Cincinnati Moms Guide to Family Holiday Events {2014}

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HolidayGuide

Newly-added events marked with a *** !

The holidays are quickly approaching, and we are here to help you plan your 2014 season!

 

Classic Cincinnati

Krohn Holiday Show: Magic and Mistletoe, November 15-January 4
10a-5p daily, Extended hours until 7:30p on 12/9, 11, 16, 18
All Aboard for another exciting Krohn Holiday Show! Magic and Mistletoe will feature the return of our interactive train display and thousands of colorful poinsettias, cyclamen and tropical flowers. Visitors will also experience local musicians, the Schmalz Family holiday display, extended “candlelight” hours, strategically placed baskets of mistletoe and great photo opportunities. Holiday magic will definitely be in the air! Tickets $7 adults; $4 kids 5-12; free for 4 and under

US Bank Ice Rink at Fountain Square, November 21-January 5
Sun-Thur 10a-10p, Fri-Sat 10a-midnight
2-10p on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
Many Cincinnatians harbor fond memories of ice skating on Fountain Square on a frosty winter day in the midst of downtown’s tallest buildings. Amenities include skate rental, lockers, benches, and concessions options. Nearby restaurants and coffee shops include Panera, Graeter’s, Servatii’s, Starbucks, Chipotle, Potbelly Sandwich Works, Palomino, Via Vite, Ingredients, McCormick & Schmick’s, Morton’s, and Rock Bottom Brewery. Santa will be on the ice at 12pm on Sat and Sun.
$3 admission; $3 skate rental

CCincyPNC Festival of Lights at The Cincinnati Zoo, November 22-January 3
Sunday-Thursday 5-9p, Friday & Saturday 5-10p
Enjoy a NEW Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake, S’mores-N-More locations, puppet shows, the North Polar Express train ride, holiday post office, and visits with Santa (through 12/23) and Mrs. Claus! Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. General admission $15; $11 kids 2-12; $11 seniors 62+; $9 for parking.

Macy’s Light Up the Square, November 28
6-9p
Festivities will begin at 6PM, with live music from great local bands. Fountain Square will also feature plenty of food, music, ice skating and (of course) one heck of a fireworks show!

Macy’s Downtown Dazzle, November 29 & December 6 & December 13
6-10p
It’s enough holiday fun to overflow Santa’s sleigh! First, catch Santa rappelling down the side of the 525 Vine Building to the Macy’s rooftop to kick off a fireworks display. Enjoy a variety of live performances, including a visit from Buddy the Elf (Nov. 29), the Snow Queen from the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (Dec. 6), and John Morris Russell and the Cincinnati Pops, along with members of the Cincinnati Ballet (Dec. 13). Then head inside Macy’s for a special story time with Mrs. Claus and more holiday fun!

Krohn Conservatory Live Nativity, December 13-January 1
9a-9p daily
Dedication Ceremony on December 14 at 1:30p.

The Cincinnati Ballet presents The Nutcracker, December 19-27
See website for showtimes
Accompanied by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, Frisch’s Presents The Nutcracker, presented since 1974, is Cincinnati’s favorite holiday tradition. Revel in the magic as Clara and her Nutcracker Prince meet exciting characters, absorb the bright colors of the favorite divertissements and enjoy the classic adventure of The Nutcracker. Tickets

 

FREE Holiday Events

Antique Christmas at the Taft Museum of Art, November 7-January 4
Tue-Fri 11a-4p, Sat-Sun 11a-5p
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
A holiday favorite returns to the Taft!  Be swept into the festive mood by experiencing the wonder of beautiful antique ornaments, toys, and decorations.  FREE admission on Sundays!  All other days: $10 adults, $8 seniors (60+), students, and teachers, $4 age 12-17, Free under age 11

Santa’s Wonderland Preview Event, November 15
5-8p
Santa will arrive in his decked out Bass Boat and greet the crowds gathered in front of the store. He will then make his way to our lobby to ask the crowd to help him light our tree, then off to officially open Santa’s Wonderland for the season. Free photos, crafts, refreshments, letters to Santa, and all of the fun games of Wonderland.

The Nutcracker Jazzed Up! Holiday Festival, November 15
6:30-9p
Join de la Dance Company’s 30-minute preview of The Nutcracker Jazzed Up, an annual performance at the Aronoff Center each holiday season (this event at de la Arts Place Dance Center).  Pre-sale tickets will be available at the preview, along with refreshments, and a tree lighting, during which participants can hang an ornament they brought from home or made that evening.  Photos with the dancers after the show are welcome!

Grand Illumination Tree Lighting Party at Newport on the Levee, November 25
6-7:30p
Join us for holiday music, tenant specials, and more as we illuminate the season with our wonderful holiday lights display. Come listen to the Chris Comer Trio, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM. TREE LIGHTING 6:50 PM LIVE ON FOX. Enter to win great prizes including a Levee Prize Pack.

Macy’s Light Up the Square, November 28
6-9p
Festivities will begin at 6PM, with live music from great local bands. Fountain Square will also feature plenty of food, music, ice skating and (of course) one heck of a fireworks show!

