Ohio Magazine Sept-Oct 2023

Exactly where you should be.

When you’re true to who you are, you’re true to where you are. Come join us.

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48 LiveWell

Learn why yoga really is accessible to most, and get advice for building good eating and exercise habits.

112

In September 1920, Warren G. Harding welcomed the Chicago Cubs to Marion for an exhibition game.

PHOTO BY NICK HOELLER

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OHIO AMISH COUNTRY

Explore great food, cozy stays and much more.

Before page 81

HOMESTEAD FURNITURE

Work with the staff here to create incredible pieces for your home.

road Trips: Explore a Guinness World Record-setting assemblage of troll dolls and a hall of fame that celebrates the age-old trade of barbering. Visit a funeral home that pays tribute to the evolution of the mortuary business and a wonderland where neon signs spend their retirement. Take our tour of quirky museums across Ohio. ohiomagazine.com/unusualmuseums

Ohio history: The Horseshoe at Ohio State University was dedicated on Oct. 21, 1922. Newspaper accounts of the day compared it to the Colosseum in Rome, but it was even bigger — thanks in part to the curved upper deck. The moment marked the rise of Ohio State Football and the construction of new stadiums across the nation. ohiomagazine.com/ohiostadium

In This Issue:

5 fall follows

Brighten up your Instagram feed, and get a dose of outdoor inspiration. These photographers share their adventures and perspectives of nature across Ohio and beyond.

garin

@arthurgphotography

Canton, p. 91

jess wilschek @jwilschek

mady stoner @wanderlustinohio

matthew kirby @kirbymatt1

nick hoeller @nickhoeller

Charles Mill Lake, p. 68

Circleville, p. 6

Creola, p. 91

Granville, p. 7

Grove City, p. 85

Lebanon, p. 7

Logan, p. 5

Marblehead, p. 94 Marietta, p. 7

Marysville, p. 47

North Kingsville, p. 46 Toledo, p. 45 Zanesville, p. 62, 93

95 VISIT CANTON Sip, stay and play at these Stark County destinations.

101 HAUNTED OHIO

Find the right scare experience with these autumn events.

107 DESTINATION SHOPPING Easton Town Center offers shopping, dining and entertainment.

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Are you receiving our email newsletters? Learn about fun experiences throughout the state, get great food and drink ideas or plan for your next weekend getaway. Sign up by visiting ohiomagazine. com/newsletters.

Correction: In the July/August 2023 issue of Ohio Magazine, we misidenti ed the Louisiana crawsh etou ee dish at Way Down Yonder as shrimp and grits in a photo ID and caption.

Ohio Magazine encourages you to recycle this magazine. Great Lakes Publishing supports the use of paper milled from replanted forests as a renewable resource and purchases paper from Sustainable Forestry Initiativecertified sources when available. We have also taken steps to reduce the amount of plastic used when mailing issues to subscribers.

Autumn Mysteries

On the day I was born, one of the most credible UFO sightings in the history of the United States occurred over Charles Mill Lake near Mans eld. Although some of my friends might say that explains a lot, I assure you there is no connection between my arrival and the mysterious object that is at the center of what has since become known as the Coyne Incident.

Contributing writer Vince Guerrieri examines this li le known but fascinating corner of Ohio history in this month’s issue. (You can read all about it starting on page 68.) Today, nearly ve decades a er that Oct. 18, 1973, event, the account of the Coyne Incident remains as mysterious and as captivating as the night it occurred.

ese sorts of unexplained stories seem to take on just a li le more gravity this time of year as the days begin to darken earlier and the leaves start to turn. e same goes for the ghostly tales and paranormal reports that inevitably become part of the folklore of a state as old as ours. We delve into that this month as well.

For those who want to book a night at a historic hotel or inn with a paranormal pedigree, we have three suggestions for you (page 7). Although we can’t guarantee you’ll experience anything other than a great stay, the tales tied to these properties are certainly intriguing.

en there’s Vinton County’s Moonville Tunnel (page 60). Located along a former railroad route turned hiking trail, the landmark has its share of ghostly legends. (You can also plan your visit around the annual Midnight at Moonville event set for Oct. 14 this year.)

But these spooky scares are just a fraction of what there is to do in Ohio this time of year. If ghost stories and haunted houses aren’t your idea of a good time, we invite you to explore the other categories in our list of 50 ings to Do is Fall to nd a wealth of fall festivals, autumn eats, scenic spots and other activities.

Autumn is truly like no other time of year in the Buckeye State, and we’ll be highlighting plenty more of the beauty, the adventure and the fun of the season over the coming weeks. Sign up for our newsle ers at ohiomagazine.com/ newsle ers, and follow us on social media. We’ll have plenty of ideas to share that will help you make the most of the season.

Chairman Lute Harmon Sr. President & Publisher Lute Harmon Jr.

EDITORIAL

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Editor Jim Vickers

Associate Editors Erin Finan, Gracie Wilson

Contributing Writers Ruth Corradi Beach, Laura Watilo Blake, Jason Brill, Nicholas Dekker, Lisa Galek, Kristen Hampshire, Vince Guerrieri, Nathan Havenner, Richard Jeffers, Sarah Miller, Ilona Westfall

Digital Content Assistant Kelly Powell

Editorial Interns Jenna Nahhas, Tate Raub, Sean Repuyan

Art Director Rachael Jirousek

Contributing Artists Laura Watilo Blake, Samantha Blovsky, Michael Frank, Nick Hoeller, Jacob Stead, Eric Wagner, Jess Wilschek, Bruce Wunderlich

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Director of Digital Strategy Jacquie Chakirelis

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Autumn Falls

During the spring, Hocking Hills’ waterfalls o en become rushing torrents fed by plenty of rain. It can frequently be the opposite in the fall as the oranges and rusts of the changing season arrive across Hocking Hills State Park, peeking out through the greens of the region’s plentiful hemlock trees. is photograph of the Lower Falls at Old Man’s Cave was taken along the trail that runs through the gorge, one of several great hikes in the area that families can experience together. explorehockinghills.com, ohiodnr.gov

Ceramic Enchantment: Torie McCollum’s Lost Petal Pottery crafts a lineup of creations inspired by the natural world as well as landmarks, legends and lore.

Spirited Stays: The Halloween season is the perfect time to stay at one of these storied Ohio properties with a long history of ghostly happenings.

SAMANTHA BLOVSKY

Ceramic Enchantment

Torie McCollum’s Lost Petal Pottery crafts a lineup of beautiful creations inspired by the natural world as well as landmarks, legends and lore.

Torie McCollum’s po ery is in uenced by folklore, nature and places like the Moonville Tunnel, a Vinton County landmark with a ghostly past.

“ e spooky things started to come around Halloween, but then I just loved them so much — and other people did too — that I just kept making them,” McCollum says. at fascination with the season of black cats, witches and skulls is a theme through her line of beautifully cra ed ceramic works, which sport an earthy feel and feature glazes that turn each into a unique piece of art.

McCollum’s business, Lost Petal Po ery, has its roots in a high school po ery class. It was a pursuit she enjoyed, but she says she didn’t immediately recognize it as something she could do for a living. A er ge ing her bachelor’s and master’s degrees — the la er in historic preservation and working as an interior designer for a few years, she returned to ceramics. Today, she works in a studio in Circleville and regularly releases drops of products that her loyal customers love.

If you see a piece you like in her online shop, it’s a good idea to pick it up. McCollum’s process requires her to cra in small batches (a single work can take up to a month to create) and although she makes a few of her bestsellers at a time, they go quickly.

Creating up to 20 pieces in a batch, all McCollum’s projects begin with weighing and molding a blob of clay. While the clay is still wet, she uses screen printing to transfer her illustration. (Each is hand drawn on a computer and formatted to size.) A er the clay sits overnight, she drills holes into plant pots and adds handles to mugs. e pieces then sit for two weeks before undergoing two separate rings in the kiln. e shop, which launched in 2020, stocks an ever-changing lineup of mugs, tumblers, planters and dishes as well as stickers and notebooks with hand-printed designs. McCollum says a lot of her artistic ideas stem from spending time in nature.

“Any real chance I get to spend time outside is really magical for me,” she says. “I feel like one of my biggest personal inspirations is just to kind of look try and maybe harken back to my inner child.” Kelly Powell

For more information, visit lostpetalpo ery.com.

Spirited Stays

Fall is the perfect time to stay at one of these storied properties with a history of paranormal happenings.

Buxton Inn • Granville

Built by Orrin Granger in 1812, this 25room property is the state’s oldest continuously operating inn. Major Buxton and his wife acquired and renamed the place in 1865, and the Buxton Inn has a rich history that includes a visit by President William Henry Harrison. It is also known for ghostly happenings, most notably sightings of the spirits of former owners. (Granger is among those said to have been seen here over the years.) Reports from guests indicate that most paranormal activity occurs in Rooms 7 and 9, including sightings of gures dressed in blue, a ghostly cat and doors opening and closing with no other valid explanation. 313 E. Broadway, Granville 43023, 740/587-0001, buxtoninn.com

The Lafayette Hotel • Marietta

Named a er France’s Marquis de Lafaye e, who aided George Washington’s Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War, this hotel began as the Bellevue Hotel before it was rebuilt and renamed in

OHIO FINDS

1918 following a re two years earlier. Paranormal activity is o en associated with a 1937 addition to the hotel constructed by former owner Reno Hoag and his son, S. Durward Hoag. Most of it occurs on the third oor, where the family lived. e downstairs lobby houses a large mirror that was moved from the third oor, and guests have reported seeing strange images or people in the glass a er taking pictures with it. 101 Front St., Marie a 45750, 800/3319336, lafaye ehotel.com

Golden Lamb • Lebanon

e Golden Lamb has the distinction of being Ohio’s oldest continually operating business, opening as a log-cabin tavern in 1803. Originally owned by Jonas Seaman, the property operates as a restaurant with guestrooms. e Golden Lamb has hosted many notable people over the years, including 12 U.S. presidents, but ghost stories are also part of its history. O en featured in ghostly guidebooks relating to Ohio, the historic building is said to house the spirit of Sarah Stubbs, who grew up in the Golden Lamb. Display rooms on the fourth oor share the Golden Lamb’s history with one dedicated to Stubbs and named in her honor. 27 S. Broadway, Lebanon 45036, 513/932-5065, goldenlamb.com — Sean Repuyan

19TH-CENTURY SHAVING MUG

Shaving in America took a unique turn after the Civil War with the use of personalized shaving mugs — a concept no other country adopted. When beards went out of style in the 1860s, shaving was done with a straight razor and often by barbers. To maintain sanitary conditions, shaving mugs for regular customers were kept in the barbershop. The personalization of those mugs made it easy to match each mug with its owner.

The decorations ranged from simple to highly detailed, including the use of hand-painted occupational scenes, fraternal emblems or depictions of hobbies. This shaving mug had a hand-painted design of a steam locomotive pulling a tender lettered “B. of L.F.” (Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen) over the name R.D. Smith. The original owner of this shaving mug was likely a fireman on a steam locomotive.

Although the decorators of such mugs usually remained anonymous, this example from the late 19th century has an ink stamp noting J.R. Voldan of Cleveland painted it.

In 1903, the introduction of the safety razor and disposable blades led to the decline of barbershop shaves. — Richard “Jeff” Jeffers

$88 SOLD AT AUCTION

Richard Jeffers is the owner of Garth’s Auctioneers & Appraisers in Columbus.

Hand-painted by J.R. Voldan of Cleveland

Marietta’s Lafayette Hotel has ghostly reports tied mostly to its third floor.

PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE IN CLERMONT

Conscious Style

Columbus-based fashion designer Celeste MalvarStewart talks with us about our connection to what we wear.

Celeste Malvar-Stewart didn’t expect to nd a new direction when she moved to Columbus with her husband, William Stewart, in 2012. e clothing designer, who was born in the Philippines, grew up in San Francisco and lived in New York City, found inspiration in the skies over central Ohio aboard William’s four-seater airplane.

“I saw all these farms, which was very foreign to me coming from big cities,” she says. “So, I was fascinated. I thought, ‘they must have sheep and other animals with bers.’”

A er cold-calling farmers, one got back to her. Since then, she’s been focused on using local wool and other bers in clothing she creates for her Malvar = Stewart brand, which includes couture dresses, skirts, scarves and vests as well as some ready-to-wear clothes.

Ahead of Fashion Week Columbus, Sept. 24 through 30, we talked with Malvar-Stewart, who teaches tailoring and sustainable design at the Columbus College of Art & Design, about why clothing can bring us joy and how to think sustainably about what we wear. Jason Brill

What’s behind our emotional connection to the things we wear?

A: We as human beings want to feel a connection with everything in life, and I don’t think fashion is excluded from that. We want to feel like we can wear something, feel a certain way and look a certain way, and we can feel those moments of joy. at’s ultimately what we’re always looking for in life. With my brand, I know the animals I source bers from. So you’re buying this thing, or I’m giving this thing to you, and you know the provenance of it. ere’s meaning there.

How can people think more sustainably when it comes to clothing?

A: One of the things that’s important is this idea of reusing gently worn garments. We don’t have the same stigma we used to have about that. People are more aware of how we’re a ecting the environment with fast fashion. at’s also the importance of buying well-made garments — so it can be handed down.

How would you describe Columbus’ fashion scene?

A: I think it’s really exciting. We have Fashion Week Columbus, which is great. And our fashion week is a liated with the Council of Fashion Designers of America, which is huge. So that gives us national as well as global recognition. I feel like the fashion scene here is at the precipice of becoming much bigger than maybe anyone ever expected. We have such a concentration of great designers here.

For more information about Malvar = Stewart, go to malvarstewart.com.

Fashion designer Celeste Malvar-Stewart uses local wool and other fibers in clothing she creates for her Malvar = Stewart brand.

great ohio Road Trips

Road Trips

This month, we partner with Ohio Amish Country to share why autumn is a great time to visit for farms, food and unique stays.

Experience the magic of fall during an autumn getaway to Ohio Amish Country. From quaint farms with pick-your-ownpumpkin patches to a charming inn with an on-site winery, the region o ers a variety of opportunities to immerse yourself in fall foliage, homestyle foods and the peace of the tranquil countryside.

Fall on the Farm

For over 35 years, Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery has been a beloved attraction in the heart of Holmes County. With four generations still working together, this family-owned destination has become a must-visit spot for travelers exploring Ohio Amish Country.

The bakery at Hershberger’s is an absolute delight. A signature item is its selection of Amish fry pies — hand-held, half-moon-shaped pies loaded with fruit lling. On a busy day, Hershberger’s sells scores of these little pies in 17 di erent avors from apple to chocolate. The bakery also carries traditional breads, doughnuts and cookies, which are made fresh daily. An on-site food trailer serves homemade sandwiches, sides and sweet treats. At the farm store, visitors can browse various leather goods such as wallets, belts and purses. These high-quality items are all handmade and sure to last.

During the fall, Hershberger’s also o ers wagon rides that take visitors out to a pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Stop by in the autumn, and you can purchase other seasonal goods such as hardy mums, gourds and prepicked pumpkins.

Parents with young children enjoy the farm-animal petting area, an adorable experience where young and old alike can interact with and feed traditional farm animals like sheep, goats, chickens, rabbits and pigs. There’s even an aviary lled with over 800 parakeets. Visitors can purchase seed cups and feed the birds directly from their hands, creating lasting family memories. discoverholmescounty.com/hershbergers

Animal Encounters

A few miles southeast of Walnut Creek, travelers can experience encounters with a range of di erent animals and learn a bit about Amish culture at The Farm at Walnut Creek. This unique and educational destination o ers a variety of activities for those of any age.

The location is probably best known as a working farm where visitors can interact with exotic animals. With over 500 animals that are native to six continents, the Farm at Walnut Creek lets you get up-close and personal with many friendly creatures.

Take a 45-minute horse-drawn wagon ride or drive your own car, and marvel as amazing animals stroll by. Gira es, camels, zebras and bu alos might walk right up to your vehicle, where you can feed them a tasty afternoon snack. A walk-through animal area also features birds, tortoises, lemurs and more.

Visitors can also learn more about the slower-paced Amish lifestyle. The farm hosts self-guided tours of Amishstyle homes and barns, giving a glimpse into the way of life. Inside are free samples of home-baked cookies and live demonstrations of seasonal activities such as plowing, canning and quilting.

When the leaves start to change, the farm hosts its Fall Festival. (This year, the dates are Sept. 29 and 30 and Oct. 6, 7, 9, 13, 14, 20 and 21.) Enjoy pumpkin slinging, a scavenger hunt for kids and delicious seasonal treats like apple butter and pumpkin bars. thefarmatwalnutcreek.com

Cozy Stays

There’s so much to do in Ohio Amish Country that you might as well stay awhile, and there are plenty of unique places to rest your head while visiting the area. At Amish Country Lodging, guests can choose from almost 70 cabin rentals and 80 hotel rooms. Whether you’re interested in cozy treehouses and quaint cottages or secluded cabins and farmhouse-style suites, you’ll nd it here. Many accommodations feature outdoor hot tubs, and some are pet friendly. As a family-owned business, Amish Country Lodging aims to provide a memorable experience whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure.

Just a ve-minute drive from Millersburg, Woodside Container o ers a peaceful retreat tucked away in the forest. This one-of-a-kind accommodation was built using six large container units, creating a custom-made home that stands out. Visitors can rent a two-bedroom home with an upstairs loft that features a telescope and spa-like bathroom. Outside, guests can grill dinner on the porch or light a camp re for late-night s’mores. Perfect for a weekend getaway, it’s an ideal space to break away from everyday life.

For a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, book a stay at Mel and Mary’s Cottages The property o ers four cottages and one larger ranch house — each with at least two bedrooms. Located about 15 minutes from the heart of Amish Country, families can make memories beside a cozy camp re or tranquil shing pond. The welcoming environment keeps folks coming back year after year. amishcountrylodging. com, woodsidecontainer.lodgify.com; melandmaryscottages.com

Brews & Bites

Founded just as craft brews were gaining popularity in Ohio, Millersburg Brewing Co. has become a recognized name on the state’s beer scene. The owners began by brewing in small batches before realizing the potential for opening a brewery in Millersburg. In 2013, they opened their taproom in a historic building in the heart of downtown.

Modern Market

During the past decade, the brewery has undergone multiple renovations to keep up with its phenomenal growth. It went from brewing just 175 barrels in its first year to 2,650 in 2022, and the dedicated brewers have won awards at prominent competitions like the Great American Beer Festival, World Beer Cup and Ohio Beer Cup.

Among the 20 brews on tap, French Ridge IPA and Lot 21 Blonde Ale are the most popular. (They are also two of the original six beers the brewery offered.) Over the years, Millersburg Brewing Co. has added a variety of other innovative and flavorful brews such as the fruity Tangilicious, the refreshing Peach, Love, Rock & Roll and the festive Edgy Elf. Millersburg Brewing Co. offers a full bar and a food menu that includes salads, hearty sandwiches, burgers and pub appetizers like beer cheese nachos and boneless wings. Friendly service adds to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Sheiyah Market’s large red barn stands Route 39 in the heart of Berlin, but ping spans multiple spaces and experiences. Brew Coffee Co., which serves up cups Red Mug Coffee Co., pastries and more cafe space with tables and games for From there, explore Country Gatherings room store filled with a vast selection decor and lifestyle wares in styles ranging modern farmhouse. From beehive-shaped ing of Abraham Lincoln to charming the wide and interesting selection offers yourself for a while.

Next door, shoppers can step inside packed with a selection of plants, gardening baths and more to beautify the backyard. can explore the variety of fairy-garden miniature winged figurines to mushroom magical inspiration, a courtyard seating display of assembled fairy gardens.

The brewery also serves as a community hub. The monthly trivia night has become a crowd favorite with a portion of the proceeds from each one donated to a local charity. millersburgbrewing.com

Then head outside and past the buggy to The Village Gift Barn, which shopping. Visitors will find smaller home but the primary draw is the main floor’s which offers all one needs to assemble sneakers to shawls and sweaters. 4755 330/893-2648, sheiyahmarket.com

Horseback Riding

Nestled in the scenic countryside, the Guggisberg Swiss Inn offers a range of incredible amenities and experiences. For 30 years, the inn has continued to be a haven for guests seeking relaxation and unforgettable experiences. Your adventure begins at the riding stables, where you can embark on a guided horseback trail ride. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, the small tour sizes ensure a personalized touch and a memorable journey. What sets this family-owned destination apart is its picturesque landscape. Horse enthusiasts will delight in the sight of the animals walking the pastures. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll, check out the duck pond and take in stunning sunsets. This quiet country destination allows travelers a quiet getaway while remaining conveniently close to popular local attractions. After a day of horseback riding, indulge in a wine tasting at the on-site Doughty Glen Winery. This venue offers a variety of wines from pinot noir to sweet Concord, which you can pair with Guggisberg’s famous cheeses.

