
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?

Shopping for the holidays might feel a little different this year, but we're still as excited as ever. As always, one of the great joys of Christmas is finding the perfect gift for each special someone on your list. If you happen to know a few outdoorsy types, you know they can often be some of the hardest people to shop for.
Not to worry! Ohio is home to some truly amazing gear stores and outfitters. Head to one of these great shops to find a great gift for the hiker, skier, cyclist, or fisherman on your holiday shopping list.
25401 Lorain Rd., North Olmsted, OH 44070
Village Ski & Snowboard is your destination for all things winter sports in Northeast Ohio. Founded in 1974, they excel when it comes to offering great winter gear because that's all they do. The store closes in spring after the ski and snowboard season is over, only reopening again in fall. The store is packed with great gear and staffed by genuine ski-and-snowboard experts, so you can rest assured that any purchase you make here will be a good one. They're also running some great holiday sales right now.
60 Kendall Park Rd. Suite A, Peninsula, OH 44264
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If you're a hiking, backpacking, and backcountry camping enthusiast, Appalachian Outfitters is the type of place that will make you feel like a kid in a candy store. And if you happen to be shopping for someone who loves outdoor gear, you'll find just about anything they could possibly want here. From backpacks and tents to hiking boots, clothing, and camp cookware, every bit of equipment you need to make you a happy camper is here.
50 Plaza Dr., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
Geiger's has been one of Ohio's premier outfitters since 1932, and they have three locations in Northeast Ohio—Cleveland, Lakewood, and Chagrin Falls. You'll find a lot of cool stuff in their stores, but where they really shine is outdoor apparel. This is a great store to find rugged, hard-wearing outdoor-wear that's as stylish as it is functional. The staff is always friendly and knowledgeable, and the selection of merchandise always wide-ranging and unique.
833 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43214
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Named for one of Ohio's great fishing streams, Mad River Outfitters is the go-to destination for fly-fishing gear, tackle, and equipment in the Columbus area. Whether you're shopping for a fly-fishing novice or a seasoned pro, Mad River Outfitters is a perfect place to find them a gift. This store has you covered for all things fishing related, from rods, reels, flies, and line to men's and women's apparel. They even offer fly fishing classes and guided destination trips. If you're unable to make it to the brick-and-mortar store, they offer free shipping on orders over $50 within the U.S.
3980 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219
Offering an amazing variety of high-end outdoor gear and apparel, Filson is one of the best places in Columbus to get a gift for the rugged outdoorsman or woman on your holiday shopping list. You won't find anything in this store that isn't of the highest quality. Their Mackinaw Cruiser and Rugged Twill Original Briefcase are classic gifts, but be sure to browse around, as they offer new and unique seasonal offerings every year. At present, the store is open for curbside pickup and limited in-store shopping.
4584 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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Columbus has a reputation as being a great bike-friendly city. As a result, it's also a city with its fair share of excellent bike shops. Even so, Beechwold Bicycles really stands out above the rest. Founded in 2019, they're relative newcomers on the local bike scene, but they've quickly made their reputation by selling only the highest quality bicycles and equipment. Beechwold Bicycles is currently open for in-person shopping—bike shops are considered essential businesses in Ohio—but curbside pickup and delivery are available too.
9525 Kenwood Rd. #24, Cincinnati, OH 45242
Outdoorsy types in the Cincinnati area know that when they want the best hiking, camping, and climbing gear, Benchmark Outdoor Outfitters is the place to go. Offering all the top brands in the outdoor supply world, this is a store that serious adventurers visit when they need to gear up. If you know somebody who loves to climb mountains, ford rivers, and cut new paths through uncharted territory, Benchmark Outdoor Outfitters is the place to find that person a perfect gift.
2708 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
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The Cincinnati sporting community has been getting their gear from Delamere & Hopkins Outfitters for more than 25 years, and it's not hard to see why. Offering an amazing selection of fishing tackle, hunting equipment, outdoor clothing, footwear, artwork, gear, and accessories of all kinds, the store has a cozy mom-and-pop feel. It almost feels like walking into a field guide's house, except everything you see is for sale. Delamere & Hopkins is a great place to find a unique gift for the outdoor fanatic who thinks they have everything.
118 Main St., Milford, OH 45150
Roads Rivers and Trails is one of Cincinnati's premier outdoor outfitters. This family-owned store is managed and staffed by folks who really know what they're talking about. Whether you're in the store to buy a pair of hiking boots, a new tent, backpack, or kayak, there's a good chance the person you buy it from has actually used it. Be sure to call ahead and ask about the store's current COVID-19 policy.
From hiking the Buckeye Trail or fishing Lake Erie to camping in one of Ohio's 83 state parks, this is a great state to call home if you have a passion for the outdoors. Use the comments section to tell us about your favorite Ohio outdoor adventures!

The holidays are upon us in Cleveland and the surrounding areas. As always, one of our favorite parts of the season is heading out in search of the perfect Christmas tree.
