Posts with tag 'Holiday'

Is heading to the Christmas tree farm or lot with the family to pick a perfect tree one of your favorite holiday traditions? Ohio offers so many great Christmas tree farms to choose from, whether you're from Columbus, live in Cincinnati, or are celebrating the holidays in Northeast Ohio. Start your search for the perfect tree with our guide to nine Christmas tree farms around Ohio and Northern Kentucky.

The Farms at Pine Tree Barn

4338 Shreve Rd., Wooster, OH 44691

One of Ohio's oldest and largest Christmas tree farms, The Farms at Pine Tree Barn is an excellent place to shop if you want to maximize your selection. There are more than 75,000 Christmas trees to choose from on this 150-acre farm, along with wreaths, boughs, roping, and swags. After you pick out your tree, be sure to check out the other activities, like rides on the Pine Tree Express, family holiday photo sessions, horse-drawn carriage rides, sledding, and dining at the Village Cafe.

Sugar Pines Farm

9500 Mulberry Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026

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With both cut-your-own and pre-cut Christmas trees available, Sugar Pines Farm makes it easy to fit tree shopping into your busy schedule. Of course, you might want to leave some time to enjoy the other activities available during the holidays on this 100-acre farm. Take a ride around the scenic farm on the hay wagon, or settle in by the warm comfort of the fire with kettle corn, hot chocolate, and all sorts of other holiday treats. Santa will also be making appearances at Sugar Pines Farm on December 3 and 10 from 1 p.m. through 4 p.m.

Galehouse Tree Farm

11762 Coal Bank Rd., Doylestown, OH 44230

Whether you want a pre-cut tree, a cut-your-own-tree experience, or even wholesale-cut Christmas trees, the team at Galehouse Tree Farm has you covered. They're open every day from November 1 through December 23, with tons of ready-cut trees to browse at the Tree House Gift Shop for a convenient shopping experience. The Tree House is more than just a place to find your next tree. It's a shop filled with little holiday wonders to decorate your home, from ornaments to lights, figurines, and lovely, rustic country décor.

Cackler Family Farms

4971 Cackler Rd., Delaware, OH 43015

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Since 1989, Cackler Family Farms has been helping families in the Cincinnati area celebrate their favorite holiday traditions. The combination of an extensive selection, friendly, personalized service, and reasonable prices keeps many families coming back here year after year. If you're planning to shop here, be aware that reservations are required for the 2022 holiday season, and you can easily make your reservation on the Cackler Family Farms website.

HTH Christmas Tree Lot

2340 W. Dublin Granville Rd., Linworth, OH 43235

In addition to choosing from a wide selection of Fraser Fir, Scotch Pine, and Douglas Fir trees of all sizes, shopping at the HTH Christmas Tree Lot is also a way to support a good cause during the holiday season. The non-profit Hope Thru Housing organization operates this lot, and all proceeds are donated to the cause. While you're there, be sure to check out the selection of wreaths, garland, tree stands, and other items to help decorate your home.

Timbuk Farms Christmas Tree Farm

2030 Timbuk Rd., Granville, OH 43023

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For a full family tree shopping experience, it's tough to top what you'll find at the Timbuk Farms Christmas Tree Farm. Shop from a huge selection of locally grown trees, then check out fun holiday activities like Santas Sleigh, the photo fun park, an antique car collection, and a giant haystack for the kids to climb. Stop by the Timbuk Lodge to warm up by a crackling fire, shop for holiday gifts, and enjoy some delicious seasonal refreshments on the weekends.

John T. Nieman Nursery & Landscaping

3215 Hamilton New London Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013

For stress-free, professional service while Christmas tree shopping, the team at John T. Nieman Nursery & Landscaping has you covered. They've been in business for over 75 years, with over 60,000 trees currently growing on the 125-acre farm. Head to the fields to pick the perfect tree, then the team will help you cut, shake, haul, and secure your tree to your vehicle. The Christmas Barn is where you can shop for all of your other holiday decorating needs while enjoying complimentary hot chocolate and cookies.

Corsi Tree Farm

1651 Bolender Rd., Hamersville, OH 45130

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A convenient, hassle-free experience is what you can expect when you visit Corsi Tree Farm, where every tree, no matter the size, is priced at $75. Stop by on a chilly fall day to cut your own tree, then head to the Broken Stone lodge to warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and a bowl of authentic Italian chili. There's also a free petting zoo for the kids and live music on the weekends.

Tom Mitts Christmas Trees

625 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071

Serving Newport, KY, and the greater Cincinnati area for more than 50 years, Tom Mitts Christmas Trees offers an outstanding selection of trees from its convenient location in the heart of Newport. The shop is open every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. while supplies last, with trees ranging in size from 3 feet to over 14 feet. You can also pick up handy supplies like tree stands, nets, garland, and wreaths, along with free candy canes for the kids.

Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree

With so many great farms to choose from, where will you pick your own tree this year?

While it seems that national big-box retailers dominate the landscape, more than 99 percent of our country's businesses are small. As we head into the holiday season, show your support for these shops and restaurants that are the backbone of our economy.

Celebrate Small Business Saturday on November 26 by shopping at these wonderful locations around Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

Joseph-Beth Booksellers

2692 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208

Do you love the thrill of holding a new book in your hand, ready to open to the first page? Whether you're looking for bestsellers, classics, or non-fiction, you'll find it at Joseph-Beth Booksellers. Membership in their Gives Back Rewards Program sends a portion of your purchases to a community partner of your choice. It also earns you great perks, such as in-store discounts and coupons for the Brontë Bistro. Hours are 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.

Velocity Bike & Bean

7560 Burlington Pike, Florence, KY 41042

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Bicycles and caffeine may not seem like a natural pairing, but a visit to Velocity Bike & Bean could change your perspective. When owner Mark Ball, a gifted bicycle mechanic, opened his bike shop in 2011, he and his wife Lisa decided to combine the venture with their passion for craft coffee. The selection of pastries and breakfast sandwiches always includes some vegan and gluten-free options. Velocity Bike & Bean is open Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Casablanca Vintage

3944 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45233

"Here's looking at you, kid," when you're done up in the finest fashion from Casablanca Vintage. Opened in 1985, the shops specialized in pre-1970s menswear, especially for film and theater use. Casablanca Vintage has since expanded to include clothing for all genders, with most pieces coming from the 1920s to the 1990s. While they still work with the film and theater industry, the shop welcomes anyone interested in classic clothing. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 5 p.m.

Rabbit Hash General Store

10021 Lower River Rd., Rabbit Hash, KY 41005

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When it comes to small businesses, Rabbit Hash General Store has attained legendary status. This delightful throwback to classic American general stores has been in operation since 1831. Named for a local culinary specialty, Rabbit Hash General Store draws residents and tourists alike with its eclectic mix of antiques, gifts, housewares, and countless other products. Commemorate your visit with a logoed t-shirt, hat, mug, or flask, and share the Rabbit Hash spirit with unique gift baskets that can be shipped around the country. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., seven days a week.

Deerhaus Decor

135 W. Elder St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

Just bought a new home or getting ready to sell? Dress it up in style with accessories from Deerhaus Decor. Owners Sonja and Ben curate the products in their store with an eye toward sustainability and small-batch manufacturing. Eco-friendly products on their shelves include soy candles, biodegradable sponges, and reusable food wraps. Some items are actually made by Sonja herself, who has her own studio that features natural plant-dye services and vintage repairs. Deerhaus Decor is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.

Plaid Room Records

122 W. Loveland Ave., Loveland, OH 45140

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Music lovers are rediscovering the pure sound of vinyl. Start your collection or add to an existing one at Plaid Room Records. The family-owned shop, opened in 2015, is an offshoot of their Colemine Records label and analog studio. More than 20,000 LPs are stocked in-house, and you can search their inventory of used 45s for gems from Bill Haley & the Comets, Sam Cooke, and Talking Heads. Pre-order the hottest upcoming releases to reserve your copy. Hours are noon - 7 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.

The Dragon's Hoard

8141 Mall Rd., Florence, KY 41042

Fans of small- and big-screen epics such as Game of Thrones and The Lord of the Rings aren't content simply to watch. Cosplay lets viewers immerse themselves in these make-believe worlds, and The Dragon's Hoard covers all genres, from sci-fi and fantasy to steampunk and anime. Be sure to check out their namesake dragon collection, including banners, jewelry, and figurines. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

&Sundries

2807 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206

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No matter how busy the holidays get, it's important to take time for yourself. &Sundries is full of luxurious products that are perfect for pampering. Treat yourself to some pumpkin and spice whipped soap, raspberry vanilla bubble bath, or peppermint body lotion. After your bath, cozy up with a soft robe, throw blanket, and neck wrap. Of course, all the amazing handcrafted items make terrific gifts as well. &Sundries is open Tuesday through Friday from noon - 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon -  5 p.m.

Bircus Brewing Company

322 Elm St., Ludlow, KY 41016

Take a break from shopping for some family-friendly entertainment at one of the more unique venues around. Located in the Ludlow Theatre, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Bircus Brewing Company presents Circus Mojo matinees each weekend at 2 p.m. Afterward, try your hand at spinning plates or swinging on the trapeze. The theater/brewery also hosts a great lineup of concerts and serves up artisan wood-fired pizzas, such as the signature Goetta Grip. Bircus Brewing Company is open 4 - 10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 4 p.m. - midnight Friday, noon - midnight Saturday, and noon - 8 p.m. Sunday.