The charming inn has 24 rooms, and guests can enjoy a range of accommodations, including standard rooms, king rooms and a jacuzzi suite. Wake up to a hot breakfast, and take advantage of amenities such as free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen television in each room. guggisbergswissinn.com

Homestyle Meals

Founded in 1969, Dutchman Hospitality is a family-owned restaurant group with three Amish Country locations: Der Dutchman in Walnut Creek, Dutch Valley in Sugarcreek and Berlin Farmstead in Berlin. What sets Dutchman Hospitality apart is its commitment to tradition and homestyle favorites. Its restaurants are known for their real mashed potatoes, homemade noodles and not-to-be-missed fried chicken.

Alongside the classics, you’ll find something different at each restaurant such as specialty salads or pies. Diners consistently return to enjoy selections from the homestyle menu and buffet, including the pressure-fried broasted chicken. When it comes to bakery treats, the peanut butter cream pie is a popular choice, as are the Amish fry pies.

Beyond the menu, Dutchman Hospitality’s restaurants offer an atmosphere of togetherness. Unlike many modern restaurants, there are no televisions, and they can accommodate groups. They are welcoming places to enjoy the company of your friends and family without distractions, and visiting feels like sitting down to a home-cooked dinner at your own table.

In recent years, Dutchman Hospitality has made improvements and renovations to accommodate those waiting for a table. (It also offers a waitlist system so diners can plan the timing of their visit.) The restaurants have become regional favorites, and whether you’re shopping at the on-site bakery after your meal or taking in the picturesque countryside views, each visit promises a memorable experience. dhgroup.com

Beautiful Art

Located in downtown Millersburg, New Towne Gallery is a must-visit spot for art lovers. The gallery offers a diverse collection of historical and contemporary fine art, including sculpture, woodworking, ceramics, textiles, jewelry and furniture. With more than 100 artists represented, there is a wide variety of art to explore.

The gallery focuses on the eastern frontier, showcasing art inspired by 18th-century colonial America and the eastern woodland Native American people. The gallery also features pieces by Ohio artists with more contemporary perspectives.

When you buy a piece of art from New Towne Gallery, you can be sure you’re going home with something that is unique and authentic. The gallery’s staff takes the time to understand and share the story behind each work. Recognizing and explaining the knowledge and effort invested by the artists is an essential part of what they do.

Aside from its beautiful art collection, the gallery offers an array of other items such as historical tea blends, signature coffee blends and a selection of local lore and inspirational books. Travelers can also plan a visit around events, activities and concerts hosted by the gallery. A visit to New Towne Gallery connects you to creativity whether you’re interested in buying a piece for your home or learning more about the art featured here. newtownegallery.com

Masterworks

2023 • 2024

The Planets

September 22 ǀ 7:30pm

September 24 | 2pm

The Beauty of Spain

October 13–14 | 7:30pm

Beethoven Pastoral Symphony

November17–18 | 7:30pm

Time for Three

January 19–20 | 7:30pm

Stravinsky Firebird Suite

February 3 ǀ 7:30pm

February 4 | 2pm

Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1

February 23–24 ǀ 7:30pm

Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 1

March 22–23 ǀ 7:30pm

Beethoven, Mozart, & Haydn

April 5–6 ǀ 7:30pm

Tchaikovsky & Prokofiev

April 19–20 ǀ 7:30pm

The Return of Natasha Paremski

May 3–4 ǀ 7:30pm

Beethoven Symphony No. 2

May 17–18 ǀ 7:30pm

Mozart’s Mass in C minor

May 24–25 ǀ 7:30pm

Concerts take place at the Ohio Theatre

Operating Support Generously Provided By:

Photo: Corinne Mares

FALL ARTS PREVIEW

Natural Selections: The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio's “It’s an Honor to be Here” celebrates the natural beauty and biodiversity found in the Buckeye State.

“Jesus Christ Superstar” at Ohio Theatre

Oct. 3–8: Columbus

This hit musical returns to the stage for its 50th anniversary, celebrating the rock music that de ned a generation. “Jesus Christ Superstar” follows the events of the life of Jesus Christ through the eyes of Judas. Winning the Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival in 2017, this stage show o ers a modern take on the production. capa.com

Calendar of Events: Your fall plans start here. Check out our guide to events, shows and other happenings scheduled between now and the end of October.

Natural Selections

The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio’s “It’s an Honor to Be Here” features work by more than 40 artists that reflect the biodiversity and beauty of our state.

By Ilona Westfall

You’ve probably never seen the art of Leslie Sims. A er all, the retired Columbus science teacher’s work has never been shown in a gallery before. She kept her knack for painting quiet while she devoted her talents to teaching kids about the natural world. Now, her detailed paintings make their gallery debut in “It’s an Honor to Be Here” at the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio in Lancaster.

e exhibition, running Sept. 30 through Dec. 31, features nature-driven art from over 40 Ohio artists. Works range from painting and ceramics to taxidermy and wooden duck decoys. It includes pieces by experienced gallery artists as well as those with hidden talents and a passion for nature like Sims. e backstories, which come to life in video interviews with the artists, are as important as the art itself, says Maria Burke, who co-curated the show with Madeline Beaumier.

“We want to inspire the next generation of creators and nature stewards,” Burke says. “Part of that is sharing the stories of these individuals and what inspires them and what motivates them, speci cally within nature and the arts.”

Other pieces include watercolors of eastern bluebirds by Washington County resident Julie Zickefoose and photography by Cleveland-based science educator Anthony Rogers, who focuses on close-ups of salamanders and rare Ohio orchids.

Taxidermy, including a piece by Burke, and duck decoys by Mark Costilow, the mayor of the northeast Ohio city of Amherst, are art forms not o en seen in an art exhibition.

“Duck decoy artists are making hunting aids, but they are so realistic and beautiful,” Burke says. “ e time they put into these representations of di erent duck species is just incredible.”

e variety of artists and mediums in the exhibition re ect the state’s vast diversity of natural wonders from the foothills of the Appalachians to the shores of Lake Erie.

“We want people to see just how beautiful Ohio is,” Beaumier says. “To look more closely at the biodiversity of our state and also the di erent backgrounds that you can appreciate that from.”

145 E. Main St., Lancaster 43130, 740/6811423, decartsohio.org

Clockwise from opposite page: “Hungry Monarch on Milkweed” by Marty Kotter, “Turkey Vulture” by Leslie Sims, “Troops” by Amy Casey

EXPERIENCE A PERFORMANCE AND SPEND THE

NIGHT! www.DaytonCVB.com/hotels

Disney’s The Lion King returns to the Schuster Center* DaytonLive.org

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company dcdc.org

Dayton Art Institute DaytonArtInstitute.org

Dayton Performing Arts Alliance DaytonPerformingArts.org

Residents of most large cities would give their eyeteeth to have the diverse, vibrant and accessible arts community that Daytonians enjoy every week! Come to Dayton to experience Broadway Shows, the Brookville Community Theatre, Dayton Bach Society, Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Dayton Playhouse, Dayton Theatre Guild, The Contemporary Dayton, K-12 Gallery & TEJAS, Muse Machine, Dayton Art Institute, Human Race Theatre Company, Front Street Art Studios and galleries, Musica: Dayton’s Chamber Choir, various Arts Districts, top name entertainment at outdoor concert venues such as Fraze Pavilion, Levitt Pavilion, RiverScape MetroPark, Rose Music Center at the Heights, and more!

*S1 – Darian Sanders as Simba. The Lion King North American Tour. © Disney. Photo by Deen van Meer.

Quilting a Future: Contemporary Quilts and

Oct. 6–Jan. 28: Columbus

The quilt features four girls all between the ages of 11 and 14. Carole Robertson, Carol Denise McNair, Addie Mae Collins and Cynthia Wesley all look to be dressed for church, but the bright nature of Bisa Butler’s composition, “Four Li le Girls, September 15, 1963,” holds a heartbreaking power in the tragic story it commemorates.

e girls died when a bomb exploded during Sunday services at the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. e bombing came days a er President John F. Kennedy mobilized the Alabama National Guard to allow Black students to a end nine previously all-white schools in the city.

Butler made the quilt in 2018, and it is among 50 works that will be featured at the Columbus Museum of Art as part of “Quilting a Future: Contemporary Quilts and American Tradition,” running Oct. 6 through Jan. 28. e exhibition

examines the past, present and future of American quilting and how artists use the art form to convey social, political and environmental concerns.

“We had an idea to feature works in conversation with other works by contemporary quilters and some historical quilters to expand on the American story as it speaks to quilts and quilts speak to it,” says Deidre Hamlar, curator-at-large at the Columbus Museum of Art.

Historically, quilts have been viewed as objects of cra rather than works of art, but the medium has evolved to go far beyond the time-honored pa erns and processes. ey now provide a vehicle for artists to make statements about history, identity and the world. e Columbus Museum of Art's exhibition will also include pieces that further push the quilting medium, such as three-dimensional and sculpted works as well as quilt wearables like shoes, jackets and dresses.

“ e fact that all these quilts with all shapes, sizes and dimensions can all coexist within a context of one exhibition, I think that says a lot for our nation and what we can create,” Hamlar says. “It really is a metaphor for what we can be.” 480 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215, 614/221-6801, columbusmuseum.org

Sean Repuyan

music

Guster with the Toledo Symphony

Sept. 20: Toledo

Alternative rock meets the sounds of the symphony at the Toledo Museum of Art’s Peristyle Theater in this one-night-only event. Guster and the Toledo Symphony join forces for a collaborative performance of music from a body of work built over the Boston band’s more than 30 years of creating and performing together. artstoledo.com

music

Mary Chapin Carpenter & Shawn Colvin at the Midland Theatre

Oct. 18: Newark

Grammy Award-winning artists Mary Chapin Carpenter and Shawn Colvin take the stage at Newark’s Midland Theatre. As one of only 21 female members of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, Carpenter’s music focuses on pain, joy, discovery and knowledge. Inducted into the Austin City Limits Hall of Fame in 2019, Colvin is known for her captivating performances and storytelling. midlandtheatre.org

exhibit

EXPLORE PUBLIC ART IN COLUMBUS

exhibit

“Judith Brandon: Recent Work” at the Southern Ohio Museum

Through Nov. 1: Portsmouth

Since 1979, Portsmouth’s Southern Museum has showcased works from collections as well as special exhibitions. Through Nov. 1, the exhibition, “Judith Brandon: Recent Work,” will feature Ohio-based artist’s large skyscapes immerse the viewer in the colors and tures of nature. Brandon’s powerful reflect both the destructive and restorative power of the natural world. somacc.com

festival

Fallen Timbers Festival

Nov. 4–5: Maumee

The Fallen Timbers Art Festival returns to downtown Maumee for its third year 2023. What started as an effort to support artists and uplift the community during pandemic has blossomed into a free, day event featuring an art show and food trucks. Enjoy a premium wine-tasting experience for $15. facebook.com/ fallentimbersartfest

music

Styx at Peoples Bank Theatre

Oct. 17: Marietta

The beloved 1970s band that brought hits like “Lady,” “Come Sail Away,” “Babe” and more to the FM radio dial takes the stage at Peoples Bank Theatre as part of its 50th anniversary tour. Whether you buy a standard ticket or upgrade for a VIP experience, this performance at Marietta’s 940-seat historic theater promises make for a memorable night of music. peoplesbanktheatre.com

Current, Janet Echelman Photo: Infinite Impact

Black Women Matter April Sunami

Portals for Nature, Miss Birdy

FALL ARTS

Charles White: A Little Higher Nov.

The bearded subject of Charles White’s linocut print, “Micah,” stands tall in his voluminous robe and stares boldly out of frame. It is one of 46 drawings, paintings and prints in the exhibition, “Charles White: A Little Higher,” on display at the Cincinnati Art Museum from Nov. 10 through Feb. 24.

Organized in a roughly chronological order, the exhibition invites visitors to follow White’s evolution as an artist. Born in Chicago in 1918, he developed an early love for art at the Chicago Public Library.

“He became very engaged with art books and with books that showed the influence of African Americans and their contributions to American culture,” says Julie Aronson, curator of American paintings, sculpture and drawings at the Cincinnati Art Museum.

White attended the Art Institute of Chicago and became involved in the Chicago

Black Renaissance of writers and artists. Under the Works Progress Administration, he painted public art for pay, including a mural at Hampton University in Virginia.

Shaped by his community, his subjects centered around African American history. White also advocated for Black Americans through curating and lecturing at exhibitions and teaching. Community activism through art remained important to White throughout his life.

“For him, art is really a form of communication,” Aronson says. “He continues to paint throughout his life in a style that’s really a narrative style.”

Aronson describes White’s early work as “blocky,” such as “Awaiting His Return, ” a lithograph from 1946 whose subject looks carved from stone. Moving through the exhibition, White’s work softens.

“Micah” is one example of this aspirational style, as is “Jubilee,” one of 12 illustrations for Lerone Bennett Jr.’s book The Shaping of Black America. The backgrounds of these illustrations look like parchment that has been repeatedly folded and unfolded, which plays into the effect they have on the viewer.

“They have this feeling of time to them, of history,” Aronson says. 953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati 45202, 513/721-2787, cincinnati artmuseum.org — Jenna Nahhas

CHARLES WHITE: A LITTLE HIGHER IS MADE POSSIBLE BY THE PRIMAS FAMILY COLLECTION.

music

The Cleveland Orchestra: “Amadeus”

Live

Sept. 21–24: Cleveland

Severance Music Center’s 2023–24 classic musical season opens with the Cleveland Orchestra performing the score of the 1984 film “Amadeus” as the movie plays on screen. The period epic that won eight Academy Awards tells the tale of Vienna composer Antonio Salieri’s plot to destroy Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Richard Kaufman will conduct the Cleveland Orchestra and Cleveland Orchestra Chorus for these performances. clevelandorchestra.com

festival

Pyramid Hill Art Fair 2023

Sept. 23–24: Hamilton

Over 70 art vendors show their work among Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum’s more than 70 permanent outdoor sculptures. Buy handmade creations, and stop by the beer garden for a drink. In addition to food trucks and live music, this year’s Pyramid Hill Art Fair adds to its family programming with arts and crafts activities and a bouncy castle. pyramidhill.org

FALL ARTS

exhibit

“Nina Vivian Huryn” at the Mansfield Art Center

Through Oct. 8: Mansfield

Cleveland-based artist Nina Vivian Huryn specializes in wearable art, and her creations have been worn on stage by musicians such as Elton John and Queen guitarist Brian May. This Mansfield Art Center exhibition also highlights work the artist does in other mediums, including large fabric and mixed-media quilts, multi-panel assemblages and more. mansfieldartscenter.org

music

“Star Wars: A New Hope” Film with Orchestra

Oct. 14–15: Dayton

For two nights only, the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra performs John Williams’ Academy Award-winning score live as the first Star Wars film plays on screen. Watch the twin suns of Tatooine rise over the desert home of Luke Skywalker, and witness the first appearance of the villainous Darth Vader in this sweeping musical experience at Schuster Center’s Mead Theatre. daytonlive.org

theater

Cleveland Play House Presents

“Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein”

Oct. 21–Nov. 12: Cleveland

Based on the dreary summer that inspired Mary Shelley’s famous novel, “Frankenstein,” this performance follows the artist as she weaves her horrifying tale. Vacationing in a gloomy Swiss lake house, Shelly and her circle of literary friends act out her story, revealing their own complex characters. This retelling of the classic tale unfolds at Playhouse Square’s in-the-round Outcalt Theatre. playhousesquare.org

The arts scene in Findlay is a thriving blend of creativity and cultural experiences for all ages. At the renowned Mazza Museum, art enthusiasts and families can explore a vast collection of original artwork from beloved children’s picture books. For those seeking captivating performances, the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts takes center stage. The Findlay Art League provides a supportive platform for local artists to showcase their work through exhibitions and workshops. In Findlay, imaginations ourish and the arts are celebrated in all their forms! VisitFindlay.com

work through exhibitions and workshops. In imaginations ourish and the arts are

Findlay Art League 117 W Crawford St.

Mazza Museum 1000 N Main St.

Marathon Center for the Performing Arts 200 W Main Cross St.

CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER

Central Festivals

SEPT 7–9

Marion Popcorn Festival

Take a bite out of the largest popcorn festival in the world. This poppin’ event boasts live entertainment, carnival rides, a popcorn parade, a 5K run and walk, a beer and wine garden, craft vendors and, of course, loads of buttery popcorn. Downtown Marion, Center Street, Marion, 740/387-3378. popcornfestival.com. Visit website for times and prices.

SEPT 22–23

2023 Sims Fall Festival

This fall festival returns for its 14th year with arts, crafts, antiques, mums, pumpkins, a display of antique farm equipment and the special Civil War encampment. Enjoy fireworks on Friday night and special kids games and activities on Saturday. 11300 Chillicothe-Lancaster Rd., Amanda, 740/969-2225. simsfallfestival.com.

Fri. 2–8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

SEPT 23

Chalk the Block

SEPT 30

Lawrence Orchards Applefest

Head to this fruit-focused festival for an afternoon of hayrides, music, pony rides and more. Lawrence Orchards, 2634 Smeltzer Rd., Marion, 740/389-3019. lawrenceorchards.com.

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Visit website for prices.

Museums + Exhibits

SEPT 8–FEB 4

Sarah Rosalena: In All Directions

View hybrid artworks that fuse traditional and Indigenous craft techniques with emerging technologies utilizing ceramic, textile and beadwork. This exhibit examines the geopolitical effects of climate change through anti-colonial and feminist perspectives. Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/221-6801. columbusmuseum.org. Visit website for times. Adults $18; seniors, students and children $9; children under 3, members and veterans free.

SEPT 19–DEC 15

Chapa Sari: The Story of Cotton

View this solo exhibition of fiber art by Minneapolis-based Anita Gopalaswamy. The artist works with textiles that feed the senses and the soul, engaging artistic partners around the globe who are honored and rewarded for their contribution to her practice. Dublin Arts Council, 7125 Riverside Dr., Dublin, 614/889-7444. dublinarts. org. Tues.–Fri. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

SEPT 30–DEC 31

It’s an Honor to Be Here

Join local artists as they gather in Easton’s Town Square to design and draw large-scale artwork made entirely using chalk. Watch as they decorate the pavement with elaborate, vibrant designs at Ohio’s premier chalk-drawing event. 160 Easton Town Center, 614/337-2200. eastontowncenter.com. Noon-6 p.m. Free.

SEPT 23–24

Columbus Coffee Festival

Perk up at this event celebrating all thing caffeine with samples from roasters and shops hailing from the Buckeye State and beyond. Ticket holders can choose between two and one-day sessions for different levels of admission. Roasters include One Line Coffee, Fruits and Roots and Viet Espresso and Tea. Ohio Village, 800 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, columbuscoffeefest.com. Visit website for times. $20–$75.

State Regions

Because dates, times and locations are subject to change, please call ahead to confirm all details before traveling. For a more complete listing of events, visit ohiomagazine.com/events.

To submit event information, visit ohiomagazine.com/submit. Events must be submitted at least 8 weeks in advance. Include the date, cost, address of the event, phone number and website, as well as a brief description of the event. Events are published on a space-available basis; however, all events submitted 8 weeks in advance appear on ohiomagazine. com/events.

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Led Zeppelin, Cheap Trick and more. Visitors can also enjoy food truck and dessert offerings. Scioto Park, 7377 Riverside Dr., Dublin, 614/889-7444. dublinarts.org/sundaysatscioto 5:30–7 p.m. Free.

SEPT 22 & 24

Columbus Symphony Orchestra: The Planets

Communicated through a variety of mediums, the works in this exhibit reflect the relationships between these Ohio-based artists and the natural world, inspiring a curiosity and respect for the natural diversity that surrounds us. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster, 740/681-1423. decartsohio.org. Wed.–Fri. 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Sat.–Sun. 1–4 p.m. Free.

Music + Theater

SEPT 10

DAC Sundays at Scioto Concert: Popgun Enjoy this family-friendly series of four performances featuring some of central Ohio’s finest musicians as they play pop and rock from the late ’60s through the ’80s, including Queen,

This season’s Masterworks series opener takes listeners on a musical journey across the solar system with a performance of Gustav Holst’s celestial masterpiece accompanied by stunning visuals and voices from the Columbus Symphony Chorus. Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony. com. Fri. 7:30, Sun. 2 p.m. $30.50–$88.50.

SEPT 29–OCT 1

Carmen

Revel in the irresistible Spanish tunes, sultry story and dark undercurrent of this show about the ultimate femme fatale. Hear the flirty Habanera and famous Toreador songs amidst a spectacle featuring flamenco. The performance digs into what Georges Bizet’s 1875 classic might mean for audiences today. Southern Theatre, 21 E. Main St., Columbus, 614/461-8101. operacolumbus.org. Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Visit website for prices.

