
With signs of habitation dating back to 13,000 BC, Ohio has a rich and colorful past. No matter what you learned in history books, it can't compare to seeing it with your own eyes. Whether it's a castle in Northeast Ohio, a covered bridge near Columbus, or a library in Cincinnati, a visit to these incredible sites will give you a new appreciation of our state.
North Chagrin Reservation, 2844 River Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
If you're fascinated by the fictional royalty of Game of Thrones or real-life royalty of Queen Elizabeth and her family, don't miss Squire's Castle. Located at North Chagrin Reservation, Squire's Castle was built in the 1890s and patterned after German and English baronial castles. The gatehouse also serves as the trailhead for one of the North Chagrin's more scenic routes, and there's an adjacent picnic area that includes grills and seating. North Chagrin Reservation is open daily from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Case Western Reserve University, 1855 Ansel Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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The design and backstory of Maltz Performing Arts Center are as compelling as the events that take place inside it. Founded in 1850 as a temple for the local Reform Jewish congregation, the building has a unique heptagonal shape to fit the lot's odd configuration while approximating a circle, symbolizing unity. Thanks to the creative architecture and stunning interior, the building was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. A partnership between the Temple and Case Western Reserve University led to the creation of the Performing Arts Center, which hosts a number of concerts, lectures, and other cultural activities.
714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303
While many historical buildings bear the name of their original residents, that's not the case with Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. "Stan Hywet" is actually an Old English term that translates to "stone quarry," which is a nod to the property's most prominent natural feature. The estate served as the home for the family of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber, but they also generously opened their doors to the public for frequent community events. Hours are 10 a.m. - dusk Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults and $6 for ages 6-17.
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
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Natural and man-made history combine to spectacular effect at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The 13-acre facility, located just two miles from downtown Columbus, is anchored by the John D. Wolfe Palm House. This glass greenhouse, which dates back to 1895, features 43 species of palms, including fiddle-leaf figs that were part of the original plantings. Seasonal and visiting exhibitions supplement the lush gardens and botanical biomes on permanent display. Franklin Park Conservatory is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.
145 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130
Do you think of art as something that requires specialized skill or talent? The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio has a mission to awaken the creative spirit in everyone. Programming includes themed exhibits, classes, workshops, and lectures aimed at making art accessible to all. Welcome the new year with the upcoming exhibit, "Hindsight: The Art of Looking Back," which is particularly appropriate for exploring the past. "Classrooms" are located in the Reese-Peters House, a Federal/Greek Revival-style home built in 1835 and widely acclaimed as the finest house in Lancaster. Hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 1 - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
Arney Run Park, 2340 Meister Rd. SW, Lancaster, OH 43130
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Covered bridges, once a common sight around the countryside, have become rare but treasured relics of the past. Only about one in 10 have survived to the present day, with Mink Hollow Covered Bridge being one of the more picturesque structures. At a length of 54 feet, this charming "house bridge" boasts the longest official name of any bridge in the country: Mink Hollow over Arney Run in Oil Mill Hollow near the Borcher's Mill Covered Bridge. Dog-friendly Arney Run Park is also a great spot for hiking, photography, bird-watching, and picnicking. Park hours are dawn till dusk, 365 days a year.
8070 Tylersville Rd., West Chester, OH 45069
Before social media and television, news and entertainment were transmitted across radio waves. The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting highlights the development and impact of radio technology, both locally and globally. Cincinnati native Powel Crosley Jr., once dubbed "the Henry Ford of radio," was the driving force behind the Bethany Relay Station, which broadcasted from the building that now houses the museum. Other attractions include displays of early wireless transmitters and a fully-equipped ham station where you can observe the workings of shortwave radio. The museum is open weekends from 1 - 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for everyone aged 16 and older.
414 Walnut St. #1100, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Established in 1835, the Mercantile Library is one of only about two dozen membership libraries that still exist in the country. Spread across the 11th and 12th floors of the building, the library holds more than 80,000 volumes on subjects ranging from contemporary fiction and poetry to travel and history. Harriet Beecher Stowe, Salman Rushdie, and Julia Child are just a few of the exciting guest lecturers who have appeared at the Mercantile. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.
