Posts with tag 'Holidays'
16
The Nutcracker: 8 Places to See It Around Ohio
People around the world love going out to see a performance of The Nutcracker at Christmastime. Whether it's a yearly tradition for your family or something you've always wanted to experience, you don't have to go far from home to see a performance of this classic ballet.
From high-production traditional versions to newer interpretations, there are so many places around Ohio where you can see a live performance of The Nutcracker this Christmas. Let's look at a few of the most popular in greater detail below.
The Nutcracker at the Ohio Theater
39 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Every year around Christmas, the Ohio Theater hosts the talented artists of Ohio's BalletMet for a series of performances of The Nutcracker. This year, shows will run from December 8 all the way up to Christmas Eve. This production is extremely well-crafted, boasting gorgeous sets and visual effects as well as world-class dancing from the BalletMet's company dancers and students. With more than two weeks' worth of performances in Columbus' premier theater, you're sure to be able to fit one into your busy holiday schedule.
My First Nutcracker at the Ohio Theater
39 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
Yes, you read that right: The Ohio Theater offers an additional performance of The Nutcracker. This time, it's a special performance called My First Nutcracker, taking place on December 22 at 11 a.m. This show is a slightly abridged version of the full BalletMet version designed to make the experience better for families with young children and people with disabilities like autism. The shorter 1-hour performance time, smaller crowds, dimmed house lights, and quieter music all help make this version much easier for kids to sit through. If your kids do get antsy, audience members are invited to get up and move around during the performance or even leave the theatre if they need to.
The Nutty Nutcracker
182 South Main Street, Akron, OH 44308
Looking for a laugh or two this Christmas? On December 2 at 7 p.m., the Akron Civic Theatre will be hosting a performance of The Nutty Nutcracker, a parody version of the classic show. This production is an adults-only campy comedy that still showcases plenty of excellent ballet dancing. It turns the elegant timelessness of the original on its head in a way that veteran Nutcracker fans are sure to appreciate, and if nothing else, it's great for a fun, lighthearted night out during a hectic holiday season.
The Akron Nutcracker
198 Hill Street, Akron, OH 44325
View this post on Instagram
The University of Akron's Dance Institute is partnering with the Verb Ballet's company dancers for a repeat performance of last year's hit new show, The Akron Nutcracker. This adapted version of the original aims to tell the classic story within a recreation of the Akron of the 1930s, complete with iconic local landmarks like Polsky's Department Store and the Stan Hywet estate. This limited-run Northeast Ohio show is being performed Dec. 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. each evening, so it's a great family activity to help you build up to the big day.
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
500 Lakeside Avenue East, Cleveland, OH 44114
If you want to see a world-class production of The Nutcracker right here in Ohio, check out this year's performance of Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet on Saturday, December 10 at the Cleveland Public Auditorium Music Hall. This year marks the 30th anniversary of this adaptation of the classic ballet, and its goals of spreading world peace and harmony are more important now than ever. Come see the artistry of some of Ukraine's top ballet dancers as they bring this dazzling show to life – it's an experience you'll never forget.
The Nutcracker at Cincinnati Music Hall
1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
A yearly staple at the Cincinnati Music Hall, The Nutcracker is arguably the most popular show performed by the Cincinnati Ballet. It's a great excuse to watch some of Ohio's most talented dancers practice their craft. And because it's so popular, you can expect high production values that will make the experience even more worthwhile. This year's performances run from December 15 all the way up to Christmas Eve, so find a free day on your calendar and book your tickets!
Nutcracker Hot Chocolate
650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telling a familiar story from a new perspective is a great way to make it feel fresh and current again. On December 9 and 10, the Aronoff Center for the Arts will be hosting Nutcracker Hot Chocolate, a modernized version of The Nutcracker that has been adapted to showcase African American performers and culture. Acclaimed dance icon Debbie Allen created the show in 2008 to help inspire young dancers of color to keep pursuing their dreams. It's won a bevy of awards since then and continues to be a favorite of families everywhere.