Other Events

THRU NOV 19

Franklin: The Peoples Park

View the works of local photographer Steve Harrison, who documented activity in Franklin Park over the last 50 years from everyday occurrences to historical moments. Preserved as black-and-white images, the scenes offer viewers an opportunity to reminisce and reflect.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/715-8000. fpconservatory.org. Visit website for times and prices.

FOR A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF EVENTS ACROSS OHIO, VISIT OHIOMAGAZINE.COM/EVENTS.

SEPT 2–3

2023 Greater Columbus Dahlia Society

Dahlia Show

Top dahlia growers in the Midwest compete for recognition and cash prizes in dozens of categories. Union County YMCA, 1150 Charles Ln., Marysville, 614/891-5599. columbusdahlias. com. Sat. 1–5 p.m., Sun. 1–4 p.m. Free.

SEPT 30

Ohio Archaeology Day 2023

Dig into history as you learn from archaeologists across Ohio. Ohio History Center, 800 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, 614/297-2300. ohiohistory.org. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Adults $16, seniors and college students with ID $14, children four–12 $10, children three and under free.

Northeast

Festivals

SEPT 8–9

Berlin Harvest Festival & Rib Cook-Off

Make your way to Berlin’s largest event full of fall mums, children’s activities and a joyful parade. Main Street Berlin, Berlin, visitamishcountry. com. Visit website for times and prices.

SEPT 15–16

Log Cabin Days

SEPT 23 GrillFest

Usher in the fall season with Log Cabin Days at Hochstetler Log Homes. Bring the whole family together to join the fun activities and demonstrations including 19th-century cabin trades, cabin building and log home tours. Hochstetler Log Homes, 552 St. Rte. 95, Loudonville, 800/3681015. hochstetlerloghomes.com. Fri. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 7 a.m.–5 p.m. $5.

SEPT 16

Art in the Burg

From amateurs to experts, grillers of all kinds are invited to Hartville Hardware’s GrillFest and BBQ Competition. Watch backyard grillers compete for the title of Grill Master, enjoy saucy samples and improve your skills with recipes and tips on how to master your own grill. Hartville Hardware, 1315 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330/877-3631. hartvillehardware.com. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

SEPT 28–30

Ohio Swiss Festival

Since the fall of 1953, Sugarcreek has annually transformed into a lively Swiss village celebrating Switzerland’s rich cultural heritage. Attend this storied event including races, contests, parades, food vendors, live entertainment and wine and cheese sampling. Main Street, Sugarcreek, 330/852-4113. ohioswissfestival.com. Visit website for times and prices.

SEPT 29–OCT 1

Norton Cider Festival

Enjoy a crisp fall weekend at this family-friendly event ripe with festival food, musical entertainment and craft vendors. This cider-centric event will also include a parade, train rides, fireworks and an apple decorating contest. Columbia Woods Park, 4060 Columbia Woods Dr., Norton, nortonciderfestival.com. Fri. 5–9 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. noon–6 p.m. Visit website for prices.

Museums + Exhibits

ONGOING

Cleveland Starts Here

Discover how a small wilderness town on the shore of Lake Erie became an industrial giant, the home of immigrants, a world-class center for arts, culture and education and a worldrenowned innovator in medicine and health care. Cleveland History Center, 10825 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216/721-5722. wrhs.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU SEPT 10

A Splendid Land: Paintings from Royal Udaipur

Visit Historic Downtown Millersburg for its second celebration of Art in the Burg. The event features art from the Ohio Plein Air Society as well as from local and regional artists of all styles. Food trucks and live music are also part of the fun. Historic Downtown Millersburg, 330/6742412. historicdowntownmillersburg.com. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

Marvel at immersive works conveying the mood of Udaipur’s palaces, lakes and mountains. With dazzling paintings on paper and cloth, “A Splendid Land” reveals how artists visualized emotions, depicted places, celebrated water resources and fostered personal bonds over 200 years in the rapidly changing early modern South Asian political and cultural landscapes. Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216/421-7350. clevelandart.org. Visit website for times. Free.

THRU SEPT 24

Keith Haring: Against All Odds

See Keith Haring’s work up close and personal with this exhibition surveying the height of his career from the early 1980s until his death in 1990 at the age of 31. Haring’s work exploded into paintings, drawings and large-scale murals and are best known for their bold, energetic outlines. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron, 330/376-9186. akronartmuseum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU OCT 29

Family Album: Our Stories

View over 60 works from Canton native and Seattle-based painter Amy Pleasant. Her 10-year creative journey began with the passing down of her mother’s and aunt’s family albums, inspiring her to create a series of abstract expressionist figurative paintings and poetry based on them. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton, 330/453-7666. cantonart.org. Visit website for times and prices.

SEPT 1–OCT 20

Departures: Paintings by Christopher Triner

This art series features the newest paintings by Christopher Triner and represents a change in approach and perception for his work. Rather than the realism Triner is typically known for, this body of work explores vibrant colors and abstract forms. Strauss Studios Gallery, 236 Walnut Ave. NE, Canton, 330/456-0300. thestraussstudios.com. Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sept 1. opening 6–9 p.m. Free.

Music + Theater

THRU OCT 15

Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express

Attend a performance of this popular story detailing a train stopped in its tracks. Surprisingly full for the winter season, the train is carrying one fewer passenger in the morning. The passengers remain isolated with a killer in the midst and must rely on detective Hercule Poirot to identify the murderer. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Ln., Akron, 330/836-2626. weathervaneplayhouse.com. Thurs. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m. Visit website for prices.

THRU NOV 1

Dear Soldier Boy

An Amish girl corresponding with a soldier? The drama unfolds in “Dear Soldier Boy,” showing at Ohio Star Theater with writing by Martha Bolton and original songs composed by Wally Nason. Ohio Star Theater, 1387 Old Route 39, Sugarcreek, 855/344-7547. ohiostartheater.com. Visit website for times. $42–$60.

SEPT 21–24

Amadeus Live

Listen to the soaring sounds of the Cleveland Orchestra as they accompany this sumptuous period epic celebrating the music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. “Amadeus” tells the story of composer Antonio Salieri and the envy that consumes him after discovering the musical gifts he has longed for have been bestowed on Mozart. Severance Music Center, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216/231-1111. clevelandorchestra. com. Visit website for times and prices.

SEPT 29–OCT 28

A Fugitive's Lesson

SEPT 3

Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic

SEPT 24

2nd North Coast Indie Author Book Expo

Enjoy an afternoon meeting independent authors and supporting local literary talent. Emerald Event Center, 33040 Just Imagine Dr., Avon, 440/963-0772. mainstreetvermilion.org/ mip. 2–6:30 p.m. Free.

SEPT 24

Fall Harvest Pavilion Dinner

The Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic returns on Labor Day weekend. This weekend features football, entertainment and fun. Pro Football Hall of Fame, 2121 George Halas Dr. NW, Canton, 330/456-8207. profootballhof.com/ black-college-football-hall-of-fame-classic. 4 p.m. $25.

SEPT 9

Sports Card Show

Get ready for a night of laughter with a comedic mashup of two absurdist plays. Eugene Ionesco’s “The Lesson” and Ugo Betti’s “The Fugitive” unite to reveal societal ideologies gone awry. Kennedy’s Cabaret, 1501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216/241-6000. playhousesquare. org. 8 p.m., 3 p.m. matinee Sun. Oct. 8–15. Adults $18, students $12.

Other Events

THRU SEPT 4

Hartville Antique & Thrift Trail

Scour the Hartville Flea Market, spanning 20 Hartville-area shops, and explore over a dozen antique, upcycled, thrift and resale shops for one-of-a-kind finds. Maps are available at each location and online. Various venues, Hartville, 330/877-5500. discoverhartville.com/ antiquethrifttrail. Hours vary by shop. Free.

THRU SEPT 4

Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects at Holden Arboretum

Sean Kenney’s “Nature Connects Made with Lego Bricks” features more than a dozen towering creations displayed throughout the beautiful garden and trail landscapes at the Holden Arboretum. Holden Arboretum, 9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, Tues. & Thur.–Sun. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Wed. 9 a.m.–8 p.m. Adults $20, children three–12 $14, members free.

THRU SEPT 17

See collections from over 30 vendors selling sports cards, memorabilia, autographs and more. From the entry-level collector to the seasoned veteran, this show offers something for all fans. Hartville MarketPlace, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330/877-9860. hartvillemarketplace. com. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

SEPT 17

11th Annual Race the River

Run this 10K, 5K or 1-mile race with check-in beginning at 7:30 a.m. and the race starting at 8:45 a.m. Make sure to stick around for the awards ceremony afterward. Lakewood Park, 14532 Lake Ave., Lakewood, 216/579-1330. runsignup.com/race/OH/lakewood/ racetheriver 7:30–10 a.m. Adults $20–$45 , kids five and under free.

SEPT 23

720 MKT in North Canton

Indulge in an exclusive, five-course gourmet meal with complementary wine parings from the comfort of Gervasi Vineyard’s lakeside pavilion surrounded by lush grapevines. Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330/497-1000. gervasivineyard.com. Noon2:30 p.m. $140.

SEPT 30

Hartville Toy and Comic Show

Get playful with a wide variety of vintage and modern toys and comics from all eras as well as favorites like Power Rangers, Ghostbusters, Hot Wheels, Matchbox and Funko Pop. Hartville MarketPlace, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330/877-9860. hartvillemarketplace.com. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

SEPT 30

Hispanic Heritage Celebration

Come together for this event commemorating the richness of Hispanic culture put on by an inspiring group of performers and northeast Ohio community organizations. The festival highlights a variety of Latin and Hispanic music, dance and art. Union Home Mortgage Plaza, 1100 E. Ninth St., Cleveland, 216/781-7625. rockhall.com. Noon–4 p.m. Free.

Northwest Festivals

SEPT 15–17

Delphos Canal Days Festival

Sean

Kenney’s

Nature Connects at Kingwood Center Gardens

Marvel at gravity-defying and astoundingly precise structures in this award-winning exhibition of art made with Lego pieces by artist Sean Kenney. Additional features coincide with this exhibit, including pop-up educational activities. Kingwood Center Gardens, 50 N. Trimble Rd., Mansfield, 419/522-0211. kingwoodcenter. org/natureconnects 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Adults $8, members and kids 12 and under free. Online timed ticketing required.

Plan a fall shopping adventure with the makers, bakers, brewers and growers of 720 Market. Enjoy live roots and Americana music while you stop for a bite at one of the many food, beverage and craft beer vendors. The is a free family- and pet-friendly event. North Canton City Square and St. Paul Lot, 141 N. Main St., North Canton, 330/571-0367. eventsby720.com. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.

SEPT 23

Fall Arts and Crafts Show

Head to this showcase featuring over 100 local artisans, handmade goods, foods and crafts. Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of live music and food truck fare. Hartville MarketPlace, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330/877-9860. hartvillemarketplace.com. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

Kick back and relax at this end-of-summer celebration offering free activities and musical entertainment. Enjoy the annual Canal Days 5K and grand parade. Downtown Delphos, 310 N. Main St., Delphos, 419/695-1771. delphos canaldays.com. Fri. 4–11:45 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–11:45 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Free.

SEPT 16

Wine and Art Fair

Held at The Kelleys Island Wine Co., Monarch Winery and Crooked Tree Vineyard, this festival features local artists, live entertainment and delicious food. After visiting all three wineries, visitors are eligible for a free gift and will be entered into three raffles. Enjoy shopping small

Exactly where you should be.

EXPERIENCE

HARTVILLE AND LEHMAN’S

Embark on a memorable trip to charming Hartville, where you can enjoy outdoor and indoor ea market shopping, savor classic homestyle cooking, explore the country’s largest hardware store, and journey to Amish Country to visit Lehman’s, a one-of-a-kind store. Win a fabulous basket including $200 in gi cards and favorite products!

ENJOY A WEEKEND IN BUTLER COUNTY

Find your next adventure in Butler County, Ohio! Enjoy brunch at Toast & Berry at Liberty Center with a $75 gi card. Explore art in nature at the scenic Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum with tickets for four. Your weekend getaway features a complimentary one night stay at the Alo West Chester.

Enter

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO WIN. Sweepstakes is open to anyone 18 years or older at the time of entry. Employees of the Sponsor, its parent and their immediate families (spouse, parents, children, siblings and their spouses) and individuals living in the same household as such employees are ineligible. Sweepstakes subject to all applicable federal, Ohio, local laws and regulations.

Void where prohibited or restricted by law.

GENERAL CONDITIONS: By participating in this contest and submitting an entry, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decision of the Sponsor in conducting the contest. By entering the contest, winner agrees to waive any and all claims against the Sponsor, its parent, employees and representatives for a personal injury or loss that occur from the participation in this contest or from the receipt or use of any prize. Sponsor, its parent, employees and representatives, are not responsible for incorrect, inaccurate transcription or loss of entry information for any reason whatsoever. By entering, entrants acknowledge compliance with these Official Rules including all eligibility requirements.

HOW TO ENTER: Sweepstakes begin on September 1, 2023 and end on October 31, 2023 (“Sweepstakes Period”). There are multiple ways to enter this contest. Each person can enter both ways for additional chances of winning.1) Fill out the Reader Response card

PLAN A MEMORABLE GETAWAY AT SAUDER VILLAGE

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and return or at ohiomagazine.com/win to receive 2 entries. Only one Reader Response form can be submitted per person. 2) Follow @OhioMagazine on Instagram and tag a friend in the comments section. Each individual friend comment and tag will receive an entry.

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with a glass of fine island wine in hand. The Kelleys Island Wine Co., 418 Woodford Rd., Kelleys Island, kelleysisland.com. Noon–6 p.m. Visit website for prices.

SEPT 23

Bryan Fall Fest

Bring the whole family to enjoy homemade iron pot vegetable beef soup, giant chocolate chip cookies and kettle corn. Shop the works of more than 60 craft vendors, and purchase mums and pumpkins. Bryan Downtown Square, 138 S. Lynn St., Bryan, 419/636-2247. bryanchamber. org. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Adults $2, children 10 and under free.

SEPT 29–30

Oastoberfest

Loaded with authentic German scenes and sounds, Oastoberfest 2023 features traditional folk dances and contests for the crowd. The brewery will also host great food trucks, musicians (including the Chardon Polka Band), activities and plenty of beer from breweries across the Buckeye State. Twin Oast Brewing Company , 3630 NE Catawba Rd., Port Clinton, 419/573-6126. twinoast.com/oastoberfest Fri. 3–10 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Adults $10, children six and under free.

SEPT 30

Defiance Rib Fest

Museums + Exhibits

ONGOING

Chasing Totality: The History and Science of Eclipses

Explore the story of humanity’s eclipse fascination with this exhibit that will look at the science and the history of astronomy’s attempts to understand it. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Spiegel Grove, Fremont, 419/332-2081. rbhayes.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU SEPT 23

Exploring the Western Wild: Jan Bell and Jane Williams

Each having grown up and pursued studies in northwest Ohio, Jan Bell and Jane Williams developed an appreciation for the beauty of the land. Further inspired by their travels, Williams creates vibrant watercolor and oil paintings, and Ansel Adams Award-winning Bell creates blackand-white photography. 20 North Gallery, 18 N. St. Clair St., Toledo, 419/241-2400. 20northgallery.com. Noon–4 p.m. Free.

Music + Theater

SEPT 20

Guster with the Toledo Symphony

Rock out as alternative band Guster joins the symphony for a one-night-only performance of their most beloved songs. The Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, 419/246-8000. artstoledo.com. 7:30 p.m. $50–$110.

Other Events

SEPT 1–3

Max’s Trader Days & Water Dog Races

It’s all about the barbecue in Defiance as 10 local rib vendors serve up delicious barbecue ribs while live music rocks downtown. Downtown Defiance, 325 Clinton St., Defiance, 419/7820739. visitdefianceohio.com. 3:30–11 p.m. Adults $10, kids 10 and under free.

SEPT 30

Island Hops & Vine Festival

Go off to the races, and enjoy karaoke at the grandstands, a golf cart parade and plenty of shopping. Over 1,800 flea market vendors will be selling antiques, tools, generators, jeans, work clothes, dog food, jewelry, candles, golf carts, furniture, animals, crafts and more. Allen County Fairgrounds, 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, 419/225-8545. maxstraderdays.com. Fri.–Sun. 7 a.m.–11:45 p.m. Adults $15, children free.

SEPT 30

Spirits in the Museum

Enjoy this tasting event featuring signature mixed drinks made with rum and unaged whiskey from Cleveland Distillery. Merry-Go-Round Museum, 301 Jackson St., Sandusky, 419/6266111. merrygoroundmuseum.org. 6–9 p.m. Individuals $50, couples $70.

Southeast Festivals

SEPT 15–17

25th Annual Ohio Pawpaw Festival

Take a bite out of this educational community event celebrating the pawpaw, one of America’s largest native tree fruits. The event highlights the produce, offering presentations and activities focused on pawpaw growing, cooking and more. Enjoy pawpaw-related artwork and the pawpaw cook-off. Lake Snowden, 5900 St. Rte. 50, Albany, ohiopawpawfest.com. Visit website for times and prices.

SEPT 21–24

Barnesville Pumpkin Festival

This fall-themed festival is back in a new format this year with food, drink tastings and entertainment to make for a wonderful afternoon at Put-In-Bay.” DeRivera Park, 341 Bayview Ave., Put-In-Bay, 419/285-2832. visitputinbay.com/ search-events. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Visit website for prices.

SEPT 8–10

Ohio River Sternwheel Festival

Make your way to Ohio’s oldest city for a party in the streets. At the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum rivers, enjoy paddle-wheelers, the Rollin’ Oldies Car Show, children’s activities and the fireworks display. Ohio River Levee, Front St., Marietta, 740/373-5178. sternwheel.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Celebrate this annual fall tradition with family and friends for a chance to appreciate all things pumpkin. Enjoy crafts, foods, giant record-setting pumpkins, contests, a car show and parade. 300 E. Church St., Barnesville, 740/425-2593. barnesvillepumpkinfestival.com. 9 a.m.–11 p.m. Free.

Museums + Exhibits

ONGOING

Southern Ohio Museum

Since 1979, the Southern Ohio Museum has showcased both ancient and contemporary regional art from its permanent collections, including “Art of the Ancients” as well as traveling exhibitions focusing on modern-day artists who have roots here. Guests can gain a deeper understanding of southern Ohio’s Hopewell and Adena cultures by browsing 10,000 artifacts from the historic eras. Southern Ohio Museum, 825 Gallia St., Portsmouth, 740/354-5629. somacc.com. Tues.–Fri. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. 1–5 p.m. Voluntary donation $2, students and kids 12 and under $1.

Music + Theater

THRU SEPT 3

Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama

This Ohio tradition has been thrilling audiences for over 50 years. Experience the epic story of the Shawnee people as they fight to save their homelands on the Ohio frontier. Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre, 5968 Marietta Rd., Chillicothe, 866/775-0700. tecumsehdrama. com. Mon.–Sat. 8 p.m. $31–$51.

SEPT 1–3

RoCo Music Fest

Jam out at Ross County’s biggest country music festival. This year features headliners Jana Kramer, Dustin Lynch, Randy Houser, Parker McCollum and more. Ross County Fairgrounds, 344 Fairgrounds Rd., Chillicothe, 740/775-5083. rosscountyfair.com. Fri.–Sun. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $100–$750.

ALLEGHENY NATIONAL FOREST & KINZUA SKY WALK

SEPT 9

American Celebration with Music City Quartet

Positive Country Records presents this concert with its quartet hailing from Nashville. Enjoy tunes from the group, plus recording artists Jeremy Abbott, Lily Mae Border, Bev McCann and other surprise guests. Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 740/772-2041. majesticchillicothe.net. 7–9 p.m. $20–25.

Other Events

SEPT 8–10

Murder Mystery Dinner at Adena Mansion

Hone your skills as a rookie crime solver in an entertaining atmosphere filled with great food and mystery. This year’s mystery is “The Dead Horseman,” an all-new original production. Adena Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 740/772-1500. adenamansion.com. Fri.–Sun. 6–9 p.m. $60–$65.

SEPT 22–24

Buckeye Off-Road Adventure Expo

Get gritty with this weekend packed full of off-road vendors, obstacle courses, mud pits and food. Ross County Fairgrounds, 344 Fairgrounds Rd., Chillicothe, 740/775-5083. buckeyeoffroadadventureexpo.com. Fri. noon–10 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. $10–$275.