Whether you're looking for a majestic, towering Douglas fir or a small Charlie Brown-esque tree in need of some love, you're in luck. These amazing Northeast Ohio Christmas tree farms offer something for everyone.
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Family-owned Storeyland Christmas Tree Farm has been planting Christmas trees since 1954. Making a family trip to this beautiful farm has become a beloved holiday tradition over the last 50-plus years, often with a tractor-pulled hayride and bonfire thrown in for good measure. The farm spans more than 100 acres of evergreens, including Canaan fir, Fraser fir, blue spruce, Norway spruce, and white pine. Cut your own or choose from their extensive selection of pre-cut trees, specialty wreaths, and pine garland.
7185 Williams Rd, Painesville, OH 44077
Whether you want to explore the fields searching for the perfect tree or choose from a vast selection of pre-cut trees, Mountain Creek Tree Farm has the goods. This third-generation family-owned farm has been in operation since 1949 and offers a beautiful 52-acre landscape of prime Christmas trees. From white pine and Norway spruce to Canaan fir and grand fir, Mountain Creek Tree Farm always offers many beautiful trees. You can also warm up by the fire in the gift barn while your tree is wrapped and prepared, but remember to bring a face covering and practice social distancing!
3898 Winchell Rd, Mantua, OH 44255
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Just a short drive from Cleveland and Akron, Wintergreen Tree Farm has been in business since 1986 and offers a great selection of pines, spruces, and firs. You can choose and cut your own tree from their picturesque rolling farmland, and the folks at the farm will be happy to wrap and prepare it for transport (this particular farm accepts cash and checks only). During the summer months, Wintergreen Tree Farm switches gears to offer pick-your-own blueberries and also offers chestnuts in autumn, making this a fun place to visit in any season.
1619 Township Rd 1455, Ashland, OH 44805
Sugargrove Tree Farm has been in the Christmas Tree business since 1984, but the farm itself goes back much further. The farm is one of Ashland County's oldest and has been continuously owned and operated by six generations of the same family since 1823. They offer pre-cut trees in four varieties—Canaan fir, Fraser fir, blue spruce, and white pine—and also provide tractor-pulled wagon rides into the field, where you can choose your own if none of the pre-cut offerings strikes your fancy. Only cash and checks are accepted (there's an ATM on-site), and masks are required on all wagon rides.
8916 Jefferson Rd, Shreve, OH 44676
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With cut-your-own, pre-cut, and live balled trees, Twinsberry Tree Farm has something for everyone. The farm itself has been a fixture of the Wayne County landscape since the 1930s, but it wasn't until the '70s that the Berry Family started dedicating 40 of its acres to growing Christmas trees. Their trees are grown pesticide-free, just as they have been on this 155-acre farm for more than 40 years. To help with social distancing, Twinsberry Tree Farm also provides an online store where you can pre-order a tree for pick-up. Handmade custom wreaths and greenery are available as well.
4374 Shreve Rd, Wooster, OH 44691
A 150-acre farm populated by about 75,000 trees, the Farms at Pine Tree Barn offer a complete family Christmas experience. That experience might look a little different this year due to social distancing requirements. However, Pine Tree Barn is still one of Northeast Ohio's best places to get in the holiday spirit, including a fully stocked gift shop, on-site restaurant, and rides through the fields on the Pine Tree Express. You'll find not only the perfect tree, but there's a good chance you can also pick up unique, hand-made gifts for quite a few people on your list.
9500 Mulberry Rd, Chesterland, OH 44026
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A favorite Geauga County tree farm for more than 35 years, Sugar Pines Farm offers an incredible selection and a memorable tree-cutting experience. The farm spans more than 100 acres, including dozens of acres of cut-your-own trees. It's a safe bet that your family will find just the right tree for your home. The farm also offers a great selection of pre-cut trees if venturing out into the field isn't for you. Live balled trees are available too, and the folks at Sugar Pines Farm are currently offering barn-side pickup and delivery options to keep everybody safe during the 2020 holiday season.
3301 Hamilton Rd, Medina, OH 44256
There's a tree for every family at Medina Christmas Tree Farm, including Norway spruce, blue spruce, Scotch pine, white pine, Austrian pine, Fraser fir, Canaan fir, and Concolor Fir. Select a mini tabletop-sized Christmas tree or a towering 15-foot giant from the pre-cut offerings, or explore the farm to pick your favorite among thousands of cut-your-own trees. Medina Christmas Tree Farm also offers handmade wreaths and fresh pine roping; you can even watch the process in person as the farmworkers create your special made-to-order wreath.
We're always excited to get out and find the perfect Christmas tree in Northeast Ohio. If we forgot to mention your favorite local tree farm, be sure to let us know in the comments section!