The Hip Hop Nutcracker
317 East 5th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
The Nutcracker may be traditionally staged as a ballet, but who says it has to be? The Hip Hop Nutcracker reimagines this classic show as a thrilling hip-hop dance exhibition that is sure to make you think about Tchaikovsky's music in a whole new way. This touring performance will be stopping in Cincinnati for a show at the Taft Theatre on December 1 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. The tour features rapper Kurtis Blow as the show's MC, as well as a full troupe of talented artists dancing on a set that recreates modern-day New York City with gorgeous graffiti lighting effects.
Dreaming of Christmas
Which of these exciting performances of The Nutcracker will you be seeing this holiday season?
11
Northeast Ohio: 9 Places for Thanksgiving Dinner To Go
The weather is getting colder, the leaves are changing color, and Thanksgiving will be here before you know it. For most people, a filling turkey dinner is central to a Thanksgiving celebration. If you have a small family or a busy schedule, you may not want to spend all morning in the kitchen. Luckily, several excellent Northeast Ohio restaurants will be offering takeout and to-go meals on Thanksgiving Day. Here are a few top choices.
Amish Door Restaurant
1210 Winesburg St. Wilmot, OH 44689
Amish Door Restaurant is another great place to purchase a homemade Thanksgiving dinner. They charge per person, so you can buy as many or as few meals as you like. Each dinner includes roasted turkey, ham, and all the classic sides. They can package it up family-style if you have a larger order.
Amish Door Restaurant is especially known for its desserts. The Pumpkin Roll is a great option for those who want an alternative to pie.
Hartville Kitchen
1015 Edison St., Hartville, OH 44632
View this post on Instagram
Hartville Kitchen is a welcoming, family-friendly restaurant and bakery that offers takeout Thanksgiving meals. They usually offer three dinner options for groups of 6, 12, or 24. You can choose between ham and turkey as your main entree. Each dinner also includes mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, stuffing, gravy, cranberry salad, rolls, and green beans or corn.
Thanksgiving dinner isn't complete without pie! Order from Hartville Kitchen, and you'll also get fresh-baked pies with your meal. Choose from pumpkin, apple, mixed berry, and pecan. Place your order online so your order is ready on Thanksgiving Day.
Cleveland Vegan
17112 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
If you eat vegan or plant-based, or if you're simply trying to reduce your meat consumption, Cleveland Vegan is a great place to pick up some Thanksgiving meals. They make everything from scratch, in-house. Choose between two different dish sizes, which feed 4-6 or 8-10. You can order each dish a la carte.
Top Thanksgiving dishes at Cleveland Vegan include walnut-stuffed mushrooms, gluten-free tater tot casserole, and cinnamon pecan cupcakes.
Buehler's Fresh Foods
7138 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
View this post on Instagram
Buehler's Fresh Foods is a local Ohio grocery store chain that sells fresh, locally grown foods in a relaxed setting. They sell prepared Thanksgiving dinners that you can purchase cold and heat up at home.
Buehler has a few different options. You can purchase their dinner for two and enjoy a small, intimate Thanksgiving celebration. Or, purchase larger portions of a la carte dishes to host a larger meal for family and friends. Don't forget to take home an apple or pecan pie, too. They're baked in-store, and the scent fills the market.
Mallorca
1390 W. 9th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
Mallorca is a unique Spanish restaurant in downtown Cleveland. They don't make a traditional Thanksgiving dinner but offer some unique twists on Thanksgiving favorites. Guests love their chorizo pinenut stuffing, for example. Their turkey dinner also includes delicious mashed sweet potatoes.
Mallorca will offer their Thanksgiving dinners for dine-in and takeout on the special day. You can also purchase desserts a la carte. The pumpkin cheesecake is divine!
