Now that the holidays are here, it’s time to hit the town with family and friends. To help get you into the spirit, we’ve put together a list of festive things to do with your loved ones – and one just for you, too! From the traditional to the new – we’ve got you covered.
Holiday idea #1: Go with tradition
If you’re from Cincinnati, there’s a good chance you remember watching the Cincinnati Ballet perform The Nutcracker at Music Hall, or seeing the train exhibit downtown. We’re happy to report that these two traditions are still going strong.
This year, look no further than Cincinnati’s cultural gems for a wonderful holiday outing (or three). From the Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains at the Cincinnati Museum Center to A Zinzinnati Holiday at the Cincinnati Krohn Conservatory (not to mention the great live nativity at the conservatory), to The Nutcracker at the Cincinnati Ballet and A Christmas Carol at the Cincinnati Playhouse, our cultural icons offer something for everyone. Don’t forget to add Antique Christmas at the Taft Museum to the list.
Holiday idea #2: Light it up
There are no shortage of incredible holiday light displays this year. Let’s start with the big one: PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens. This light extravaganza, named the best in the country by USA Today, seems to get better every year. Don’t want to get out of the car? No problem! Check out Christmas Nights of Lights at Coney Island and listen to rock music synchronized to the display.
Holiday in Lights at Sharon Woods lights up the park, as does Holiday Lights on the Hill at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park. And if you’re looking for a day trip, check out the legendary Christmas lights at Clifton Mill, then head over to Yellow Springs for a little local shopping and a hot chocolate.
Holiday idea #3: Go shopping!
Anytime is a good time to buy local, but it gets even easier to do so over the holidays thanks to some fun holiday markets. Don’t miss The City Flea’s Holiday market at Washington Park, or the park’s ongoing Santa’s Workshop to make ornaments and other Christmas goodies with the elves. Findlay Market’s Holiday Market happens December 7th and 8th and features local artisans and craft vendors.
Here’s a good article about nine holiday markets happening in Cincinnati and the surrounding area this season. Can’t make the markets? You can still shop local businesses with this great guide.
Holiday idea #4: Give back
Make this truly the season of giving by helping those in your community who could benefit from a little support. For volunteer opportunities of all sorts, take a look at the United Way’s website. Another, cincinnaticares.org, can match you with organizations based on your location and interests. Mathew:25 Ministries provides aid to various parts of the world.
Help brighten the lives of families and children by volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House, or donate items to the Freestore Foodbank to help put food on a family’s table at Christmas time. Love pets? This is a great time of the year to donate pet food or toys, volunteer, or foster a pet from the SPCA. Better yet, give a homeless cat or dog the ultimate gift and adopt.
Holiday idea #5: Treat yourself (yes, you!)
Make sure to take a little time for yourself this holiday season. Schedule a leisurely afternoon tea at the BonBonerie with a few special friends, or a massage or facial someplace special like Woodhouse Day Spa. This is also a great time of the year to purchase group fitness or yoga classes, when most local gyms and studios offer holiday discounts.
If you’d rather save your money or spend it on your loved ones or those less fortunate, consider taking a brisk stroll at a Cincinnati park, or get lost for an hour in a good bookstore or The Cincinnati Art Museum, which offers free admission. Take time to renew your energy because the better you feel, the more you’ll enjoy this special time with family and friends.