SEPT 23

Ghost Walk

Tour several historic buildings in downtown Chillicothe and learn about their history as well as the paranormal experiences that surround them. Downtown Chillicothe, North Paint Street, Chillicothe, 740/702-7677. chillicothehalloween festival.com. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $10.

Southwest Festivals

SEPT 8–9

Balloon Fest: A Hot Air Affair

games, polka music, dancing and a kids fun zone. Springboro United Church of Christ, 5 W. Mill St., Springboro, oktoberfestspringboro.org.

Visit website for times. Adults $3, active military with ID and kids 12 and under free.

SEPT 8–10

Clinton County Corn Festival

Make your way to this family-friendly event featuring entertainment on the stage, games, various tractor and antique displays, craft vendors and plenty of food to go around. Clinton County Fairgrounds, 958 W. Main St., Wilmington, 937/382-4443. cornfestivalonline.com. Visit website for times and prices.

SEPT 14–17

Oktoberfest Zinzinnati

Head to the nation’s largest Oktoberfest, where the Queen City’s Fifth Street is converted into a vibrant Bavarian village serving up German cuisine, entertainment and beer. The event features entertainment and activities, including classics like the stein hoist challenge, best-dressed contest and the Running of the Wieners. Downtown Cincinnati, Fifth St., Cincinnati, oktoberfestzinzinnati.com. Thurs. 4–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Visit website for prices.

SEPT 15–17

Scarecrow Festival

Experience a weekend full of food, live music, entertainment, rides, games and craft vendors. Participate in a 5K walk and run, see classic cars, take part in a cornhole tournament and grab a drink at the wine and beer garden. Downtown Washington Court House, 105 N. Main St., Washington Court House, facebook. com/scarecrowfestoh. Visit website for times and prices.

SEPT 17

Dayton Fall Festival

Bring the whole family to this event ushering in autumn, jam-packed with a petting zoo, pony rides, carnival games, hayrides and an inflatable bounce house. The Gathering, 8911 Yankee St., Centerville, 937/435-8911. daytonfallfest.com. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.

SEPT 23

Simon Kenton Chili Festival & Hoopla Parade

Be amazed by spectacular hot air balloon launches that transform the sky into a display of light and color at this two-day event. With music, food trucks, kids activities and a beer garden, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Grimes Field Airport, 1636 N. Main St., Urbana, 937/6524319. balloonfestohio.com. 5–9 p.m. Adults $3, kids 12 and under $1, kids 6 and under free.

SEPT 8–9

Springboro Oktoberfest

Cheers to a weekend full of authentic German food, beer and wine. Families can expect

Sample contestants’ chili cook-off entries and enjoy the Hoopla Parade music, a jalapenoeating contest, food trucks, vendors, a corn hole tournament, kids games and more at this family-friendly festival. Downtown Urbana, 1 Monument Square, Urbana, 937/653-6376. chilicookoffofurbana.com. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

Longhouse National Scenic Byway ANF Centennial Celebration 100 Years – Sept.

Kinzua Sky Walk • Mt. Jewett, PA

“One

of the Top 10 Most Scenic Skywalks in the World”

Museums + Exhibits

THRU SEPT 10

The Boat Trip: Etchings by Charles Francois Daubigny

Enjoy the whimsical paintings of French landscape painter Charles Francois Daubigny, whose works offer innovative, water-level perspectives that influenced latter artists including Claude Monet. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati, 513/241-0343. taftmuseum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU SEPT 10

Modern Women/Modern Vision: Photography from the Bank of America Collection

View the work of women in photography who have forged pioneering paths for the medium. Trace their influential role over the past century through approximately 100 photographic prints. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati, 513/241-0343. taftmuseum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU SEPT 24

Robert Lugo: Hi-Def Archives

View the work of Roberto Lugo, a Cincinnatibased artist drawing from lived experience and a deep knowledge of ceramic history to elevate the stories of those historically absent from the medium. His multicultural pieces combine classic forms and patterns with elements of hip-hop. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, 513/721-2787. cincinnatiartmuseum. org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU OCT 15

Picasso Landscapes: Out of Bounds

Celebrate Picasso’s legacy through an unprecedented exhibition, the first to examine his lifelong engagement with landscape. The exhibition highlights paintings and sculptures by the artist from approximately 25 public and private collections across the United States and Europe. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, 513/721-2787. cincinnatiart museum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Music + Theater

SEPT 22

ABBAFab: The Premier ABBA Experience

Journey through the Swedish group’s popular hits. The vocalists and musicians of ABBAFab have toured the world as solo artists and band members, coming together to pay tribute to one of the world’s biggest pop sensations. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, 513/6212787. cincinnatiarts.org. 3 p.m. $48–$68.

SEPT 22–24

Defying Gravity: An Evening with Stephen Schwartz & Friends

Experience an evening of musical theater as award-winning composer Stephen Schwartz joins conductor John Morris Russell and the Pops for performances of songs like from classic musicals like “Wicked,” “Pippin,” “Godspell” and more. Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Cincinnati, 513/381-3300. cincinnatisymphony.org. Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Visit website for prices.

LOG CABIN DAYS®

Takethe LogHome Tour!

• Horse-drawn covered wagon rides.

• Exhibits of rustic furniture.

• Chainsaw carving, hand-hewing, hand-peeling, blacksmith demos.

• Featuring axe throwing, 2-man crosscut sawing, & wood chopping.

• Antique steam engine in operation.

• Kids Zone, Petting Zoo, Pony Rides

Fun for thefamilywhole

• Food tent will serve barbecued chicken, noodles and sandwiches. Plus kettle-cooked baked beans, kettle corn, apple butter, homemade ice cream, Amish pies, pastries.

• Early bird breakfast served Sat. between 7-10 a.m.

• Log Home Tours

• Cabin and Rustic Furnishings Auction. Friday 3:00 PM

Hours: Friday, Sept. 15, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. & Saturday, Sept. 16, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Location: 552 SR 95, Loudonville, OH For more information call 419-368-0004. $5 Admission.

GLASS National Art Museum

featuring the collection of internationally known artist Stephen Rolfe Powell and other prominent artists. glassmuseumky.org

Opening Fall 2023 at Art Center of the Bluegrass

SEPT 23

Clay Walker

Having a long and notable career filled with smash singles and platinum albums, Clay Walker is back with a new album. In “Texas To Tennessee,” Walker beautifully mixes country’s timeless themes with modern styles. BMI Event Center, 791 E. Main St., Versailles, 937/5269544. bmieventcenter.com. 7–10 p.m. $30.

Other Events

THRU SEPT 30

Butterfly Show at Krohn Conservatory Delight in an up-close-and-personal look at a remarkable collection of butterflies. Up to 16,000 colorful creatures representing more than 100 species will fly inside the conservatory among the exotic flora. Stick around for special children’s activities. Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, 513/421-4086. cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks. Visit website for times and prices.

SEPT 9

Elmwood Place Walking Tour

Explore Springfield’s best collections of Colonial Revival-inspired houses developed at the turn of the 20th century. Join a tour group for a stroll along Arlington Avenue and nearby streets for a tranquil, suburban neighborhood experience. Elmwood Place, S. Arlington Ave., Springfield, 937/327-9291. westcotthouse.org. 10 a.m. General $15, members $12.

OCTOBER Central Festivals

OCT 6

Columbus Mac and Cheese Festival

Snack on mac and cheese samples from standout restaurants in the state’s central region. The festive atmosphere will include live music and entertainment, children’s activities and raffle prizes. The Yard at Easton Town Center, 3989 Merchants Row, Columbus, cancer.osu.edu.

4–7:30 p.m. Visit website for prices.

OCT 6–8

60th Annual Ohio Gourd Show

Shop vendors, attend workshops, enter or view a gourd competition and dine at an awards dinner at this event celebrating the fleshy fruits. This year’s theme is “Gourdians of the Galaxy.”. Delaware County Fairgrounds, 236 Pennsylvania Ave., Delaware, ohiogourdsociety.com.

Fri. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

OCT 18–21

Circleville Pumpkin Show

Carve out some time for this fall festival featuring a largest pumpkin competition, art show, baked goods table, Miss and Little Miss Pumpkin shows, fair food and more. Enjoy an abundance of live entertainment and see an adorable pet

parade while celebrating all things pumpkin. Downtown Circleville, 159 E. Franklin St., Circleville, 740/474-7000. pumpkinshow.com. Visit website for times and prices.

Museums + Exhibits

OCT 6–JAN 28

Quilting a Future: Contemporary Quilts and American Tradition

This exhibition examines how artists portray social, political and environmental perspectives through their work by presenting a view of the past, present and future of American quilting. Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/221-6801. columbusmuseum. org. Tue.–Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Thu. until 9 p.m. Visit website for prices.

OCT 12

COSI After Dark

Start your weekend early with this evening event series for the 21-and-over crowd. Each month’s event takes on a different theme and features entertainment, activities, games and exclusive

Wonder. For all.

experiences. Explore the building while enjoying delicious food, craft beer and specialty cocktails. COSI, 333 W. Broad St., Columbus, 614/228-2674. cosi.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Music + Theater

OCT 3–8

Jesus Christ Superstar

Watch a new production of this iconic musical phenomenon. Originally staged by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and helmed by director Timothy Sheader and choreographer Drew McOnie, this take on a classic appeals to theater audiences and concert music fans alike. Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St., Columbus, 614/464-0939. capa.com. Visit website for times and prices.

OCT 8

DAC Sundays at Scioto Concert: British Invasion

Experience this family-friendly, free series of four live performances closing with an exciting recreation of ’60s music, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Zombies, Herman’s Hermits and more. Scioto Park, 7377 Riverside Dr., Dublin, 614/889-7444. dublinarts.org/ sundaysatscioto. 5:30–7 p.m. Free.

OCT 12–15

Ellington, Basie & Miles

Get ready to groove to the beats of jazz legends performed by the Columbus Jazz Orchestra as the musical group kicks off its 51st season. Feel the rhythm of the ’50s as the orchestra pays homage to three of history’s most iconic swing musicians. Southern Theatre, 21 E. Main St., Columbus, 614/461-8101. jazzartsgroup.org. 7:30 p.m. $17.33–$85.58.

OCT 13–14

The Beauty of Spain

Experience the energy of the beloved European country with this show featuring works by Spanish composers Turina and Chapí, as well as classic works by Ravel and Rimsky-Korsakov, paying tribute to Spanish culture. Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St., Columbus, 614/464-0939. columbussymphony.com. 7:30 p.m. Visit website for prices.

OCT 20

Satisfaction

Northeast Festivals

OCT 14–15

Ashtabula Covered Bridge Festival

Take a self-guided driving tour to 19 covered bridges while supporting local vendors along the way. Visit the longest and shortest covered bridges in the nation and the central festival at the Ashtabula County Fairgrounds for food, crafts, live entertainment, children’s activities, a parade, antique cars and festival souvenirs. Ashtabula County Fairgrounds, 127 N. Elm St., Jefferson, 440/576-3769. coveredbridge festival.org. Visit website for times. Free.

OCT 14–29

CrowFest

Rock out to the music of this international Rolling Stones tribute band. With over 22 years of touring experience and having performed over 4,000 shows worldwide, this group is sure to give you everything you want. Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 740/3832101. marionpalace.org. 7:30 p.m. $12–$39.

Crow lovers unite to herald the annual migration of crows at this event featuring a variety of crowinspired artwork from many different mediums as well as food trucks, craft beer, art awards and a masquerade costume ball. Mansfield Art Center, 700 Marion Ave., Mansfield, 419/756-1700. mansfieldartcenter.org. Tues.–Fri. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

OCT 28

Boo in the Burg

Sample a variety of Ohio wines and craft beers at this evening event hosted in Historic Downtown Millersburg. Enjoy these tasty refreshments as well as live music and great food. Historic Downtown Millersburg, 330/674-2412. historic downtownmillersburg.com. 6–9 p.m. $30.

Music + Theater

OCT 12–13

Mahler’s Song of the Night

Indulge in the music of noted composer Gustav Mahler as vocalist Simon Keenlyside and director Franz Welser-Möst perform his works. This performance features the moody, enigmatic “Seventh Symphony,” sometimes referred to as “Song of the Night.” Severance Music Center, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216/231-1111. clevelandorchestra.com. 7:30 p.m. Visit website for prices.

This fan-favorite, award-winning Christian quartet, known for its smooth harmonies and rich sound, is bringing gospel music at its finest to the Ohio Star Theater. Ohio Star Theater, 1387 Old Route 39, Sugarcreek, 855/344-7547. ohiostartheater.com. 7 p.m. $44.

OCT 22

The Phantom of the Opera

Enjoy a screening of the 1925 silent film, accompanied by a live organ performance. Immerse yourself in the story of the Phantom as he wreaks havoc in the Paris Opera House and tries to win the heart of a young opera singer. Renaissance Theatre, 138 Park Ave. W, Mansfield, 419/5222726. rentickets.org. 2:30 p.m. $10.

Other Events

OCT 1

Gervasi Vineyard Clam Boil

With our menu constantly changing to reflect the local produce from our surrounding farms, our dishes provide intense freshness and flavor that is sure to capture the seasons in each bite.

Reserve a table at Silas Creative Kitchen + Cocktails to enjoy our new fall menu.

Join Gervasi Vineyard for a traditional clam boil under an elegant covered pavilion. The menu includes a garden salad, steamed clams, mussels, shrimp, chorizo sausages, corn on the cob and more. Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330/497-1000. gervasivineyard.com. 1 p.m.–3:30 p.m. $45.

OCT 7

720 MKT in Hartville

Check out the 720 Market at its newest market location in downtown Hartville. Browse a variety of vendors offering their wares or kick back and enjoy the live music, food trucks, coffee and craft beer selections. Downtown Hartville, 105 Prospect Ave. S., Hartville, 330/571-0367. eventsby720.com. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.

Triumphant Quartet

Celebrate the great outdoors with the Outdoor Expo at Lehman’s. The event features demonstrations and activities such as wood carving, outdoor games, grill and fire pit samples as well as live music.” 4779 Kidron Rd., Kidron, 800/438-5346. lehmans.com/events. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Free.

OCT 12

Ladies Night Out

celebrating women. Enjoy shopping, dining and a variety of fun, themed activities. Medina Public Square, 330/722-6186. mainstreetmedina.com/ events. 5–8 p.m. Free.

OCT 13–14

Charm Days

Northwest Festivals

OCT 6–7

Put-In-Bay’s 30th Oktoberfest

Get your girlfriends together and head out for a night on the town at this seasonal event

Visit Keim Home Center during this two-day community event offering vendor sales, games, food offerings and prize drawings. Keim Home Center, 4465 St. Rte. 557, Charm, 330/8932251. keimhome.com. Fri. 7 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Sat. 7:30 a.m.–noon. Free.

OCT 28

The Great Outdoorsman Show

Join in on a rugged day featuring hunting, firearms, ammunition and fishing vendors along with camping and outdoor gear exhibitors. Look forward to learning tips and tricks from industry experts to help improve your skills. Hartville MarketPlace, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330/877-9860. hartvillemarketplace.com. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

Visit scenic Put-In-Bay, and celebrate Oktoberfest lakeside with German food, beer and wine, live polka and German-style music and more. DeRivera Park, 341 Bayview Ave., Put-In-Bay, 419/285-2832. visitputinbay.com/searchevents. Visit website for times and prices.

OCT 8

51st Annual Woollybear Festival

Make your way to this storied gathering that originated in Birmingham, Ohio, in 1973. Within five years, the festival grew in attendance and saw 10,000 people attending the one-day event. Enjoy delicious food, watch a parade and see whose pet wins the Woollybear look-a-like contest. Downtown Vermilion, S. Main St., Vermilion, 440/967-4477. vermilionohio.com. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Visit website for prices.

GRAB LIFE RIGHT HERE

1) Cuyahoga Falls

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season in Cuyahoga Falls. Enjoy shopping, dining and ice skating in our historic downtown with views of the Cuyahoga River. For winter adventurers, explore the outdoors and take in the beautiful winter scenery in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the Summit Metro Parks. cityofcf.com

2) Akron Zoo

The fun continues at the Akron Zoo after the summer! Dress up your ghosts and goblins to trick–or–treat during Boo at the Zoo on Oct. 14–15, 21–22 and 28–29. Get into the spirit with our holiday lighting event, Wild Lights, running Nov. 24-Dec. 29. Spend a simple day at the zoo to enjoy the cooler temperatures and animals. Whatever your preference, the Akron Zoo is worth your wild! akronzoo.org | 330-375-2550

3) Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

Tour the historic manor house, and enjoy the gardens through fall, then return for Deck the Hall! Through Nov. 22, open Tues-Sun, 10 a.m-6 p.m., last entry 4 p.m. From Nov. 24–Dec. 30, open select dates for Deck the Hall, 3-8 p.m. Closed Dec. 31–March 31, 2024. stanhywet.org | 330-836-5533

4) Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Make Cuyahoga Valley National Park your front porch with a stay at the historic Stanford House. Let breathtaking scenery and nearby Brandywine Falls complement your relaxing visit. Plan your getaway to the park today!

forcvnp.org/stanfordhouse

330-657-2909 ext. 130

5) Hale Farm & Village

An outdoor living history museum of the Western Reserve Historical Society creates immersive opportunities to explore the Hale family story. Take a walk through our historic grounds and buildings, meet heritage breed farm animals and get hands-on with historic demonstrations! Hours of operation: (June–Oct.) Wed.–Sun., 10 a.m.–4 p.m. wrhs.org/plan-your-visit/hale-farm

6) Visit Downtown Akron

The holidays are when downtown Akron really shines — with atmosphere, art, shows, food, shopping and festive activities for everyone. Whether you’re seeking family fun, a romantic night out, exciting live music with friends or an autumn afternoon shopping for treasures from local artisans, let Downtown Akron Partnership be your guide to everything our neighborhood has to offer. Visit downtownakron.com/guides for an ongoing collection of downtown guides for every taste and need.

OCT 8

Applebutter Fest

Since 1977, this fruit-focused festival has delivered historical re-enactments, handmade crafts, live music, food and apple butter. Visitors can also expect a classic car show, a military encampment, a farm area and children’s activi-

decorating contest and tours of the Marblehead Lighthouse and the Wolcott Keeper’s House. Marblehead Lighthouse State Park, 110 Lighthouse Dr., Marblehead, lakesideohio.com. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

Music + Theater

Ave., Toledo, 419/246-8000. artstoledo.com. 8 p.m. Visit website for prices.

OCT 17

Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert

Watch this Academy Award-winning film come to life during this one-of-a-kind event. The concert features a showing of the film accompanied by an on-stage band playing the recordTheater, 4645 419/381-8851. $30–$145.

Based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories, this musical springs to life with a powerhouse team led by two-time Tony Award-winning director and choreographer for Performing Findlay, 419/423$59–$129.

See this classic’s first live movie-to-concert experience. Enjoy a digitally remastered version on a full-size cinema screen accompanied by live musicians performing the iconic soundtrack. Heatherdowns Blvd., stranahantheater.com.

Festival

Get into the spirits of spooky season with this festival featuring a wide variety of vendors, food, live entertainment, inflatables and contests. Chillicothe, chillicothehalloweenfestival.com. Fri. 11 p.m., Sun. prices.

Harvest Festival

Enjoy this fall harvest event featuring herbs and herbal products from approximately 150 crafters and artisans. Visitors can also expect

330-877-9353

Join Brewery 33 as it celebrates its sixth annual Oktoberfest in the Hocking Hills with German beer and wine, live musical performances, food College Prosbr3w3ry.com.

classes, entertainment and, of course, fresh food. There’s even a pumpkin cannon. 817 Tater Ridge Rd., West Union, 937/544-8252. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Free.

OCT 14

Chillicothe Oktoberfest

OCT 17

Styx

Styx draws from over four decades of barnburning chart hits, joyous singalongs and harddriving deep cuts. Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 740/371-5152. peoplesbanktheatre.com. 8 p.m. $98–$329.

OCT 19

Mary Chapin Carpenter and Shawn Colvin

Enjoy the harmonious sounds of country and folk artist Mary Chapin Carpenter and singer-songwriter Shawn Colvin as they perform live in Marietta’s historic downtown theater. Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 740/3730894. peoplesbanktheatre.com. Tues.–Thurs. 8–10 p.m. $53–129.

OCT 21

Rocking to Raise the

Roof

Join a lively crowd at this event hosting three bands, a 50/50 drawing and a vote for the “People’s Choice Award.” Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 740/772-2041. majesticchillicothe.net. 7:30–11 p.m. $15–25.

OCT 30

Lyle Lovett & Leo Kottke: In Conversation and Song

The two renowned musicians join together for an interesting and intimate show of acoustic music that highlights their craft. Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 740/371-5152. peoplesbanktheatre.com. 8 p.m. $98–$329.