Creekside Restaurant
8803 Brecksville Rd., Cleveland, OH 44141
View this post on Instagram
If you're looking for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner for one, then Creekside Restaurant is the place to go. This local favorite serves incredible takeout meals with all the fixings. They use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and aim to make a modern twist on the classics.
The turkey at Creekside Restaurant is always tender and juicy. Guests also rave about their fluffy mashed potatoes and cornbread sausage stuffing. The meals are picked up cold, but detailed heating instructions are included.
Embassy Suites, Akron Canton Airport
7883 Freedom Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
Buying Thanksgiving dinner from an airport hotel may sound strange at first, but Embassy Suites has a fabulous restaurant. They prepare and sell Thanksgiving meals that you can pick up curbside. Pick yours up hot on Thanksgiving Day or cold the day before Thanksgiving.
Meals from Embassy Suites are designed to feed 6-8 people. Each kit includes a whole, roasted turkey, au jus, cranberry relish, buttermilk mashed potatoes, green beans, knotted rolls, and your choice of a pie. You can add prime rib to your order upon request; it comes with a delicious horseradish cream sauce.
The South Side
2207 W. 11th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
Maybe you've been to The South Side to watch the game and enjoy some bar food. Thanksgiving dinner is a bit of a departure from their normal fare, but they do a great job preparing and serving it. Each dinner comes with sliced turkey breast, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.
The South Side packages all of their Thanksgiving dinners with clear reheating instructions. Buy one dinner for a quiet Thanksgiving or a whole stack of dinners for a relaxed, hassle-free family party.
Gervasi Vineyard
1700 55th St. NE, Canton, OH 44721
Gervasi Vineyard is a great choice for those seeking a slightly modernized, creative twist on the traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Their dinners all include delicious turkey breast with white gravy. Their mashed potatoes are made with redskins and garlic, and they'll definitely have you reaching for seconds. Each meal also includes sage stuffing, plus green beans with almonds and cranberries.
Gervasi Vineyard sells family-style dinners, and each package serves 5-6 people. They're sold cold, and heating instructions are included. Order online; the website allows you to select a pickup time.
Give Thanks
What are you most thankful for this Thanksgiving?
4
7 Places for Holiday Pie Orders in Columbus & Central Ohio
Holidays usually mean a table full of food finished with a few scrumptious pies. Whether your favorite is apple, pecan, buckeye, or a cream pie like banana or coconut, pies help create delicious holiday memories that can be handed down from generation to generation. But with all the baking and other hustle and bustle associated with the holidays, why not leave the pie baking to the experts? You'll have many varieties to choose from and will surely enjoy the fresh, local ingredients used in many of them. Many bakeries also often put a twist on traditional favorites, such as a Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie.
Check out the following Columbus and Central Ohio bakeries, look over their menus or stop by and place your holiday pie orders.
Resch's Bakery
4061 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus, OH 43227
Generations of Columbus area residents have stopped by Resch's Bakery throughout its over 100 years of serving up treats like cakes, donuts, and pies. The bakery is dedicated to using the best ingredients to make tasty treats from scratch and to providing the highest level of customer service. Pies include pecan, cinnamon apple, Dutch apple, Dutch cherry, and sweet potato, and throughout the holidays, you'll find them on many local tables.
Dough Mama
3335 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
View this post on Instagram
Dough Mama started as a home kitchen business for classically trained pastry chef Perrie Wilkof, who supplied pies to many notable Columbus-area restaurants, and has since grown into a successful cafe and bakery. Everything is made from scratch using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Popular seasonal holiday pies include the Brown Butter Pumpkin Pie, a spiced pumpkin and roasted sweet potato blend custard, giving it a rich texture and flavor. The Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie is also a favorite choice, with a bottom layer of rich dark chocolate loaded with pecans. It's also made with Kentucky Bourbon and organic maple syrup.
Mrs. Goodman's Baking Co.