Caroling in the Park at Washington Park, November 28, 29 & December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20
6-8p
Listen to the sounds of the holidays in Washington Park this season. Different local choirs will be featured throughout the month and perform at the bandstand. Grab a hot beverage and a few tunes before you head off to dinner or a show.

freeMetro’s Holly Jolly Downtown Trolley, November 28 and Saturdays only November 29-December 20
12-5p
Metro’s Holly Jolly Downtown Trolley showcases the seasonal magic of downtown Cincinnati through the windows of an old-style trolley. Two decorated trolleys provide FREE shuttle service in the heart of downtown. Trolley service runs about every five minutes. You can board in front of the Westin on Fifth Street or at designated Holly Jolly Downtown Trolley stops on Fifth Street and Fourth Street.

11th Hour Craft Time at Joseph Beth Booksellers, November 29
11a
Ages 2 – 7 can make some snowflakes in this craft hour and have a blizzard of fun.

Santa’s Workshop at Washington Park, November 29 & December 6, 13, 20
1-3p
Santa and is merry band of Elves will be spending time in Washington Park making gifts, ornaments and other fun creations. Bring your family, bring your wish lists, but most all–be sure to bring your cameras!

The Story the Little Christmas Tree Told Reading and Author Signing at The Blue Manatee, November 30
1-2p
Join local author Valerie Woebkenberg as she reads and signs her new book about a cherished family tradition. A perfect start to your holidays!

***A Cincinnati Night Before Christmas Story Time, December 4
4:30-5:30p
To celebrate the holiday season, Cincinnati, and the greatest gift of all – adoption, The Blue Manatee welcomes Cincinnati author and illustrator duo, Nadine Huffman and Marilyn Lebhar, for a reading (and signing) of their book: A Cincinnati Night Before Christmas. Based on a true story, a child awaits his new sibling while experiencing many of our city’s holiday traditions. 100% of the book’s proceeds go to area adoption organizations.

***Christmas in the Village, December 5 & 6
5-9p
Visit Waynesville Ohio this holiday season and capture the spirit of the holidays! Stroll in and out of retail and dining storefronts, while listening to barbershop quartets, choirs, and musicians. You will be able to take a carriage ride and feel the holiday spirit in the air, all while listening to the clip clapping of the horses hooves and jingle bells. Costume characters will be strolling along the sidewalks, throughout the weekend to help bring a smile to your face. Don’t forget jolly old St. Nick! He will be here all weekend long to listen to the requests of all the good boys and girls.

***Christmas at Findlay Market, December 6-7 & December 13-14
Sat 8a-6p, Sun 10a-4p
Merchants and vendors line South side of market with Christmas gifts, food and drinks. Caracole sells Christmas trees on Elm Street Esplanade and entertainment includes choirs and skits.

Victorian Holiday Village, December 5-6 & December 11-12
6-8:30p
This is a memorable outdoor event for the entire family featuring thousands of twinkling lights; miniature-sized, yet exciting new fully decorated Victorian-style homes and buildings; entertainment; free cocoa and cookies; and children’s goodies and a complimentary 5x7photo (one per family, please) with St. Nick. Donation of nonperishable food item is encouraged for admission.

Awaited: A Christmas Experience, December 5-23
See website for showtimes
Awaited is a creative retelling of the Christmas story, produced and hosted at Crossroads church.  Free tickets available November 25 at 10a.  Tickets required for the show!

Sensitive Santa at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (Burnet Campus), December 6
12-4pm
CCHMC hosts visits with Santa for children with cognitive and physical disabilities.  The environment is quiet and calm and children and their families do not have to wait in lines.  Free parking in the main visitor garage is also available.  Call 513-636-7606 to register

Lebanon Carriage Parade & Christmas Festival, December 6
10a-8p
Lebanon’s largest annual event, always held the first Saturday in December. Kick off the holidays with two horse drawn carriage parades and an all day festival with entertainment and street vendors. Parade Times 1pm and 7pm (candlelit parade).

The Nutcracker (abbreviated performance) at the Museum Center, December 6
12:30p & 2:30p
Cincinnati Ballet’s Otto M. Budig Dance Academy is pleased to bring The Nutcracker to Cincinnati Museum Center for a special free performance this season! Journey through the Land of Sweets and Sugarplum fairies in this abbreviated version of a beloved classic which is sure to delight young and old.  Performances are free, parking is $6 per vehicle.

***Light Up Fairfield, December 6
3-6p
Light Up Fairfield will ring in the holiday season at the Community Arts Center, the Fairfield Lane Library and the Waterford. Help Santa welcome holiday season and light up the big tree in Village Green Park and the 2014 Festival of Trees in the Community Arts Center. Activities include a holiday market with local vendors, a pottery project, a children’s craft, games, wagon ride through Village Green, and live musical performances. Click the link for the schedule of events.

***Bethel Down Home Christmas, December 6
Begins at 9a
Come join your family and friends and be a part of the Bethel Down Home Christmas Celebration. Browse through the shops of Bethel, visit with Santa, enjoy and create crafts, a Santa Doggy parade, play games, sign up for drawings. A little something for everyone. Click on the link above to see the schedule of events! (There is also Breakfast with Santa at 8a for $7 per person.)

***Meet the Grinch Story Time, December 9
4:30-5:30p
Join us at The Blue Manatee as we read Dr. Seuss’s classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas with our special guest–the Grinch himself. After the story, you can get your picture taken with the Grinch. So gather all you Whos down in Whoville for some holiday fun!  A Free, all ages event.  Line Numbers to meet the Grinch will be given day of, on a first come, first served basis. Please call 513.731.2665 for more details.