Steering Your Own Ship

Have you nurtured a dream to start your own business? If so, what would it be?

The holiday season is fast approaching, and now is the perfect time to start planning for some enchanting family fun. With events like the Christmas Connection in Northeast Ohio, A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage in Columbus, A 19th Century Holiday Guided Tour near Cincinnati, and many more, you have tons of great options no matter which corner of Ohio you call home. Here are some events to look forward to as you plan for the holidays in Ohio.

A Motown Christmas

605 N. Market Ave., Canton, OH 44702

Featuring former members of The Temptations, The Miracles, and The Contours, A Motown Christmas puts a soulful spin on your favorite classic holiday tunes. This family-friendly performance will be held on November 17, 2022, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. at the gorgeous Canton Palace Theater, and is sure to have you dancing in the aisles. Bring the whole family for a memorable night of music, choreography, and fun surprises to kick off the holiday season in style.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

198 Hill St., Akron, OH 44325

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Settle in for an evening of holiday music, spectacular acrobatics, and unforgettable performances when you attend Cirque Dreams Holidaze at the Edwin J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall on the University of Akron campus. Featuring performers from around the world, a spectacular stage set, and an original score mixed with holiday classics, this show is sure to dazzle audience members of all ages. The show kicks off on December 6, 2022, at 7:30 p.m., with 20 unique acts leading you through an evening of holiday wonder, whimsy, and delight.

Holiday Cookie Camp with the Kids

250 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH 43215

Enjoy sweet, holiday-themed fun for the whole family when you attend Holiday Cookie Camp with the Kids at Mitchell Hall on the Columbus State Community College Campus. Learn how to dazzlingly decorate holiday treats from chocolate-dipped pretzel rods to sweet sugar cookies, then finish off the event by sampling some of your creations paired with a delicious mug of hot chocolate. The fun starts on December 10, 2022, at 11 a.m., with instruction from chef Shawnie Kelley.

Christmas Connection

1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland, OH 44135

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Get a head start on your holiday shopping while enjoying plenty of attractions and activities for younger family members when you visit the Christmas Connection in Cleveland. The event will take place November 18-20, 2022, at the International Exposition Center, with hundreds of vendors selling gifts for even the hardest to shop for people on your list. The kids will love visiting Santa Land, where they can meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves. There's even a Sugar Plum Shoppe featuring thousands of pre-wrapped, affordable items perfect for kids with their own shopping lists.

A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage

34 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215

Turn back the clock and enjoy a true holiday classic for all ages with A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage at the Palace Theater in Columbus. This new touring show brings A Charlie Brown Christmas to the theater stage with all of your favorite characters and songs. The show starts at 6 p.m. on November 27, 2022, the perfect family activity to wrap up Thanksgiving weekend this year.

Easton's Grand Illumination

160 Easton Town Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43219

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Get ready for a night of dazzling lights, shopping, entertainment, and family fun with Easton's Grand Illumination at the Easton Town Center. There will be live music, costumed characters, holiday decorations, and plenty of fun activities for the youngest members of the family. The evening is highlighted by the Grand Illumination at 7 p.m. when more than 2 million lights will be turned on simultaneously to light up Easton Town Center. Easton's Grand Illumination will take place on November 18, 2022, from 6-9 p.m.

The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays

650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

Prepare to be amazed by incredible illusions and marvelous magic for the whole family with The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays at the Aronoff Center for the Arts in Cincinnati. This fun, fast-paced show has delighted audiences around the globe, featuring some of the world's most talented illusionists and magicians. The show starts at 7:30 PM on November 25, 2022, ideal for an evening of family fun after a day of Black Friday shopping.

A 19th Century Holiday Guided Tour

11500 Lebanon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241

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The Heritage Village Museum is a living history museum that will transport your family to a different era, and the holiday season is an excellent time to visit. The museum will host A 19th Century Guided Holiday Tour, which will take your family throughout the historical Heritage Village to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season while learning how holiday traditions have evolved over centuries. Tours leave every hour on November 30 – December 3 and December 7-9, 2022, from 10 a.m. through 3 p.m.

Home for the Holidays

Where will you be celebrating the season in Ohio this year?

Summer weather, fantastic food, family fun, and fabulous fireworks can only mean one thing in Northeast Ohio. It's time to celebrate the 4th of July, and, as always, communities across Northeast Ohio will be pulling out all of the stops to celebrate this special day. You're sure to find a great place to celebrate July 4th close to home, and many local events include so much to see that they're spread across multiple days. Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with these eight amazing July 4th events around Northeast Ohio.