901 High St., Worthington, OH 43085
Mrs. Goodman's Baking Co. was originally known as Mrs. Goodman's Pie Co., and they're still known for baking pies with flaky, buttery crusts and filling made from the best ingredients. Many pies are available, including apple, cherry, peach, pecan, and pumpkin. In addition to the traditional pecan pie, the bakery also puts a twist on it to create chocolate pecan and white chocolate pecan pies. If you prefer cream pies, you'll also have plenty of options, including banana, coconut, and chocolate peanut butter.
Ohio Pies
Columbus Area
View this post on Instagram
Ohio Pies is a licensed home bakery, so it doesn't have a storefront, but don't let that stop you from ordering their mouthwatering pies. The bakery's mission is to source seasonal, local ingredients and, in the process, feed your soul and nourish the community. That's why, for example, all the eggs for Ohio Pies come from the free-range hens at Harrison Farm, and all the butter comes from Minerva Dairy. Blueberries are sourced from Blueberried Alive's organic crops, and all milk and cream come from Snowville Creamery. Order favorite holiday pies like apple, blackberry, buckeye, s'mores, sweet potato, and pumpkin, made with local pumpkins. Hand pies are also available by the half-dozen in apple, blackberry, caramelized pear, and cherry.
The Original Goodie Shop
2116 Tremont Center, Upper Arlington, OH 43221
The Original Goodie Shop is a family-owned bakery that's served sweet treats to satisfied customers for 67 years. They've earned a generational following over the years and have customers who buy goodies for their children after growing up ordering the same thing from the bakery. Everything is hand-made from scratch, including donuts, cakes, cookies, and, of course, pies. Pies are available in small and large sizes in flavors such as apple, cherry, mince, pecan, and pumpkin.
The Witten Farm Market at Smith Farm
3341 Winchester Pike, Columbus, OH 43232
View this post on Instagram
With The Witten Farm Market at Smith Farm, you get the best of both worlds: The chance to buy produce and fresh foods for your holiday needs from the farm market as well as tasty baked goods like pies from Smith Farm Bakery. Made fresh daily, pies are available in many different flavors, including Dutch apple, apple, caramel apple nut, cherry, pumpkin, pecan, sweet potato, rhubarb, mincemeat, blackberry, and blueberry. Cream pie options include banana, chocolate, coconut, buckeye, lemon meringue, and key lime. All are baked fresh daily.
Matt's Bakery
39 S. Yearling Rd., Whitehall, OH 43212
Matt's Bakery is kosher, and all its items are parve. All baked goods are milk and dairy-free, with eggs used in the baking, and they're also nut-free (except for the pecan pie, which is baked separately). Before the holidays, pre-order pies such as apple crumb, blueberry, cherry, double-crust apple, peach, and strawberry. And while you're at it, order some challah, the signature bread item that the bakery's best known for.
Any Way You Slice It
What's your go-to holiday pie (or pies!), and where are you planning to order them from?
2
8 Family Events to Get in the Holiday Spirit Around Ohio
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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?
3
Toy Story: 9 Places to Shop for Kids of All Ages in Ohio
There's nothing quite like seeing the joy in a child's eyes when they receive a Christmas gift they really love. When you choose to skip the big-box stores and support local instead, you'll help keep the shopkeeper's dreams alive as well.
If you're ready to start your holiday shopping soon, you'll be glad to know that there are some great locally owned toy stores in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Here's a look at some of our favorites.
Smartickles Toy Store
986 Medina Rd. Suite A, Medina, OH 44256
If you're looking for fun and educational holiday gifts, you'll definitely want to pay a visit to Smartickles Toy Store. This family-owned and operated business has been around since 1976. They carry all of the most popular developmental toy brands including LEGO, Colorforms, Melissa & Doug, and more.
Everything is priced very affordably and they carry a huge inventory of items. There are also lots of cool options for "big kids" too, so you may want to pay a visit even if you're not shopping for little ones.
