Cincinnati Family December 2020

12 Days of Giveaways! See Inside ... and Win! DECEMBER 2020

2020

YOUR #1 HOMETOWN FAMILY RESOURCE

Christmas At Home FESTIVE FAMILY OUTINGS

WAYS TO GIVE BACK

Holiday Time!

Generosity of space. Millions of twinkling lights and our soaring 48-foot Christmas tree.

Hundreds of enhanced cleaning protocols. Boundless family-friendly holiday events, from tubing, ice skating and Breakfast with Charlie Brown™ & Friends to our brand-new I Love Christmas Movies™ immersive pop-up experience featuring ELF™, THE POLAR EXPRESS™, and more!

November 13 – January 3 | ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com Peanuts© 2020 Peanuts Worldwide LLC · ELF and all related characters and elements © & ™ New Line Productions, Inc. (s20) THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s20)

PUBLISHER Stewart Day EDITOR IN CHIEF Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com EDITOR Amanda Hayward amandahayward@ daycommedia.com THINGS TO DO/ ASSOCIATE EDITOR Amanda Ciani amandaciani@ daycommedia.com GRAPHIC DESIGN DayCom Associates PRODUCTION Tim Henard timhenard@ daycommedia.com

THINGS TO DO

ACCOUNT MANAGERS Theresa Cicchinelli theresa@daycommedia.com

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Kathi Listo kathi@daycommedia.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jonathan McCormack distributioncf@ daycommedia.com

Subscribe Online to our Newsletter & Join us on Facebook for Giveaways & more!

THIS PUBLICATION AUDITED BY

CIRCULATION VERIFICATION

IN THE ISSUE

FEATURES

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11 Giving Back

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5

C O U N C I L

CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by DAYCOM MEDIA, INC. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, DAYCOM MEDIA cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. Editorial and business offices are located at 10945 Reed Hartman Hwy., Ste 323, Cincinnati, OH 45242. The phone number is 513-252-0077; fax is 513252-0081. CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is copyright © 2020 by DayCom Media, Inc., a member of The Family Magazine Syndicate. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

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editor's note Balancing tech life.

Feedback 12 Days of Giveaways from our merry advertisers and supporters!

cincinnati news Art and play hike for kids; a local mom entrepreneur's The Girl Republic line; a new Milk & Beans opens; Books by the Banks Writing Contest and more.

Kids' health Figuring out if your child's symptoms are the flu or COVID -19 ... and whether or not you should get your child tested.

Opportunities for family volunteering and giving provide a great way for children to learn about what really matters most this holiday season.

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A Very Special Holiday Guide

Holiday events to enjoy with your family plus Daily events to help you plan your month with the kids.

(special advertising)

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2020 Education and Enrichment Guide

Ice skating, visits with Santa, holiday events and more, plus enjoying family time while staying safe through the holidays.

ON THE COVER Cover Kid, Baya, photographed in the studio

by Wendy Magee Photography.

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

december 2020

1

New Year, New Horizons

the little things

BY AMANDA HAYWARD Music, Dance, Acting, Gymnastics In-person and online options available.

WestChesterAcademy.com 513.829.2345 • 8107 Market Place Drive, West Chester

Child friendly office Emphasis on total preventive care Board certified in pediatric dentistry

Balancing Tech Life

T

he weeks get busy as I conduct virtual learning, work from home and just do the whole mom thing. There is no room for extra tech time and the house rules are, fun tablet time is for weekends only. Between my third grader and preschooler, they are spending enough time learning online and taking online camps and classes. I mean, how much can their little eyeballs handle?

As we crawl into the weekend, my kids know what’s coming. They know after school on Friday, all cards are in. Get out the tablets, hop in front of the TV— it’s go time! At first I thought this concept was great. They work hard during the week, and they earn the choice to play on their tablets for what I like to think is one-to-two hours per day. But that one-to- two hours can easily turn into three hours, or a little more than I like. I lose track as I clean the house, gather myself or just plain and simple, catch up on life. I find myself thinking, “It’s OK, another hour isn’t going to hurt. I have so much to do, they are fine,” with a side of wracked nerves wondering if I’m ruining my kids. There is so much pressure out there; I’m well aware of what doctors are shouting at us: kids are on their devices too much; too much tech is bad; and the list goes on. This all lingers in the back of my mind. I mean, my 4-year-old follows her brother’s every move and learns to play games just as well as he can. Impressive. But good? I question it, and back comes my uneasy feeling, that little knot deep down in my gut.

Still I fall into that sneaky trap of using technology as a babysitter, which we all know, is a big “No, no.”

I was a kid once. I remember when my older brother and I opened the new PlayStation for Christmas. He would collect every Madden 90-something game that existed. I loved watching him. I learned quickly and it was just a treat. I don’t remember having a tech timer or my mom shouting, “OK guys, you have five more minutes and that’s it!” We just played until we didn’t want to anymore, then I would be outside climbing trees until I smelled the homemade mac and cheese.

These times are just different. I have to remind myself time and time again, it’s all about balance. Finding that equilibrium during these tough times, is well, tough! We parents are having a hard enough time as it is, adapting to the constant changes coming at us.

I DO get out in nature often with the kids. We DO go on walks almost daily. We DO set time aside for reading and play. There will be days where the balance is just off, and that is OK. We are not perfect and right now, we are just trying to get through whatever this is.

Allow yourself the days to just curl up on the couch and turn the tech timers off. Then, allow the days for motivation to kick in, where you feel you can conquer the world, pack the family up and head out into the wilderness. It’s all good. It’s called balance, and we all find it in our own way.

EDITOR 2 december 2020

“Where Every Family Matters.”

12 DAYS OF

GIVEAWAYS! Win a prize in our annual holiday Facebook giveaway

We’ll ask a question and your answer will serve as

starting Tuesday, Dec. 2! One daily giveaway will be

your entry. Winners are randomly selected from the

announced on Facebook between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m.

entries. Like us on Facebook and subscribe to our

Look for the #CF12DaysofGiveaways hashtag.

Newsletter to double your chances of winning!

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Sara’s House; Wildfire Hygge Goods; The Almond Sisters Bakery; True West Coffee & Henry’s Candy Co. - $150 value

CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER One Family Membership - $110 value

CINCINNATI NATURE CENTER One-year Membership - $86 value

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CINCINNATI ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDEN

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BB RIVERBOATS KIDS CREW CLUB MEMBERSHIP

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for a family of four: Includes a Pirate, Sightseeing Cruises and Sightseeing-only option on Lunch and Dinner Cruises; plus discounted admission on holiday cruises, Captains Dinner, Ice Cream Socials, Captains Lunch and Sunday Family Dinner Cruises - $125 value

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MITCHELL’S SALON & DAY SPA

Relaxation Package with Euphoria Spa Facial, Full Body Therapeutic Massage, Manicure & Whirlpool Pedicure - $245 value

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GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL

BIG SPLASH PACKAGE Includes eight lessons, a towel, bag, water bottle and two Family Swim Lane Rental Passes - $209+ value

TAFT MUSEUM OF ART One-year Membership - $75 value

DOLLYWOOD

Four tickets to the park plus a one-night stay at DreamMore Resort and Spa - $545 value

december 2020

3

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with Claus Let the kids tell Santa their wish lists from the safety of your home! Register for a video call with Santa Claus at greatparks.org/callclaus.