Bay Days 2022 Festival

Cahoon Memorial Park East – 27134 Lake Rd., Bay Village, OH 44140

The fun starts early in Bay Village, with the Bay Days 2022 Festival kicking off on June 30 and lasting all the way until the big day on July 4. There will be live music from a different band every night at the park gazebo, along with a Classic Car Cruise-In with live DJ, a Vintage Baseball Game featuring two local club teams, and a Children's Bike, Trike & Wagon Parade. Throughout the festival, attendees can also enjoy carnival rides, delicious food from local vendors, and informative booths from community organizations. It's all capped off by the Gala Fireworks Display, which takes place after dark on the 4th of July.

Avon Lake Independence Day Celebration, Concert & Fireworks

Weiss Field – 33401 Webber Rd., Avon Lake, OH 44102

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The Avon Lake Independence Day Celebration, Concert & Fireworks begins at 5:30 pm on Friday, July 1 and lasts until the fireworks light up the sky late in the evening. In between, you'll enjoy an on-stage Independence Day Celebration, along with live performances from Anne E. Dechant, Seeing Scarlet, and a Dave Matthews Tribute Band. Some of your favorite local food trucks will be there all evening to provide outstanding meals, with Jones Bones BBQ, Off the Griddle, Fired Up Tacos, Cathy's Cle & Kona Ice, and Kountry Krunchins among the food trucks set to appear at the celebration.

Valley City 4th of July Parade, Car Show, Music, & Fireworks

Mill Stream Park – 1200 Maple St., Valley City, OH 44280

For a full day of fun on the 4th of July, try a trip to the Valley City 4th of July Parade, Car Show, Music & Fireworks celebration at Mill Stream Park. Begin your day with the 4th of July Parade, which travels down State Route 303, West River, School Street, and Maple Street before ending at Mill Stream Park. Then stick around at the park for the Classic Car Show in the afternoon while enjoying some great concessions for lunch. The evening features a live performance from Soundcheck, followed by a wonderful fireworks display after dusk.

North Canton Community Celebration & Fireworks Display

Hoover High School – 525 7th St. NE, North Canton, OH 44720

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Held on the large lawn in front of Hoover High School, the North Canton Community Celebration & Fireworks Display is packed with fun for the whole family. It all starts at 5:30 PM when the food vendors, face painting stations, and children's activities open for the evening. The Scenic Route will be taking the stage a bit later in the evening, playing all of the hits from the past five decades in a free outdoor concert. Of course, you won't want to miss the fireworks display, which takes place shortly after the band leaves the stage.

Aurora July 4th Fun Run, Parade, Festival & Fireworks

Bicentennial Park – 115 E. Pioneer Trail, Aurora, OH 44202

Looking for a healthy, fun way to start your July 4th celebrations? The Aurora July 4th Fun Run, Parade, Festival & Fireworks starts early in the morning with a 5k fun run with awards for the top three finishers in every age bracket from kids to seniors. The July 4th Parade starts after the fun run is complete, followed by the Festival & Grand Marshall Celebration, which lasts all afternoon into the evening, and the fireworks display, which kicks off after dusk.

New Philadelphia First Town Days Festival, Parade & Fireworks

Tuscora Park – 161 Tuscora Ave. NW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663

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One of Northeast Ohio's largest July 4th celebrations takes place in New Philadelphia, where the 45th annual First Town Days Festival, Parade & Fireworks features five days packed with events from morning through evening. Whether you're interested in a Fishing Derby, Frog Jumping Contest, Turtle Races, Wiffleball Tournament, or some more conventional Independence Day fun, you're sure to find it during this festival. Events take place throughout New Philadelphia, with many of the biggest attractions being located at Tuscora Park.

Orrville Fire in the Sky 4th of July Celebration

Orr Park – 440 N. Elm St., Orrville, OH 44667

The Orrville Fire in the Sky 4th of July Celebration is part carnival, part softball tournament, and all family fun. The softball tournament is a major attraction, with three days of games at Orr Park to crown a champion. While the tournament is happening, visitors of all ages can enjoy a free carnival featuring food, carnival games, and rides that the kids are sure to love. It all wraps up on the evening of July 3 with one of the biggest fireworks displays in Northeast Ohio.

Akron Rib, White & Blue Festival

Lock 3 – 200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308

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Always one of the most anticipated events of the summer in Akron, the Rib, White & Blue Festival is a four-day event focused on fantastic food and live music. There will be a free concert during every night of the festival at Lock 3 in downtown Akron, with Monica Robbins & The Whiskey Kings, Bruce in the USA, Georgia Players Guild Best of Queen, and Creedence Relived all taking the stage on separate nights. The fireworks in Akron take place after the conclusion of the Rubberducks game on July 4, and Lock 3 offers great views of the display.

Food, Family, Fireworks, and Fun

Where will you celebrate the red, white, and blue this July?

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?