Posts with tag 'Holidays'
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1
All Aboard! 9 Christmas Train Rides and Displays Around Ohio
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.
The Polar Express™ Train Ride
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.
North Pole Adventure™
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.
Christmas at the Junction
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.
Santa Train
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.
Puritas Nursery Holiday Trains
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.
Santa Christmas Train
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.
Youngstown Model Railroad Association Open House
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.
North Pole Express
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.
Express Train
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.
Get On the Right Track
In many parts of the world, trains are still a major form of transportation. What exotic location would you travel to by train?
19
These 9 Ohio Events Will Get You in the Holiday Spirit
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.
Lightwire: A Very Electric Christmas
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.
Cleveland Orchestra Holiday Concerts
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.
Frosty Frolic 5k
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.
Columbus Winterfair
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.
The Nutcracker at Ohio Theatre
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.
A Magical Cirque Christmas
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.
Holiday Pops
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.
Glass Holiday Ornaments Workshop
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.
Anderson Township Tree Lighting Ceremony
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.
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
How will you celebrate the season in Ohio this year?
10
Order Thanksgiving Pies From These 8 Places in Northeast Ohio
Thanksgiving dinner doesn't feel complete without several pies, but making them yourself can be time-consuming as well as difficult. Why not leave the task up to the experts and order pies in various flavors that will impress your holiday guests?
Start planning your menu now and check out these great places to order Thanksgiving pies from in Northeast Ohio.
Norcia Bakery
624 Belden Ave NE, Canton, OH 44704
Norcia Bakery has a long history of success and was founded in 1918 by the Norcia family, who immigrated from Italy. The bakery offers fresh-baked bread and pastries, including a variety of pies at affordable prices, so it's a great place to order several different flavors to end your Thanksgiving dinner on a sweet note. While you're there, pick up some of the bread, an authentic Italian split-top loaf made using the original bread recipe that John Norcia brought from Italy.
Rood Food + Pie
17001 Madison Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107
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If you've had a slice of pie with your meal at Rood Food + Pie or have visited the restaurant's pie bar, you'll want to make one of their unique creations part of your holiday menu. For a more sophisticated take on the classic banana cream pie, try their version that's made with bananas in spiked vanilla pudding with brandy-soaked vanilla wafers and topped with fresh whipped cream and a brandy caramel drizzle. Or impress your guests with the Amaretto Custard, which in addition to its rich custard, has a vanilla almond butter crust, whipped cream, toasted almonds, and smoked sea salt.
Tiffany's Bakery
620 Ridgewood Crossing Dr., Akron, OH 44333
Serving up pies, cakes, and pastries like cannoli and doughnuts for over 40 years, Tiffany's Bakery will have you drooling over their large menu of tasty sweets. Pie choices include traditional favorites like apple and cherry as well as cream pies. The shop takes pride in making sure pies look as good as they taste, and it's received several local Best Bakery honors as proof of its success.
The Sweet Fix Bakery
2307 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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This cozy Cleveland Heights bakery got its start as Craig's Divine Desserts, a licensed, home-based bakery that was successful enough to expand. All of its baked goods are prepared on-site, including cakes, cookies, and pies by the slice or whole pies. Order a traditional favorite like a sweet potato or key lime pie, and add in pineapple supreme and decadent Oreo pies.
Gray House Pies
26075 Detroit Rd., Westlake, OH 44145
You're sure to find lots to order at Gray House Pies, which serves a large variety of pies including, fruit, cream, specialty, and savory pies. All are homemade, including the butter crusts, and when milk and eggs are used, they're organic and free-range, respectively. You won't find any fillers, preservatives, or canned fruit used, either. Try a Four Berry Buzzed Friends pie made with four types of berries as well as brandy and honey, a pumpkin pecan crumble pie, or a crapple (cranberry/apple). Or, if you'd prefer a savory pie to serve alongside your turkey, order a mac n cheese (plain or with bacon) or loaded potato, each made with a flaky pastry crust.
Bakers Square Restaurant & Pies
7011 W. 130th St., Parma Heights, OH 44130
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Many people like to enjoy a meal at Bakers Square Restaurant & Pies, and the highlight is often a slice of pie for dessert. Many of the restaurant's pies have won multiple awards, so they've proven to be deliciously popular. You can order whole pies to take home for Thanksgiving, including the triple berry, which is bursting with the fruity flavor of raspberries, blueberries, and boysenberries. You'll also find favorites like pecan, cherry, and apple (which also comes in a reduced sugar option) on the menu, as well as the most popular option — a French silk pie with smooth chocolate silk covered with real whipped cream and milk chocolate curls inside the pastry crust.
Nancy's Main Street Diner
426 Main St., Grafton, OH 44044
Nancy's Main Street Diner has become well known locally for its cakes and pies, most of which can be made in sugar-free varieties and full-sugar versions. The diner serves cream, fruit, and Dutch fruit pies, including raspberry and coconut cream options. For full-on, belt-loosening decadence, go for the Elvis Pie, which has a peanut butter crumble crust and layers of fresh banana slices, peanut buttercream, banana cream, homemade peanut butter sauce, whipped cream, and vanilla wafers.
The West Side Bakery
2303 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44313
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The West Side Bakery has garnered a loyal following since its opening in 1995. It's been honored for 13 years by Akron Life Magazine as the Best Local Bakery and also earned the award for Akron's Best Bakery from the readers of the Akron Beacon Journal. Choose from pies like pecan and pumpkin, as well as bumbleberry, buckeye, hot fudge, peach raspberry, and more. They look just as good as they taste, so they'll make a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Autumn Skies and Delicious Pies
What's your favorite type of pie to find on the Thanksgiving table?