Mt. Adams Reindog Parade, December 13
Registration Noon-1:45pm, Parade starts at 2pm
Donations accepted with all proceeds benefiting the SPCA of Cincinnati. SPCA will have Micro Chips available for $15.

***Christmas on the Corner in Monroe, December 13 & 14
5-8p
Old fashion celebration with both museums decorated in holiday style. Santa and Mrs. Claus, carolers, children’s bell choir, luminaria display, treats for children and photo ops. Special Winter Wonderland exhibit. Slideshow of hundreds of photos of Monroe from the early 1900s and display of vintage Christmas cards and postcards.

***Carols with Miss Katie and Miss Sarah, December 19th
6-6:30p
Join seasoned story teller Miss Katie and ManaTots extraordinaire Miss Sarah for some holiday cheer!

TUBAChristmas Concert at Newport on the Levee, December 20
3-4p
TUBACHRISTMAS Cincinnati is part of a national series of free holiday concerts performed entirely on instruments in the tuba family. All tuba, baritone, and euphonium players are invited to play in the tubachoir as we present a free public concert of Christmas carols. (See webiste to be a player in the concert!)

 

Twinkling Lights in the Queen City

Pyramid Hill Drive-Through Holiday Light Exhibit, November 21-January 4
6p-9p Mon-Thur; Tickets $20 per carload
6p-10p Fri-Sun; Tickets $25 per carload
OPEN Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years

LightsHoliday in Lights Drive-Through at Sharon Woods, November 21-December 31
6-9p Thur, 6-10p Fri-Sat
Built over a mile of wooded roadway, the holiday themed displays of fantastic seasonal color adorns the woods, depicting everything from Santa Claus and his elves to every animal on the ark.
Tickets $13 per carload, $2 off coupon available on website.

 

PNC Festival of Lights at The Cincinnati Zoo, November 22-January 3
Sunday-Thursday 5-9p, Friday & Saturday 5-10p
Enjoy a NEW Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake, S’mores-N-More locations, puppet shows, the North Polar Express train ride, holiday post office, and visits with Santa (through 12/23) and Mrs. Claus! Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. General admission $15; $11 kids 2-12; $11 seniors 62+; $9 for parking.

The Christmas Ranch in Morrow, OH, November 28-December 31
5-9p Sun-Thurs, 5-10p Fri-Sat (Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)
Enjoy this spectacular walk-thru Christmas wonderland that boasts 1 million dancing Christmas lights synchronized to holiday music. There are Christmas shops, Santa’s bakery, train and wagon rides, and pictures with Santa! $15 admission per vehicle.

 

Riding the Holiday Rails

Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains at the Cincinnati Museum Center, November 7-January 4
Mon-Fri 10a-5p, Sat 10a-8p, Sun 11a-6p
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, 10a-3p on Christmas Eve
A beloved Cincinnati tradition, the Duke Energy Holiday Trains began in 1946 in partnership with the Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Railroad. Enjoy an expanded raised platform surrounding the display, a kids’ train ride, Pogie and Patter the talking reindeer, and a visit with Santa!

Rocky Mountain Express Omnimax Film at the Museum Center, November 7-January 4
See website for showtimes
Go on a steam train journey through the breathtaking vistas of the Canadian Rockies and experience the adventure of building a nearly impossible transcontinental railway. Recruited to realize this venture—one of the greatest engineering feats of all time—were engineers and laborers from around the world.

The Polar Express at White Water Valley Railroad, Weekends only from November 14-December 14
See website for times.
THE POLAR EXPRESS rolls into Connersville’s Grand Central Station this Holiday Season. The Polar Express will come to life when the train departs Connersville’s Grand Central Station for a journey through the quiet countryside for a special visit to the “North Pole” with Santa Claus. Tickets start at $29 and must be purchased in advance.

RRChristmas at EnterTRAINment Junction, November 15-January 4
10a-6pm Mon-Sat, 12-6p Sun
Extended hours til 9pm from 12/13-12/23 and 12/26-12/30
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas (Santa goes on vacation after Christmas)
See the magic of Christmas at the home of the World’s Largest Indoor Train Display. Take a “Journey to the North Pole”, where you can can meet Mrs. Claus and Santa himself. See our “Main Street Holiday Trains” displays which offers some beautiful winter train displays that are FREE to the public.

Krohn Holiday Show: Magic and Mistletoe, November 15-January 4
10a-5p daily, Extended hours until 7:30p on 12/9, 11, 16, 18
All Aboard for another exciting Krohn Holiday Show! Magic and Mistletoe will feature the return of our interactive train display and thousands of colorful poinsettias, cyclamen and tropical flowers. Visitors will also experience local musicians, the Schmalz Family holiday display, extended “candlelight” hours, strategically placed baskets of mistletoe and great photo opportunities. Holiday magic will definitely be in the air! Tickets $7 adults; $4 kids 5-12; free for 4 and under

Holiday Trains at Behringer-Crawford Museum, November 15-January 18
Tue-Sat, 10a-5p, Sun 1-5p
Dec 22 & 29 (Mondays) 10a-5p, Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve 10a-2p, Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
It’s the 23rd annual display of holiday toy trains! Lionel and Plasticville trains will chug along more than 250 feet of track, while guests play engineer with 33 interactive accessories. An expanded studio 56 Christmas Carol village display, Thomas the Train, a train raffle and the museum’s amazing Faragher permanent model train exhibit will add to the fun! Wednesdays are Grandparents’ Day, one child is admitted free with each paying grandparent! $7 adults, $6 seniors (60+), $4 children (3-17).