Ordering Thanksgiving dinner from your favorite restaurant is a great way to lighten your load on a busy holiday and enjoy a truly world-class meal without having to spend all day in the kitchen. Ready to feast? Check out these 9 Ohio restaurants where you can find the perfect Thanksgiving meal for your family this year.
1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
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Plan on a lovely Northeast Ohio Thanksgiving meal from Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery, which offers heat at home Thanksgiving dinners for groups of any size. Hartville Kitchen offers three different heat at home Thanksgiving packages, with meals to accommodate 6 to 24 guests. Every meal package includes all of your favorite fixings, along with a perfectly cooked turkey or ham and a delectable pie from the bakery to finish off the perfect meal. You can also create your own custom package with a la carte items from the menu – just make sure to place your order early if you want a custom Thanksgiving meal.
4118 Belden Village St. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Mulligan's Restaurant & Pub has been serving delicious Thanksgiving dinners for many years and will be bringing back all of your favorites for this year's holiday. A local favorite for nearly 40 years, Mulligan's offers a warm, inviting, family-friendly atmosphere that's perfect for a relaxed holiday meal. The special Thanksgiving menu features a full turkey dinner or your choice of filet or prime rib. Prefer to dine at home? Mulligan's also offers Thanksgiving family four-packs featuring four Thanksgiving meals, fixings included, that you can enjoy at home.
4000 Medina Rd., Akron, OH 44333
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Take the night off from cooking and head for Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, which has everything you need to enjoy a memorable holiday with your family. The Thanksgiving menu here features three courses, including a house-made soup or salad, a steak or turkey main course, delicious sides to share with the table, and a fantastic dessert from Fleming's kitchen. This steakhouse also features one of Akron's most extensive wine lists, including some special selections just for Thanksgiving dinner.
1 E Campus View Blvd., Columbus, OH 43235
Whether you're looking for an elegant Thanksgiving dining destination or a carryout kit to create your own amazing meal at home, you'll find it at J. Gilberts Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood. Planning to dine in? The restaurant's atmosphere is second-to-none, and the bar is known for churning out some of the best cocktails in Columbus. J. Gilberts keeps the menu simple for Thanksgiving, with a traditional holiday feast complemented by your choice of freshly made desserts and a wine list with something to suit every taste.
169 E Beck St., Columbus, OH 43206
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Locally owned and consistently ranked as one of Columbus's best restaurants, Lindey's is the perfect upscale dining choice for Thanksgiving if you're looking for a holiday menu that features extensive options. Of course, you can go with the classic turkey dinner and fixings, but Lindey's Thanksgiving menu also features steak, seafood, pasta dishes, and a savory selection of appetizers. Dessert even gets its own full page on the menu, with something to satisfy every sweet tooth and a wide variety of after-dinner drinks.
624 N High St., Columbus, OH 43215
For the classic Columbus Thanksgiving dinner, look no further than the Guild House restaurant, which offers fresh, seasonal meals made with locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a simple, perfectly curated Thanksgiving menu that features unique spins on your favorite holiday soups, sides, and desserts. Opt for food and order your own drinks to pair with each course, or order your meal with house-picked wine pairings that bring the best out of every bite. Just be sure to reserve your seat in advance, because spaces fill up fast!
609 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Cincinnati has a fantastic selection of restaurants where you can enjoy Thanksgiving this year, including the chic, trendy Metropole restaurant on Walnut Street. Metropole is located in the gorgeous 21c Museum Hotel, so it's hard to find a better atmosphere for your Thanksgiving meal. The team at Metropole changes the menu for every season, based on when the best fresh ingredients are available. That's no different for Thanksgiving, and the holiday menu here is sure to feature some unexpected takes on some of your favorite classic Thanksgiving fixings.
11320 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45249
For a casual yet upscale atmosphere with a beautiful waterfront setting and a menu to match, check out the Thanksgiving dinner options at deSha's American Tavern. The Thanksgiving menu here features something for everyone, including turkey, steak, seafood, and tons of fixings. There's also a full menu for kids, allowing younger visitors to customize their own holiday meal. If you'd rather dine at home, deSha's American Tavern has you covered there, too. The carryout Thanksgiving menu allows you to customize a meal for each of your guests, including entrees, sides, soups/salads, and of course, a delightful dessert to polish off the perfect meal.
580 Walnut St. Suite 100, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Looking for the classic steakhouse experience for your Thanksgiving dinner? Prime Cincinnati is one of the top steakhouses in the city and the perfect place to dine if you're craving steak, seafood, or traditional turkey for Thanksgiving. Prime Cincinnati is big on atmosphere, with an elegant, art-lined dining room that provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday. The menu here is loaded with all of your steak and seafood favorites, along with a truly diverse wine list that includes the perfect pairing for any meal. And don't forget dessert! There are tons of sweet treats available, including delicious, locally produced ice cream from Loveland Sweet Shop.
There's an Ohio restaurant to suit every taste for Thanksgiving this year. Let us know where you'll be ordering your holiday meal from in the comments below.