., hikers in the snow at Prairie Oaks Metro Park in West Jefferson 98

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vorite for nearly 50 years. A new, locally produced version of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” takes the Ohio Theatre stage this season as well (Nov. 24–26).

Food & Drink Like all good Midwestern cities, Columbus knows how to make the most of patios year-round. Several favorite restaurants, bars and breweries offer reservable, heated igloos on their patios. Vaso, the rooftop eatery at the AC Hotel in Dublin’s Bridge Park, was one of the first in the area to feature the heated domes that make for a cozy time with family and friends. A visit to Vaso can serve as the start to holiday adventures throughout Bridge Park and Historic Dublin, which offer a variety of shops and attractions.

Land-Grant Brewing Co. in Columbus’ Franklinton neighborhood transforms its beer garden into a winter wonderland with firepits, heated igloos and keg curling on an ice rink. Brewery president Adam Benner says the brewery will host shorter four- or five-week leagues prior to the holidays, with longer ones later in the winter. This season, Land-Grant is debuting Gravity Experience Park one block over, filling the lot with another bar, stage, firepits and more.

“We will have some curling over there and ice bumper cars,” Benner says. “They’re battery-powered, and the ride time is about 15 minutes.”

For a grown-up night out during the colder months, book reservations for chef’s-counter seats at Hiraeth in the Short North Arts District. Led by James Beard-nominee chef BJ Lieberman, Hiraeth is built around a 10-foot hearth that grills, sears and smokes a variety of delicious dishes. Also check out Cameron Mitchell’s Cento in German Village, which serves hearty Italian fare like risotto, fresh pastas and saltimbocca as well as great wine to go with it.

DICKENS: COURRTESY OF OHIO HISTORY CONNECTION; GERMAN VILLAGE: COURTESY OF EXPERIENCE COLUMBUS

For the first three weekends in December, Ohio Village comes to life with Victorian holiday celebrations. During Dickens of a Christmas (Sat. 5:30–9 p.m. and Sun. 1– 5 p.m.), visitors can stroll the historic village, enjoy warm beverages, observe artisans at work and interact with characters like Scrooge, Marley, the Ghost of Christmas Present and even Dickens himself.

“We try to make things as immersive as possible,” says Andrew Hall, manager of Ohio Village programs. “The general purpose of Dickens of a Christmas is to show visitors the cultural roots we have in our own holiday celebrations today. In the early 19th century, holidays were viewed as times for solitude.

Dickens and other icons of his time showed people that there are other ways to celebrate.

We can come together as a community. We can be joyous. It doesn’t have to be quiet.”

The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium’s Wildlights (nightly Nov. 17–Jan. 7) features millions of LED lights. Attendees can see the animals, enjoy the animated musical light shows, spy reindeer, say hello to Santa and warm up with hot cocoa.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens comes alive in the evenings with Conservatory Aglow (Nov. 18– Jan. 7), a walkable show with light installations and music.

Horticultural experts also craft Victorian-era vignettes paired with poinsettia displays in the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse.

Those who want to experience both holiday light shows can download the Holiday Lights Pass. The digital pass, accessible right from your phone, offers discounted admission to Wildlights and Conservatory Aglow.

The Ohio Theatre is also at the center of many family traditions with its holiday-season performances. BalletMet’s “The Nutcracker” (Dec. 7–23) has been a capital-city fa-

In addition to the night market, Santa makes an appearance in Schiller Park and the Maennerchor and Damenchor perform at St. Mary Catholic Church. (The Garten Club hosts a tree lighting in Frank Fetch Park on Dec. 1.)

Thousands of lights illuminate Easton Town Center during the holidays. Crowds gather to catch the tree lighting, and shoppers can visit their favorite stores and restaurants in the expansive shopping center while visiting Santa, watching the model trains and enjoying festive music.

Outdoor Fun CURLING: COURTESY OF LAND-GRANT BREWING CO.; HIKE: MELISSA TURPENING

Shopping Trips Columbus offers a variety of shopping experiences that are especially fun during the holidays. The Short North Arts District comes alive during the season as visitors pop into boutiques, galleries, bars and restaurants. Gallery Hop lands the first Saturday of every month, and the Dec. 2 edition, dubbed Holiday Hop, is especially festive. Carolers, hot chocolate, ice sculpting and other performances provide a welcoming backdrop to the district as visitors shop for clothing, jewelry, artwork and other gifts.