The Santa Claus Limited Train at White Water Valley Railroad, November 28
Train departs at 10am, 12pm and 2pm
Board the train at Grand Central Station in Connersville to pick up Santa Claus along the way. Once on board Santa will come and visit with each child on the train. Tickets are $10 ages 2 and up.

North Pole Express at LM&M Railroad, Weekends only from November 29-December 23
See website for times.
Take a half hour train ride to the decorated LM&M Junction to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Take a moment to visit Santa and tell him your Christmas wishes. Each child will receive a small gift from Mr. Claus himself! Stop at the “Holiday Post Express” to color pictures or write letters to be delivered to Santa. Enjoy a holiday cookie and a cup of hot chocolate to keep you warm while you are entertained by Santa’s talented Elves!
Tickets must be purchased in advance, $20.50 adults; $15.50 seniors (62+); $15.50 kids 5-16; $8.50 kids 2-4; free kids under 1.

Pajama Train at the Museum Center, December 19
Event starts at 7:30p, movie starts at 9p
Put on your pajamas and warm yourselves with delicious hot chocolate and homemade cookies! It’s all aboard the dance floor to show off your holiday moves and learn a new dance that will stop everyone in their tracks. Or if doing the locomotion isn’t on your route, you can spread some holiday cheer across the land by making a greeting card to take home. And our family games are sure to be your ticket to a great evening! Then it’s time to slow things down as we head into the station with a special story time read by our conductor and a viewing of Rocky Mountain Express in the OMNIMAX® Theater. Members: $20, Non-Members: $30, Ages 3 to 12.

 

Merry Productions

A Christmas Carol presented by Clifton Performance Theatre, November 22 & 23
Nov 22, 7p; Nov 23, 2:30p
Don’t be a Scrooge this holiday! Clifton Performance Theatre’s full-child cast production will have our young actors play all the roles of this holiday classic. Follow the story of Ebeneezer Scrooge as he journeys to remember the true meaning of the holiday season. Tickets are $10 for adults and $2 for children, and can be purchased in advance by calling (513) 861-7469 or at the CCAC box office 1 hour before each performance.

Playhouse in the Park presents A Christmas Carol, November 26-December 28
See website for showtimes
The Playhouse’s version of A Christmas Carol combines faithful storytelling with spellbinding stage magic to bring to life its familiar story of a sinner given one last chance at redemption by four persuasive ghosts. A Christmas Carol is suitable for all general audiences, including children ages 5 and older. Due to the full-length nature of the show, children younger than 5 cannot be admitted. Please contact the Box Office if you have questions or require additional information.

PlaysThe Nutcracker Jazzed Up! at the Aronoff, November 28-December 6
See website for showtimes
A Duke Ellington twist on the Tchaikovsky classic. The production combines Ellington’s jazzy Nutcracker Suite and Tchaikovsky’s classical composition. Tickets start at $32.75.

The Aronoff presents Elf, December 2-7
See website for showtimes
One of the most beloved Hollywood holiday hits of the past decade is born again — live on stage! Tickets start at $29 and are on sale now!

***Holiday Pops, December 5, 13, 14
See website for showtimes
Join “Mr. Christmas” himself, John Morris Russell, for Cincinnati’s can’t-miss holiday family tradition! Tony-winning Broadway phenomenon Brian Stokes Mitchell joins the Pops to warm your heart with traditional and contemporary holiday favorites—along with spectacular singers and dancers, and an appearance by Santa himself!  Kids tickets are only $10!

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati presents The Snow Queen, December 5-7 & 13
See website for showtimes
Tickets are on sale now for performances at the Taft Theatre!  Based on the Hans Christian Anderson’s “The Snow Queen,” a prince and princess find themselves torn apart by a powerful witch with the power to freeze hearts. When the Snow Queen steals Prince Kai, Princess Gerda and her comrades must enter the unknown and battle winter forces to find him.

Awaited: A Christmas Experience, December 5-23
See website for showtimes
Awaited is a creative retelling of the Christmas story, produced and hosted at Crossroads church.  Free tickets available November 25 at 10a.  Tickets required for the show!

The Cincinnati Ballet presents The Nutcracker, December 19-27
See website for showtimes
Accompanied by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, Frisch’s Presents The Nutcracker, presented since 1974, is Cincinnati’s favorite holiday tradition. Revel in the magic as Clara and her Nutcracker Prince meet exciting characters, absorb the bright colors of the favorite divertissements and enjoy the classic adventure of The Nutcracker. Tickets

 

Festive and Fun

Antique Christmas at the Taft Museum of Art, November 7-January 4
Tue-Fri 11a-4p, Sat-Sun 11a-5p
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
A holiday favorite returns to the Taft!  Be swept into the festive mood by experiencing the wonder of beautiful antique ornaments, toys, and decorations.  FREE admission on Sundays!  All other days: $10 adults, $8 seniors (60+), students, and teachers, $4 age 12-17, Free under age 11

Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market, November 14-16
Fri-Sat 10a-6p, Sun 10a-5p
Located at the spacious Duke Energy Convention Center, you will see aisle upon aisle of unique, one-of-a-kind boutiques and specialty stores from around the greater Cincinnati area as well as out of state offering you an unparalleled selection of gourmet food, home décor, specialty clothing, personal accoutrements, and countless other wonderful items for a truly exceptional gift buying experience! For your convenience Cash or Credit Cards are accepted by most exhibitors. Live reindeer will be at the show, as well as photos with Elsa on Sunday from 11a-3p. Adults $9, children 13 & under are free. Save $3 by purchasing your ticket at Kroger.