1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409
Kitty Hawk may be the site of their first flights, but the dreams of the Wright Brothers first took hold in their hometown of Dayton. Carillon Historical Park shines a light on the Wright Brothers and other regional pioneers of transportation and industry. The 65-acre open-air museum includes displays such as the Wright Brothers National Museum, Great 1913 Flood Exhibit, and Heritage Center of Dayton Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship. Carillon Historical Park is open 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for ages 3-17.
What site in Ohio is associated with a significant memory from your own past?

Skating is a popular activity around Northeast Ohio, and you'll find plenty of ice rinks in the area where you can take a spin around the ice. Several offer great scenery, and some are located near shopping areas where you can also spend some time browsing in shops when you're out and about.
Dress in warm layers before you go since even indoor ice rinks stay cold to maintain the ice. Don't forget to bring your cell phone or camera to take photos of your kids or others in your group.
Check out the following indoor and outdoor ice rinks around Northeast Ohio, where you can glide away the stress of the day.
9999 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
The Pond Ice Rink stays busy, hosting figure skating and ice hockey as well as open skate sessions. If you'd like to drop by to skate, register online. The cost is $10, including skates and gliders (if available). And if you'd like to get more serious about your time on the ice, The Pond offers Saturday and Sunday skating lessons for all ages and skill levels. Private lessons are also available.
177 Market St., Westlake, OH 44145
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Browse in the upscale Crocker Park shopping center and then head out to the open skating rink to have some fun. Located at Union Square in front of Regal Cinemas, the rink has a surface that's made of real ice. Glide along as you listen to Christmas tunes, or keep a check on social media to see which select days DJs from 96.5 KISS-FM will be there to spin some tunes. The rink is open through Feb. 21, 2022, and costs $12 per person, including skates.
8319 Port Jackson Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
Center Ice Sports Complex is a hub for several types of ice-related activities and sports, including figure skating, hockey, and ice skating. If you'd like to do your own thing on the ice, register online in advance for an open skate. It costs $10 admission and $4 for skate rental. And whether you're just starting out or already have some skills you'd like to improve, the complex offers ice skating lessons for toddlers through adults and for everyone from beginners to more advanced levels. Before long, you might find yourself ready to tackle figure skating or hockey!
10820 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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The Rink at Wade Oval is located at University Circle, where you can spend time exploring this square mile that's filled with museums, parks, restaurants, and more. It's even been named the Best Arts District in the country by a USA Today poll of readers. The perfect place to spend a day or afternoon, University Circle also houses a skating rink to help you extend the fun. The rink is open through Feb. 27, 2022, and skating costs $3 for general admission and $2 for students. Skate rental costs $2 for general admission and $1 for students. As an added bonus, if you show your skating admission wristband, you can visit the nearby Cleveland Botanical Garden, Cleveland History Center, and Cleveland Museum of Natural History for $2 off same-day admission.
2085 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Try the ice rink in downtown Cuyahoga Falls, located at the plaza by the downtown pavilion and amphitheater. It's the perfect spot to skate after spending some time browsing at the town's outdoor shops. Park in one of three public parking decks, or try a metered spot on Front Steet when you're heading over to skate. Through Feb. 21, the rink is open from 3-8 p.m. on Fridays and noon-8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Holiday hours can differ, so check the website before you go. Admission is free for everyone, and skate rentals are $4 per person.
1785 Merwin Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Winter RiverFest, an annual holiday celebration held at Rivergate Park and Merwin's Wharf, brings an authentic ice skating rink to the park this year. You'll be able to enjoy scenic views of the Cuyahoga River as well as festive decor while you skate, and be sure to make time for other activities like visiting a beer garden or warming up at the firepits. Book your rink time online in advance since walk-ups are based on availability. Prices (including skate rental) are $15 for ages 6 and up and $8 for ages 3-5. Skating aid rentals can also be rented for $10. The rink is open until Jan. 2, 2022.
851 Oldman Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
If you're looking for a Northeast Ohio ice skating rink that offers skating year-round, head to Alice Noble Ice Arena in Wooster. The rink has open ice time on most days for $9 admission and $3 skate rental, except for Thursdays when admission is free. Lessons are also offered through the Learn to Skate USA program for kids as young as 3 and adults of all ages. And if you're ever ready to take your skating to the next level, figure skating and hockey lessons are available.
Where's your favorite place to skate in Northeast Ohio, and do you prefer an indoor rink or an outdoor one?