Dance the night away, and enjoy some traditional German fare and beer. Try your luck at beer chugging, yodeling or stein-holding contests, and come dressed in your best German garb. Downtown Chillicothe, 25 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 740/701-4037. downtownchillicothe. com. 5–10 p.m. $3–$5.

OCT 20–22

Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival

Stir up some fun at this festival featuring live entertainment, arts, craft and food vendors, kids activities, boat rides on the canal and living history tours. Historic Roscoe Village, 600 N. Whitewoman St., Coshocton, 740/622-4877. visitcoshocton.com/events. Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Online presale $5, at the gate $8, kids 12 and under free.

Music + Theater

OCT 5–28

The Frankenstein Experience at Haunted Mountain

Prepare for a night of fun and frights as Frankenstein takes over Haunted Mountain with a special nightly performance on the stage. Test your skills in the mad lab escape room, and try to survive Dr. Franks Haunted Trail. Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheater, 5968 Marietta Rd., Chillicothe, 740/775-0700. hauntedmountain. org. 5:30–11:30 p.m. $20–$45.

Other Events

OCT 5–8

Bigfoot Basecamp Weekend

NOV 3–5

Fall Scrapbooking Crop

Get creative during these 31 peaceful hours of crafting and preserving your favorite memories of families, friends, vacations and more. Adena Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 740/772-1500. adenamansion.com. Fri.–Sat.

9 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–7 p.m. $25–130.

Southwest Festivals

OCT 14–15

Learn more about the subject of one of North America’s most elusive folk legends as you join former “Finding Bigfoot” co-host Matt Moneymaker for a weekend full of activities including a movie night, guided tours and a VIP dinner. Pleasant Hill Lake Park, 3431 St. Rte. 95, Perrysville, 419/938-7884. mwcd.org. Visit website for times and prices.

OCT 14

Grandma Gatewood’s Fall Colors Hike

Enjoy the scenic and cultural elements of one of Hocking Hills’ most well-traveled gorges. Prepare for a 6-mile, naturalist-guided hike from Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls with a return at the Gorge Overlook Trail. The hike includes several hills and is not recommended for easily winded individuals. Hocking Hills State Park, St. Rte. 664 S, Logan, 740/385-6481. explorehockinghills. com. Visit website for times. Free.

Fall Farm Fest

Enjoy the Miami County Parks District’s biggest event of the year amidst tree-lined lanes and colorful foliage. The two-day festival includes pumpkins, pony rides, “Scarecrow Lane” and a 6-acre corn maze. Lost Creek Reserve, 2385 E. St. Rte. 41, Troy, 937/335-6273. miamicounty parks.com. Noon–5 p.m. Free.

OCT 14–15

Ohio Sauerkraut Festival

This festival draws approximately 460 craft vendors from over 25 states and features a menu of nearly 60 sauerkraut-themed food items. Join in on the weekend-long fun, including booths lining Main Street, shopping and more. Downtown Waynesville, Historic Main St., Waynesville, 513/897-8855. sauerkrautfestival. waynesvilleohio.com. Sat. 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Free.

OCT 21–22

Cincinnati Coffee Festival

Perk up at the midwest’s premier caffeine-lovers’ event, attracting thousands of attendees as well as coffee roasters, tea and coffee shops, bakers, pastry shops and chocolatiers from southwest region. The event includes demonstrations, samples, a latte art throwdown and live music. Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Cincinnati, 413/460-3365. cincinnaticoffeefestival.com. Visit website for times. $17.50–35.

Museums + Exhibits

OCT 21

Troops and Treats

Trick-or-treat museum-style, including familyfriendly activities, costumes and, of course, candy. This fun and slightly spooky event is designed for all ages to enjoy. National Museum of the United States Air Force, 1100 Spaatz St., Wright-Patterson AFB, 937/255-3286. nationalmuseum.af.mil. Visit website for times and prices.

Other Events

OCT 21

Train Run

Enjoy a narrated, scenic tour on the Carillon Park Railroad, a mile-long, narrow-gauge rail network equipped with a replica 1851 locomotive with room for 120 guests. Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, 937/293-2841. daytonhistory.org. 1–4 p.m. $1.

FARM & TABLE

Chicken Winner

Chef Aaron Lawson’s Midwest roots meet southern influences and global flavors at Toledo’s Fowl & Fodder. »

Pizza Span: This Ashtabula County restaurant is housed in a repurposed covered bridge that its founder purchased at auction more than 50 years ago.

House of Spirits: This beautiful Victorian home in Marysville offers just the right atmosphere for a menu of classic and creative cocktails.

CHICKEN AND WAFFLES

FARM & TABLE

Adams Street in Toledo has turned into an urban hub with a dynamic mix of shops and restaurants. It is where you’ll find the chef-driven Fowl & Fodder reinventing classic comfort foods.

Chef Aaron Lawson took the helm in 2020, crafting favorites with a twist.

“I fell in love with global, unique flavors like Japanese, Mandarin, coastal southwestern Latino cuisine,” he says. “I started finding ways to take down-home comfort food

Pizza Span

and put a spin on it, like our southern-style Banh Mi.”

Both locals and out-of-towners flock here for full-service Sunday brunches. (The new country-kitchen-style seating can accommodate 50 diners.) Tuesday through Friday switches to a counter-order system for hurried work-day meals or to-go boxes. No matter the day, the favorite here is Lawson’s chicken and waffles.

Chicken tenders are tossed in seasoned flour, dipped in Ohio hot sauce and served on top of cornbread waffles. Lawson’s homemade Ohio Hot Sauce on the crispy tenders goes well with Milligan’s Ohio Ma-

This Ashtabula County eatery is housed in a repurposed structure its founder bought for $5 in 1972.

Yes, the Covered Bridge Pizza Parlor is housed in an actual covered bridge. Formerly known as Ashtabula County’s Eagleville Covered Bridge, the wooden structure dates to 1862. Gary Hewitt purchased it for $5 at an auction in 1972 when it was being replaced.

“He and another guy took it piece by piece,” says Renee Hewitt, Gary Hewitt’s daughter, who today operates Covered Bridge Pizza Parlor with her brother, Paul Hewitt. “It was stored at my grandparents’ [home] for a couple of years before the south end of it was built in North Kingsville, and then a few years later, he took the other half of it and built another place in Andover.”

The siblings took over in 2018, and the parlor continues to make the pizzas using a family recipe. Variations of their mother’s pizza recipe were previously crafted in the Hewitt home and have been enjoyed by customers since the 1960s.

ple Syrup — a perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Fowl & Fodder is also hyper focused on providing meal options that are free of gluten, nuts, dairy and eggs. Vegan dishes are available here too, like the coconut-milk waffle with warm house-made almond and cashew granola, seasonal fruit jam and Ohio maple syrup.

Growing up in Toledo, Lawson spent summers with family in Kentucky and Tennessee, which infused his Midwest roots with southern influences. Those visits revolved around down-home cooking, farming and supporting locals. Fresh green beans and tomatoes and eating hot water cornbread shaped his philosophy. Eventually, he returned to the South to study culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, North Carolina.

These formative years made Lawson who he is today. Supporting local purveyors is evident in everything he does. On any given day, he’s sourcing Ohio apples drizzled with local honey for sides or pairing signature dishes with small-batch craft cocktails from Toledo Spirits. He also supports local food charities and partners with Toledo Metroparks, embodying the Fowl & Fodder philosophy: “Food for Everyone.”

“There’s no reason why you can’t make chicken and waffles just as beautiful as a $100 steak dinner,” says Lawson. “The food has to speak to people.”

Sarah Miller

614 Adams St., Toledo 43604, 419/214-1588, fowlandfodder.com

“People move away and come back,” says Paul Hewitt. “And they can’t wait to stop here to get one of our pizzas.” 6541 N. Main St., North Kingsville 44068, 440/224-2252 — Tate Raub

Chef Aaron Lawson took the helm of Toledo’s Fowl & Fodder in 2020. He serves a menu of southern-inspired comfort favorites shaped by a world of culinary influences.

Covered Bridge Pizza Parlor’s large menu spans salads, spaghetti and pizzas ranging from garlic to Hawaiian to taco, but pepperoni is by far the favorite, according to the siblings.

House of Spirits

This beautiful Victorian home in Marysville offers just the right atmosphere for a menu of classic and creative cocktails.

Located in a Victorian home in downtown Marysville that dates to 1884, House of Spirits has the perfect look for a Prohibition-era cocktail bar. e beautiful red brick house sits prominently on Fi h Street with a rounded front porch, white trim and a lovingly refurbished interior that brings the structure back to its original state.

e building was once home to a local doctor and for years it housed a restaurant called Doc Henderson’s. When the owner retired, he sold the place to Bruce Daniels and Rick Crago, who rst renovated it as Hinkley’s, before giving it another faceli and reopening it as House of Spirits in 2019.

e hushed interior features a handsome bar lined with bourbon bo les. Side rooms with vintage furniture and xtures o er quiet havens for sipping cocktails. Local musicians play the rst and third Fridays of each month.

As the name implies, House of Spirits utilizes a cocktail-forward concept. e bar team, led by manager Hayden Owens, creates a new menu every season, cra ing light, refreshing cocktails in the spring and summer and rich, warming options in the fall and winter.

“We fresh squeeze everything, make all of our syrups, do all our infusions in-house,”

says Owens. “A lot of that requires seasonal items like herbs and fruits and spices.”

ey also excel at the classics from Negronis to sidecars and daquiris to Aperol spritzes. You can’t go wrong ordering the house old fashioned, built around a Maker’s Mark bourbon blended especially for the Marysville cocktail bar.

To create new drinks, Owens takes a few di erent approaches.

“Sometimes I’ll pick a fruit I like and go from there,” he says. “We’ll pick a avor and match it with a liquor and turn it into a cocktail. e other way is picking a classic cocktail and doing a ri on that, including doing an infusion or di erent avored syrup, or adding a liqueur or taking one out.”

Owens curates a dense, two-page menu with around 250 bourbons, rye whiskeys, Irish whiskeys and Scotches. e selection is constantly rotating and is rife with unique nds. Owens is focusing on purchasing single barrels from distilleries, which get bo led and featured only at House of Spirits.

ere is also a small selection of dra and bo led beer, including ales from Ohio breweries like Seventh Son Brewing Co. and Olentangy River Brewing Co. Customers will also nd a short list of wines by the glass and the bo le. To supplement the libations, the kitchen produces elevated bar snacks like bacon-wrapped dates, deviled eggs, charcuterie boards, atbreads and wings.

Nicholas Dekker

318 E. Fi h St., Marysville 43040, 937/7382088, houseofspiritsmarysville.com

LIVEWell

Stretch Out

Yoga really is for everyone. Here is how the practice can benefit your health and how you can get started.

Yoga is not just for the super flexible or the seasoned yogi; it has the power to provide long-term health benefits for everyone.

“From a medical standpoint, yoga brings oxygen into the body and muscles, and it creates space so you can reduce inflammation,” says Karen RaischSiegel, executive director at LifeWorks of Southwest General, Middleburg Heights.

If you’re deskbound most of the day, yoga can stretch areas of the body that weaken with sitting all the time, namely the hip flexors.

“If you think about it, when your legs are at a 90-degree angle for a sustained period, you are shortening that muscle that connects to your torso, so yoga can help with that and improve posture,” Raisch-Siegel explains.

so yoga can with that and

Balance is another yoga bonus, as is deep breathing for meditation, which improves mental health and elevates mindfulness.

“Yoga can shut down your mind, which can result in better sleep too,” Raisch-Siegel says.

If not sure about a yoga class fullposes and while hot yoga occurs in a space that is 90 to 108 and involves more cardiovascular fitness. The yoga experience also varies instructor, out. a class and see how it she says. “And if it’s not your thing, maybe check out another class

If you’re not sure about braving a yoga class full of other people, try out a yoga app or an online video to get acquainted with the different stretches. There are seven different types of yoga. Traditional Hatha yoga is centered on sustaining poses and deep breathing, while hot yoga occurs in a space that is 90 to 108 degrees and involves more cardiovascular fitness. The yoga experience also varies by instructor, Raisch-Siegel points out.

“Try a class and see how it feels,” she says. “And if it’s not your thing, maybe check out another class to see if that instructor speaks to you.”

Kristen Hampshire

Healthy Habits

Proper nutrition and regular exercise can help prevent disease. Because Sept. 27 is U.S. National Women’s Health and Fitness Day, we asked an expert her advice on both.

We’re not ge ing any younger. We can, however, get healthier, and the payo is longevity and independence. Sept. 27 is National Women’s Health and Fitness Day, a reminder that nutrition and exercise ma er at every age. With awareness comes a healthy focus on tness and diet — improving wellness and decreasing the likelihood of disease by eating good foods and staying active. Kacie Vavrek, sta dietitian with e Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, shares how to take a realistic approach to what we eat and how we move.

Pile on the greens A plant-based diet can prevent chronic disease, improve heart

health and reduce in ammation. “Plantbased doesn’t mean vegan or vegetarian, and you can still eat lean meat,” Vavrek clari es. e U.S. Department of Agriculture MyPlate Plan recommends lling half your plate with fruits and vegetables, one-fourth with lean protein and one-fourth with high- ber, whole-grain starches.

Eat the good carbs Ever cut carbs from your diet to lose weight? It doesn’t really work, Vavrek says. “Carbs do not cause

weight gain or loss; it’s about total calorie intake,” she explains. Re ned ours and sugars are empty calories that will leave you hungry faster because the body digests them quickly. You want to avoid or limit those, Vavrek advises. Whole-grain ber keeps you fuller for longer and deserves room on your plate. “With ber, you tend to eat less,” she says.

Keep moving “As we age, we have di erent responsibilities and priorities in life and don’t have as much time for physical activity,” Vavrek says. Whatever you do, keep moving. “It doesn’t have to be a certain exercise as long as you are staying active,” she adds. “Do whatever exercise you will keep doing.” Aim for a mix of cardio, weight-bearing moves to maintain bone health and stretching for exibility, she advises.

Set realistic goals. Completely overhauling your diet with a promise to work out daily is an all-in a itude, but it likely won’t last. Start small and build from a realistic foundation. “Begin with a few goals rather than overwhelming yourself,” Vavrek says.

Kristen Hampshire

The Cascades Franklin Park, Columbus

The oranges of autumn burst over The Cascades at Columbus’ Franklin Park. The small waterfalls and ponds were built in 1991, but restoration work within the past several years brought them back to their original beauty. The Cascades can be found in the southwest corner of the park. They run along Franklin Park South Street and a small portion of Franklin Park West Street. columbus.gov

Check out more scenic spots to visit this fall on Page 58.

JESSICA WILSCHEK

This to do

Autumn is our most beautiful season. From family fun and food festivals to scenic spots and spooky scares, here are great ways to embrace the crisp air and sunny days.

Stories by Erin Finan, Jenna Nahhas, Tate Raub, Sean Repuyan and Gracie Wilson

festivals

Royal Revelry

Visit the world of kings, queens, knights and more at the popular Ohio Renaissance Festival held each fall in Warren County.

Costumed royalty presiding over a 16th-century English village greet visitors who come to the annual Ohio Renaissance Festival dressed as courtly knights, fair maidens and even steampunk fairies.

“We keep it period appropriate, but the patrons have added that variety,” says Dave Ashcra , managing partner of the festival, which runs on weekends between Sept. 2 and Oct. 29 in Waynesville.

One of the largest events in Warren County, the festival a racts up to 280,000 visitors each year, and it is still growing.

e festival also o ers a variety of themed weekends including Viking Weekend (Oct. 7–8) featuring the bagpipes of the tribal Sco ish band Albannach and Tricks or Treat Weekends (Oct. 28–29) when kids under 12 get in for free and festival vendors join in the trick-or-treating.

A recent expansion o ers a new shaded area that allows whimsical exploration for kids. It also features a new arena where the Cincinnati Barbarians combat group safely duels in glinting armor with real swords.

A endees can peruse hand-bound books, leatherwork and clothing available for purchase from the artisan vendors and relax and listen to live music in St. Peter’s Chapel before heading to a daring acrobatic show.

“Some people come for the shopping, some people come for the entertainment, some come for the pure atmosphere,” Ashcra says. 10542 Ohio 73, Waynesville 45068, 513/8977000, renfestival.com — Jenna Nahhas

Mum MAGIC

These Ohio cities celebrate a favorite fall flower.

Barberton Mum Festival

Sept. 23–24

Beautiful blooms return to Barberton’s Lake Anna Park for this annual free weekend festival known for its more than 10,000 blooms that decorate the grounds. Enjoy live entertainment on the waterfront like canoe races and water-ski shows, or stop by a vendor tent for unique crafts and local food favorites. cityofbarberton.com

Tipp City Mum Festival

Sept. 23–24

This community north of Dayton’s 2023 mum festival theme is “Tipp City Library: 100 years of stories,” highlighting the impact that the community library has on the city and its citizens. Other festivities include the Run for the Mums 5K, a parade and live music all taking place downtown. tippmumfestival.org

Bob Evans Farm Festival

Oct. 13–15

Before there were Bob Evans restaurants, there was Bob Evans, the Ohio farmer. Each fall, his picturesque farm in Rio Grande welcomes guests for a fall festival celebrating its namesake. A southeast Ohio tradition since 1971, the Bob Evans Farm Festival features rides, crafts, live entertainment, and local food. bobevans. com/farm-festival

Honey Haven Farm Fall Festival

Fri.–Sun., Sept. 23–Oct.

29

The 200-acre Honey Haven Farm in Ashland hosts an annual fall festival on select weekends that is filled with activities. From pumpkin slingshots and corn cannons to a farm animal zoo and farm tours to picking the perfect pumpkin straight from the patch, autumn fun abounds. Be sure to swing by the country store to pick up some fresh fall produce. honeyhavenfarm.com

LOGAN RICKERT FOR CC-BY-4.0; BOB EVANS: COURTESY OF BOB EVANS; MUMS: ISTOCK

Pumpkin POWER

Celebrate an icon of autumn at these three festivals.

Jack Pine Studio Glass Pumpkin Fest

Sept. 22–24

Jack Pine Studio in Laurelville once again displays hundreds of the one-of-a-kind, blown-glass pumpkins that are synonymous with the Hocking Hills-based artist. This outdoor art show also features a curated collection of fine craft vendors and works from both local and traveling artists in media that spans wood, fabric, metal and painting. jackpinestudio.com

Operation Pumpkin

Oct. 13–15

Celebrate the fall season at the largest family-friendly festival in Butler County. Held in downtown Hamilton, this annual event includes a giant pumpkin weigh-off as well as live pumpkin carvings, amusement rides, kids activities, live bands and more. operation-pumpkin.org

Circleville Pumpkin Show

Oct. 18–21

Always held the third Wednesday through Saturday in October, this famous show boasts a pumpkin-packed long weekend of fun. The festivities include parades, a Miss Pumpkin Show and Little Miss Pumpkin Show, carnival rides and midway food. Don’t miss the display of largest pumpkins, which must be seen to be believed. pumpkinshow.com

Fur for All

Vermilion’s Woollybear Festival has drawn crowds to this lakeshore community for decades and still embraces the spirit with which it was founded.

Legendary Cleveland meteorologist Dick Goddard helped create Vermilion’s annual Woollybear Festival in 1972 to celebrate the fuzzy orange-and-black caterpillar that emerges each fall. Folklore says the severity of the upcoming winter can be indicated by the amount of black on its bands, but this long-held celebration of the cri er is all about fun.

“It’s a hoot,” says Sandra Coe, executive director of the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce and organizer of the annual festival. “Everybody can be a kid for the day.”

is year’s festival is set for Oct. 8 with festivities for the whole family that range from the annual parade to the kids woollybear costume contest to theWoollybear 500 caterpillar races. A endees can peruse the marketplace, hear live music and grab a bite from the festival’s approximately 40 food vendors that set up downtown.

Goddard’s generous spirit is very much alive in the festival through the participation of animal-welfare groups, which were a passion throughout the meteorologist’s life and a cause he championed onair and o , using his notoriety to get the message out.

“As my dad said, ‘Be kind to all animals,’” remembers his daughter, Kimberly Goddard. “Ohio’s always with me, and my dad is obviously a part of Ohio. It’ll always be like that.” e festival takes place in downtown Vermilion. For more information, go to woollybearfestival.com.