Going Green for the Holidays: Be Crafty, November 15
10a-3p
Join us for a unique opportunity to learn how to make various handmade crafts, and sample local foods made by area green businesses. Plant a friendship plant at the Friend of Krohn membership space. $7 adults, $4 ages 5 – 12, free ages 4 and younger

Going Green for the Holidays: Be Healthy & Be Happy, November 16
10a-3p
Join a day of holiday wellness activities at Krohn Conservatory, and learn how to make your holidays healthy and stress free.  Then plant a friendship plant at the Friend of Krohn membership space. $7 adults, $4 ages 5 – 12, free ages 4 and younger.

FFBRICKmas at Newport on the Levee, November 25-January 1
Wed-Fri 4-8:30p, Sat-Sun 11a-8:30p, Christmas Eve 1-4p, Closed Christmas and Thanksgiving Day
BRICKmas is a fun holiday attraction that provides a place for LEGO lovers of all sizes to come celebrate one of the world’s favorite toys and see some awesome LEGO displays. Admission is $8.00 but look for special coupons and offers!

Winterfair! at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center, November 28-30
Fri-Sat 10a-5p, Sun 11a-4p
Enjoy this fine art and craft fair just in time for the holidays! Admisson is $7, children under 12 are free! One ticket is valid for all three days!

Pipsqueak Christmas in Gingerbread, November 30
Begins at 11a
Come to the 20th Century Theatre and make gingerbread houses with the kids and enjoy face painting, holiday crafts, a photo booth, and loads of family fun! Advanced tickets only, $25 per child with an adult ($25 per gingerbread house).  Tickets can be purchased by calling 513-731-8000

Holiday Craft Workshop at Laboiteaux Woods Preserve, December 5-6
Dec 5 6:30-8:30p, Dec 6 2:30-4:30p
Bring the family to enjoy crafts with natural materials or a nature theme. Participants ages 4 to adult can choose what to make from a variety of selections appropriate for their age group. Staff will instruct and advise, but the personal touches are up to you. Create fun and beautiful items in the comfy setting of a nature center and make this event part of your family holiday traditions! Fee: $5 per person. Call 542-2909 by December 5 for more information and paid reservations.

Lebanon Carriage Parade & Christmas Festival, December 6
10a-8p
Lebanon’s largest annual event, always held the first Saturday in December. Kick off the holidays with two horse drawn carriage parades and an all day festival with entertainment and street vendors. Parade Times 1pm and 7pm (candlelit parade).

Holiday Wreath Making at Caldwell Nature Preserve, December 13
1-3p
Make something beautiful for the holidays. Join our professional florist as she guides you to make your own fresh masterpiece. Materials and instruction are provided but the creative touches are all yours. Feel free to bring personal embellishments to accent it for your home. Fee: $30/person. Call 761-4313 or email [email protected] by December 11th, for more information and paid reservations.

Santa’s Workshop: Basket Weaving at the Museum Center, December 13
12-5p
Join the Museum Center for an afternoon of fun and creativity. Local weaving expert Dan Hamilton will be on hand to turn even the most novice weaver into a basket craftsman. For ages 13 and older. Members: $35, Non-Members: $45, Parking: Free for Members, $6 per vehicle for non-Members.

Pipsqueak Christmas presents Enchanted Worlds, December 14 & 21
Doors open at 10:30a, show begins at 11a
Come to the 20th Century Theatre and enjoy a show by Madcap Puppets as well as cookie decorating, face painting, holiday crafts, and a photo booth.  Advanced tickets only, $8 per ticket (kids under 2 are free!).  Tickets can be purchased by calling 513-731-8000.

Winter Solstice Event at Cincinnati Nature Center, December 20
12-4p
Join as they celebrate the bringing back of the sun at Winter Solstice! Hike to campfires and fireplaces and participate in Winter Solstice activities (horse-drawn carriage ride, live music, scavenger hunt, and more!). Registration is not required. Member adult $7, child $3. Member family maximum price of $20. Nonmember adult $10, child $5. Nonmember family maximum price of $30.

Winter Solstice Celebration Weekend at the Museum Center: December 20-21
12-3p
Come and celebrate Holidays from around the world! Enjoy a weekend of fun, hands-on activities about Hanukkah, Chinese New Year, Diwali and Kwanzaa. Check site for details coming soon!

 

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree Farms

John T Neiman Nursery, November 22-December 23
Mon-Sat 10a-8p, Sun 10a-6p
Located in Hamilton. Begin a new family Christmas tradition at this tree farm! Warm up with complimentary hot chocolate and cookies. See antique John Deere tractors, Model “A” cars and American flag display. Wreaths, swags and table arrangements made fresh daily! Cash or check only.

TreesBig Tree Plantation, November 28-December 23
Mon-Sat 9a-7p, Sun 9a-6p
Night Time Tree Cutting and Winter Wonderland Dec 5-6 & Dec 12-13, Open until 9pm
Located in Morrow. Come join the farm for a cut your own Christmas tree experience that will create wonderful family memories for years to come. They will provide the saw, wagon ride, and hot chocolate, and you find the perfect tree for your home.