Winter is a wonderful time for family fun around Ohio, with indoor and outdoor activities that offer something for everyone. Whether you're enjoying some skiing in Northeast Ohio, watching some pro sports with the family in Columbus, or doing some stargazing at a historic observatory in Cincinnati, there's something to look forward to in every corner of Ohio this winter. Our latest guide has all of the delightful details on nine great places for winter family fun around Ohio this year.
10620 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026
Just west of Cleveland you'll find Alpine Valley Resort, the perfect place to enjoy some winter sports with the whole family. While it's not the largest ski resort, its smaller size makes it an ideal learning destination for any family members who are still learning how to ski or snowboard. The resort features seven trails from beginner to advanced, along with a terrain park. There's also a talented team of instructors ready to teach visitors of all ages the basics of skiing and snowboarding.
200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
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The temperature may be dropping, but that only means that the fun is heating up in downtown Akron at Lock 3. This is where you'll find Akron's most popular outdoor ice skating rink, along with loads of other fun outdoor attractions. There's a nine-hole miniature golf course, rentable igloos where you can enjoy a meal in a unique setting, and fire pits where you can warm up. You'll also find a busy schedule of events during the holidays, like breakfast with Santa and dinner with the Grinch.
2260 International Pkwy., North Canton, OH 44720
For a great mix of education and family fun, try a visit to the fascinating MAPS Air Museum, which allows you to get hands-on with some of history's most impressive aircraft. You can actually sit in the cockpit of many historic aircraft, and see what it's like to be a pilot. There are also tons of interesting educational exhibits that trace aviation history from the early 1900s to the present day.
4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065
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In most cities that are fortunate enough to have both an aquarium and zoo, you'd have to make two trips to enjoy both attractions. That's not the case at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, where you can enjoy it all in one fun-filled day. There are thousands of animals to see in countless habitats, and plenty of fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy along the way as you explore. You'll also find special experiences that allow you to feed the animals, see how the zoo works behind the scenes, and see fascinating shows like Dive into Adventure.
200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Columbus, OH 43215
The Blue Jackets are Ohio's only NHL team, and they're located close to home in Columbus! A trip to Nationwide Arena to see a Blue Jackets game is a great way to enjoy a winter evening with the family, and see some of hockey's biggest stars up close. There are special family ticket packages available, which include tickets to the game, food, and drinks for one price. On some nights, those family ticket packages even include the opportunity to skate on the ice before the game with the Blue Jackets mascot or try your luck on the ice with some slap shots after the game.
157 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219
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A massive indoor playground for both body and mind, LEGOLAND Discovery Center consistently ranks as one of the most popular attractions for families around Columbus. Kids will love building unique creations, racing LEGO cars, enjoying fun rides, and exploring a scaled replica of the city of Columbus made from more than 1.5 million LEGO blocks. Catch a popular LEGO movie at the 4D cinema, or take a behind-the-scenes factory tour to see how your favorite LEGO products are created.
3489 Observatory Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45208
Did you know that Cincinnati is home to one of the world's oldest public telescopes still in use today? The Cincinnati Observatory is the perfect place to plan a fun, educational family outing that will allow you to explore the stars. Visit at night to participate in the Astronomy Evenings program, which includes a guided tour and an opportunity to look at the stars through the observatory's telescopes. Or stop by during the day to see the facilities and take a historic walking tour of the lovely area around the observatory.
520 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Bumper cars on ice. If those four words won't get your kids excited this winter, what will? Every year, Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati is transformed into an icy playground, with bumper cars on ice and so much more. Buy a full pass to enjoy both bumper cars and ice skating, or simply choose one ticket for your favorite activity. The rink is open seven days a week and is also available for event rentals if you're planning an outing with a larger group. You can rent all of the equipment that you'll need at the rental stand, including dual-blade skates that make it easier for younger kids to learn the basics of ice skating.
1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203
Located in the beautifully restored Union Terminal, the Cincinnati Museum Center mixes education and entertainment in a way that few attractions can match. The Cincinnati Museum Center is home to the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, the Cincinnati Children's Museum, the Cincinnati History Library & Archives, and a state-of-the-art Omnimax Theater. The latest featured exhibit is The Science Behind Pixar, which provides a fascinating look at how some of the most popular movies in the world are made.
How will you turn Ohio into your own winter wonderland this year?