HIGHBALL HALLOWEEN

Oct. 28

Considered one of the nation’s most elaborate costume parties, Highball Halloween continues to celebrate the spirit of creativity and style with an event unlike any other in Columbus’ Short North Arts District. The costume couture fashion show features a runway of unimaginably stunning works from regionally and locally based fashion designers. Experience a festival of sights and sounds with live music, performance and visual art and public costume contests. The city of Columbus boasts the third-largest fashion and design workforce in the United States, and this unique event continues to provide a source of inspiration and celebration. highballcolumbus.org

— Jenna Nahhas

+drink

food+drink

Maggie’s Donuts’ Apple Fritters

The apple fri ers from Maggie’s Donuts, which have seasonally graced the shelves of Pa erson’s Fruit Farm for several years, are a fall favorite. Bakers at this Geauga County shop that opened in 1959 work hard to ensure that 300 to 350 dozen fri ers are available to sell each weekend, and making these crinkly, sweet fried pastries is no easy feat. e three-hour process begins with manually chopping apples to create a cinnamon-spiced lling. e dough is rolled and folded with the lling and then each fri er is individually cut and fried. Finished with a glaze, these pillowy, pull-apart delights are best eaten warm. maggiesdonutshop.com, pa ersonfarm.com

FALL BREWS

Try these beers featuring pumpkin, spices and even the pawpaw.

The Haunted House Restaurant

Hoppin’ Frog Brewery Frog’s Hollow Double Pumpkin Ale

The earthy sweetness of fresh pumpkin and the rich caramel taste of roasted pumpkin are what give this beer its name and reputation. A rich aroma created by a combination of eight different spices alongside honeyed malt flavors make for a drink with all the cozy familiarity of homemade pumpkin pie. hoppinfrog.com

MadTree Brewing

Pumpcan Spiced Ale

This aptly named pumpkin ale in a can is perfect for the crisp autumn months. Made with a

blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, molasses and ginger and brewed with Centennial and Fuggle hops, this spiced ale has a malt-forward taste with a warm and robust finish. madtree.com

Jackie O’s Brewery

Paw Paw Wheat

The fruit of choice for this fall beer certainly isn’t traditional, but the pawpaw, a native Ohio fruit, tinges this wheat ale with notes of banana and mango to create a delicious, deceptively tropical brew. It is available on tap starting in September at Jackie O’s locations in Athens and Columbus. jackieos.com

Step through the doors of this themed restaurant in Cleveland Heights, and be prepared to encounter characters of horror movie infamy immortalized on the muralcovered walls and wreaking mayhem on one of the many television screens. While you peruse menu items with names like The Poultrygeist and Children of the Street Corn, keep an eye out for Michael Myers stalking the dining room with his rubber knife. 13463 Cedar Rd., Cleveland Heights 44118, 216/862-5584, thehauntedhouserestaurant.com

Resch’s Bakery‘s

Pumpkin Doughnuts

Taste of Germany

Beer and authentic cuisine are the stars at these Oktoberfest celebrations.

Minster Oktoberfest

Sept 29–Oct. 1

This small town does Oktoberfest in a big way with authentic food, music and lots of beer that draws in an estimated 80,000 people. Take part in games like the beer-tray relay, jug hoist or homebrew competition. Top off the weekend’s festivities with the Oktoberfest parade and classic car show. minsteroktoberfest.com

Eat CLEVELAND OKTOBERFEST

Apple Butter Fest

Oct. 8, Grand Rapids applebutterfest.org

Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival

Oct. 20–22, Coshocton roscoevillage.com

Oktoberfest Zinzinnati

Sept. 14–17

Each year, upwards of 700,000 people visit Cincinnati’s Oktoberfest celebration, making it the largest gathering of its kind in the United States. Enjoy hundreds of beer options, participate in the world’s largest chicken dance and don your dirndls or lederhosen for a chance to win the best-dressed contest. oktoberfestzinzinnati.com

Cleveland Pickle Festival

Sept. 23, Cleveland clevelandpicklefest.com

Columbus Coffee Festival

Sept. 23–24, Columbus columbuscoffeefest.com

Columbus Mac and Cheese Festival

Oct. 6, Columbus cancer.osu.edu

Cleveland Oktoberfest

Sept. 1–4, 8–9

Celebrate German culture and heritage with local and international beer, live music, wiener dog races and authentic cuisine at this festival spanning two weekends in early September. Gather at the Bavarian chalet to mark each hour with dancers and tunes from the country’s largest glockenspiel.

43227, largest glockenspiel. clevelandoktoberfest.com

When the chill of fall starts to nip the air in Columbus, the bakers at Resch’s Bakery begin preparations for creating their signature autumn treat. There is a simple yet mighty process to creating the pumpkin spice-flavored doughnut. Pie spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are added to a classic cake doughnut batter. Each batch produces approximately 300 doughnuts, which are fried then glazed. The doughnut was originally only available for a few weeks around Halloween, but after nearly 20 years of enjoyment from fans, it is now available for almost three months starting in mid-September. 4061 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus 43227, 614/237-7421, reschbakery.com

Ohio Mushroom Festival

Sept. 21–24, Garrettsville ohiomushroomfestival.com

Germantown Pretzel Festival

Sept. 23–24, Germantown germantownpretzelfestival.com

Jackson Apple Festival

Sept. 19–23, Jackson jacksonapplefestival.org

Ohio Sauerkraut Festival

Oct. 14–15, Waynesville sauerkrautfestival. waynesvilleohio.com

Spring Valley Potato Festival

family fun

Vintage Baseball at Ohio Village Various Dates

Since 1981, the Muffins, one of the oldest vintage baseball teams in the United States, have donned their striped wool caps at Columbus’ Ohio Village to compete in games of 1860s-style baseball (underhand pitching was just one of the rule variations). You can catch the Muffins and the Diamonds (the women’s team), Labor Day weekend at Ohio Village during the 31st Ohio Cup Vintage Base Ball Festival where 30 teams will gather to entertain and educate. Both teams also play at Put-in-Bay on Sept. 10, and the Muffins face off against a squad of Ohio legislators on the Ohio Statehouse lawn on Sept. 28.

ohiohistory.org/muffins

Growing Season

Valley Gem Fall Tours

Maize Valley’s Pumpkin Cannon

For over 20 years, the boom of a cannon has accompanied autumn at this Hartville winery, brewery, restaurant, deli, market and farm. The projectile of choice? A pumpkin, which travels nearly a half mile. Enjoy this demonstration and other activities on select days from Sept. 23 through Oct. 29 Visit website for schedule. maizevalley.com

Hop aboard the Valley Gem Sternwheeler in Marietta, and experience a fun-filled, narrated, morning or afternoon tour on the waterways that the Northwest Territory’s settlers once navigated. Enjoy a 90-minute cruise on the Ohio and Muskingum rivers during a trip that’s entertaining and interesting to young and old alike.

valleygemsternwheeler.com

The farm at Aullwood Audubon in Dayton teaches kids and adults about the importance and impact of farming and cares for rare heritage breeds that our forefathers raised.

In 1957, Marie Aull donated 70 acres of land to the National Audubon Society with the hopes that it would be used to create a nature center where children and adults could learn about plants, animals and ecology. Today, Aullwood Audubon in Dayton is home to not only a nature center but also a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of vital ecological landscapes and a farm that teaches visitors about the importance of agriculture.

Exploring the farm makes for a day of educational fun for the whole family. e farmland is populated by heritage breeds, animals that would have been kept by our farming predecessors, and modern-day farmers work daily to care for them. Visitors can look forward to seeing herds of shaggy Belted Galloway ca le, adorable Nigerian Dwarf goats, mild-mannered American Tunis sheep or the snow-white Royal Palm turkey.

Julia Smith, center and farm assistant at Aullwood, explains that visitors can observe the farmers to learn about food production and the impact that farming can have on natural environments.

“It’s really cool to see the kids come out and learn …,” she says. “ ey leave with a perspective of conserving and appreciating nature.”

e prairie land, woods and wetlands that exist within the sanctuary are transformed by the changing seasons, making Aullwood a beautiful location to visit in the fall. 1000 Aullwood Rd., Dayton 45414, 937/890-7360, aullwood.audubon.org — Erin Finan

BOO Safari

Here’s how to have fall fun among the animals this season.

Akron Zoo

The Akron Zoo invites visitors of all ages to dress up in costume and explore the various trick-ortreat stations on Saturdays and Sundays from Oct. 14 through Oct. 29 during this family-friendly event. Bonus: Kona Ice will be selling shaved ice on select dates akronzoo.org

Cincinnati Zoo

Fun activities are in abundance at Cincinnati’s Hallzooween event, held from noon to 5 p.m. select Saturdays and Sundays in October. Children are encouraged to come dressed up in costume as they trick-ortreat, enjoy free daily illusionist shows and try to spot the Fiona statues hidden throughout the zoo. cincinnatizoo.org

Columbus Zoo

A family-friendly Halloween celebration happens every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in October at Columbus’ Boo at the Zoo event. Enjoy walkthrough attractions like a trickor-treat trail, the hair-raising vertebrae village (complete with animal skeletons and habitats) and a jack-o’-lantern walk featuring more than 100 pumpkins. columbuszoo.org

Toledo Zoo

The Toledo Zoo’s October Harvest Fest decks out its grounds with animal-shaped pumpkin displays and an array of fall flowers. Events scheduled during the month include kids trick-or-treat, pumpkin-carving demonstrations, magic shows and musical entertainment. Evening admission offers the opportunity to see the zoo illuminated with festive lights. toledozoo.org

Pumpkins Aglow

Oct. 11–29

Stroll down an illuminated pumpkin path that winds through the grounds of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens during Pumpkins Aglow (open at 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday from Oct. 11 to 29). The enchanting attraction features over 600 hard-carved pumpkins lighting the way as hundreds more serve as decorations in the elaborate horticulture displays and charming vignettes. Make yourself at home in the pumpkin house, or pose with the gardening skeletons, who are busy at work raking leaves. This year, keep an eye out for an extraterrestrial display featuring a flying saucer and friendly aliens. 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus 43203, 614/715-8000, fpconservatory.org

Autumn Playground

Licking County’s Pigeon Roost Farm draws families with its variety of fun for kids, adorable farm animals and a plentiful selection of pumpkins.

Pigeon Roost Farm in Hebron has been family-owned-and-operated since owner Amy Jutte’s parents set up a roadside farm stand to help pay for her and her siblings’ college education. Today, it is a staple of Licking County’s fall festivities and adds a new attraction for families to enjoy each year. A giant corn box for kids debuted inside the barn in 2022, while this year brings a 50-foot, double-barrel slide.

Classic fall fun abounds outside with a 5-acre corn maze, wagon rides, a kettle corn stand and a petting zoo chock full of goats, chickens, rabbits and turkeys. Parents and kids also love the wildflower patch, and the whole family can head to the woods for the Critter Trail, giving little ones a chance to spot native woodland creatures.

“The most fun part is knowing that we have become a destination for multigenerational families to visit,” says Jutte, whose two young daughters help around the farm now.

The selection of pumpkins and goods for sale is always a draw, and the towering pumpkin tree invites visitors to select their favorite from the display. The farm also sells fall decor, candles, soap, and pumpkin butter as well as that is honey made on-site. Season opens Sept. 16; 4413 National Rd. SW, Hebron 43025, 740/233-1233, pigeonroostfarm.com

Gracie Wilson

scenic spots

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Take in views of southwest Ohio’s fields and forests from the serenity of a hot air balloon by booking a ride with Lebanon’s Gentle Breeze Hot Air Balloon Co. Enjoy a leisurely sunrise or sunset flight during a private or group tour on one of several hot air balloons, including Tiny, an 83-foot-tall giant. hotairballoonrides.com

Lake Vesuvius Wayne National Forest

The rich reds and oranges of autumn paint the shores of Wayne National Forest’s Lake Vesuvius, which can be enjoyed with a hike along the 8.25-mile Vesuvius Lakeshore Trail. Head east from the dam for views that blend rippling water, rocky cliffs and falling leaves. For a longer journey, take the Vesuvius Backpack Tail. This route covers more than 17 miles on difficult terrain and is best for seasoned hikers. fs.usda.gov/wayne

Dundee Falls Beach City

Wildlife Area

Located 1 mile south of the village of Beach City, the Beach City Wildlife Area is a public hunting and fishing area. It is also home to Dundee Falls, which is located along the edge of the wildlife area. A popular photo spot in the summer, the falls are particularly beautiful when framed by autumn color. They are a 2-mile out-and-back hike away from the trailhead located at 8525 Dundee Wilmot Rd. in Dundee. ohiodnr.gov

Bridges to the Past

Fall serves as a spectacular backdrop to explore Ashtabula County’s collection of 19 covered bridges, including the longest and the shortest in the United States.

The arrival of autumn is a perfect time to drive or bike through history while exploring the covered bridges of Ashtabula County, each one a testament to the preservation of the past and a commitment to the future. e county is home to 19 covered bridges, including the longest and shortest in the United States. Twelve of the bridges were built in the mid1800s and early 1900s, while seven have been newly constructed.

At 613 feet long, the Smolen-Gulf Bridge is the longest covered bridge in the United States. e bridge was constructed in 2008 as part of a conservation e ort to preserve the bridges and their history that was started by former county engineer John W. Smolen. Built in 2011, the West Liberty Street Covered Bridge spans just 18 feet, making it the smallest covered bridge in the nation. is bridge is only 12 miles from the Smolen-Gulf Bridge, making it easy to cross both o the list in one trip.

To celebrate the covered bridges and to teach visitors about their history, the Ashtabula Covered Bridge Festival is held at the county fairgrounds each year. ( is year’s event is set for Oct. 14 and 15.)

“[ e bridges] are more or less a museum in themselves,” Smolen says. “We don’t think of them as museums, but they kind of are. We want to preserve them for the ages.” coveredbridgefestival.org

Erin Finan

NICK HOELLER; LAKE VESUVIUS: MICHAEL FRANK; BRIDGE: LAURA WATILO BLAKE

Ledges Trail Cuyahoga Valley National Park

The Ledges area of Ohio’s only national park is one of the stars of fall in northeast Ohio. The views along the 1.8-mile Ledges Trail are among the most spectacular in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and there are geological surprises to discover on the hike up to the overlook that offers a view across the valley. Enormous sandstone rock formations tower along the trail, making for a great afternoon adventure and fun photos. nps.gov/cuva

On Track

These excursion railroad lines offer scenic fall trips.

Elevated Beauty

The Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail Hike in the Hocking Hills offers some of the region’s most spectacular views, and fall is the best time to visit.

One of the major hiking trails located in the Hocking Hills region, Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve boasts some of the best fall landscapes, and its gorgeous, 2.5-mile Rim Trail gives visitors a bird’s-eye view of this beauty in all its autumn splendor.

e 87-acre preserve has become a popular Hocking Hills a raction, seeing between 2,000 and 5,000 visitors each weekend during its busiest seasons. e draw is especially strong in October when the leaves reach their radiant gold and crimson coloring.

“ e rim trail has so many excellent views,” says Levi Miller, southeast regional manager for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Natural Areas and Preserves. “You can see this wonderful valley in full fall colors; it’s fantastic.”

ere are waterfalls within the preserve and several of them can be seen from the trails. e preserve has a distinctive tiered cli system, creating beautiful cascades of water between the rim and the gorge.

e preserve’s ecological conditions make it host to a wide variety of plant species not commonly found in other parts of the state including mountain laurel, eastern hemlock and Canada may ower. Conkle’s Hollow is hosting a fall foliage event Oct. 14 and 15 where travelers can come and learn more about the preserve and its history. 24858 Big Pine Rd., Rockbridge 43149, naturalareas.ohiodnr.gov — Erin Finan

Birdwatching at Great Egret Marsh Preserve

Every year, flocks of migrating songbirds and shorebirds pass through Lakeside Marblehead’s Great Egret Marsh Preserve on their fall migration. Lasting at least twice as long as spring migration, this autumnal flight attracts birders hoping to catch a glimpse of birds in the warbler, teal, thrush or tanager families. nature.org/ohio

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Take in the vibrant fall colors of Cuyahoga Valley National Park from the comfort of a vintage rail car. The train’s route has been recently modified, but guests can still enjoy a laid-back, 2-hour excursion. You can also supplement your hike or bike experience with a one-way ticket via the Explorer Program. cvsr.org

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

This historic railway takes riders on a trip through time along parts of this over 150-year-old southeast Ohio rail route. The railway offers several riding options and experiences including a chance to step aboard a 1920-era steam locomotive, wild encounters with friendly bandits, popular fall-foliage rides and more. hvsry.org

CONKLES: JESSICA WILSCHEK; CVNP: ALURA WATILO BLAKE; TRAIN: ROBERT GEORGE; BIRD: ISTOCK

spooky scares

Eerie Echoes

The Moonville Tunnel is on a railroad that was active in Vinton County for over a century and holds several ghostly tales.

Deep in Zaleski State Forest, partially obscured by the overgrowth, lies one of Vinton County’s most mystifying landmarks: Moonville Tunnel. Built in 1856, it was part of the Marie a and Cincinnati Railroad, a line that trains used to transport iron and coal out of the region. Ownership of the railroad changed hands several times over the years, and it eventually ceased operations in 1987.

The Frankenstein Experience at Haunted Mountain

Experience Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein on stage at Chillicothe’s Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre. Scioto Society

CEO Brandon Smith produced an hour-long show featuring 10 actors and special effects. The production runs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday in October, and showgoers can add to the experience with a laboratory-themed escape room, 30-minute haunted trail, tomahawk throwing and horror film screening. hauntedmountain.org

Cleveland Curiosities

In 2018, Clement Kunkle’s lifelong hobby of pinning bugs and collecting medical antiques found a home in Lakewood in the form of a brick-and-mortar store called Cleveland Curiosities. Thanks to community support and intrigue, the shop has now expanded to showcase more of its eclectic and fascinating items. While most items in the shop are for sale, including animal taxidermy, uranium glass and even ethically acquired human bones, the expansion has allowed for more permanent displays with informative signs, which fits the store’s mission of education and appreciation of all things weird. 13775 Madison Ave., Lakewood 44107, 216/777-0257, clevelandcuriosities.com

Haunted Village

Walk the pathways that connect the collection of historic 19th-century structures at Sharonville’s Heritage Village Museum, and explore a Haunted Village featuring a Gothic-style haunted house, witches’ home, pirate ship and more while meeting storytellers along the way. This family-friendly event packs only a slight fright and costumes are encouraged. Oct. 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28, 6–10 p.m.; heritagevillagecincinnati.org/events/haunted-village

Today, the route trains once followed is a roughly 10-mile rail trail that passes through the forests of southeast Ohio. Many visitors to the area, however, are immediately drawn to the tunnel thanks to local legends and lore about ghosts that haunt the site.

Many of the supposed specters are said to be former miners and railroad workers who met their untimely demise on or around the tracks. Curious visitors can hope to catch a glimpse of e Engineer’s swinging lantern, smell the sweet oral fragrance of e Lavender Lady or even have a run-in with e Bully.

Caleb Appleman, executive director of the Vinton County Visitor’s Bureau that organizes the annual Midnight at Moonville event (Oct. 14), says a visit is interesting even if you don’t believe the ghostly tales.

“Ultimately, whatever you’re expecting to find,” he says, “whether it’s ghosts or nature or history, [is what] you’re going to get out of your trip there.”

Hope-Moonville Road, McArthur 45651, visitvintoncounty.org

— Erin Finan

Local Haunts

Delve into hidden history with these tours.

Queen City is Haunted Tour

Prepare for chills and frights during this immersive ghost-hunting experience that takes visitors through the southernmost part of Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Explore this collection of historic buildings that includes Memorial Hall and the Emery Theatre, and keep an eye out for one of many spirits rumored to haunt the streets. americanlegacytours.com/ ultimate-queen-city-is-haunted

Hidden Marietta Tour Co.

Pull back the curtain on historic Marietta, and prepare to encounter a world of paranormal surprises. Believers and skeptics alike enjoy events such as ghost treks on this historic southeast Ohio city’s Front Street as well as both guided and self-guided tours of the 1859 Anchorage Mansion. hiddenmarietta.com

Sandusky County Historic Jail & Dungeon Tour

This century-old dungeon below the Sandusky County Courthouse in Fremont is an ideal destination for history buffs with an affinity for the supernatural. Visitors can wander the dark halls underneath during specially scheduled public and group tours that include a visit to a museum housed in the attic of the courthouse. sanduskycounty.org/jail

Lewisburg Haunted Cave

Explore this haunt in a cave 80 feet below the Preble County village of Lewisburg. Named the world’s longest haunted house by Guinness World Records in 2010, this experience offers a frightening 45-minute walkthrough. For the less adventurous, there are mine-wagon tours that highlight the history of the cave. Sept. 15–Oct. 28.

Visit website for schedule. hauntedcaveatlewisburg.com

Spooky Ranch

Rockin’ R Ranch, a working equestrian ranch in Lorain County, hosts an Old West Pumpkin Fest each autumn. Once night falls, it becomes the realm of Spooky Ranch, a haunted trail and hayride featuring actors and animatronics delivering good, old-fashioned frights. Sept 23–Oct. 31. Visit website for schedule. spookyranch.com

Haunted Hallways

The Ohio State Reformatory has a long history and an interesting afterlife, but the most fascinating part may be what still resides there.