Dirr Nurseries, November 28-December 23
9a-5p daily
Located in Goshen. This season at Dirr Nurseries Xmas Tree Farm they are offering the largest selection ever of both Cut-Your-Own Christmas trees and Ball & Burlap Christmas Trees. Their Flat Pricing allows you to get a Big Tree without Big Costs. $45 per tree.

Bartels Farm, November 28-December 23
Fri-Sat 10a-dark, Sun 1p-dark
Located in Hamilton. This farm offers a peaceful, natural environment for your family to choose and cut your own tree.  You can also purchase wreaths and other holiday fare in their Christmas Shop.  Join them for their grand opening event on November 28th which will include horse drawn carriage rides, a petting zoo, wooden bowl making demonstrations, steam engine tours and a Tom+Chee food truck.

Berninger Trees and Wreaths, November 29-December 23
Mon-Fri 3-5p, Sat-Sun 9a-5p
Located in Lebanon. Cut down your own or choose from a wide selection of pre-cut trees! Free popcorn and hot chocolate available.

 

Fa-la-la Fitness

SONY DSCHoliday in Lights 5K, November 22
5p
Run or walk through The Holiday in Lights in Sharon Woods to get into the holiday spirit!  Pre-register by 11/19 cheaper rates ($26 adults; $21 children 12 and under).

Go Santa Go 5K, December 7
9a
Support Cancer Support Community by running this 5K through Mt. Airy Forest. All 5K Participants will receive either a customized Santa Long Sleeve Shirt, Hat and Beard or an Elf Long Sleeve Shirt and Hat and goody bag. $45 in advance, $50 day of the race.

Mt. Adams Egg Nog Jog 5K, December 20
10a
Come to Mt. Adams to the 23rd annual holiday tradition. Scenic and challenging course begins at Jerome and St. Gregory and winds through Mt. Adams and Eden Park offering spectacular views of the city. $20 pre-registration. $22 late Registration. $25 Race-day.

 

Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County Activities

All activities listed below are FREE!!!!

Make-and-Take: Ornaments, Tuesday Dec. 2, 4 p.m.
Cheviot Branch
Children ages 5-12 are invited to drop by the Cheviot Branch Library to make an ornament to take home and share with family. No registration required.

Holiday Gift Bags and Cards, Tuesday Dec. 2, 4 p.m.
Mt. Washington Branch
Children are invited to design, make cards and gift bags for the holidays. No registration required.

After-School Holiday Craft Program, Tuesday December 2, 4 PM
Monfort Heights Branch
Join us to create holiday crafts and decorations for yourself or as gifts! Registration is required.

Decorate a Gingerbread House, Tuesday Dec. 2, 7 p.m.
Blue Ash Branch
Come decorate a gingerbread house for the holidays! All materials will be provided. Please note, limit one gingerbread house per family /household. For families with children. Registration is required.

Tie-Dye Tissue Paper, Wednesday Dec. 3, 3 p.m.
Westwood Branch
Children can learn how to tie-dye tissue just in time for the holidays! No registration required.

Holiday Fun!, Wednesday Dec. 3, 3 p.m.
Oakley Branch
Children and families are invited to help us get in the holiday spirit by decorating our branch! Then join us for hot chocolate, while supplies last. No registration required.

Holiday Ornaments, Thursday Dec. 4, 4 p.m.
Cheviot Branch
Teens and children are invited to make a holiday ornament of their choice. We will have snacks and holiday music. Come alone or bring a friend, but please register. Registration is required.

library

Holiday Jar Magic, Thursday Dec. 4, 4 p.m.
Wyoming Branch
Measure and decorate a “Cookie Mix in a Jar” to give as a gift or bake at home! All ages are welcome, but children under age 8 will need to bring a grown-up to assist them. Registration is required.

Photo To Wood Transfer Project, Thursday Dec. 4, 4 p.m.
Main Library ─ Teenspot
Transfer your favorite photograph to a piece of wood to make that perfectly personalized Christmas gift! No registration required.

Holiday Open House at the Library, Saturday Dec. 6, all day
Miami Township Branch
We’ll have crafts, a candy jar guessing game, button making, cookies, and door prizes! The Library has a great selection of Christmas books, from festive cookbooks to holiday novels, Christmas music, and even holiday movies to get you in the spirit. No registration required.

Holiday Open House, Saturday Dec. 6, 10 a.m.
Delhi Township Branch
Enjoy making holiday crafts and a visit from Rufus the Reading Dog while listening to New Horizons Dixieland Band. No registration required.

Cincinnati Kinderballet Presents ‘A Christmas Carol’, Saturday Dec. 6, 11 a.m.
Groesbeck Branch
Get in the holiday spirit by joining us in seeing the Cincinnati Kinderballet’s rendition of A Christmas Carol.
No registration required.

Holiday Story Time, Saturday Dec. 6, 1 p.m.
Price Hill Branch
Come celebrate the holidays with stories, songs, crafts, and snacks. Ages 3–6. Children should be accompanied by a caregiver. No registration required.

Teen Holiday Extravaganza, Saturday Dec. 6, 2 p.m.
Green Township Branch
Teens! Get in the Holiday Spirit at our Holiday Extravaganza! Make a holiday ornament and take the holiday trivia challenge! Watch one of your favorite holiday movies and enjoy some yummy holiday treats! Ages 12-18. Registration is required.