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513-583-1874 www.puzzlepiecesohio.com 4 december 2020

“Where Every Family Matters.”

CINCINNATI NEWS

BY AMANDA CIANI

Inclusive Play for Kids at We Rock the Spectrum Gym

K

ids of all abilities need plenty of play time! Bring them to the recently opened We Rock the Spectrum Gym. Open since

September, the inclusive play spot features tunnels, a zip line, an indoor play structure, suspended equipment for balance and vestibular input, crash mats and pillows, sensory-based and fine-motor toys and more. Open play is available daily (Mon - Fri, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sun 12 - 5 p.m.) and families can drop-in or purchase a three-, five- or 12-visit package. Looking for enrichment?

Check out the preschool story time and music and movement classes available. We Rock the Spectrum offers birthday parties, too. Call 513-429-5905

art play hike for kids

or check out werockthespectrumcincinnati.com for more information.

Made possible through a partnership between The Contemporary Arts Center and Cincinnati Parks

H

ere's a great way to get your kids outside! Cincinnati Parks and the Contemporary Arts Center have a new kids' program called Art Play Hike. Children ages 2 - 7 can bundle up during rain or shine to

investigate a park with a park naturalist each month. Then, after outdoor exploration — and hot cocoa — your child will get an Art-2-Go bag so she can create a masterpiece at home. All programs are offered 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., monthly and are FREE, but registration is required, and children must wear masks.

SCHEDULE:

L

ocal mom and entrepreneur Andrea Minnillo wants girls to be empowered by fashion without gender stereotypes.

That's why she launched the online boutique The Girl

Republic one year ago this month. Since last December, the shop's

Dec. 3 - California Woods (5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, Oh)

clothing items for infants through adults have been aiming to encour-

Jan. 7 - Mt. Storm Park (700 LaFayette Ave., Cincinnati, Oh)

age females to live freely and confidently. Clothes depict themes from

Feb. 4 - Mt. Airy Tree House (212 Trail Ridge Road, Cincinnati, Oh)

sports to STEM and highlight girl power, drive and ferocity.

March 4 French Park (3012 Section Road, Cincinnati, Oh)

Check out the line and accessories (including crocheted items by Minnillo's daughters) at the girlrepublic.com.

April 1 - Eden Park (950 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, Oh) May 6 - Burnet Woods (3251 Brookline Ave., Cincinnati, Oh) Register your child for Art Play Hike at contemporaryartscenter.org/programs/ family-programs/art-play-hike. For more information, call 513-345-8400.

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(please turn the page)

december 2020 5

cincinnati news

The new Milk & Beans coffee shop includes a coffee chat area for moms and dads and a play area for kids — how smart is that?

MILK & BEANS OPENS

Northern Kentucky has a brand-new coffee cafe and play place created for families. Milk & Beans (574 Buttermilk Pike, Crescent Springs) serves Carabello Coffee that parents and caregivers can enjoy while the kids explore the open-play area.

The indoor playroom has a variety of educational toys. Follow Milk & Beans on Facebook to learn about their events and promotions at facebook.com/milkandbeanscafe or call 859-360-0257.

NEW ART AT THE CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM

The Cincinnati Art Museum (953 Eden Park Drive) has two new installations opening up this month.

December 5 will be the opening date of an immersive light installation by Anila Quayyum Agha. The popular sculpture, All the Flowers Are for Me, features a five-foot laser-cut steel cube emanating light, which creates playful shadows on the walls, floor and ceiling. The second instal-

6 december 2020

lation, opening December 18, is Frank Duveneck: American Master, an exhibit focusing on the most influential painter in Cincinnati history.

The exhibition will feature more than 90 examples of Duveneck’s artistic offerings. Learn more about the Cincinnati Art Museum by visiting cincinnatiartmuseum.org or calling 513-721-2787.

TAFT MUSEUM CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

Celebrate the Taft's bicentennial with an infrastructure Capital Campaign to ensure the landmark's longevity.

The Taft Museum of Art is seeking to raise $10.7 million by spring, 2022 to secure a 4:1 matching grant through the National Endowment for the Humanities. Funds raised and secured will ensure future generations will be able to enjoy the historic building for years to come. The Taft Museum of Art is located at 316 Pike Street in Cincinnati. For more information on the Bicentennial Infrastructure Project, visit taftmuseum. org/lovethishouse.

NEW NEWSFIELDS EXHIBIT

Start planning a trip now! Newfields in Indianapolis (4000 Michigan Road) is set to unveil their largest exhibition to date in June of 2021.

The Lume immerses visitors into a digital world of art pairing beautiful 2D works of art with captivating floor to ceiling projections. The new exhibit will span nearly 30,000 square feet with the first show featuring the works of Vincent van Gogh.

For more information, call 317-9231331 or visit discovernewfields.org/ lume.

GIVE TO CINCINNATI CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

Unprecedented times call for creative solutions and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital has come up with an innovative way for families to give back during the 2020 holiday season. In lieu of the traditional toy drive, families have the opportunity to purchase age-specific toy bundles starting at only $25. During December, Child Life Specialists will distribute toys

“Where Every Family Matters.”

to patients throughout the hospital to make the season more festive.

Another great option to give back, which is available all yearlong, is shopping from Children’s Hospital’s Amazon Wish List. Learn all about Cincinnati Children’s Hospital’s donor opportunities at cincinnatichildrens.org/giving/gifts/items.

BOOKS BY THE BANKS WRITING CONTEST

The 2020 Books by the Banks Writers’ Contest is still happening with the theme of “Home.” All types of writing are welcome; adults and teens are encouraged to submit their fiction, nonfiction and poetry works online by January 4, 2021. Prizes will be awarded to the top three adult and teen participants, with awards being presented via Zoom on February 13, 2021. Visit booksbythebanks.org/author-submissionform for rules and to submit a piece of writing.

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december 2020 7

ballet • tap • jazz hip-hop • modern pre-dance combos

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Christmas at the Junction

Create a holiday tradition for your family! See the magic of Christmas at the home of the World’s Largest Indoor Train Display. Walk through an indoor wonderland, visit reindeer stables, and make a trip to Mrs. Claus’ kitchen. Talk to Santa in realtime through a virtual “ZoomFace” system!

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Dedicated to Women’s Heath

www.HilltopOBGYN.com “Where Every Family Matters.”

kids’ health

By Amanda Hayward

COVID or FLU?

The symptoms are similar, so know the deciding factors in determining what’s going on with your child.

Y

ou did the research, kept up-todate with safety protocols and precautions and asked your doctor more questions than you can count. Of course you’d know whether your kid has the flu or COVID-19, right? Wrong — it’s just not that simple.

According to Mary Carol Burkhardt, M.D., MHA, associate division director, Primary Care, and medical director, Hopple Street Health Center at Cincinnati Children’s,, if your kid comes home with a sore throat or fever, your best bet is to keep him home.

“It is more critical than ever not to send a child to school or daycare when they have sick symptoms,” says Burkhardt. “It would be very appropriate to call your pediatrician or provider and have your child seen.”