31
12 Cleveland Area Restaurants Open On Thanksgiving This Year
Thanksgiving Day is nearly here, bringing with it the opportunity to gather with friends and family and indulge in some hearty American classics. This day typically requires a full day (or more) of preparation from the host, and hours of cleanup after the fun is over.
There isn't just one way to celebrate Thanksgiving, so this year, maybe it's time to explore the city and try something new! While cooking your own meal is certainly fun, there is also a number of high-end local restaurants offering up Turkey Day feasts of their own!
We gathered up some of our favorite Thanksgiving Day deals in Cleveland to make your job even easier—all you have to do is make a reservation.
100th Bomb Group
20920 Brookpark Road, Cleveland
This unique dining destination is located right across from the runways of the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Watch planes take off and fly in as you dig into your Thanksgiving feast! This year, enjoy their famous Thanksgiving buffet from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. for $58.95 per person ($27.95 for children 5-12). You can make a reservation by visiting their OpenTable page.
1833 Restaurant
1613, 10 East College Street, Oberlin
1833 Restaurant inside the Hotel at Oberlin in Tappan Square serves soul-warming food year-round, which makes it the perfect destination for your Thanksgiving feast. The restaurant will serve a traditional Thanksgiving buffet on the big day, featuring a butter and sage roasted turkey; a brown sugar glazed Virginia ham; whipped potatoes; green bean casserole; and plenty of sweet, festive treats! Reservations are required, so call (440) 775-7001 to reserve your spot.
Adega
2017 East 9th Street, Cleveland
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Housed within Cleveland's prestigious Metropolitan Hotel, Adega serves fresh, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine that is delicious all year long. While they won't be serving their usual menu on Thanksgiving Day, be sure to expect equally delicious dishes like a honey smoked turkey, sweet potato fettuccine and pumpkin creme brulee! Visit OpenTable to make your reservation.
The Cabin of Willowick
28810 Lake Shore Boulevard, Willowick
At the Cabin of Willowick, diners come hungry and leave happy. The menu features fresh sushi, incredible steaks and fresh sandwiches alongside hand-crafted cocktails and a world-class wine list. Diners can expect the same excellent quality at their annual Thanksgiving Day dinner! Expect succulent turkey and a wide assortment of delicious trimmings! Reservations are required.
Carrie Ceninos
8922 Ridge Road, North Royalton
Carrie Ceninos, a family-owned event venue and restaurant, is known for its mouthwatering Italian cuisine. The restaurant hosts an annual Thanksgiving dinner and buffet—and this year is expected to be the best yet! Indulge in all of your holiday favorites for just $29.50 ($15.50 for children 8-12 and $12.50 for children 4-7). Click here for more information.
Horizons Restaurant at The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake
Photo courtesy of Horizons Restaurant at The The Lodge at Geneva on the Lake
Nestled in Ohio's wine country, The Lodge at Geneva On The Lake is a gorgeous place to escape to this holiday season. This Thanksgiving, you can enjoy their Thanksgiving Day Buffet, which is stuffed with traditional holiday favorites and tasty new dishes that the whole family will love. While the lodge is about a 45-50 minute drive from Cleveland proper, we promise the stunning scenery and delicious food will be entirely worth it. Call (440) 415-1546 to reserve your seats today!
Pickwick & Frolic
2035 East 4th Street, Cleveland
For just $39.95 a person ($14.95 for kids ages 4-12), you and the family can sit down to a spectacular feast at Pickwick & Frolic. Buffet offerings will include freshly carved turkey and glazed ham, mashed potatoes, candied yams, a chocolate fountain, and all of your favorite seasonal items.
Pier W
The sweeping views, modern setting, elegant natural finishes and live piano make Pier W a spectacular place to celebrate Thanksgiving! Dinner at Pier W is always amazing—and their Thanksgiving offerings will be no exception. The selection will be fresh and delicious, and you can eat your fill of trimmings while marveling at the breathtaking view of Cleveland and Lake Erie. Call (216) 228-2250 for more information on their holiday menu and to reserve your seat!
Rider's Inn
792 Mentor Avenue, Painesville
The cozy yet elegant atmosphere at Rider's Inn draws you in from the beginning. Cozy up at a table on Thanksgiving Day and enjoy a traditional turkey dinner along with ham and a non-traditional menu. Call (440) 354-8200 to make your reservation—and think about spending the weekend there while you're at it!
Southside
2207 West 11th Street, Cleveland
Nestled in Tremont, Southside is famous for their spacious patio and incredible brunch (we even featured them in our article on the best brunch spots in Cleveland!) so it's no surprise that they also have a great Thanksgiving menu! This year, they're planning on serving their late-night menu from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., featuring special holiday dishes. Click here to make a reservation.
Urban Farmer
1325 East 6th Street, Cleveland
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While Urban Farmer isn't technically "open" on Thanksgiving, they're still on a mission to make putting a Thanksgiving dinner on your table as easy as pie! That's why they're offering a curbside Thanksgiving meal pick-up on the big day. All you have to do is place your order before November 21st at 6:00 p.m. and you'll be treated to a fresh, roasted turkey, smashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing and pumpkin pie—which will be hand-delivered to your car on Thanksgiving Day. Have a vegetarian in your life? Don't worry, they'll also have a roasted vegetable wellington available. Visit their Eventbrite page to reserve your meal before they're gone!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Did we miss your favorite spot to celebrate Turkey Day in Cleveland? Let us know in the comments!
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13 Don't-Miss Fourth of July Events in Cincinnati This Year
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