Village Lights is a favorite event of the holiday season in historic German Village. On Dec. 3, thousands of luminarias line the brick streets throughout the neighborhood. In front of the German Village Meeting Haus, the Striezelmarkt features local food, drink and craft vendors.

“It’s the way we like to kickstart the holiday season,” says Sean Kessler, executive director of the German Village Society. “You can see lights and festivities, visit your favorite shops and restaurants, be down there when everybody’s coming together.”

A variety of parks and outdoor arenas in central Ohio offer outdoor skating rinks throughout the colder months. Dublin Ice Rink at Riverside Crossing is set among picturesque views of the Scioto River and The Dublin Link pedestrian bridge. The 3,200-square-foot rink is open late November through early March and features complimentary skate rentals and heated restrooms.

Dublin opens a skating rink at Coffman Park when temperatures allow for it. In between time on the ice, visitors can warm up at the fireplaces in the pavilion. The Obetz Ice Rink in Lancaster Park is another popular outdoor skating spot.

Admission is free for Obetz residents and only $5 for nonresidents. Weather permitting, Blendon Woods and Battelle Darby Creek Metro Parks feature skating as well. Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks also hosts a series of winter hikes and lighted evening strolls.

“We do a fair number of opt-outside events on the Friday after Thanksgiving,” says Jill Snyder, visitor engagement manager for Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks.

“We encourage people to go outside, take a hike, work off the Thanksgiving dinner.”

For more information about these attractions and events as well as others, visit experiencecolumbus.com.

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SAVE THE DATE

Holiday Kickoff HOLIDAY SALE & EVENT

November 20-25, 2023 More Details to come.

Keim will be Closed on

Thursday, November, 23 for Thanksgiving.

THE HOME, BUILDING, & WO O DWO RKI N G DEST I N AT I ON 4465 SR 557

| CHARM, OH 44617

| 330.893.2251

| WWW.KEIMHOME.COM

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

s pecial adve rti s i ng s ection

While you’re on the hunt for great gifts this season, take time to explore these exceptional destinations for a day or weekend trip.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF DESTINATIONS LISTED

BURLWICK & CO., FINDLAY N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

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Visit Findlay

Gifting can be made easy this year with a trip to Findlay, where dozens of shops ranging from larger stores to local boutiques provide the opportunity to find just the right gift for everyone on your list this season.

River + Road has cozy, stylish clothing for both women and men. Consultants can assist in the shopping experience with expert advice on seasonal styles or by hand-picking pieces based on preexisting wardrobes. The family-owned 3 Oaks also has great clothing options for kids.

RooBarb Studios offers personalized notecards and jewelry, and gifting a piece engraved with a personalized saying or quote is a beautiful way to remind those close to us how special they are. Handcrafted goods from over 40 artisan vendors are available for purchase at Hand + Home and include home decor, teas, scented candles, goat-milk soaps, lotions, pottery and much more.

Inspire a small- or large-scale home makeover with the help of the professional interior designers at Burlwick & Co. and its selection of pillows, throw blankets, handmade drinkware and intriguing custom furniture pieces.

Open since the 1920s, a sweet treat from Dietsch Brothers is a holiday gifting tradition in Findlay. The shop’s famed chocolates can be found in gift boxes, hot chocolate bombs and the shop’s signature chocolate-covered pretzels. For more information, go to visitfindlay.com.

Lehman’s

A trip to Lehman’s will turn this year’s holiday shopping into a day of fun for the whole family. Located in the tiny village of Kidron, Lehman’s is a one-stop shop for holiday gifting with its range of interesting and functional items. The late Jay Lehman founded the business in 1955 as a store to serve the local Amish community.

That small business has grown into an expansive store that offers a wide variety of non-electric items that provide people with a multitude of ways to embrace simpler living.

For the people in your life who appreciate practical gifts, Lehman’s has a vast selection of kitchen necessities, including cast-iron cookware, interesting gadgets and baking supplies, as well as farm and garden equipment. The selection of camping gear available — including lamps, portable grills and survival tools — make great gifts for outdoor enthusiasts.

Little ones will be overjoyed to find handmade wooden toys, puzzles and games underneath the tree or an assortment of old-fashioned sweets stuffed in their stockings.