Dr. Mom is on it. But telling the difference between COVID-19 and flu symptoms is tricky. The honest truth, even your providers may have a hard time distinguishing your kids’ symptoms, according to Burkhardt, as the symptoms can most definitely overlap.

“For example, fever, chills, fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, headache, etc can be seen in both illnesses,” she continues. “Due to this overlap, testing for COVID-19 is important to be able to know the difference.

There are some tests available that test for both flu and COVID-19.”

SHOULD YOUR CHILD BE TESTED? We are buried in information — therefore it’s hard knowing when and if your kids should be tested for COVID-19, as every state has their own protocols. Moreover, it’s not the most comfortable test for anyone,

however, most kids seem to tolerate the test rather well, sometimes more than adults, according to Burkhardt.

A child should be tested for COVID-19 when they have sick symptoms or if they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for the novel virus, she continues.

“Children that are ‘a contact of a close contact’ do not need to be tested unless symptoms develop,” says Burkhardt, “Call your provider if your child has symptoms or is a close contact.”

Current COVID-19 testing is done with a nasal swab, or nasopharyngeal swab (a Q-tip going up the nostril). If your kid is showing sick symptoms such as fever, cough, chills, congestion or sore throat, the best action is to keep them home and call your pediatrician for an in-person evaluation or via telehealth. From there they will guide you through the next steps.

MAINTAINING CHILD HEALTH Right now, the most important thing you can do for your kids is to keep them healthy.

With flu season coinciding with COVID19, Burkhardt recommends getting the flu shot - while we currently don’t have vaccines for coronavirus, we do have an effective flu vaccine.

And don’t forget well checks. Some are skeptical about even stepping foot into a doctor’s office right now; it is safe to bring them to the pediatrician and important to continue preventative care such as vaccinations and screenings, says Burkhardt.

“These are critical to keeping your child

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thriving and healthy!” she continues.

Some pediatricians offer virtual check ups if you are uncomfortable with physically taking your kids to their well visits.

COVID-19 Testing

Get your family tested and feel safe while doing it, too. When in doubt, contact your family doctor.

Ohio Department of Health coronavirus.ohio.gov Pop-up testing services throughout Ohio.

Check website for specific dates and locations.

Northern Kentucky Health Department nkyhealth.org Lists resources and locations for families to get tested.

St. Elizabeth Locations stelizabeth.com/covid-testing Drive-through testing locations for families; for ages 5 and younger, staff will teach parents how to take the swab.

City of Cincinnati cincinnati-oh.gov Locations to get tested near you, testing procedures and more.

The Health Collaborative healthcollab.org Testing locations (including TriHealth, Mercy Health, UC Health and others), outdoor testing sites and more.

Amanda Hayward is editor of this publication and a mom of two.

december 2020

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CincinnatiFamily

CincyFamMag

WE ARE OPEN, WE ARE BUYING,

& we are being safe!

@CincyFam

We are back to normal business hours! Monday Saturday 9:30am-9pm, Sundays 10am-8pm.

We pay CASH on-thespot, 7 days a week, no appointment needed!

We are committed to providing a safe shopping & selling experience!

THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING LOCAL! Anderson · Beavercreek · Colerain · Miamisburg ³ Fields Ertel Florence KY ² Huber Heights ³ Hyde Park · West Chester · Western Hills

www.onceuponachildcincydayton.com

10 december 2020

“Where Every Family Matters.”

Cincinnati Family Magazine

By Nyketa Gaffney

Giving Back

Despite the effects that COVID-19 has had on our community, local nonprofits and programs have come together in wonderful ways.

Here’s what they are doing to help — and you can, too!

T

he Greater Cincinnati area has been a part of the “together movement” much like the entire state of Ohio has in lending support to families inneed. Local nonprofits have made resources available and found ways to reach out to families.

Here is how local nonprofit organizations are currently serving the people of our city; many work collectively to ensure that those deeply impacted by the pandemic have access to food, shelter and financial assistance.

Matthew 25 Ministries (M25M) 11060 Kenwood Road, Blue Ash, Oh 513-793-6256; info@m25m.org Since last summer, Matthew 25 Ministries have provided approximately 4,200 meals to organizations working to feed the poor and homeless. M25M has also hosted several drive-through events at their Blue Ash, Ohio, facility to help provide free COVID19 testing, PPE and relief supplies, as well as lunches to members of the Greater Cincinnati community. In an effort to help promote personal and public safety; they have helped to provide approximately 6,500 PPE kits; 3,500 meals and administered more than 500 free tests to the local community. Volunteers play a huge role in M25M work, but for now, they have decided to suspend volunteer hours at their facility until further notice. Luckily you can still help with welcome product donations from individuals, organizations and corporations as well as financial donations. Currently, they are in need of gently used clothing, non-perishable food, school supplies and more. For more information, e-mail Shelly Clos at shelly@m25m.org or visit their website.

United Way of Greater Cincinnati (UWGC) 2400 Reading Road, Cincinnati, Oh 513-762-7100; uwgc.org Jennifer Bieger, supervisor of the UWGC’S 211 program, and her team places emphasis on the fact that the pandemic has only elevated the social support the organization provides the city. They continue to connect people to resources and life preserving information (particularly as it regards obtaining food, financial assistance and housing).

The UWGC instituted the COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund as an answer to the crisis.

“The United Way of Greater Cincinnati has done a myriad of things to assist with the pandemic; providing masks and hand sanitizer to the community is only one example,” says Bieger.

UWGC plans to provide as much community support through the remainder of the year, but community services are strained near and far – yet they are continuously working to try and meet the demand, especially through the holidays.

Families can do their part together by choosing a UWGC volunteer opportunity on the website by clicking on the “Volunteer” tab. Make homemade masks, provide meals for families in-need and lots more.

Catholic Charities of Southwest Ohio (CCSO) 7162 Reading Road, Ste. 600 Cincinnati, Oh 513-672-3700; ccswoh.org As a response to COVID-19, CCSO is providing monthly Food for All drivethrough food pantries in Clermont, Brown, Adams, Highland and Clinton Counties.

They also have Pick-up pantries and

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PowerPack distribution for families of St. Clement School (St. Bernard), St. Martin of Tours School (Cheviot) and Sardinia Elementary School (Brown County).

Produce pick-up and Food for All food pantry at Church of the Resurrection (Bond Hill) are available on Wednesdays (except the fifth Wednesday of the month).

Check-in phone calls from Senior Companions to other seniors needing social interaction or virtual mental health services help tremendously through the holiday season – a time of year where anxiety and depression take a huge uptick among the senior population.

Want to get involved? Donate or check out their volunteer opportunities via their website under the “Get Involved” tab.

MORE WAYS TO GIVE Freestore Foodbank 513-485-7550 freestorefoodbank.org Find volunteer opportunities online.

Stett 4 Kids stett4kids.com The Christmas Wish program for families inneed who don’t have extra income for gifts.

St. Vincent De Paul (SVDP) 1125 Bank St., Cincinnati, Oh 513-562-8841; svdpcincinnati.org Christmas Together, SVDP’s version of adopta-family; or Angel Toy, where you can donate a toy and they do the shopping through their donated collection; annual coat drive.