The towering, castle-like walls of the Ohio State Reformatory haven’t held prisoners since 1990, but it is said that some of its former residents still haunt the landmark. Director Frank Darabont used the closed prison as the se ing for his 1994 lm “ e Shawshank Redemption,” sparking a local e ort to preserve the impressive building, which was built over 24 years and completed in 1910.

e Mans eld Reformatory Preservation Society bought the building for a dollar in a 2000 auction and since then has worked to clean and restore it, opening it to the public for historic, paranormal and Hollywood tours. e paranormal tours are especially popular in the fall, and the reformatory o ers

three: public ghost hunts, private paranormal investigations and ghost walks. Like many historic places, the reformatory is believed to be a hot spot for paranormal activity.

“A lot of prisons, a lot of hospitals, a lot of facilities like that hold a lot of energy because of the emotions,” says Kathy Feketik, the reformatory’s paranormal program manager. “ ere’s activity because of the emotions that were le behind.”

ose participating in these tours can hope to expect a multisensory experience. Hearing footsteps or voices, seeing apparitions and smelling pipe tobacco are just some of the encounters reported over the years. 100 Reformatory Rd., Mans eld 44905, 419/522-2644, mrps.org — Erin Finan

SCULPTED VISIONS

Alan Cottrill’s cast-bronze works tell the stories of people, places and moments. They are installed across Ohio and far beyond, and all of them begin in his Zanesville studio. We visited to learn about his process and the road that led him to finding his passion as an artist.

The two figures rest side by side, arms outstretched toward each other, fingers inches apart. Alan Cottrill made the life-size sculptures in the image of himself and his wife, and although the works bear the funereal touches of an eternal memorial, they honor the living. On the side of the sarcophagus bearing Cottrill’s likeness are these words: “Here beside me lies the most wonderful person I ever met.”

The sculptures are powerful, and they immediately stop visitors to the second floor of the artist’s Zanesville studio, imploring them to take a closer look. Each bears the intricate details that are hallmarks of Cottrill’s cast-bronze creations.

Downstairs, clad in a plain gray T-shirt and jeans, the 71-year-old sculptor presides over an environment that is casual but never boring. The mood is light, buoyed by his ornery yet clever sense of humor, but the feeling that there are tasks to be done hangs in the air. With a new part of the sculpting process coming into play each day, Cottrill is always busy, and the works pour from his hands.

He has been sculpting here seven days a week since he bought the studio in 2003. Over the course of his career, he has created more than 400 life-size statues and busts — most of which have been commissions — that can be found throughout Ohio and beyond. The second level of his studio houses the museum that features around 300 pieces, with a couple hundred more downstairs adding up to what Cottrill

Story by Gracie Wilson | Photography by Eric Wagner

describes as the largest assemblage of works by any living sculptor in the world.

The bronze pieces spill out beyond the studio’s doors. Thirty of them are neatly lined up against the building and parade along the sidewalk down Sixth Street, past the chainlink fence of a construction-equipment rental center and toward the Muskingum River that weaves through the heart of Zanesville.

Outside the building, a more than 8-foot-tall vase pays homage to the Weller Pottery Co. that operated in town for 76 years. Overhead, a Native American figure stands atop the corner of the building, arms outstretched toward the sky. Farther down the street, a baby penguin spreads its wings while standing on the back of a lamb, Ohio native Jesse Owens shows off the gold medals he won at the 1936 Olympics, and a black bear rears back on its hind legs.

These statues — duplicates that came from a secondary casting of the originals — scream roadside America to Cottrill, who put them on public display simply because people liked them. From the sidewalks of Zanesville to Pennsylvania to Georgia to California to West Point Military Academy in New York, Cottrill’s detailed sculptures stand sentry.

“I’ve been characterized in the press as a creative entrepreneur. I didn’t know I was. I just figured it out,” Cottrill says. “I never had a business course in my life. It’s not quantum physics, although I’ve studied that and understand it. Business, to me, was a whole lot easier.”

I pretty much lost all my money but GAINED MY HAPPINESS.

Alan Cottrill made these cast-bronze sarcophagi in the image of himself and his wife. They are two of the hundreds of works displayed at the artist’s Zanesville studio.

Alan Cottrill grew up less than 10 miles away from his studio in White Cottage, a quiet part of Muskingum County that sits just beyond the now-bustling Maysville Pike and its collection of commercial shopping and chain restaurants.

The sculptor took just a total of six weeks of art classes during his time at Maysville High School before graduating in 1970 and moving on to Findlay College. When a rotator cuff injury ended his football career, he left college and became a milkman like his father and then served in the U.S. Army as a tank driver during the end of the Vietnam War. Art had not been anywhere on his mind.

“I liked art intuitively, it [just] wasn’t part of our culture,” Cottrill says. “In my area, it wasn’t part of the culture. In my family, it certainly wasn’t.”

After the war, Cottrill’s life took various turns, but all were directed at growing a business. After becoming the owner of four Domino’s pizza franchises in Ohio, he made a visit to the corporate headquarters in Ann Arbor, Michigan. On that trip, he met his wife of 45 years, Susan.

“The second time I ever saw her, within a half hour I looked at her and told her we were going to be married,” he recalls. “Ten or 11 weeks later we got married, and it’s probably the best decision I’ve ever made.”

The pair founded the successful Pennsylvania-based pizza chain Four Star Pizza. Cottrill later began working trade mis-

sions for the U.S Department of Commerce, visiting Australia, Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan.

In 1990, his friend, Jeff Moyer, planned to do some stone carvings of religious figures at the California University of Pennsylvania, where another friend, Ray Dunlevy, was chair of the art department, and asked Cottrill for help. The rotator cuff injury Cottrill had sustained years earlier had never healed right, and the task of hammering a chisel against stone was too much physical strain. Moyer directed him toward a lump of clay in the far corner of the room where they were working. Cottrill began to fashion a head, and it sparked a newfound passion.

“It was magical,” Cottrill says. “I use the analogy, ‘it was like the first time I kissed a girl.’ ”

About six months later, a drunk driver hit Cottrill while he was riding his motorcycle. Between life-threatening injuries and a bone infection from a surgery, the future was uncertain. He spent three months in recovery, giving him time to reflect and rechart the course of his life, which led him to open an art studio in his Washington, Pennsylvania, home’s carriage house that same year.

“I turned to my wife and said, ‘All I want to do is sculpt. Take the pizza business, do what you want with it. I don’t care if I live in a tent,’” Cottrill recalls.

After returning from studying art in New York between 1992 and 1994, he opened a studio and gallery in downtown Washington. In 2003, he came back to Ohio and purchased the Zanesville studio where he works today.

“We moved into a little room in the studio for five and a half years,” Cottrill says. “[I] worked morning till night sculpting seven days a week, happy as hell. I pretty much lost all my money but gained my happiness.”

The earthy smell of clay hangs in the air and white ceramic dust clings to the studio floor. Cottrill’s desk, just around the corner from the studio’s entrance, is covered with family photos and books. Just beyond it, the artist is turning a towering mass of clay into a sculpture of a cheesemaker that will one day stand across from the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock in Sugarcreek, Ohio. His hands make gentle, deliberate motions to get the arm muscles of the cheesemaker just so.

Nothing pulls Cottrill’s focus from his work, even a visitor entering his space. One of his two full-time studio employees, Rachel Girton, introduces herself and launches into an overview of the works on display, including a series of photos that offer insight into Cottrill’s bronze-casting process.

Once a commission comes in, he logs it on a yellow legal pad. The name of the project is on the far left with an estimate of how long it will take him to sculpt, followed by how long it will take to cast at Coopermill Bronzeworks, the foundry Cottrill started with his friend, Charles Leasure, in 1996. (It employs three full-time and two part-time employees.) Depending on the size of the project, the whole process can take weeks to several months.

Cottrill first sculpts each work from clay and brushes a rubber mold over the pieces before covering the rubber with plaster. After the rubber and plaster layers dry, they are cut apart symmetrically to create a mold that melted wax can be brushed onto, forming a hollow wax cast.

The wax cast is then covered in a ceramic shell at the foundry to make a mold. The wax is then melted out. Once the ceramic shell is emptied, the melted bronze is poured in. When Cottrill gets it back, the ceramic is removed, the bronze figure is sandblasted and the sculpture is welded together if cast in multiple pieces. The process is finished with a coat of patina coloring, lacquer and wax.

When Cottrill isn’t creating, he is passing along the knowledge of his craft to Girton and his newest studio employee, Connor Allison. In the wax room located in the back of the studio, Girton, who has been working in the studio since 2009, uses a blowtorch to melt together wax pieces to create a mold for an Ohio University commission.

“The most amazing thing about this job is that things are not always the same, and that’s what I love about it … the next day might be completely different,” she says. “It’s an honor in and of itself. My hands have touched this piece of work during the whole process and people are going to see that for

Sculptures line the sidewalk outside Alan Cottrill’s studio (top). One depicting a Native American figure stands atop the building (above). Inside, a museum tells the artist’s story (middle and opposite page).

tens, hundreds, potentially even thousands of years.”

Allison is building a small wax model of a tiger on a podium. The completed 7-foot-tall tiger will stand on an 8-foot-obelisk in front of Circleville High School. Cottrill examines the model constructively, noting that the back muscles of the tiger need more definition and the ribcage needs less arch. His keen eye for the craft allows him to evaluate a piece in seconds. Cottrill says he appreciates these moments in a profession that is largely spent solo.

“I love to study people. I did that long before I started sculpting, and it has helped me so much when I sculpt because I look at somebody and, very often, I can feel them,” Cottrill says. “I guess I didn’t realize everybody doesn’t do that. … I can tell so much about a person just the way they carry themselves, the expression on their face. I love that.”

that’s a way to make sure that his legacy is intact because no day is guaranteed.”

African masks hang on the walls from floor to ceiling, what Cottrill describes as powerful representations of human faces. A second room houses a wall of busts, including a self-portrait of the artist from decades earlier.

“I did that when the guy hit me on my motorcycle,” the sculptor recalls. “When I was strong enough to sit up in bed … I could sculpt for five minutes and then rest for 15, and I did that for weeks.”

Near the back of the museum stands various nude statues made during Cottrill’s studies at the National Academy of Design and the Art Students League of New York. The human forms carry a lifelike accuracy thanks to a stint of anatomy study at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. On another wall hangs a portrait of “The Ascent of Humanity,” an installation at the California University of Pennsylvania that showcases humans through time from Cro-Magnon man all the way to a female astronaut. Thirteen other figures between them depict how humans have progressed through the ages.

In Ohio, Cottrill is known for his works that depict some of our state’s favorite sons. He created the statue of Milan-born inventor Thomas Edison on display at the U.S. Capitol’s National Statuary Hall. In Columbus, his sculpture of Newcomerstown native Woody Hayes is proudly displayed at The Ohio State University, as is his statue of Jesse Owens, standing draped in medals in front of the track-and-field venue named in his honor.

Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio is open to the public every day except for Sunday, and for a small suggested donation, visitors can head upstairs to the museum displaying hundreds of his works alongside plaques that tell their story. Written mostly by the artist’s daughter, Sarah Cottrill, the text on each plaque offers details of what was happening in her father’s life at the time a piece was created and outlines the sculpting process for each.

“Having that museum upstairs is a testament to his hard work and his mastery,” says Sarah, now a lawyer in the Navy, stationed in Italy. “He cares a lot about legacy, and so, for me,

Although Cottrill is but one person, each of his works reflects in one way or another what lies inside of him, be it the adventuring spirit of astronaut John Glenn or the steady work ethic of an anonymous cheesemaker.

“My goal is to be the best living figurative sculptor in the world,” he says. “How do I do that? I had to outwork every living sculptor, outthink them and out-feel them, have more passion. In the last 32 years, I think I’ve outworked every one of ’em, probably out-thought ’em — because I think hard — and I’ve had a hell of a lot of passion.”

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE SKIES OVER CHARLES MILL LAKE IN THE FALL OF 1973

STANDS AS ONE OF THE MOST CREDIBLE UFO EXPERIENCES IN UNITED STATES HISTORY. KNOWN AS THE COYNE INCIDENT, THE EVENTS OF THAT OCTOBER NIGHT REMAIN A MYSTERY.

Story by Vince Guerrieri | Illustrations by Jacob Stead

On October 19, 1973, P.J. Vollmer, the chief of operations for the Federal Aviation Administration at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, received a visit from Lawrence Coyne, a police officer who was also an Army active-duty veteran, still in the reserves.

Following his enlistment in 1955 a er graduating from James Ford Rhodes High School in Cleveland, Coyne had been commissioned as an o cer. He had also been certi ed with Special Forces and was an experienced pilot of both helicopters and airplanes.

ere was no reason for Vollmer not to take Coyne seriously — indeed, Vollmer later said, “I personally have an extremely high regard for his integrity and capability” — even with a story as fantastic as the one he was about to share. Coyne told him that he and three other reservists had been ying back from Columbus the night before and had not only seen an unidenti ed ying object but nearly crashed into it.

A cigar-shaped cra , ying with the speed of a jet ghter, caught up to the helicopter, seemingly dragging it higher into the air as a green light scanned the inside. And then, just as suddenly as the encounter happened, it was over.

“We felt a bounce and then the other cra took o to the northeast,” Coyne recalled later.

With added urgency, the helicopter returned to Cleveland, and Coyne looked for someone — anyone — he could o cially tell his tale to.

“In a case of this kind, I don’t know anybody that I would believe any more,” Vollmer said of Coyne. “I trust his judgment without a question of

a doubt. I don’t know what happened, but I do know — I could tell from the tremor of his voice, which wasn’t much — that he was shook.”

John Healey, who was on the helicopter the night of Oct. 18, 1973 as well, was also a police o cer, a detective in Cleveland, and recounted the same story to a colleague the same day Coyne was telling Vollmer about it. “It scared the living hell right out of me,” said Healey, who, like Coyne, had been a UFO skeptic right up until the night before.

Eventually, Coyne told the story to his cousin, a reporter for e Plain Dealer. He told it to “Twilight Zone” creator Rod Serling for a documentary. He told talk show host Dick Cave . He even appeared before the United Nations. e Coyne Incident, as it has become known in the UFO community, remains one of the most credible accounts of human encounters with a UFO. But it’s still as mysterious as it was a half-century ago.

Before the Wright brothers took to the sky in Ki y Hawk, North Carolina, in 1903, even before the Montgol er brothers ew their rst hot-air balloon in France in 1783, there had been stories of unidenti ed ying objects. In a 1974 documentary, “UFOs: Past, Present and Future” — in which he interviews Coyne and the crew — Rod Serling talks about phantom chariots above the sky in ancient Rome and tyrants of the air in the Holy Roman Empire.

But in the 20th century, technology — advanced in no small part due to a pair of world wars — enabled humankind to further explore the skies. During World War II, planes dropped bombs on strategic targets, ghter planes engaged in dog ghts and rockets were developed that could be launched from one nation to hit a target in another. e war ended with the demonstration of the most powerful weapon the world had ever seen: the atomic bomb. As a new Cold War began between the United States and the Soviet Union, the possibility of nuclear war hung heavy.

In 1946, Scandinavia was beset by a series of reports of “ghost rockets.” e following year, a pilot in the state of Washington claimed to see a grouping of round ying objects near Mount Rainier on June 24. News coverage of the day called them “ ying saucers.”

It was one of many sightings of unidenti ed ying objects in the western United States; the most famous of which occurred near Roswell, New Mexico. Conspiracy theories soon took shape that a ying saucer had crashed in the desert and was con scated by the military, but the United States Air Force said decades later — a er the fall of the Soviet Union — that it was remnants of a weather balloon monitoring the skies for Soviet radiation testing. ( e

USSR would not get its own atomic bomb until 1949.) Clearly, these UFOs could be a national security risk, and the U.S. Air Force launched Project Sign to investigate. Project Sign was supplanted by Project Grudge, and that was supplanted by Project Blue Book, which was headquartered at Wright-Pa erson Air Force Base near Dayton and lasted until 1969. Its o cial nal report released in 1985 stated that 12,618 unidenti ed ying objects were sighted. Of those, only 701 were unexplained. e Air Force also said that there was no evidence that the unexplained sightings posed a national security threat, nor was there evidence that the sightings were any kind of extraterrestrial vehicles.

But the sightings continued. As the United States began space exploration in the 1960s, astronauts and ground control reported seeing unidenti ed cra ying in the highest reaches of Earth’s atmosphere. Even the Apollo 11 crew reported seeing an unidenti ed cra in space as it rocketed toward the moon.

In the fall of 1973, central and southwest Ohio were abuzz with a series of sightings of unexplained aircra . It was a fraught time in world history. Richard Nixon was trying to hang on to the presidency as the investigation deepened into the Watergate break-in. Meanwhile, Syria and Egypt a acked the Sinai Peninsula and the Golan Heights on Oct. 6, which was the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur. It was a proxy war between the United States and the Soviet Union, which were closer to nuclear war than any time since the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. Wright-Pa erson Air Force Base was a hub of activity that fall as the United States airli ed supplies to its Israeli allies. Could some of the sightings be waved away as misidenti cation of U.S. aircra arriving and departing? Were Soviet spy aircra watching? Or was it beings from another world, keeping an eye on ours to make sure we didn’t immolate ourselves?

ere were hundreds of reported UFO sightings in Ohio alone during the end of 1973. Tremors reminiscent of those created by sonic booms were recorded by earthquake detectors in Pennsylvania that October. Also that month, two men in Pascagoula, Mississippi, claimed they were abducted by aliens, and Ohio Gov. John Gilligan claimed to have seen a UFO in the sky over Michigan while driving with his wife through Ann Arbor. But nothing was as remarkable as the Coyne Incident, standing out, Serling said the following year, “because of the credibility of the witnesses.”

At 10:30 p.m. on Oct. 18, 1973, Coyne, Arrigo Jezzi, Robert Yanacsek and Healey took o from Port Columbus International Airport on a Bell UH-1H Super Huey helicopter on the way to Cleveland. ey had own to Columbus for their regularly scheduled ight physical, which had nished around 10 p.m. and went directly to the airport. Healey noted later that they were all cold sober and in perfect health for the ight, making their account even more believable.

It was a clear, cloudless night, with a li le wind and visibility for 15 miles or more. e helicopter was about 2,500 feet o the ground, ying 90 knots (a li le more than 103 mph). Shortly a er 11 p.m., they were ying north over Charles Mill Lake near Mans eld in north-central Ohio when Yanacsek spo ed a red light in the east that seemed at rst to be ying parallel to the helicopter, then ying right at it. Coyne initially thought it was a jet and radioed Mans eld to see if there were any aircra in the air at the time, ge ing no answer beyond an acknowledgement of their communication.

Coyne took evasive action, diving the helicopter, but the other aircra followed.

Coyne braced for impact, closing his eyes, sti ening up and awaiting his fate. ere was no crash. Coyne then heard Healey say, “Look at that.”

Directly in front of them was a 60-foot-long, silver cigar-shaped cra . e red light they’d seen was on the front. On the back was a white light, and a green light underneath it illuminated the entire interior of the helicopter as it shone in, almost like it was examining the cra and its crew. e radio wasn’t working, the compass was spinning out of control and Coyne realized the helicopter was actually rising more than 3,500 feet above the ground.

And then, as if it was satis ed with what it had seen, the cigar-shaped cra turned away slowly, then sped up and disappeared out of sight. e helicopter continued to Cleveland none the worse for wear with one noticeable exception: e compass was broken and couldn’t be xed. e unit had to be replaced.

e men in the helicopter went on to have active and varied careers, and their credibility remained beyond reproach a er the incident. In fact, the National Enquirer awarded them $5,000 for having the most credible and valuable report of a UFO encounter.

In 1978, Coyne testi ed before the United Nations, a esting to what he saw, saying, “I am convinced this object was real and that these types of incident require a thorough investigation,” and advocating an international e ort to maintain order for yers who might have similar encounters.”

Also testifying that day was astrophysicist Jacques Vallee, who went a step further, saying that the exploration of UFOs could be a gateway to a new and be er world.

“It is our choice to treat it as a threat or as an opportunity for human knowledge.”

“IT IS OUR CHOICE TO TREAT IT AS A THREAT OR AS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR HUMAN KNOWLEDGE.”

AMISH COUNTRY

Bring the little ones to Amish Country this season to stock up on adorable photos and great memories with the help of these destinations that promise to capture kids’ attention. Story and photography by Laura Watilo Blake

HERSHBERGER’S FARM & BAKERY

In a world lled with technology and fast-paced living, the simplicity of Amish life is a source of wonder and fascination for many children. At the rst sight of a buggy clip-clopping down a two-lane road, iPads get pushed aside, and the car windows go down. Now that you have their a ention, there are all kinds of delightful activities that will keep kids joyfully engaged during a visit to Ohio’s Amish Country. ey may even learn a thing or two about disconnecting and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Here are ve great places for families to visit around Berlin, Millersburg and Sugarcreek.