Cross the most difficult-to-buy-for person off your list by gifting an experience. A ticket to one of Lehman’s many classes or workshops is guaranteed to inspire and delight. Lehman’s is open every day of the week except Sunday, but you can also shop its wide range of products anytime online. For more information, go to lehmans.com.

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Hand + Home (above) is one of many great retail destinations in Findlay. Lehman’s (left) has a fun variety of gifting ideas. Experience Hartville (opposite page) offers more than just shopping.

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Experience Hartville Celebrate the holiday season like never before at the Experience Hartville campus, which offers something for everyone in the family and presents the perfect destination for making unforgettable memories. From shopping for unique treasures to indulging in delicious cuisine, this Stark County destination has something magical in store.

Explore Hartville MarketPlace & Outdoor Flea Market to discover hidden gems and cherished finds in a sprawling indoor and outdoor setting as the aroma of live evergreens fills the air.

Indulge in homestyle comfort at Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery, featuring classic dishes like fried chicken, meatloaf and mashed potatoes, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a selection of 21 different pie flavors and treats.

While you’re there, explore The Shops at Hartville Kitchen, featuring over 20 contemporary brands with handbags, jewelry, gifts, home decor and candy to suit every taste. Don’t forget to shop for toys while the kids explore the Noah’s Ark play area.

Enjoy festive holiday window displays at Hartville Hardware that hold a dreamy nostalgia that only comes once a year. If you want to preserve the holiday spirit, shop the 8,000-square-foot Christmas Store for unique gifts, holiday decor, pet toys and over 2,500 personalized ornaments.

Whether planning a quick day trip or an exciting

weekend getaway, Experience Hartville promises to delight with its festive atmosphere and a wide range of holiday events. Visit experiencehartville.com for more information.

FESTIVE, MERRY & BRIGHT Get in the holiday spirit, and let your festive self shine brightly in Butler County. Take a scenic drive through an award-winning light display, lace up some skates and glide across the ice, marvel at a holiday train display, or shop for that perfect gift that will be cherished by a loved one.

See For Yourself in Butler County, Ohio PHOTO: MARY ROSE JACOBI

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HAPPY HUNTING!

Need a change of scenery but also want to be close to home and safe? Head for the Hills, the Hocking Hills. This is the place for fresh air, the vibrant colors of fall, frozen waterfalls, outdoor adventures, small town charm and a much needed winter break.

Shop for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts at the 8th Annual Hocking Hills Holiday Treasure Hunt. Hunt for treasures in shops and galleries November 1 through December 12, collect six different Treasure Hunt stickers and enter to win one of more than 25 prizes and a Grand Prize Getaway for 4. Download your Treasure Map at ExploreHockingHills.com The Hocking Hills, Ohio’s Natural Crown Jewels.

Call or click for your free Visitor’s Guide | 1-800-Hocking | ExploreHockingHills.com

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Butler County Find that perfect gift to surprise and delight a loved one this holiday season by shopping the incredible variety of unique gifts at locally owned shops in Butler County.

The arrival of a new year signals a great time to try something new and share experiences. Get crafty at You’re Fired in Oxford where you can paint your own ornament or keepsake, or visit State Street Coffee in Trenton to sample seasonal coffee and tea flights.

Find all the most popular items and toys on every kid’s holiday wish list from local toy shop Junction Hobbies & Toys in West Chester.

For one-of-a-kind home decor and accessories, look no further than Sara’s House in Hamilton where you can marvel at a collection of statement lamps made from upcycled materials, or find handmade jewelry crafted by local artisans at Sterling Seraph in Fairfield Township.

Shop a locally owned clothing brand to gift someone their new favorite tee, or pick up a pair of rare and coveted kicks from the shoe wall at Bird Brain Apparel in Liberty Township.

Those looking to build their home bar will be delighted to receive a gift set featuring four local spirits from White Dog Distilling Co. in Middletown. Music lovers who collect vinyl records will appreciate a new or classic album from the selection at Three Feathers Records in Fairfield Township. For more information, visit travelbutlercounty.com.

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Marion Palace Theatre

Join the historic Marion Palace Theatre for an evening filled with laughter and holiday joy as it presents a onenight-only production of “Church Basement Ladies: Away in the Basement,” a musical comedy that offers an original take on what life was like growing up Lutheran in the Midwest during the 1960s.