Nyketa Gaffney is a mother and freelance writer.

december 2020

11

The BEST of the

Holidays!

BY AMANDA HAYWARD

Ice Skating Nothing is more festive than an afternoon or evening on the ice with your family!

Ice Skating at Fifty West Burger Bar 7605 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, Oh fiftywestbrew.com/ice-skating

Fountain Square Ice Skating 520 Vine St., Cincinnati, Oh myfountainsquare.com

Tasty warm beverages, craft beer, burgers and more plus ice skating? We’re in!

Monday - Friday, 4 - 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. $10 includes 60 minutes of ice time and skate rental.

Open through Feb. 15, 2021. The UC Health Ice Rink is taking over Fountain Square! Reservations required to skate and to use the all-new, 60-minute Bumper Car experience on the rink; masks required; rink and bumper cars, $15; skating only, $10, (includes skate rental) ages 4 and younger are free.

Warm 98.5 Ice Rink at Summit Park 4335 Glendale Milford Road, Blue Ash, Oh summitparkblueash.com A family favorite open for its fourth season; $6 per person ages 4 and older; groups of three or more, $5 per person. Includes skate rental; pre-registration open seven days in advance for future ice rink dates; check the Facebook page at @facebook.com/SummitPark for up-to-date information.

12 december 2020

Northland Ice Center 10400 Reading Road, Cincinnati, Oh northlandicecenter.com When the weather is a bit too frightful, take your skates indoors. Offers hockey and ice skating lessons. Public skating Monday - Friday 1 - 3 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 2 - 4 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday evenings, 8 - 10 p.m.

Northern Kentucky Ice Center 2638 Anderson Road, Crescent Springs, Ky nkyicecenter.com Along with ice hockey, skate lessons and figure skating, this rink offers plenty of public ice sessions, too. Don’t forget to enjoy treats in the renovated snack bar; $8 admission, skate rental $3, ages 10 and younger receive $1-off admission.

“Where Every Family Matters.”

Visits with Santa See how local businesses are bringing the jolly ol’ man back in a safe and creative way!

Breakfast with Santa at Scene75 876 OH-28, Milford, Oh scene75.com/cincinnati/event/ breakfast-with-santa-cincinnati Saturday, December 12, 8 - 11 a.m.; Santa Claus makes his appearance while you enjoy a hot breakfast buffet. $10 for adults, $6 ages 12 and younger, ages 2 and younger are free.

Santa’s Workshop at Washington Park washingtonpark.org/series/santasworkshop-3 Saturdays through December 19 from 1- 3 p.m.

Santa and his merry elves will be spending time in Washington Park making gifts, ornaments and other fun creations. Stop by the wish-list station, write your Christmas list and take it to Santa; free; don’t forget your camera!

Lights & Events

Breakfast with Santa at the Landing Event Center 119 Karl Brown Way, Loveland, Oh business.lovelandchamber.org Hosted by the Little Miami River Chamber of Commerce, two seatings for Saturday, December 12: 8:30 - 10 a.m.; and 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.; meet and get a photo with Santa (all while socially distanced), make holiday crafts and more! Then, dig into the scrumptious breakfast; ages 8 and older, $15, ages 3 - 7, $10, ages 2 and younger are free.

Photos with Santa at Fifty West Brewing Company Burger Bar and Beer Garden 7605 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, Oh fiftywestbrew.com Sundays, December 6, 13 and 20 from 4 - 6 p.m.

Get your photo with Santa, socially distanced, right in front of Santa’s mobile toy workshop. Kids can have a chat with Santa and then sip on free hot cocoa from the bar; $45 includes photos for the whole group or family, one physical print and one digital copy and hot cocoa.

Safe With Your Family We know all about social distancing and mask-wearing, and with the holiday celebrations, it’s important that we take extra precautions to protect one another.

“The same infection prevention bundle we have been encouraging for months — masking, social distancing, washing your hands and avoiding group events — will still help families decrease their risk of COVID-19 during the holidays,” says Jennifer Wall Forrester, M.D., associate chief medical officer for UC Health, and associate professor of medicine at the UC College of Medicine.

In making this untraditional year special,

Celebrate the season in Greater Cincinnati this year and see the holidays in a whole new light!

The Legendary Lights of Historic Clifton Mill 75 Water St., Clifton, Oh cliftonmill.com

Forrester suggests planning holiday events

Holly Jolly Hamilton Downtown Hamilton, Oh Facebook.com/HamiltonOH

Through December 30; take in more than 4 million lights illuminating the mill, gorge, riverbanks, trees and bridges including the popular100-foot “waterfall” of twinkling lights. Watch Santa check his list twice in his workshop before heading up the chimney (occurs every 15 minutes; through Christmas Eve.).

your household.

Weekends through January 1, 2021, each weekend with its own holiday-themed happenings. This new, festive event supports local small businesses. Enjoy scavenger hunts, Santa sightings, holiday lights, shopping, at-home activities and more!

Saturday, December 5 at 6 p.m.; get the family together and enjoy the holiday magic. Parade begins at Summit View school’s parking lot and ends at Simon Kenton High School. facebook.com/ events/694025201545842.

flare while rekindling with the members in “Gatherings with those who are not part of your household should be extremely limited, if done at all,” Forrester emphasizes. “I am thinking of this year as a special year to really get back in touch with my immediate family, trying some new

Hillforest’s Victorian Christmas 213 Fifth St., Aurora, IN hillforest.org

Lighted Christmas Parade City of Independence, Ky

with immediate family, and adding some

Through December 30, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; travel to “Christmas Past” and see Hillforest decorated in Victorian splendor for the holidays; December 3, 5 and 8, at 1 p.m. tour Hillforest’s Victorian Christmas TURN TO PAGE with a side of tea during their Victorian Christmas Tea Time; reservations required; FOR MORE members $30, nonHOLIDAY LIGHTS members $35. Call 812-926-0087 for AND EVENTS! reservations or visit their website.

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things — new foods, new games, new shows, even.”

Stephen Feagins, M.D., chief clinical officer at Mercy Health – Cincinnati, says now is an extremely important time to help keep our family, friends and community safe.

“Consider using technology to safely connect with friends and loved ones,” he says.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers health and safety considerations for families to keep in mind before they gather for holiday fun. Visit cdc.gov for more information.

december 2020 13

Your 2020 Guide to

Education and Enrichment Programs A Paid Advertising Directory

Children’s Meeting House

927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland 513-683-4757 cmhschool.com Children’s Meeting House fosters the development of the whole child by implementing the philosophy and curriculum of Dr. Maria Montessori, using the abundant natural resources of our seven-acre campus. Voted Best Preschool by the readers of Cincinnati Family magazine.

ARTS Abrakadoodle

abrakadoodle.com/oh-greater-cincinnati 513-297-5655 ext. 3 Abrakadoodle art classes exceed the visual arts standards so that you always know kids are getting rich learning experiences while having fun. We bring onsite and online art programs to you by offering engaging class options for children ages 20 months to 14 years. Call for locations and dates.