Creative Cards For The Holidays, Saturday Dec. 6, 2 p.m.
Corryville Branch
Children can make their own pop-up or creatively customized card for a loved one or friend, to celebrate the upcoming holidays! No registration required.

Holiday Card Making, Saturday Dec. 6, 2 p.m.
Madisonville Branch
Children can make a holiday card for a friend or loved one. Paper, stamps, Ink, stickers, and other materials provided. No registration required.

Featherocks the Holidays, Saturday Dec. 6, 3 p.m.
Greenhills Branch
presents a live holiday concert for all ages. No registration required.

Winter Bling Rings, Monday Dec. 8, 6:30 p.m.
Hyde Park Branch
Teens can make a snow globe to wear as a ring! Local artist Nicolette Meade will be here to show you how to carry a piece of winter with you wherever you go. Registration is required.

Candy Cane Mice For Teens, Tuesday Dec. 9, 4 p.m.
Forest Park Branch
Make a mouse with a “sweet” tail. Registration is required.

Make-and-Take: Ornaments, Tuesday Dec. 9, 4 p.m.
Cheviot Branch
Children ages 5-12 are invited to drop and make an ornament to take home and share with family. No registration required.

After-School Holiday Craft Program, Tuesday Dec. 9, 4 p.m.
Monfort Heights Branch
Join us to create holiday crafts and decorations for yourself or as gifts! Registration is required.

Holiday Crafts For Kids, Tuesday Dec. 9, 6:30 p.m.
Reading Branch
Children and families can stop by to make-and-take a holiday craft for. No registration required.

Teen Christmas Party, Wednesday Dec. 10, 3 p.m.
Delhi Township Branch
Celebrate the holidays with rounds of Carols of Dysfunction: A Christmas Song Game, last-minute gift making and decorating a cardboard Christmas tree! Registration is required.

Annual Teen Holiday Party, Wednesday Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m.
Symmes Township Branch
Food, games and fun provided. All that’s needed is YOU! No registration required.

Holiday Open House, Thursday Dec. 11, 3 p.m.
Mariemont Branch
Celebrate the holiday season! Bring the whole family for music, crafts and sweet treats. No registration required.

Kid’s Club: Winter ─ Holiday Edition, Thursday Dec. 11, 4 p.m.
Clifton Branch
Join us on Thursday afternoons for a range of after-school activities. During December: crafts/gifts for the holidays! No registration required.

Holiday Open House, Saturday Dec. 13, all day
Sharonville Branch
Find some holiday cheer at your Library! Take a relaxing break to enjoy live music performances, create gorgeous crafts and sip a cozy beverage. We’ll also host consumer workshops in the afternoon. No registration required.

Cincinnati Suzuki Academy Festive Winter Concert, Saturday Dec. 13, 10:30 a.m.
Pleasant Ridge Branch
The Cincinnati Suzuki Academy presents a festive winter concert from traditional classical songs to spirited holiday music! With violin and cello performers ranging from age 3-14, this concert is open to the public and is a great way to introduce children and families to inspiring young musicians. Performance will be followed by a small reception. No registration required.

Mosaic Holiday Ornaments, Saturday Dec. 13, 1 p.m.
Monfort Heights Branch
Teens, hop into the holiday mood by turning old CDs into sparkly new ornaments! Registration is required.

Holiday Karaoke, Saturday Dec. 13, 1 p.m.
Sharonville Branch
Need we say more? (Okay, we will.) You, a microphone, and an unpredictable number of your closest Library friends. Two Library staff members will kick off the singing, then anyone is welcome to take the stage and share a holiday song. Do it for laughs, do it for the experience, do it for joy, do it for fun! See you there! No registration required.

Holiday Gift Party, Saturday Dec. 13, 2 p.m.
Pleasant Ridge Branch
Need a last minute holiday gift? Join us as we make a variety of beautiful crafts. There will be something for all ages and crafting abilities! No registration required.

No Sew Fleece Scarves, Saturday Dec. 13, 2 p.m.
Clifton Branch
Teens and ‘tweens! Create a unique fleece scarf with fringe and beads. Makes a great gift! No registration required.

Holiday Ornaments, Saturday Dec 13, 2 p.m.
Walnut Hills Branch
Families and kids are invited to make an ornament to celebrate the holiday season! No registration required.

Sugar Cone Christmas Tree Decorating, Saturday Dec. 13, 3 p.m.
Miami Township Branch
Children and families can use icing, candies, and a sugar cone to create a yummy treat that will be too pretty to eat. All materials provided. Registration required.

Holiday Music with the Buckeye Strings, Saturday Dec. 13, 3 p.m.
Sharonville Branch
Join us for an hour of dulcimer performance courtesy of the Buckeye Strings. They will be playing many holiday favorites! No registration required.

Holiday Bingo, Monday Dec. 15, 3 p.m.
Westwood Branch
Join us for our Holiday themed Bingo. Ages 6-12. No registration required.

Make LED Holiday Cards, Monday Dec. 15, 5 p.m.
Avondale Branch
Teens, come into the Avondale Branch and make a holiday card that lights up! Using LED lights, coin cell batteries, and copper tape, we will create cards that will light up with the season! No registration required.