The show transports the audience back to the day of a Sunday School Christmas Program. Amid the busyness of holiday preparations, the ladies are cheerfully reliving their own memories from Christmases past.

Content to stick with tradition but still intrigued by the prospect of new ideas, the reality of everyday life descends upon the ladies as they plan the Sunday School Christmas Program.

As the children rehearse in the sanctuary, several of the ladies are finishing filling treat bags with apples, peanuts and ribbon candy in the kitchen while others put the final touches on the nativity pieces, mend old bathrobe costumes and discuss the politics of who’s going to play the various roles. Little do the ladies know, however, what surprises are in store for them.

Adored for their hilarious antics, subtle charm and incredible wit, the ladies are once again called upon to step in and save the day.

The hilariously heartwarming performance takes place Friday, Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m., and ticket prices can be found online. Visit marionpalace.org for more information.

Marion Palace Theatre puts on an endearing holiday show featuring the Church Basement Ladies (above). The Hocking Hills has opportunities for shopping, hiking, lodging and more (opposite page).

Make

Visit Hartville this Holiday Season!

Holiday

Memories

Kitchen | Shops | Hardware | MarketPlace & Flea Market

Get ready to unwrap the magic of the Christmas season at Experience Hartville, the perfect place for all ages and interests! Nestled snugly between Cleveland and Amish Country, Hartville transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a host of festive activities and heartwarming experiences that will fill your holiday season with joy and memories to cherish. Find out more at ExperienceHartville.com.

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Explore Hocking Hills

Make a shopping trip to the Hocking Hills this season and explore dozens of locally owned and operated businesses located throughout the region to find unique and interesting gifts for the loved ones on your list. Sprinkle some extra holiday fun on top of your shopping getaway by participating in the Hocking Hills’ Annual Holiday Treasure Hunt.

Shoppers have from Nov. 1 to Dec. 12 to take part in the hunt by visiting any six of the participating stores and collecting a corresponding stamp.

Once completed, participants can submit their stamps to the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center in Logan no later than 5 p.m. on Dec. 12 to be entered for a chance to win prizes offered by the shops as well as a grand prize.

This year’s grand prize includes a two-night getaway for four in the Hocking Hills complete with canopy and canoe tours, mini golf, candle-making, and more. Runner-up prizes include gift certificates and wares, including ornaments, glasswork and handmade wood and cloth products from the participating stores.

Whether you’re looking to knock out some holiday shopping or spend a day of fun with the family, Hocking Hills’ array of shopping, dining and outdoor experiences will keep spirits high as you hunt down some treasures of your own. For more information, visit explorehockinghills.com.

Find the Recipe for the Perfect Holiday at

Shop at Lehman’s for both practical and pretty gifts for every loved one this holiday season. Lehman’s has simple gifts for the cook, the baker, the gardener, the outdoor enthusiast, the homesteader and more!

Shop anytime at LEHMANS.COM LET’S BE SOCIAL 800.438.5346 On the Square in Kidron • Open every day except Sunday N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

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Carlisle Gifts & Dutch Valley Gifts

This holiday season, two inviting stores located in Ohio’s Amish Country welcome guests to visit and enjoy premier shopping experiences accompanied by festive events for the whole family throughout November and December.

Changing with the seasons, Carlisle Gifts and Dutch Valley Gifts each boast three floors of products for shoppers to browse, including boutique clothing, handbags, jewelry, seasonal decor, personal-care products and more.

Located across the street from the iconic Der Dutchman restaurant in Walnut Creek, Carlisle Gifts hosts several special events throughout the season, including a Christmas Open House Nov. 9 through 11 that is held in conjunction with the Annual Christmas in the Village and Tree Lighting on the Square in Walnut Creek event on Nov. 10. The Village of Walnut Creek hosts the 12th Annual Journey to Bethlehem on Dec. 1 and 2, an event that has participants follow along with the journey of Mary and Joseph and ends with a live Nativity scene.

Dutch Valley Gifts is located on the Dutch Valley campus just east of Sugarcreek along with Dutch Valley Restaurant and Bakery, the Ohio Star Theater and Carlisle Inn Sugarcreek. Special events at the Dutch Valley Campus this season include a fashion show on

Nov. 14 and a Christmas Open House held Nov. 30 through Dec. 2 with visits from Santa happening from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, visit dhgroup.com.