Art Workshop

3130 Wasson Road, Hyde Park 513-406-4009 theartworkshopinc.net Art enrichment for kids ages 3 and up. Pottery wheel, clay, drawing, painting and cartooning. Mom and Me, Freestyle (choose your own project) and teen classes offered weekdays and Saturdays.

ArtsConnect Kids and Teen Classes

9150 Winton Road, Cincinnati 513-522-2108 theartsconnect.us • artsinfo@springfieldtwp.org ArtsConnect offers year-round art classes filled with creativity, learning and exploration. Everything from music lessons, pottery, theater and painting awaits!

CCM Preparatory

290 CCM Blvd., Cincinnati 513-556-2595 ccm.uc.edu/prep • ccmprep@uc.edu CCM Preparatory provides enjoyable and accessible arts opportunities in music, dance and theatre arts. Our programs educate and inspire students from 3 yrs. - adult.

Cincinnati Ballet

1555 Central Pkwy., Cincinnati 513-562-1111 cballet.org/academy • cbacademy@cballet.org From creative movement to pre-professional ballet training, Cincinnati Ballet’s Otto M. Budig Academy brings the joy of dance to students of all ages along with a strong connection to the area’s preeminent ballet company.

Mason Dance Center

600-B Reading Road, Mason 513-398-0353 masondance.com Mason Dance Center provides an opportunity for anyone ages 3 - adult to discover the joys of dance. Ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, modern, pre-professional ballet, pre-dance combos, adult classes.

Star Glazers

starglazers.com 513-474-6364 Paint pottery at your location. Pottery experts will bring all the supplies and offer booklets and ideas for your masterpiece. Pricing includes the cost of supplies, glazing and firing. No mess!

West Chester Academy Music, Dance, Gymnastics

8107 Market Place Drive, West Chester 513-829-2345 westchesteracademy.com From a child’s very first lesson to the experienced adult, West Chester Academy has something for everyone in music, dance, and gymnastics. Located in West Chester, we specialize in beginners of all ages and offer training through pre-professional levels.

We have camps for all ages.

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december 2020

EDUCATION/ENRICHMENT

Cincinnati Waldorf School

6743 Chestnut St, Cincinnati 513-386-7974 cincinnatiwaldorfschool.org The Cincinnati Waldorf High School weaves together academics, athletics and the arts to create a dynamic and rigorous curriculum. CWHS is now seeking students that are ready to learn, grow and thrive for enrollment in grades 9 - 12. We are currently offering on-campus tours and shadow days by appointment.

Mercy Montessori Center

2335 Grandview Ave., Cincinnati 513) 475-6700 mercymontessori.org Preschool - grade 8 Catholic. Mercy Montessori educates the whole child, developing a strong foundation for learning. Mercy offers outdoor learning spaces, weekly swim lessons, a farm-to-table microeconomy program, sliding scale tuition, and financial aid. Currently offering 5-day, in-person classes for preschool - grade 8. Discover the magic of Mercy!

The Stem Lab

1644 E. Kemper Road, Ste. #4, Sharonville 513-857-3366 cincystemlab.com Students can participate in remote learning from their school in our safe, supportive learning lab. We offer students hands-on STEM experiences, academic monitoring, and homework support.

Summit Country Day School

2161 Grandin Road, Cincinnati 513-871-4700 summitcds.org Founded in 1890, the area’s only Catholic, independent co-ed, college prep school serving students 2 yrs. - grade 12. Programs include a classical academic curriculum with a global perspective and a nationally recognized Character Education program.

Celebrating 50 years of academic excellence in Montessori education!

Sycamore Presbyterian Preschool

11800 Mason Road, Cincinnati 513-683-7717 sycamorechurch.org/preschool Caring, Christian environment with hands-on, child-centered approach enhancing academics, social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Curriculum aligns to ODE’s Early Learning Content Standard.

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati

myy.org 513-362-9622 At the Y we ensure that children and teens reach their full potential by helping them grow physically, mentally and socially.

Leadership and academic enrichment programs, school age care, preschool, two autism centers, kindergarten toddler care, teen college and career readiness program, and youth and government programs.

SPORTS/FITNESS Buckner Martial Arts

8216 Highland Pointe Drive, West Chester 513-779-2413 bucknermartialarts.com Voted one the best martial arts studios in Cincinnati, we combine defense skills with personal development. Students progress quickly while learning leadership and strong values under the teaching of master instructors. Free uniform with class sign-up.

“Where Every Family Matters.”

December THINGS TO DO

BY AMANDA CIANI

READERS: In lieu of COVID-19, many events may be subject to cancellation. Please double check events before you go!

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Holiday EVENTS

18

Daily EVENTS PNC Festival of Lights - Thru 1/03/21

T

he 38th PNC Festival of Lights will be just as special and memorable as ever! Families can enjoy familiar favorites like the holiday light displays (there are over 3 million lights glowing!), the Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake, Toyland Express Train rides, finding Fiona Fairy statues, roasting s’mores and so much more. Plus, check out all of the new happenings this year like the 2020 Photo Scavenger Hunt, where families will solve riddles and take selfies, Santa’s Village where kiddos can meet the jolly old elf himself or drop off a letter to Santa and of course there will be lights at the new Roo Valley and African Penguin Point! Festival of Lights festivities start at 4 p.m. each evening. Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; open nightly through Jan 3, 2021 + special January bonus nights, 1 - 9 p.m., closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day; included in daily admission, buy tickets online in advance, free for members with registration; 513-281-4700 or cincinnatizoo.org/events/festival-of-lights.

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things to do

Christmas at the Junction continues all month long for all ages of train lover.

Scuba Santa swims through the sharks to visit with kids of all ages, Dec. 1 - 24 at Newport Aquarium.

ONGOING A VERY MERRY GARDEN HOLIDAY KROHN 2020 HOLIDAY SHOW Continue a beloved holiday tradition with a visit to Krohn’s beautiful holiday show. Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; open daily through Jan 10, 2021, 10 a.m. 5 p.m. (show closes at 2 p.m. on Dec 25); tickets available online, $10 adults, $7 ages 5 - 17, free for ages 4 and younger; 513421-5707 or cincinnatiparks. com.

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HOLIDAY EVENTS CHRISTMAS AT THE JUNCTION

SCUBA SANTA AT NEWPORT AQUARIUM

The world’s largest train display with festive touches and virtual encounters with Santa.

EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester; open daily in December (closed Christmas Day - early closing (4 p.m.) on Christmas Eve and New Years Eve), Mon - Sat 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 12 - 6 p.m.; $17.95 general admission, free for members and ages 2 and younger; 513-898-8000 or entertrainmentjunction.com.

The Aquarium’s decorated for the holidays! Good little boys and girls will love visiting with Scuba Santa as he and his Elf friends swim among the sharks. Newport Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Way, Newport; Aquarium open Dec 1 24, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.- see website for up-to-date Scuba Santa Meet & Greet hours; $25.99 adult (13+), $17.99 children (2 - 12), free for members; 859-261-7444 or newportaquarium.com.

“Where Every Family Matters.”

HOLIDAY JUNCTION The Duke Energy Holiday Trains with 300 rail cars and locomotives plus the LEGO display, Brickopolis. New: a Northern Lights display; a no-touch interactive storybook; and a Holiday Scavenger Hunt.

Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; Fri - Sun through Jan 3, 2021, 10 a.m. 4 p.m.; included with Discovery Ticket, $14.50 adults, $13.50 seniors, $10.50 ages 3 - 12, $5.50 toddlers 1 - 2, free for 1 and younger and members; 513287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.

THE CHRISTMAS RANCH Visit The Christmas Ranch in Morrow, Ohio. Enjoy 1 million lights set to jolly holiday tunes, treats and visits with Santa. The Christmas Ranch, 3205 South Waynesville Road, Morrow; open Dec 1 - 23 (see website for exact times); open Dec 18 - 23, 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.; $15 per carload, $30 per oversized van (10+ visitors), no buses, RVs or oversized trucks. Free parking; 513-444-9362 or thechristmasranch.com.

FREE SANTA’S WONDERLAND AT BASS PRO SHOPS (register) Visit with Santa, check out Santa’s Wonderland and pick up a craft activity kit, safely. Reserve a socially distanced visit. Bass Pro Shop, 300 Cincinnati Mills Drive, Cincinnati; visit store for reservation times through December 24; 513-826-5200 or basspro.com.

HOLIDAYS AT BCM From vintage Christmas vignettes to antique toys to dancing dogs straight out of the pages of a children’s book, families will love the festive memories made at the Behringer-Crawford Museum this year. Behringer-Crawford Museum,1600 Montague Road, Covington, Ky; open Tues - Sun in December, check website for special days and hours during the holiday season; $9 adults, $8 seniors 60 +, $5 children, free for members; 859-491-4003 or bcmuseum.org.

HOLIDAY IN LIGHTS A Cincinnati holiday tradition from the comfort of your car! Families can listen to holiday tunes while driving an illuminating 1-mile drivethrough experience featuring more than 1 million lights and more than 250 holiday light displays.

Sharon Woods, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville; Dec 1- Jan 2, 2021; Sun - Thu 6 - 9 p.m., Fri & Sat 5:30 - 10 p.m.; $15 per car, $45 per bus/ 15 passenger vehicles - new this year, no cash

will be accepted. Credit card only or pre-order online; 513-7690393 or holidayinlights.com.

PNC FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS (register) See page 15.

CHRISTMAS NIGHTS OF LIGHTS Hop in the car and head to Coney for an amazing drive-through holiday experience that features over 1 million lights synchronized to a seasonal soundtrack. Coney Island, 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; open nightly through Jan 9, 2021, dusk - 10 p.m.; $7 per person; christmasnightsoflights.com.

JOURNEY BOREALIS HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW Pyramid Hill’s illuminating drivethrough holiday show is back with extra local flare. The soundtrack features the Cincinnati Boychoir and the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra.

Journey Borealis showcases more than 1 million lights and holiday installations by regional artists including Brave Berlin, creator of BLINK. Residents of Hamilton can join Journey BOREALIS for free every Tuesday — proof of residency required for free admission. See website for details. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton; open through Jan 3, 2021; Mon - Thu, 6 - 9 p.m. ($20 per carload); Fri - Sun 6 - 10 p.m. ($25 per carload), any day member pricing $15 per carload; 513-868-1234 or pyramidhill.org.

LIGHT UP THE FAIR Head down to the fair grounds for a fun family event; this dazzling 1.5-mile-long drive-through light show features half a million lights synchronized to holiday music.

Open nightly through Jan 2, 2021; Sun - Thu, 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat, 5:30 - 10 p.m.; Boone County Fair Grounds, 5819 Idlewild Road, Burlington; $6 per person, free for ages 3 and younger. Online ticket ordering now available; 859-5684046 or lightupthefair.com.

FREE LIGHT UP MIDDLETOWN Tis’ the season to be jolly during Light Up Middletown’s 21st year! Enjoy twinkling holiday lights while driving through this beautiful 100-acre park. Open in all weather and holidays through New Year’s Eve. Smith Park, 500 Tytus Ave., Middletown; 6 - 10 p.m.; cash donation admission - you set the price; lightupmiddletown. org.

LAND OF ILLUSION CHRISTMAS GLOW The 4th annual Christmas Glow A glowing snowman at The Christmas Ranch. includes 3.5 million twinkling lights over a workshop has moved online.

1.5-mile drive. Stay Pick-up a pre-built house, edible warm in the comfort of your car. decorations and icing to create Land of Illusion, 8762 Thomas a gingerbread house this holiday Road, Middletown; open nightly season. The BonBonerie Virtual Dec 3 - 24 and 26 - 29; dusk Program, 2030 Madison Road, - 10 p.m.; $7 per person. Bring Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; a canned good to receive $2-off $65 per kit; 513-321-3399 or admission; 513-423-9960 bonbonerie.com/events.com. or landofillusion.com/glow/ attractions/christmas-village.

A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS

CINCINNATI FIRE MUSEUM SCAVENGER HUNT Discover the jolly-themed items hidden all around the exhibits - find all of the items that have been tucked away for a small prize. Cincinnati Fire Museum, 315 West Court St., Cincinnati; Tue - Sun, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., closed major holidays; $8 adults, $7 seniors 65+, $6 ages 7 - 17 years old, free for ages 6 and younger with admission of an adult or senior; 513-621-5553 or cincyfiremuseum.com.

TAKE AND MAKE KIT: BONBONERIE GINGERBREAD HOUSES The BonBonerie’s beloved Gingerbread House decorating

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Experience Christmas past by touring Hillforest for the holidays. Regular admission charged. Hillforest is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tours Tue - Sun, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. $10 adults & students over age 13, $4 children ages 7 -13, free ages 6 and younger. 213 Fifth St., Aurora, IN ; 812-926-1075 or hillforest.org.

OMNIMAX AT CMC Catch a featured film at the OMNIMAX. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; showtimes Thu- Mon, see website for showing schedule; $9 adult, $7 children, $6 member adult, $5 member children; 513287-7000 or cincymuseum.org. december 2020

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things to do

DAILY EVENTS tue 1 FREE COLLEGE HILL TREE LIGHTING Start the holiday season off right; gather safely (masks required, social distancing encouraged) for the first-ever College Hill tree lighting!

A 20-foot-tall holiday tree will be lit, there will be free hot chocolate, free books for kids of all ages and more. This event is sponsored by College Hill CURC and several additional sponsors. Patrick Wolterman Memorial Park, 5923 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati; 6 - 8 p.m.; chcurc.com.

thu 3

LIGHT IN THE FOREST (register) Start a brand-new family tradition with a dazzling stroll through one of Cincy Nature Center’s decked out trails; there will be inspiring light displays, including three installations by BLINK Cincinnati participant OBLSK. Also music, bonfires, holiday shopping and more to make the night merry and memorable. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; Thu - Sun through Jan 3, 2021 (closed Dec 24 & 25); 5 - 9 p.m.; $12 non-member adult, $7 non-member child, $10 member adult, $5 member child; 513-831-1711 or cincynature. org/events-and-programs/ events-18/light-in-the-forest-154.

FREE ART PLAY HIKE (register) Cincinnati Parks and the Contemporary Arts Center have teamed up for this exciting new toddler program. Ages 2 - 7 can get outside and get moving each month as they explore 18 december 2020

a new park with a naturalist.

