Cincinnati OH 2024-25

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.

neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.

The Social Glue: Connecting Through Chuckles

The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair

When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a

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Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool. Evolutionary scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.

When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.

The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In

You’ve probably experienced

Restaurants

Maplewood Kitchen and Bar

Spacious cafe for Californian cuisine for breakfast through dinner amid wooden tables & greenery.

525 Race St, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Phone: (513) 421-2100 | Web: maplewoodkitchenandbar.com

Camp Washington Chili

Local landmark dishing up chili & casual food 24 hours a day (closed Sunday) in a 1940s-style space.

3005 Colerain Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45225

Phone: (513) 541-0061 | Web: campwashingtonchili.com

Montgomery Inn The Boathouse

Veteran barbecue chain dishing up classic meat dishes in sauce, plus grills, salads & seafood.

925 Riverside Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Phone: (513) 721-7427| Web: montgomeryinn.com

Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?

Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.

Incline Public House

This laid-back gastropub has a seasonal outdoor deck with skyline views & an American menu.

2601 W 8th St, Cincinnati, OH 45204

Biagio’s Bistro

Charming neighborhood hangout serving up classic Italian cuisine, desserts, wine & cocktails.

308 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220

Thai Taste

Simple Thai place offering curries & noodle dishes, plus a few Chinese, Vietnamese & Japanese faves.

5120 Crookshank Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45238

Los Potrillos Mexican Restaurant Bar & Grill

Mainstay for classic Mexican fare with margaritas & full bar, served in a casual dining room.

316 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220

Santorini Family Restaurant

Storefront eatery serving traditional Greek & American dishes in a casual atmosphere.

3414 Harrison Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45211

Mecklenburg Gardens Restaurant

Traditional German dishes served in a historic, Bavarian-style setting with a beer garden.

302 E University Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45219

Adeep India

Casual eatery for traditional Indian dishes, from tandoori fare to chicken tikka masala, & delivery.

211 W McMillan St, Cincinnati, OH 45219

Andy’s Mediterranean Grille

Bistro-like Mediterranean spot with belly dancers, serving kebabs, flatbreads & classic entrees.

906 Nassau St, Cincinnati, OH 45206

EVENTS 2024

APR 6

Eclipse Festival

Oxford, Ohio is in the path of totality, and the eclipse will last an impressive 2 minutes and 51 seconds. Enjoy a variety of food trucks, a galaxy of spacethemed activities, live music, local craft beers and a kid’s corner full of inflatables, games and more! Learn more at visitcincy.com.

APR 27

Asian Food Fest

Back for its 13th year, this 2-day food extravaganza celebrating Asian culture and cuisine attracts nearly 100,000 attendees and is one of the Cincinnati region’s fastest growing and most culturally diverse events. Comedy, cultural activities, and karaoke will highlight the entertainment line-up for Asian Food Fest 2024! Learn more at asianfoodfest.org

MAY 5

Cincy Cinco

The 20th annual Cincy-Cinco — the region’s premier Latino cultural festival — is back and more fun and delicious than ever! See downtown Cincinnati’s Fountain Square be transformed into a colorful fiesta with entertainment, music, dancing and authentic Latino food. Close to a dozen local and regional restaurants will serve a variety of Hispanic dishes. Bring the entire family and have your children join all the fun with a parade that includes Cincinnati’s favorite mascots plus a dedicated children’s area filled with games, raffles and piñatas. Learn more at hispanicchambercincinnati.com.

MAY 25

Taste of Cincinnati

Taste of Cincinnati returns this spring! Started in 1979, Taste of Cincinnati is a Cincinnati culinary tradition that features more than 65 restaurants, food trucks and Findlay Market vendors. More than 300 menu items will be available, along with a wide variety of beers and live entertainment. Learn more at tasteofcincinnati.com.

EVENTS 2024

JUN 1

Cincy Fringe Theatre Festival

This 14-day festival celebration shows the unconventional expression of theatre, art, music, film, dance and everything in between. Cincy Fringe presents over 200 performances of 40+ theatre productions, plus art galleries, screenings, concerts, workshops, classes and nightly parties hosted at pop-up venues throughout the Over- the-Rhine neighborhood of Downtown Cincinnati. Learn more at cincyfringe.com.

JUN 22

Cincinnati Pride Festival

The Cincinnati Pride Festival is a family-friendly, fun event that takes place at Sawyer Point Park on the fourth Saturday in June- this year Saturday, June 22! Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, it is FREE for everyone! Food, drinks, vendors and entertainment to fill your Saturday afternoon with fun. Learn more at cincinnatipride.org.

JUL 4

Red, White & Blue Ash

This Independence Day, come honor the nation’s birthday at one of Cincinnati’s biggest and best firework celebrations, Red, White and Blue Ash! Join Summit Park for an unforgettable Fourth of July event as you enjoy quick bites from local food vendors, refreshing drinks, family-friendly festival rides, live-character performances and more. Learn more at blueashevents.com.