More than buggies

Plan a winter getaway to Ohio Amish Country – home to heartwarming holiday traditions, unique shopping experiences, and your favorite seasonal flavors.

Shopping, Food & Brews, Places to Stay, and more.

Living life simply.

Holmes County & beyond.

Explore the Possibilities visitamishcountry.com

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Downtown Bowling Green

A lively shopping district since the early 20th century, downtown Bowling Green’s inviting atmosphere and wonderful selection of shops and restaurants makes it the perfect destination to get all your holiday shopping done while supporting small, family-owned businesses.

One of the oldest businesses in Bowling Green, Ben’s, has been a mainstay of the community since the Craft family opened it in 1976. Located on the city’s historic Main Street, the old-fashioned variety store sells toys, art and party supplies as well as candy and house-made fudge.

Crafters will appreciate the wall-to-wall fabric and yarn selection available at The Busy Thimble, another family-owned business that shouldn’t be missed during a holiday shopping tour of the city. With fabrics that come in a variety of colors and patterns as well as a selection of design templates, gifting inspiration is sure to strike.

For Keeps is the place stock up on stocking stuffers for those of any age. From soaps and balms to whimsical socks to tchotchkes for every room in the house, it is difficult to leave this shop without gifts in hand.

Along with health and beauty spots and a plethora of dining options, a shopping day can double as a self-care day. Treat yourself to a new experience as you alleviate the stress of holiday shopping with a trip to Bowling Green. For more information, go to visitbgohio.org.

Carlisle Gifts and Dutch Valley Gifts offer unique shopping experiences in Ohio’s Amish Country (opposite page). Downtown Bowling Green (above) is home to many beloved, family-owned shops.

H O L I DAY M AG I C HAPPENS HERE We’re the holiday hotspot sure to be the talk of the township!

Let us be the center of your season, providing more snowflakes, cider, shopping, and Santa than your sugar plum dreams can hold. All holiday and into the night, Liberty Center is your place for festive delights.

SCAN HERE FOR A FULL LIST O F E V E N TS !

Liberty-Center.com N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2023

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Visit Canton

Support local artists this holiday season in Canton where shops are offering uniquely crafted pieces. With a variety of downtown dining and entertainment options, including holiday concerts inside the historic and atmospheric Canton Palace Theatre, there’s no shortage of exciting and festive experiences to be had this year.

Shop a variety of thoughtfully curated goods from Ohio designers and artisans at The CMA Shop, located in the Canton Museum of Art, or gift a membership to the museum that includes free gallery admission, complimentary guest passes and more. Be sure to check out the lively shopping event 720 MKT happening in December at the Cultural Center for the Arts. The shopping event features over 120 vendors plus food trucks and activities for the whole family.

Pastina Art Center, also located in downtown Canton, hosts 14 resident and consignment artists, and new art exhibitions open every first Friday of the month. With two floors of artisan studio spaces, art classes and workshops are available and welcome all ages.

Similarly, Market Street Art Spot in Minerva hosts nine resident artists specializing in woodwork, ceramics, jewelry, painting and more, with their works being featured in rotating art exhibitions. The shop also displays the work of over 30 other local artists, and their imaginative, handcrafted pieces are available for sale and viewing throughout the gallery space. Go to visitcanton.com for more information.

FOR SPECIAL GIF TS Browse endless collections of treasured items! Find fashionable clothing, jewelry, accessories, home decór, and seasonal items.

Restaurants, Shops, Inns, & Theater CarlisleGifts.com | DutchValleyGifts.com 112

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BELLVILLE | PLAIN CITY | SUGARCREEK WALNUT CREEK

S P EC I A L A DV E R T I S I N G S EC T I O N

Holmes County

Discover the beauty and simplicity of the holidays in Ohio Amish Country. Holmes County has an abundance of charming shops and boutiques, restaurants suited for both comforting and refined dining experiences and a series of festive events happening throughout the season.

While exploring the various towns that dot the countryside, visitors can shop for one-of-a-kind specialty wood items or gifts at family-owned Keim Home Center. Find chic and trendy clothing and home decor at bfearless or the Village Gift Barn. Visit Lone Star Quilt Shop and choose from a variety of fabrics for your next handmade heirloom.

Take the opportunity to learn more about local culture and traditions by visiting Behalt, the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center.