After some outdoor exploring, families can keep the nature themed fun going by picking up an Art-2-Go bag to create a masterpiece at home. California Woods, 5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, Oh, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; contemporaryartscenter. org/programs/family-programs/ art-play-hike.

TCT PRESENTS THE VELVETEEN RABBIT (in-person and virtual) Kicking off the 101st TCT season is The Velveteen Rabbit, the award-winning classic tale of a toy rabbit made real! Families have a chance to see the show in-person at Ralph and Patricia Corbett’s Showtime Stage.

Seating is limited to 30 percent to allow for social distancing; shows will sell out - so order tickets ASAP. Digital Passes allow unlimited viewings over three days; passes are available at thechildrenstheatre.com. Ralph and Patricia Corbett Showtime Stage, 4015 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati; Dec 3, 4, 10 & 11: 7 p.m.; Dec 5, 6, 12 & 13: 2 & 5 p.m. (additional 11 a.m.

Saturday showtimes on Dec 5 & 12); $25- $30 in-person tickets; Virtual Pass $15 + $3.95 service charge; 513-569-8080 or thchildrenstheatre.com.

NATURE CRAFTS AND MERRY SNACKS (register) Leave the hustle and bustle of the season behind for an easy day of holiday crafting and snacking.

Using natural and recycled materials, participants will create wintery decorations while snacking on popcorn and sipping on cider. Recommended for ages 3 - 10. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; program available Dec 3 & 5, 3 - 4 p.m.; Dec 6, 10 - 11 a.m.; $13 non-members (includes daily admission), $8 members; 513831-1711 or cincynature.org.

fri 4 FREE CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE 2020 Waynesville is all decked out for the holidays with big bows, wreaths and tons of lights! Bring the family to shop small, hear festive music, grab a bite to eat, take a carriage ride, meet costumed characters, check in with old St. Nick and so much more. City of Waynesville, Waynesville, Oh; Dec 4 & 5, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Dec 6, 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.; 513-897-8855 or waynesvilleshops.com.

A SPLENDID CENTURY: CINCINNATI ART 1820 – 1920 (register) Celebrate the bicentennial of the house that is now the Taft Museum of Art with this exhibit featuring Cincinnati art and artists spanning the first 100 years of the house’s existence. Beloved Cincinnati artists Duncanson, Duveneck, Farny and many others are spotlighted. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; Fridays & Saturdays 12 - 5 p.m., Sundays 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., closed Christmas; $12 adults, $10 seniors; free for members and ages 18 and younger. Buy online for savings! Admission is FREE on Sundays; 513-241-0343 or taftmuseum.org/exhibitions/ splendid-century.

FREE ERLANGER CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING Enjoy refreshments, carols and a reading of The Night Before Christmas at the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Don’t forget to pick up a take-and-make activity kit from the Kenton County Library before seeing the jolly man himself! Erlanger City Building, 505 Commonwealth Ave., Erlanger; 6:30 - 8 p.m.; 859962-4000 or kentonlibrary.org.

FREE METAMORA CHRISTMAS WALK Make merry memories in Indiana’s Canal Town, Metamora. There

“Where Every Family Matters.”

will be plenty of decorations, live music, shopping and of course ...

Santa! Metamora Canal Town, 19083 Clayborn St., Metamora, In; Fri & Sat evenings through Dec 20., 12 - 10 p.m.; shop small at many unique shops; 765647-1212 or facebook.com/ metamorachristmaswalk.

sat 5

NATURE CRAFTS AND MERRY SNACKS (register) See Thu 3

CALLS WITH CLAUS (register) Santa is working hard at the North Pole, but he has time to chat with everyone on the nice list. Santa will virtually meet with families to discuss their wish lists and have a cheerful chat. Each Call with Claus comes with the full video recording and a photo. Virtual Chat, Cincinnati; Saturdays & Sundays through Dec 20, 11 a.m. - 5 a.m.; $30 per family, up to four kids per call; holidayinlights.com/santaland.

CCACMAKES: ANIMATED HOLIDAY GREETING CARDS (register) Deck the halls with lots of artwork!

Students will create holiday cards featuring mischievous elves, dancing snowmen, playful reindeer and more during this one-day workshop. CCAC @ Short Vine, 2728 Short Vine St., Cincinnati; 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.; $50; 513-497-2860 or cliftonculturalarts.org.

FRIENDS BOOK SALE Just in time for sweater weather, stock up on a bag full of books to cozy up with this winter. Event runs on Saturdays through Dec 12. Newport Branch CCPL, 901 East 6th St., Newport; 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $4 per bag of books; 859572-5035 or cc-pl.org.

FREE HOLIDAY PICTURES (register) Register for a 10-minute holiday family photo session! Please arrive five minutes prior to appointment

time. One image and copyright will be sent via email. Photo will also be printed on a canvas bag in the Library Maker Space, available to pick up at a later date. Covington Branch Library, 502 Scott Blvd., Covington; 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.; 859-9624060 or kentonlibrary.org.

FREE LIGHT UP GERMAN VILLAGE An illuminating part of Holly Jolly Hamilton, don’t miss out on this one night drive-through seeing the town aglow. German Village, South 3rd St., Hamilton; 6 - 9 p.m.; gettothebc.com.

MADCAP HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS & CALL FROM SANTA (register) Make a heap of holiday memories all from the comfort of home! Families can watch a professionally recorded production of Madcap Puppets, The Nutcracker anytime Dec 5 - 14. ArtsConnect will also mail families the supplies and instructions on how to hand sew a Nutcracker puppet or ornament. To top things off, schedule a personal phone call to chat with Santa himself!

Children can enjoy Cincinnati Museum Center’s Holiday Junction through Jan. 3, 2021.

ArtsConnect Virtual program, 9158 Winton Road, Cincinnati; Pleasant Plain; 8:30 p.m.; 513experience; 513-287-7000 or kentonlibrary.org. any time Dec 5 - 14; $8 for 321-5186 or facebook.com/ cincymuseum.org. show, phone call with Santa and FREE CINCINNATI stonelickstargazers.

BOYCHOIR AUDITIONS one craft, $3 each additional (register) craft; 513-522-2108 or Cincinnati Boychoir is seeking theartsconnect.us/279/madcapyoung men who will be in grades FREE BLACK & BROWN Saint Nicholas Day home-for-the-holiday-and-a-call-f.

FACES (register) third - 12 during the 2020 - 21 Browse this exhibit for a one-ofFREE STONELICK STAR NATURE CRAFTS AND MERRY school year to audition for one a-kind experience. The works, GAZES SNACKS (register) of the country’s premier youth created by 10 Black CincinnatiSee Thu 3 If the skies are clear, venture just choirs. No experience necessary. based artists, focus on the facial far enough away from the city Cincinnati Boychoir, Cincinnati; expressions of POC during the lights to see beautiful starlit skies, 6 - 9 p.m.; 513-396-7664 or extremes of 2020. Cincinnati Art planets, galaxies and more at cincinnatiboychoir.org/audition.