AUG 10

Water Lantern Festival

Experience an unforgettable night illuminated with love, unity, and tranquility during the Water Lantern Festival. While participating in festival, enjoy food trucks, live music, fun games, great family-friendly activities and more. Learn more at waterlanternfestival.com.

the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.

cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This contagious nature of laugh ter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we ob-

serve someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.

The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being:

Stress Reduction: Laugh ter reduces the production of stress hormones like

Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.

Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.

Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.

Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social

bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.

The Laughter Prescription: Make Time for Chuckles

Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles:

Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.

Spend

Time with Funny

Friends: Surround yourself with peo ple who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.

Laughter

Find Humor in Everyday Life: Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.

Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.

Embrace the Chuckles

Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health

Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.

So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost.

Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!

EVENTS 2024

AUG 15

Summer Music Festival

Celebrate the essence of summer while listening to live music from local acts during the August Summer Music Festival at Ault Park. During the Summer Music Festival, indulge in a selection of food and drink options, ranging from craft beer and wine to hard seltzer and water. Learn more at aultparkac.org.

SEP 19

Oktoberfest Zinzinnati

Oktoberfest Zinzinnati showcases the rich German heritage of Southwest Ohio, as well as tasty samples of German-style music, food and beer. First held in 1976, the event has grown to be America’s largest Oktoberfest with more than 700,000 people attending each year. Learn more at oktoberfestzinzinnati.com.

OCT 17 BLINK®

Witness a rare display of artistry and experience enchanting activities from around the globe at BLINK – the largest light, art, and projection mapping event in the nation. Learn more at blinkcincinnati.com.

OCT 21

HallowEve Brew Bash

This Halloween season, have a haunting good time while enjoying craft beers during the HallowEve Brew Bash at Ault Park! A variety of beverages including wine, soft drinks, and water will be available for purchase, along with an array of quick bites from an on-site food truck. Get ready to wear your spookiest costumes and bring your loved ones to the HallowEve Brew Bash. Learn more at visitcincy.com.

NOV TBD

PNC Festival of Lights

The Festival of Lights is one of the oldest holiday traditions in Cincinnati.

Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:

1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~ In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~ Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,

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cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~

Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~

Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~

Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~

Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

LIVING WITH CHANGE

Supporting transgender youth and their families in their Living With Change journey. We envision a community where transgender youth are valued, thriving, and fully integrated as equitable members.

LIVINGWITHCHANGE.ORG | (513) 697-5955

PFLAG CINCINNATI

Our mission is to build on a foundation of loving families united with LGBTQ+ people and allies who support one another and to educate ourselves and our communities to speak up as advocates until all hearts and minds respect, value and affirm LGBTQ+ people.

PFLAGCINCINNATI.ORG | (513) 721-7900

TRANSFORM CINCY

Transform has a simple goal: Provide free wardrobes, head to toe, for transgender and gender non conforming youth. It’s so much more than just clothes. When one of our clients tries a new item on, and gets to feel more comfortable and joyful in their own skin, that is the transformation we are making.

TRANSFORMCINCY.ORG

CINCY PRIDE COUNSELING

To empower people of all genders and sexual orientations in the greater Cincinnati area and beyond to create meaningful change through innovative mental health approaches.

CINCYPRIDECOUNSELING.COM | (513) 468-6369

THE BIRDCAGE

The Birdcage is Cincinnati’s hottest LGBTQ+ bar and lounge. We support diversity, equality and inclusivity. We stand firmly against discrimination in any form.

THEBIRDCAGECINCINNATI.COM | (513) 381-0563

EVENTS 2024-25

It takes place at the Cincinnati Zoo and features an amazing display of 4 million LED lights. Watch a blacklight puppet show, go ice skating with the kids or friends, and much more! Learn more at cincinnatizoo.org.

DEC 1

Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt

Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt is a holiday tradition in Cincinnati that takes inspiration from German Christmas markets. Experience delicious foods, drinks, and an abundant array of seasonal merchandise. Holiday lights and live entertainment complete this festive experience, and no entry fees are required! Learn more at cincinnatichristkindlmarkt.com.

JAN TBD

Winter Song Festival

Winter Song Festival is a unique event for anyone who loves the art of song. On the first day, there’s a song slam featuring vocal teams. Similar to poetry slams, the voting audience decides who wins. A presenter is selected for the second day to deliver a meaningful vocal experience. Learn more at cincinnatisonginitiative.org.

FEB TBD

Mittenfest

Mittenfest is an annual Cincinnati festival that costs just $25. Enjoy a DJ, food trucks, craft beers, and other goodies in Washington Park. It will be cold, so wear mittens and other warm clothing. Learn more at washingtonpark.org.

MAR TBD

Bockfest

Bockfest is Cincinnati’s annual celebration of Spring, Over-the-Rhine’s brewing heritage, and Bock Beer. Admission to enjoy the Parade, bock beer, music, and entertainment at Bockfest Hall and official venues is FREE all weekend long. Learn more at bockfest.com.