Sharing a family-style dinner is a great way to unwind after a day of shopping, and restaurants like Der Dutchman, Amish Door and East Main Kitchen each offer a hearty menu complete with homestyle comfort foods such as chicken pot pie, homemade bread and sweet desserts. For those looking for a more intimate dining experience, Tarragon at the Inn at Honey Run offers a cozy ambience with romantic candlelit dinners.

Check out the area’s seasonal events, including festive Christmas parades and markets. To extend the holiday enjoyment, book an overnight stay at one of Holmes County’s many charming bed-and-breakfasts or cozy cabins for a peaceful winter retreat. For more information, go to visitamishcountry.com.

Find special, handcrafted gifts and take part in events happening this season in Canton and Stark County (opposite page). Holmes County (above) offers a unique variety of shopping, dining and overnight experiences.

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Keim Home Center

With the holiday season approaching, ambitions of home renovation and repairs come to mind. A trip to Keim is a great way to get started on those updates you hope to make before family arrives or to begin planning for the projects you want to tackle in the new year.

Located in the rolling hills of Holmes County and the picturesque countryside of Charm, Keim has been a trusted destination for the community’s home, building and woodworking needs since it began as a small sawmill in 1911. In the years that followed, the family-owned operation has been expanded and relocated, but the vision has always remained the same: to provide excellent service and quality assistance for any home project.

To help alleviate some of the stress of the season, Keim is hosting a Holiday Kickoff event Nov. 20 through 25 where shoppers can enjoy discounted prices for the entire week, except for Thanksgiving Day when the store will be closed.

In addition to the lower prices, customers can earn gift cards with the purchase of items from qualifying brands. Keim is also offering a free gift-wrapping service, so you can focus on the true meaning of the holiday season. To help plan your trip or to find more information about Keim’s Holiday Kickoff, visit keimhome.com.

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S P EC I A L A DV E R T I S I N G S EC T I O N

Easton Town Center

Located in northeast Columbus, Easton Town Center is a premier holiday destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. For over two decades, this lively shopping district has brought families and friends together to celebrate the season by creating a festive air for its streets and shops.

Peruse a diverse selection of over 250 bestin-class stores, restaurants and entertainment venues that suit a variety of tastes and interests while immersed in the wintertime magic of Easton’s seasonal displays and over 2 million holiday lights.

Pedestrian-friendly pathways guide visitors through the beautifully decorated, open-air town square, fountains and green spaces of Easton, among which shoppers will find some of today’s best brands and restaurants.

New and interesting stores are always joining Easton’s vast selection of retailers. Some of the more recent additions include Jo Malone London, Buck Mason, Allbirds and Alo Yoga, all of which are new to both Columbus and Ohio.

Kick off the holidays at Easton with its Grand Illumination event on Friday, Nov. 17, or catch one of the magnificent tree-lighting shows, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the property or stroll the sidewalks while taking in the glow.

For more information, visit eastontowncenter.com.

Keim Home Center (opposite page) is a source for home, building and woodworking needs. Easton Town Center in Columbus livens up the holiday season with festive displays and fun events to complement its wide array of offerings.

Toast to the Holidays and the New Year: Marion Palace Theatre's Seasonal Spectacular!

On The Main Stage

Cherctisatcmulaas r Sp Christmas at the Palace Presents

Celebrate the Season's Magic: Join Us for Christmas at the Palace.

A Cherished Annual Tradition!

Get Ready to Laugh and Celebrate the Holidays with this Hilarious Christmas Comedy Extravaganza!

New Year, Same Cher Magic: Lisa McClowry Live in Marion!

December 1-3, 2023

December 15, 2023

February 17, 2024

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lace Lik No P

Events in the May Pavilion No Place Like Home January 20, 2024

Shovel City Improv January 27, 2024

Marion Palace Theatre 276 W Center St | Marion OH 43302 740.383.2101 | marionpalace.org

Featuring Madisen Schenk & Tanner WInk

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Belden Village Mall

Experience the most magical time of the year at Belden Village Mall in Canton where you can enjoy a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options all season long. Take advantage of holiday specials and family-friendly events offered throughout the season.