FREE AMONG US Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Ohio’s Stonelick State Park. At SCAVENGER HUNT FREE STORIES FROM THE Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; the Friends of the Observatory’s NORTH POLE Search around the library for 513-721-2787 or Dark Sky Viewing Site, amateurs CMC members, head to Holiday helpful crewmates and win some cincinnatiartmuseum.org. are welcome to ask questions, Junction for a special membersfun prizes. Be sure to watch out learn more about the fascinating only story time with Santa; for anyone acting suspicious; world of astronomy and to Cincinnati Museum Center, there are impostors about! bring their personal telescopes 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; Erlanger Branch Library, 401 to get guidance from more 9 a.m.; free for members; this Kenton Lands Road, Erlanger; 9 seasoned astronomers. Stonelick a.m. - 7 p.m.; 859-962-4000 or is an exclusive members-only State Park, 2895 Lake Drive,

tue 8

sun 6

mon 7

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FREE FOLLOW THE GINGERBREAD CRUMBS: A CHRISTMAS THEMED Add a little magic to the holiday season by participating in a Christmas-themed scavenger hunt at the library. Pick up a form at the children’s desk, follow the breadcrumbs and return the completed form to the desk for a prize. William E. Durr Branch Library, 1992 Walton Nicholson Road, Independence, Ky; 9 a.m.

- 7 p.m.; 859-962-4030 or kentonlibrary.org.

thu 10 Hanukkah

TODDLER THURSDAYS AT DIG ‘N PLAY Dig up some fun; kiddos can explore a huge sand table, dramatic play area and a giant three-story play structure. Dig ‘N Play, 9405 Cincinnati Columbus Road; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $4 for toddlers 1 - 2 years old; 513847-1055 or dignplay.com.

fri 11

FREE LIBRARY PLAYDATE (register) Kiddos can play and explore at the library with fun hands-on learning stations. Westwood Library, 3345 Epworth Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-369-4474 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

sat 12

FREE JOY TO THE WALD Ho, Ho, Ho! Kids can meet with Santa Claus, receive a free gift, sip hot cocoa and snack on cookies during this familyfun event. 2270 Pleasant Ave., Hamilton; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; gettothebc.com.

FREE LIVE FROM MUSIC HALL DIGITAL CONCERT Don’t miss out on the beloved holiday Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra show in 2020, tune in digitally. Join CSO Conductor John Morris Russell for a holly jolly show featuring beloved 20 december 2020

classics and beyond. CSO virtual program, Cincinnati; 8 p.m.; cincinnatisymphony.org.

mon 14

mon 28

PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY AT EVENDALE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER (register)

Celebrate Las Posadas by picking up a take and make kit at the library; families will love creating a mini piñata at home! BCPL Florence Branch, 7425 U.S. 42, Florence; 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; 859342-2665 or bcpl.org.

Bounce and play for kids 6 and younger. Defy Florence, 4999 Houston Road, Florence; 9 - 10 a.m.; $12 6 and younger, one free adult per paying child; 859212-9413 or defy.com/locations/ defy-florence-ky.

TOT TUESDAYS (register)

WOODLAND WONDERS ART SHOW

Choose a piece of pottery to paint to help get ready for the holidays! A variety of pieces will be available to choose from.

Finished pieces will be returned to Evendale Recreation Center within two weeks of class. Evendale Cultural Arts Center, 10500 Reading Road, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; pieces starting at $9; 513-563-2247 or evendaleohio.org/cultural-artscenter.

sun 13

FAMILY ART FUN (register) Families can get out of the house for a fun monthly art project together! Safety protocols are in place, see website for details. Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum, 3738 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; $20 per family (up to 6) per session; 513-473-5745 or thecarnegiecenterofcolumbiatus. regfox.com/family-art-sundays.

HANUKKAH AT FOUNTAIN SQUARE (register) Families can venture down to Fountain Square for the lighting of the Menorah; be on the lookout for the dancing dreidel and don’t forget to grab a goody bag filled with fun crafts, treats and more.

There will be a virtual streaming option available, see website for details. Fountain Square, 500 Vine St., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; 513761-7500 or mayersonjcc.org/ programs/youth-family-events.

FREE WINTER MARKET Grab last-minute holiday goodies from local vendors, enjoy tasty bites from food trucks and be merry at this indoor Farmers Market. Blank Space, 220 South 3rd St., Hamilton; 2 - 6 p.m.; gettothebc.com.

FREE TAKE & MAKE: MINI PINATAS (register)

tue 15

Tots can create a craft, hear a story and make new friends during this educational and fun program. Each month explores an exciting new theme, and December’s theme is snowmen! In-person class is limited to 10 children, or families can join in online at Behringer-Crawford’s Facebook page. BehringerCrawford Museum, 1600 Montague Road, Covington; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; admission $9 adults, $8 seniors 60+, $5 children + $1 per child craft fee; 859-491-4003 or bcmuseum.org.

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FREE OUTDOOR MENORAH LIGHTNING (register) Bring the family to the JCC for a fun night out of the house to light the menorah, taste some delicious donuts, take pictures in a photobooth and more. There will be goody bags filled with DIY crafts and other treats; a virtual option is available; Mayerson JCC, 8485 Ridge Ave., Cincinnati; 6 - 7 p.m.; 513-761-7500 or mayersonjcc. org/programs/youth-family-events.

fri 25 Christmas Day

sat 26 Kwanzaa

“Where Every Family Matters.”

TODDLER TIME AT DEFY FLORENCE

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Serigraphs and lithographs by Charley Harper and artwork by local artists paying homage.

Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; included with daily admission $9 adults, $6 seniors 65+/active military, $4 ages 4 12, free for ages 3 and younger and members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

wed 30

OPEN JUMP AT JUMP ZONE! Ages 2 - 12 years old can jump with friends on inflatables. Jump Zone!, 5765 Constitution Drive, Florence; Wednesdays are Family Fun Days: two admissions, a large pizza and pitcher of soda for $33, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or $12 per child; 859-283-5867 or jumpzoneparty.com.

thu 31 New Year’s Eve

HAPPY ZOO YEAR (register) Ring in the New Year with the 12th annual Happy Zoo Year event powered by Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky Honda Dealers. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 5 - 9 p.m.; included with zoo admission or membership; 513-281-4700 or cincinnatizoo.org/events/happyzoo-year-2.

Welcome to

Children’s Medical Center serving families for over 70 years

Putting Patients Needs First.

Our providers and staff enjoy working with parents and children and we consider it our privilege to partner with you in your children’s healthcare.

• Accepting New Patients • Accepting Most Insurance • Morning and Late Afternoon Walk-In Appointments for Acute Illnesses

We’ll be there when your family needs us the most.

Children’s Medical Center 331 N. Breiel Blvd., Middletown, OH

(513) 424-1856

www.childrenscmc.com

Rebecca A. Dandoy, MD

James M. Komer, MD

Kenton A. Pate, MD

Diana E. Small, MD

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Jennifer Thornicroft, FNP

JOIN NOW!

Clean. Welcoming. Together.

• Equipment spaced for social distancing • Masks required, except while swimming • Temperature checks • Fitness class and lap swim reservations • Online fitness classes

MyY.org

Private & Small Group Swim Lesson s N

OW ENROLL ING Membe

rs save 50% on swim lesson s all year