PLAYmatters Toys
30789 Pinetree Rd., Pepper Pike, OH 44124
View this post on Instagram
PLAYmatters Toys was voted Best Toy Store in the 2021 annual Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards — for good reason. This specialty shop sells premier-quality toys, dolls, games, and puzzles from some of the best toymakers around the world.
Not only will you find some great gifts here, but they also offer free gift wrapping with a selection of fun papers, so you can present the special child in your life with a beautifully wrapped gift without any hassle.
Do you want to make gift giving easy for family and friends? You can also go to PLAYmatters and create a wish list for your child. This takes the guesswork out of it and you won't have to worry about returning gifts that aren't quite right!
Your Toy Connection
238 W. Main St., Ravenna, OH 44266
At Your Toy Connection, you'll find a huge selection of both modern and vintage toys. They have everything from toys that were popular in the 1960s to current items. While the inventory changes regularly, you'll likely find lots of Transformers, Star Wars items, POP collectibles, and more.
You can count on Your Toy Connection to offer excellent prices and their friendly staff is always happy to help. Whether you're looking for a special collectible piece or you just want to look around and see what strikes your fancy, you'll love spending time here.
Sir Troy's Toy Kingdom
1180 S. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
View this post on Instagram
Sir Troy's Toy Kingdom is known for carrying high-quality, imagination-powered toys for both kids and adults who are kids at heart. This is one of the best places to get your hands on hard-to-find LEGO sets as well as items like MEGA BLOKS, Masterpiece Puzzles, the full line of Breyer Horses, COBI Military Sets, and more.
In addition to the North Canton store, you'll also find locations in Medina and Solon as well as a robust online store. This makes it easy to shop local for your holiday gifts no matter where you're located.
Dreamland
1239 Polaris Pkwy., Columbus, OH 43240
Founded in 2011, Dreamland is one of the most popular toy stores in Columbus. They carry a large selection of toy brands like Disney, Ty, Melisssa & Doug, Mattel, Fisher-Price, and more. They also have a selection of Squishmallows and giant fidget pops.
Need a deluxe scooter with LED wheels, a 3D Harry Potter puzzle, or a giant stuffed T-rex? You'll find all this and more at Dreamland!
Big Fun Columbus
672 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
If you're looking for some fun stocking stuffers or vintage toys for a child who is into collecting, you'll want to check out Big Fun Columbus. They always have a super cool selection, and since they buy old toys all the time, you can find cool new stuff every time you visit.
Coolest Toys on Earth
6840 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45227
For rare and unique gifts for kids (and adults!), you can't go wrong with Coolest Toys on Earth. This shop almost feels more like a cool toy museum than a retail store. They carry a huge selection of rare and high-quality toys, outdoor games, puzzles, science items, building kits, toys for younger kids, and more. A gift from this store is guaranteed to be one that will get a ton of use.
Flying Pig Toys
7723 Five Mile Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230
View this post on Instagram
Looking for a gift that will last a lifetime? Check out the high-quality wooden toys at Flying Pig Toys. They carry many unique brands and have a constantly evolving selection. In addition to toys, you'll also find a wide variety of stackers and tons of books ranging from educational to silly. They even have a selection of pop-up baby books.
Flying Pig Toys offers a rewards program and the ability to make a wish list. This makes them a popular choice among parents in the Cincinnati area.
House of Plastik
834 OH-125 #310, Cincinnati, OH 45245
If you have a kid (or big kid) in your life who is into vintage or collectible items, then you'll want to check out House of Plastik. They have a great selection of action figures, Transformers, My Little Pony, Star Wars items, and more. If you need some stocking stuffers, you can also get some great candy here.
Since they buy used items, you can always find something new and exciting. And, if you need to clear out some space and make some cash, you might be able to sell a few old items before the holidays arrive.
Santa Claus is Coming to Town!
Where will you shop for fun items to spread Christmas cheer this year?
The Cutler Real Estate® word mark is a registered trademark owned by Cutler and Associates, Inc.
Privacy Policy / DMCA Notice / ADA Accessibility