With over 100 retail brands, including Chico’s, Express, Journey’s, Torrid, Windsor, Macy’s, Dillard’s and a Dick’s Sporting Goods/Galaxy Golf combo store, and clothing items that cover a wide variety of fashion trends ranging from casual to luxury, this shopping destination promises to fulfill all your holiday gifting needs.

Whether you’re looking to stop for a quick lunch or kick back at the end of a long day with dinner and holiday spirits, there are plenty of restaurants and eateries on the property that are sure to satisfy. Condado Tacos, Bravo Italian Kitchen, Burntwood Tavern, Chili’s, Scramblers and Dave & Busters each offer dine-in and carry-out options, giving you plenty of choices for when it comes time to fuel up during your shopping trip.

Bring the young ones along on to see Santa for his grand arrival on Nov. 16, and return to get your holiday photo with him (reservations are recommended) any time before Christmas Eve. For more information visit beldenvillagemall.com. ●

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TRAVEL DIRECTORY EXPERIENCE

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MILESTONES

The Rike’s Toy Parade Tradition

Between 1923 and 1942, Dayton’s Rike-Kumler Co. department store hosted a colorful parade through the city to kick off the holiday shopping season.

B

eginning in 1923, a year before Macy’s famous holiday parade took its first steps, the inaugural Rike-Kumler Co. Thanksgiving Day parade brought thousands of people to the streets of downtown Dayton to enjoy the colorful spectacle of life-size toys and comic book characters, creative floats and the arrival of old Saint Nick himself. The 1930 celebration was memorable for not only the parade itself but also the blistering cold weather that spectators endured.

“Despite the fact that yesterday was the coldest Thanksgiving Day on record, thousands of men, women and children lined the curbs of downtown Dayton for more than two hours while Rike’s Toy Town parade passed in review,” the Dayton Daily News reported in its Nov. 28, 1930, edition.

For the 1935 parade, Dayton’s Main Street was temporarily transformed into “Toytown Highway,” as beloved characters

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like Mother Goose, Jumbo, Minnie and Mickey Mouse and Mr. and Mrs. Jack Sprat stepped off from the Montgomery County Fairgrounds at 10 a.m., while Santa traded in his sleigh for a throne of ice.

“Elaborate preparations had been made for this year’s event and as the gaily costumed characters moved along, the older persons evidenced as much enthusiastic pleasure as did the children,” the Dayton Daily News reported in its Nov. 29, 1935, edition.

By the time Rike’s Toy Parade reached what would be its final year in 1942, it had taken on a more patriotic tone following the United States’ entry into World War II. The Dayton Herald reported in its Nov. 25, 1942, edition that, “patriotism will be manifest throughout the colorful parade, popular characters from American history being introduced in a campaign as an inspiration to buy more war bonds and stamps.”

The parade that year included a reenactment of the midnight ride of Paul Revere as well as Betsy Ross and her Colonial maidens stitching the first American flag. But it would take more than World War to keep Santa from making an appearance in Dayton.

“No pre-Christmas parade would be complete even in wartimes, and that worthy gentleman will bring up the rear, riding in his golden sleigh pulled by eight white reindeer leaping over the housetops.” — Nathan Havenner

COURTESY OF OHIO HISTORY CONNECTION

The Rike-Kulmer Co. Thanksgiving Day parade on the streets of Dayton in 1935

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ake sure your vacation plans for 2024 include a visit to the Grand Lake Region’s Celina, Ohio, chosen as one of Ohio’s Best Hometowns.

This beautiful community, nestled along the northwest corner of Ohio’s Largest Inland Lake, welcomes you with a laid-back lakeside vibe.

You will find great restaurants, unique shops and plenty of lake area entertainment. The Grand Lake Region also offers wonderful trails so you can truly connect with nature and of course, water sports of all sorts.

We look forward to welcoming you to Celina, one of Ohio’s Best Hometowns. Your travel planning begins at www.SeeMore.org.

@dutches76

Celebrating Sharonville, One of the Best The Cincy Region is home to many enchanting neighborhoods that have their own unique personalities with distinct offerings. It’s no surprise that Sharonville has been named as one of the Best Hometowns in Ohio.

Experience a city where you can take a step back in time to enjoy a root beer float straight out of the ’50s, experience 19th-century Ohio life in a historical village, and explore a prehistoric fossil park. For those firmly planted in the 21st century, this suburb offers many modern comforts, too, from a world-class convention center to local bars and eateries.