4 minute read
By the Season
Downtown Washington Court House
by the
season
Each season brings with it an opportunity to explore the ever-evolving natural beauty and unforgettable experiences found in Fayette County. No matter what weather the seasons bring, we have activities that will get your blood pumping and can’t-miss events that hit the right chord. by laura watilo blake
Fayette County gets in the spirit with holiday events, such as the annual Christmas parade in Washington Court House. Kids jockey for a glimpse of Santa, who brings up the rear of the parade line atop a red fire truck to wish you a merry Christmas. Downtown Live is another signature event, where window shopping takes on a whole new meaning. Live mannequins come to life and entertain the crowds as they browse for Christmas gifts. There’s also live music, carolers, a Kids Zone with rides and bounce houses, and even a scavenger hunt that yields some enviable prizes.
When being outside just isn’t an option, try lacing up some skates and getting your blood pumping at Roller Haven Fun Center, which has been on a roll since 1948. Go bowling at LeElla Lanes, where you can chow down on pizza while you wait your turn to knock down some pins. Or, if you prefer the arts to sports, let the talented instructors at White Fence Gallery bring out your inner artist. At the end of class, you can take home a masterpiece that’s all your own.
Spring
Once winter’s mantle lifts, migratory birds arrive on the wind, passing through to breeding grounds in Canada. Bring your binoculars to witness the birds’ migration in places like Shaw Wetlands, the cedar grove of Madison Mills Cemetery and Deer Creek Wildlife Area. Geocaching is another fun way to get the family outside. The Fayette County Historical Trail has stashed away 13 geocaches,
each pertaining to historically significant people, places and events. Seek them all out while uncovering the area lore, such as how Cry Baby Bridge got its name and who has a genealogical connection to Barack Obama. Find all the caches to win a commemorative coin.
Washington Court House beckons come rain or shine. Browse for treasure in the town’s many antique and home décor shops. Start on East Court Street and wrap up on Hinde Street at North Shore Primitives & Antiques, located in a big red barn. Along the way, you’ll uncover one-of-a-kind items and rare collectibles you didn’t know you needed, but can’t live without. Whether it’s your first time or you’re reliving the golden age of arcade gaming, Game On Arcade is the place to play classic video games, such as Donkey Kong and Pac-Man. Better yet, the old-school fun comes with retro pricing.
Summer
As the days heat up, the Jeffersonville Pool becomes the place to meet up with friends and take a flying leap into the cool blue water. The pool hosts several community parties and even stays open late during the Fourth of July. A new splash pad at Eyman Park offers more spray play, not to mention fishing in the trout-stocked ponds and a paved trail for walking or biking. For those looking to go the distance, the Paint Creek Recreational Trail connects Washington Court House with Frankfort and Chillicothe on 34.8 miles of a former railbed.
The county hosts several events in the summer that attract a crowd. The Toast to Summer & Hot Air Balloon Glow in late June makes the Fayette County Airport buzz all day (and not just from the Ohio wine) with biplane rides and live music. Then, as the sun sinks over the horizon, hot air balloons light up the night sky like giant colorful light bulbs. In late July, the week-long Fayette County Fair elicits playful screams from ride-goers, while the unforgettable aroma of fried fair food fills the air. The packed schedule includes a rodeo, harness racing, a stock truck and tractor pull and demolition derby. Fall
In autumn, trees bursting with shades of amber, orange and crimson hem Fayette County’s patchwork landscape, to the delight of leaf peepers. Immerse yourself in the fall color along the Paint Creek Recreational Trail, driving through Deer Creek State Park or while following the Historical Markers Driving Tour created by the Fayette County Historical Society. Time your visit right by checking the weekly fall foliage updates posted by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources at fallcolor.ohiodnr.gov.
The fall event season kicks off the third weekend in September when the Scarecrow Festival takes over downtown Washington Court House. The three-day event includes family friendly amusements, rides and entertainment from a stellar lineup of musical acts. In October, take a moonlit hayride to the Washington Cemetery, where some of the permanent residents resurrect to recount the stories of their lives. The following month, creators from across the state gather to sell their handmade goods during the Show of the Season at the Fayette County Fairgrounds. As one of the largest craft shows in Southwest Ohio, it’s also a great place to shop for handmade holiday gifts.