Trains, both toy and real, conjure up pleasant memories of days gone by. Bring a welcome touch of nostalgia to this year's holidays with a visit to these Christmas train rides and displays around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, 400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621
You and your family have loved the book and the movie. Now experience the magic in real life on The Polar Express™ Train Ride at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. Storytellers are on board to read the book as elves lead everyone in games, songs, and other activities. Refreshments include beverages and cookies made by Mrs. Claus. The train makes a stop at the North Pole to pick up Santa, who will visit with the kids during the return trip. Trains run Friday through Sunday on the first two weekends in December. Visit the website for times. Tickets range from $45-$80.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, 7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131
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Take in the winter beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley on your own North Pole Adventure™. Everyone can enjoy cookies and cocoa as kids write letters to Santa and take part in singing and dancing with elves. When the train stops at the North Pole to hand-deliver the letters, there's a good chance that a special guest will come on board. The train leaves the station at 7:30 p.m. daily through December 19. Tickets are $45-$92.
EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, OH 45069
Remember the joy you felt watching your new model train circle the Christmas tree? Share that delight with your own kids at Christmas at the Junction. In addition to being the home of the world's largest indoor train display, EnterTRAINment Junction is a family fun center revolving around a railroad theme. Christmas at the Junction features a number of holiday train displays along with dazzling decorations, lively activities, and a visit with Santa. Festivities take place through January 2. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors open at noon. Admission is $15.95 per person when purchased in advance on the website.
Zanesville & Scenic Western Railroad, 5705 SR-204, Mt. Perry, OH 43760
During the holidays, the Mt. Perry Scenic Train transforms into the Santa Train. The 40-minute ride follows the historic Glass Rock Spur, named for the days when the line transported silica sand from Central Silica Company in nearby Glenford. Santa, assisted by the conductor, will be handing out gifts and treats along the way. The Santa Train departs each hour between 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the second and third weekends of December. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for ages 3-13. Receive a discount with a donation of food or a new, unwrapped toy.
19201 Puritas Ave., Cleveland, OH 44135
For the 18th year, Puritas Nursery is treating the West Park community to their delightful holiday train display. Three separate train sets, each in a different size, are fascinating to watch for "kids" of all ages. As if that wasn't reason enough to visit Puritas Nursery, you can shop their great selection of mistletoe, wreaths, and holiday greenery, as well as a wide variety of gift items and stocking stuffers. View the trains during store hours, 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekends through December 31.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, OH 45764
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Over three decades, generations of families have made the Santa Christmas Train a part of their holiday tradition. Historic Hocking Valley makes a perfect seasonal backdrop for the two-hour trip to East Logan and back. Santa will be along for the ride to visit with each child and collect their wish lists. At the end of the journey, they will also receive a special candy cane treat. Trains run each weekend through December 19. Visit the website for departure times. Tickets are $21 for adults and $16 for ages 3-12.
751 N. Four Mile Run Rd., Austintown, OH 44515
Members of the Youngstown Model Railroad Association love to share their enthusiasm for their favorite hobby with others. One of their more popular activities is their holiday open house, which they have been conducting for more than 65 years. Held at the group's headquarters, the open house features one layout upstairs and another downstairs, with surrounding "towns" that include carnivals and other life-like details. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the first two weekends of December. A $5 donation is requested from all visitors over the age of 11.
Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 County Rd. 99, Findlay, OH 45840
Real trains? Toy trains? No need to choose at North Pole Express. Quarter-scale trains are ready to take you through a glittering wonderland of trees and lights. Meanwhile, toy train displays await in the festively decorated museum and train barn. You never know when Santa and Mrs. Claus may pop in for a visit! Activities take place 5:30 - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Sunday through January 2. Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under.
Crocker Park, 172 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, OH 44145
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Are your little ones a bit young for an actual train ride? Crocker Park's Express Train provides a healthy dose of excitement for kids who might not be ready for a longer trip. The whole family will enjoy the sight of Crocker Park done up in all its holiday finery. Before or after, kids can visit with Santa and get their picture taken at Santa's Village. The Express Train runs daily through Christmas Eve. Visit the website for hours. Tickets are $4 per person.
In many parts of the world, trains are still a major form of transportation. What exotic location would you travel to by train?