Christmas Fun, Tuesday Dec. 16, 4 p.m.
Cheviot Branch
Children ages 5-12 are invited to listen to Christmas stories, make a light-up snowman ornament, and decorate cookies to celebrate the holiday season. Registration is required.

After-School Holiday Craft Program, Tuesday Dec. 16, 4 p.m.
Monfort Heights Branch
Children can create holiday crafts and decorations for themselves or as gifts! Registration is required.

Craft Stick Snowman, Tuesday Dec. 16, 6 p.m.
Greenhills Branch
Children will decorate a craft stick snowman. No registration required.

Holiday Stories Around the Fireplace, Tuesday Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m.
Madisonville Branch
Snuggle in with hot chocolate and snacks for a night of holiday stories and songs. For children and their caregivers and families. No registration required.

Gingerbread House Family Fun Night, Tuesday Dec. 16, 7 p.m.
Harrison Branch
Join us to hear a gingerbread story and make a gingerbread house. For ages 12 and under with a caregiver. Registration is required.

Storytime with Santa, Wednesday Dec. 17, 10:30 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Harrison Branch
Visit with Santa during a special Christmas family storytime. Enjoy books, songs, and activities while building early literacy skills. For preschoolers and their caregivers. No registration required.

Holiday Party, Wednesday Dec. 17, 4 p.m.
Elmwood Place Branch
It is time to celebrate. Enjoy snacks, play games, and win prizes during the annual Elmwood Place Holiday Party. No registration required.

Ninth Annual Gingerbread Challenge, Wednesday Dec. 17, 6 p.m.
Harrison Branch
Teens, can you create the best gingerbread house using only the materials we provide? Registration is required.

DIY Holiday Coasters, Thursday Dec. 18, 4 p.m.
Cheviot Branch
Teens can make a set of four coasters for themselves or to give as a gift this holiday season. Come alone, or bring a friend, but please register for this program. Registration is required.

Make Your Own Ornament For Teens, Saturday Dec. 20, 2 p.m.
Forest Park Branch
Turn a plain plastic globe into a work of holiday art! Registration is required.

Holly Holidays Party, Saturday Dec. 20, 2 p.m.
Norwood Branch
Come celebrate the holidays with us! There will be games, crafts, and a whole lot of fun! No registration required.

Make A Gingerbread House, Saturday Dec. 20, 2 p.m.
Pleasant Ridge Branch
Make a gingerbread house for the holidays using graham crackers and candy and other goodies! For all ages. Registration is required.

Gingerbread Houses, Saturday Dec. 20, 3 p.m.
Corryville Branch
With the winter season and the holidays upon us, what better way to celebrate than to build and decorate your own gingerbread house! All ages. No registration required.

Connie Ferguson Dancers Holiday Performance, Saturday Dec. 20, 3 p.m.
Pleasant Ridge Branch
Get in the holiday spirit with a lively show by Connie Ferguson with “No Limits” ballet, tap and jazz dance students! Snacks provided. All ages welcome. No registration required.

Winter Wonderland Crafting, Monday Dec. 29, 1 p.m.
Corryville Branch
Make your own intricate snowflake or dream of spring by making a tie-dye flower! No registration required.

A Snowy Day!, Monday Dec. 29, 3 p.m.
Westwood Branch
Join us to hear the story A Snowy Day followed by a snowy craft! No registration required.

Winter Wonderland Crafting, Tuesday Dec. 30, 1 p.m.
Corryville Branch
Make your own intricate snowflake or dream of spring by making a tie-dye flower! No registration required.

Holiday Hip Hop, Tuesday Dec. 30, 3 p.m.
Main Library ─ Children’s Learning Center
Dance in the new year with Steve Irwin! No registration required.

Winter Wonderland Crafting, Wednesday Dec. 31, 1 p.m.
Corryville Branch
Make your own intricate snowflake or dream of spring by making a tie-dye flower! No registration required.

 

Looking for Santa?

We have Santa Sightings in Cincy listed in a separate post that you can see by clicking HERE.

10 COMMENTS

  1. Lots of awesome stuff. I love this time of year! I definitely recommend checking out Awaited. Free cookies, hot cocoa and more before the show. Then a broadway quality spectacular that is easily on par with anything you would see at the Aronoff. And it’s all free. There’s no “big ask” for money and no “hard sell” to try to convince you to change churches or anything like that. Just an unforgettable retelling of the Christmas story from the perspective of the angels. Great music, great effects and an inner warmth that puts you in just-the-right spirit for Christmas. Over 50,000 people saw the show last year. Because of such high demand, the number of shows is being doubled so over 100,000 can see it this year. I’d still make sure to order tickets early to be sure you get some. Sorry for the long commentary, I’ve just never met anyone who doesn’t love this show after seeing it!

  2. Is Newport on the levy going to have the Christmas decorations from the old Shillitos store this year? Hope you can n e-mail me and help me find out. Thank you so much. Jo Anne

  3. Deck The Hall 2014
    Nov 30th 4-7pm
    Westwood Town Hall
    FREE ADMISSION
    Holiday Choirs
    30 craft vendors
    Food Trucks
    Free Kretchmar Deli samples and hot cider
    Mayor Cranley will light the tree

  4. Make your own hand blown glass Christmas ornament or make as gifts at Neusole Glassworks 11925 Kempersprings Drive Cincinnati Ohio 45240 Call to schedule today 751-3292. Exciting fun for the entire family or a group of friends!

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