Can you believe that the holiday season is already around the corner? Now is the perfect time to start planning for some holiday family fun, and there are plenty of great events all around Ohio to help every member of the family get in the holiday spirit. Catch a fantastic holiday concert in Northeast Ohio, shop for unique, handcrafted gifts in Columbus, or learn to create your own Christmas ornaments in Cincinnati. You'll find all that and more in our list of 9 Ohio events that will get you in the holiday spirit.
182 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
Searching for a holiday performance that both kids and adults will love? A Very Electric Christmas from Lightwire Theater is one of the most unique holiday performances that you'll find anywhere, and this year's show takes place on December 19. The story of A Very Electric Christmas follows a bird named Max, who stops at the North Pole with his family and winds up on a grand holiday adventure. After the show, VIP ticket holders can even meet the cast, ask questions, and learn more about how they create their spectacularly distinctive performances.
11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106
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The Cleveland Orchestra is renowned for its enchanting holiday performances, and the Holiday Concerts series is sure to be a hit this year. The series is set for December 9 through 19 this year, with one performance each Thursday and Friday, followed by two performances on Saturday and Sunday. Performances take place at the gorgeous Severance Hall performance venue, with conductor Brett Mitchell leading the orchestra as they play all of your holiday favorites. Reserve your tickets online to ensure that you get a seat at one of Cleveland's most popular holiday shows.
1615 Stadium Park Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Whether you're looking for a great workout before you enjoy your holiday meals or you simply want to support a good cause while seeing the sights, the Frosty Frolic 5k on December 11 offers something for everyone. The course for the 5k will take you through the scenic Stadium Park Holiday Light Display, and you can enjoy some special holiday treats when you cross the finish line. There will also be appearances from Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Frosty, so this is a fun event for the whole family.
717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, OH 43211
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Shop for the perfect handcrafted gifts or find one-of-a-kind items to decorate your home at the Columbus Winterfair, which takes place from December 3 through 5 at the Ohio Expo Center. The event brings together artists and artisans from across Ohio who have been working all year to create unique crafts for the holidays. It's a great place to find items for the people on your list who are hard to shop for, and there will also be crafting demonstrations so that you can get tips from the experts on how to create your own holiday crafts.
39 E. State St., Columbus, OH 43215
From December 10 to 26, the BalletMet performance group will be putting on the holiday classic, The Nutcracker, at the beautiful Ohio Theatre. Backed by orchestral performances of Tchaikovsky's classic score, the dancers of BalletMet bring the story of The Nutcracker to life on stage. Stop by for a matinee performance on the weekend, or enjoy an evening show any night of the week throughout the show's run this year.
34 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Looking for a fresh, new spin on the classic holiday performance and something that will appeal to family members of all ages? A Magical Cirque Christmas is just the thing, and this year's show will be taking place on December 11 at the Palace Theatre. The show combines breathtaking acrobatics from Cirque performers with all of your favorite holiday music under the direction of Magical Hostess Lucy Darling. It's a live holiday performance unlike any other, and you can only find it in Columbus.
1241 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
The Holiday Pops at the Cincinnati Music Hall is one of the city's longest-running and most popular holiday performances, so this is one show that you won't want to miss. This year's performances will take place across two weekends, December 3–5 and 10–12. Performances are led by conductor John Morris Russell, with a talented cast of vocalists, musicians, and dancers. Hear some of your favorite classic holiday tunes, with both traditional and contemporary songs that your family is sure to love.
4426 Brazee St., Cincinnati, OH 45209
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Create memories that will last a lifetime as you make your own unique glass Christmas ornament at Brazee Studios in Cincinnati on December 11. During this workshop, you will learn how to create a layered glass ornament with expert instruction and all of the supplies that you'll need provided by the studio. The workshop is hosted by the Taft Museum of Art and is open to everyone age 15+ with special discounts available for museum members.
7578 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45255
Get ready for a day filled with family fun at the Anderson Township Tree Lighting Ceremony, which takes place on December 4 at Anderson Towne Center. The fun starts in the afternoon with free holiday-themed food and drink, followed by a visit from Santa. There will also be some great live performances, with your favorite holiday music ringing out through the air. Top it all off with the tree lighting ceremony, when the beautifully decorated Christmas tree is lit up for the first time. After the ceremony, enjoy some special deals and events from businesses at Anderson Towne Center.
How will you celebrate the season in Ohio this year?