Take a Wild Wagon Ride at The Farm at Walnut Creek

e best part about e Farm at Walnut Creek near Sugarcreek is the opportunity to get up close and personal with all kinds of exotic and domestic farm animals during a 45-minute drive-through safari. While you can go in your own vehicle, it’s a lot more fun for the entire family to take an Amishled wagon ride through the trees and over the rolling hills of the property. As soon as you pass through the gates, a hungry herd of Watusi ca le surround the wagon looking for a handout from the provided buckets of

To learn about the Anabaptists and their place in history, plan a visit to Behalt, a 10 ft x 265 ft cyclorama painting that illustrates the heritage of the Amish and Mennonite people from their beginnings in Switzerland to the present day.

The Stories of Ohio’s Plain People are Complex & Colorful.

You don’t come here for the new fangled or same old, same old. You come to recharge yourself. We’re happy to share our heritage, craftsmanship and carbs worthy of the calories with you. Come, step out of the mundane and plug into the peace of this place.

AMISH COUNTRY

animal feed. eir enormous horns are so large, they have to turn their heads to one side for be er access.

“The animals are especially hungry rst thing in the morning,” says one of the Amish guides leading our tour. “ is is a good time to come.”

A diverse array of creatures greet you at every turn. e Axis deer with their ever-present spots daintily lap up food from the palm of your hand, while lumbering bison grunt impatiently as they wave their long tongues toward the awaiting buckets.

Male Rocky Mountain Elk get close enough that you can reach out and touch their enormous velvety-so racks, while the females squeeze their heads under the seats to snag morsels that have fallen into the wagon bed.

“Be sure to save some of your food for the gira es toward the end,” explains a 9-year-old girl on our tour who is visiting from Oak Harbor. “Just hold your bucket up and they’ll eat from it.”

Be sure to hang on to some le overs for the sheep, goats and llamas that line up

along the fence as you make your way toward the Main House where you’ll nd a free fresh-baked cookie — a nice way to treat

yourself a er feeding all the other animals. 4147 County Road 114, Sugarcreek 44681, 330/893-4200, thefarmatwalnutcreek.com

Apple butter on warm, fresh dinner rolls. Shopping for handcrafted gifts. Enjoying delightful fall colors.

Restaurants, Shops, Inns, & Theater

dhgroup.com

WALNUT CREEK | BERLIN | SUGARCREEK

Photo by Doyle Yoder

Photo by Doyle Yoder

DISCOVER A UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

Shop Amish Country

Dutch Valley Gi s

Dutch Valley Gi s is located on a beautiful campus that includes Dutch Valley Restaurant, Carlisle Inn, Dutch Valley Market, and Ohio Star Theater. Three floors o er a ordable clothing, jewelry, and accessories plus home decor, beautiful gi s, and personal care items. An elevator makes the entire store handicap accessible. dhgroup.com

Keim Home Center

Located on 50 acres in the rolling hills of Holmes County, Keim is the destination and trusted source for your home, building, and woodworking needs. Founded in 1911, our fourth-generation family business is dedicated to caring for your project like we care for our own. keimhome.com

Berlin Main Street Merchants

Experience a slower life in Berlin, the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country. Berlin is a town that thrives on a combination of American Spirit and Amish Culture. Tourists flock to the area to experience the small-town life. There are beautiful back roads to travel, many unique shops and restaurants to visit, locally made furniture to die for, and an abundance of inviting overnight stays to choose from. Berlin is a destination you will return to. visitberlinohio.org

Guggisberg Swiss Inn

A small Inn nestled snuggly in the rolling hills of Ohio Amish Country. We o er an on-premises winery and bistro as well as riding stables where you may get a chance to visit with the horses on the property. Hours are listed on the website for each business. A perfect location to unwind a er a busy day! guggisbergswissinn.com

Carlisle Gi s Walnut Creek

Carlisle Gi s in Walnut Creek, located across the street from the original Der Dutchman Restaurant, holds treasures that will surprise and delight your senses. Clothing, handbags, jewelry, home decor, seasonal items, toys for kids, personal pampering supplies, and so much more. An elevator makes the entire store handicap accessible. dhgroup.com

bfearless. at HOME

A curated shopping experience for those who love home. Browse everyday and seasonal decor, furniture, lighting, candles and so much more! We o er items with function and beauty in a mixture of styles to enhance your home. We value art and creativity and celebrate uniqueness! Shop our boutique, bfearless., next door!

bfearlessathome.com

Dutch Valley Gi s

Keim Home Center

Berlin Main Street Merchants

Guggisberg Swiss Inn

Carlisle Gi s Walnut Creek bfearless. at HOME

DISCOVER A UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

Shop Amish Country

Sheiyah Market

Sheiyah Market is one destination with endless inspiration. Shop home decor at The Village Gi Barn and Country Gatherings, update your wardrobe at Sheiyah Style Boutique, browse plants at The Gardens, and enjoy a co ee at Buggy Brew!

sheiyahmarket.com

Tis the Season Christmas Shoppe

Three floors of Christmas wonderland await you at Ohio’s largest Christmas shoppe. The lights, music, and spectacular displays will have you in the Christmas spirit from the moment you walk in the door! Mark your calendars for our annual Christmas Open House November 9, 10, and 11. tistheseasonchristmas.com

Historic Downtown Millersburg

When you visit, you get the feeling of coming home. Troyer’s Candy store, Millersburg Creamery, Millersburg Brewing Co., and Sunny Slope Winery provide a variation of delicacies, while shopping can run the gamut from handmade jewelry, purses and pottery to trendy clothing metal goods and local art.

historicdowntownmillersburg.com

Heini’s Cheese Chalet

Heini’s Cheese Chalet is the family-run dairy destination for Amish Country visitors and locals alike! Here you can witness cheese being made, sample select new products, and stock up on delicious treats to take home. Try one of our in-house made cheeses, fudge and more. heinis.com

Sheiyah Market

Tis the Season Christmas Shoppe

Historic Downtown Millersburg

Heini’s Cheese Chalet

Pet the Animals at Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery

Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery in Millersburg has all kinds of baked goods for which Amish Country is known as well as a farm store and a food trailer with burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches. One of the main draws, though, is the adorable animal petting area that holds the promise of snuggling with the resident fur babies.

“It gives people a li le taste of Amish Country all in one place,” says Leah Yoder, a Millersburg native now living in Manseld and the creator of a blog that focuses on things to do in the area (amishcountry traveler.com). “I’m happy eating the baked goods and ke le corn, and the kids love to hold the farm animals. We’ve held baby pigs and bunnies, and you can buy rabbits and baby chicks.”

When you rst step into the spacious barn, you can’t miss the giant Belgian dra horse named Hershy’s King Buck. At nearly 7 feet tall and weighing 3,126 pounds, he commands the a ention of visitors, especially when he stomps his foot while waiting impatiently for a carrot to be o ered. All of the other animals in the barn are considerably smaller. Some are in pens, while others, like the baby goats, roam freely while children squeal in delight as they chase a er them and pick them up.

For a quintessential Amish Country activity, you can also take a ride around the

farm in an authentic Amish buggy. Before you leave, make sure to stop into the bakery to load up on all kinds of baked goods. ose in the know bring a cooler to ll with goodies, such as the famous Amish fry pies — half moon-shaped pastries stu ed with pie lling that are available in a variety of avors. 5452 St. Rte 557, Millersburg 44654, 330/6746096, discoverholmescounty.com/hershbergers

Spend Time with Sugarcreek’s Giant Cuckoo Clock

Like clockwork, anyone who visits picturesque downtown Sugarcreek — aka Ohio’s Li le Switzerland — eventually gravitates to the corner of Main and Broadway. ere, standing tall at 23 feet in height and spanning 24 feet in width, the village’s giant cuckoo clock springs to life on the hour and half hour. e landmark timepiece is more than just a roadside a raction; it also re ects the areas’s Swiss and German heritage.

When the resident songbird emerges from the oversized, ower-laden alpine chalet, it announces the time with a cheerful call and cues the animatronic Bavarian oompah band called e Swiss Hilltoppers. For the next three minutes and 11 seconds — just enough time to keep the a ention of small children — the musicians perform a rousing rendition of the Bratwurst Polka while a dirndl-wearing dancer twirls in circles around a clapping man in lederhosen. Young onlookers o en join the festivities, clapping

AMISH COUNTRY

along with the music or playfully imitating the dance moves from the sidewalk.

“Olga and Fritz are the dancers,” o ers Christine Quickel, Sugarcreek’s marketing administrator.

Karl Schleuterman built the enormous clock in Germany, a renowned clockmaking hub, over the course of 12 years. It was originally commissioned in 1963 for a now-defunct restaurant in Wilmot called Alpine Alpa. A local business owner purchased the clock a er the restaurant closed, and it was installed in Sugarcreek in 2012.

Along with Freeman Mullet, the owner of e Gospel Shop, Quickel helps keep the clock working daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. between April and November.

“I am more of an apprentice,” she says. “Without Freeman, we couldn’t keep it going. ere are so many intricate pieces, and the slightest deviation can shut down the clock. We don’t want to disappoint any of our visitors — young, old or anywhere in between.” 100 N. Broadway St., Sugarcreek 44681, visitsugarcreek.com

Discover Treats and Treasures at Lehman’s

Consistently ranked among Amish Country’s top destinations, Lehman’s in Kidron is like stepping into a time capsule with an enchanting assortment of non-electric products, housewares, farm equipment, toys, games and food. It was originally a hardware store geared solely to Amish customers, but over its long history, Lehman’s has transformed into a shopping emporium for any-

one serious about making a change toward simple and sustainable living.

Children will discover a treasure trove of objects rarely seen in the modern world these days from washboards to grain augers. A storewide treasure hunt designed for kids up to age 16 helps make sense of them all. Other activities kids will enjoy include posing for pictures in the cab of a typical Amish buggy, mowing a stretch of green grass with a push mower and perusing the gallery of intricately carved wooden works of art by

Entertainment

Other

AMISH COUNTRY

artist Paul Weaver.

“We usually recommend going through twice,” says Glenda Lehman Ervin, the daughter of the store’s founder, the late Jay Lehman. “Once to look at the antiques and the next time to look at the products. If you can’t reach it or it doesn’t have a price tag, it’s an antique.”

Kids won’t want to miss the Toy Barn, a two-story, hand-hewn structure full of plush stu es, strategy games and a wide array of handcra ed Amish toys. is section o ers a nostalgic glimpse into the past, reminding us of the simple joys that can be found in traditional play. ey can also load up on throwback treats, such as rock candy, gumballs, fudge and other candy to satisfy any sweet tooth. Also be sure to check out the array of fun and unusual avors of bo led sodas. Your li le ones will leave Lehman’s fully enriched by the delights of a bygone era. 4779 Kidron Rd., Kidron 44618, 800/438-5346, lehmans.com

Play a Round of Mini Golf

Miniature golf is a favorite pastime in Amish Country, especially in the evening when most of the other area a ractions have closed for the day. You’ll likely be sharing the course with local Amish families, who, like you, want some good clean fun that

caters to all ages and abilities.

In Berlin, Country Acres Mini Golf is part of Schrocks’ Heritage Village, which includes an antique mall, cra mall, Christmas shop, sewing shop and a tasty bistro.

e Berlin Encore Hotel & Suites and Amish Country eater are just across the parking lot. Once you pick your favorite color of ball and get a pu er, two 18-hole courses are just down a set of stairs o the deck. On the le , the Barn Course is hilly with lots of inclines and descents. To the right, the Bridge Course has several water features, including waterfalls, rivers and a covered bridge. Depending on your skill, the ball could end up in the manmade river owing through the course. e kids will have fun shing them out with one of the provided skimmers.

If you’re looking for more than just miniature golf, Cabin Creek Golf in Sugarcreek is home to an entire sports complex that also o ers shu eboard, sand volleyball, batting cages and a driving range. e two neatly manicured miniature golf courses have several challenging holes that the owners designed themselves. Each has an o -track feature in which the golf ball gets some air and leaps over a patch of grass before, hopefully, landing on the green and sinking into the hole. Cabin Creek Golf, 1361 County Road 108, Sugarcreek, 330/852-4879, cabincreekgolf.com; Country Acres Mini Golf, 4367 St. Rte. 39, Millersburg 44654, 330/449-9986, countryacresminigolf.com

COUNTRY ACRES MINI GOLF

GROVE CITY

From family hayrides and fall hikes to candle-making and beer flights, autumn adventures abound in this suburban Columbus community. By Gracie Wilson

CIRCLE S FARMS

GROVE CITY

Located just off Interstate 71 and a short drive from downtown Columbus, the suburban community of Grove City offers plenty to experience all year, but its natural parks and inviting downtown businesses make autumn a great time to visit.

Whether you want to spend a day hiking at one of the two nearby Columbus & Franklin County Metro Park locations, sip fall flavors at Grove City Brewing Co. or pile on a wagon to pick your own pumpkin at Circle S Farm, Grove City has adventures that cater to everyone.

A visitor center on Broadway staffed by Visit Grove City is great first stop in planning your explorations, and the city has a wealth of hotels room for those wanting to make a weekend of it. Here are seven great ways to explore the fun and adventure in Grove City.

Gear Up at Grove City’s Visitor Center

Start downtown with a stop at the local visitor center, which also houses Grove City Guide + Gear. Here, travelers can chat with Visit Grove City’s team of tourism ambassadors to get recommendations about what to check out. It’s also a great place to pick up any last-minute gear you need before heading out, such as a waterproof bag for belongings before going to Trapper John’s Canoe Livery or a hammock that can be strapped to a tree in the city’s parks to enjoy an after-

noon of lounging under the fall foliage. Local art lines the walls and tells the stories of the city. Local goods for purchase such as books, T-shirts and home decor are also available. 3995 Broadway, Suite 100, Grove City 43123, 614/539-8747, visitgrovecityoh.com

Tackle the Pumpkin Trek

Once fall arrives in Grove City, businesses throughout town offer all manner of autumn-related food, drinks and activities. Get more information about the online Pumpkin Trek Guide at the Grove City Visitors Center on Broadway, and begin exploring. Stops along the way include opportunities to purchase food, drinks and local goods at shops like Transcend Coffee + Roastery, Grove City Nutrition or Strawser’s Ice Cream, Pop & Candy Shop. The Trek Guide outlining the participating businesses is available online. Those who buy a fall-themed item at one of those businesses collect points toward winning a free Pumpkin Trek tote bag from Visit Grove City. For more information about the Pumpkin Trek, go to visitgrovecityoh.com.

Make a Candle at The Chandler

From pumpkin spice to crisp apples to fresh clove, the scents of fall fill The Chandler, a candle shop where groups of up to 12 (or private events of up to 30) can pour

their own fall candle to take home. Under the guidance of one of the shop’s staff members, customers mix the store’s Legacy Wax — a blend of soy wax and coconut oil that burns healthier, longer and more fragrantly than other candles — with their scent of choice and pour it into their selected vessel. After the scent-selection process what The Chandler’s creative director, Adam Henry, refers to as a “wine tasting for the nose” — customers are instructed on how to insert the wicks, add in the scent shot, add their color of choice and pour the wax. 4048 Broadway, Grove City 43123, 614/887-8381, thechandler.co

Pick a Pumpkin at Circle S Farms

Find the perfect pumpkin at this 88-acre farm and enjoy the festivities of Fall Fun Days, which runs from the last weekend of September through the end of October. Three generations of the Sullivan family operate Circle S Farms, which is open daily and home to fall activities such as corn and sunflower mazes and hayrides as well as a pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Visit the hay barn with the kids for slides and climbing activities, and stop at the on-site farmers market for foods ranging from pumpkin doughnuts and apple turnovers to apple cider and farm fresh veggies. Check out the scarecrow cave to pose for pictures with the straw-stuffed fall decorations or snap

Stop by Grove City Guide + Gear (above) to get all the supplies for a trip around the city or locally made goods. Visit The Chandler on Broadway to make your own fall candle (bottom).

GROVE CITY

olate doughnut, respectively. The winery side features seasonal pumpkin and mulled ciders. (Beer and wine flights are a good choice for those who can’t decide on just one.) Food favorites here include shareable appetizers like the Bavarian Pretzel and unique takes on burgers like the Bison Americana or the PBB & J topped with peanut butter, bacon and strawberry jam. The outdoor patio is open through October. 3946 Broadway, Grove City 43123, 614/991-0338, grovecitybrewery.com, plumrunwinery.com

Hike Through the Autumn Woods at Scioto Grove Metro Park

Groveport Rd., Grove City 43123, 614/878-9462, circlesfarm.com

Hike at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

Boasting 14 hiking and mixed-use trails and a herd of grazing buffalo, this park located right outside the city limits is a local favorite with its 7,000 acres that run along both the Big Darby and Little Darby creeks. Enjoy the 12.5-mile, ADA accessible Camp Chase Trail for a longer jaunt through the park or opt for a shorter hike across the grass and under the changing fall foliage on the half-mile Turkey Foot Trail. The 1.7-mile Ancient Trail passes along a stretch of Big Darby Creek to open fields and forests. The

5-mile Darby Creek Greenway trail takes hikers past the ever-popular bison pasture. (The park has four pet-friendly trails so you can hike with your four-legged best friend, too.) 1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway 43119, 614/370-6254, metroparks.net

Unwind at Grove City Brewing Co. and Plum Run Winery

Stop in for a drink and dinner at this family-friendly spot downtown that houses both a brewery and winery. Grove City Brewing Co.’s fall lineup of beers includes its seasonal collaborations with the nearby Jolly Pirate Donuts. Sip on a Jolly Apple or Jolly Buckeye, which pack the flavors of the shop’s apple fritters and peanut-butter-and-choc-

Located on the edge of Grove City, Scioto Grove Metro Park offers more than 600 scenic acres to explore. The park has eight hiking trails, a rope suspension bridge that crosses the Scioto River and a fire tower constructed in 2023 that provides visitors an additional way to catch a glimpse of the changing leaves. Two archery courses within the park offer 3D targets of faux animals along their .3-mile trails. Every hiking trail in the park is designated as easy, ranging from under a quarter mile to 2.5 miles in length, and well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome in all areas. The REI Scenic River Trail covers 1.8 miles along the river and crosses over the suspension bridge. 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City 43123, 614/9491078, metroparks.net

BISON: MARIA BERGMAN; BRIDGE: LIZ CHRISTIAN

Grove City Brewing Co. and Plum Run Winery are located downtown (left). Bison graze at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park (bottom left). Walk the suspension bridge at Scioto Grove Metro Park (bottom right).

a photo among the sunflowers and pumpkins. 9015 London

WINERIES

These four Ohio wineries offer unique overnight experiences, whether you want to stay in Italian-style villas, an 1800s inn, a farm loft or a former schoolhouse along Lake Erie.

By

Ruth

Corradi Beach

LE PETIT CHEVALIER VINEYARDS AND FARM WINERY

Fall for Ohio Wines

By Casey Ziegler

Fall is a time to bask in nature, get dressed up in creative costumes and relax with a glass of Ohio’s best wines. Kick off the season by cozying up near an outdoor fire pit or wandering through beautiful vineyards.

exploring Amish Country, their cafe is the perfect spot to relax. On warmer days, step out onto their patio for breathtaking views of the rolling hills.

in the Halloween-themed 5K receive several a

Explore the vibrant autumn countryside of Grand River Cellars in Madison during their Haunted Wine Run on Oct. 22. Runners in the Halloween-themed 5K receive several gifts, including a glass of wine. Be sure to bring your best disguise because the race will be followed by a costume contest.

Put on your favorite Halloween costume every October for Wyandotte Winery’s Haunted Wine Cellars in Columbus. Sip on a glass of Merlot while competing in their annual costume contest. Snack on their seasonal “gourmet ghoulish grub,” and make new friends around their bonfire on the patio.

Make a fall decoration to take home at Breitenbach Wine Cellars’ Pumpkin Succulent Workshop and wine tasting. After a long day of

Breitenbach Wine Cellars in Dover

Stroll the of Gervasi in Canton to take in the gorgeous of fall color with the the season, Gervasi holds themed festive events like its Hallo-wine

Stroll through the grounds of Gervasi Vineyard in Canton to take in the gorgeous display of fall color with the surrounding trees and flowers. All throughout the season, Gervasi holds themed festive events like its Hallo-wine Dinner and Ghouls’ Night Out tasting event.

Hike along the beautiful trails, and admire all of the fall colors before stopping by the Hocking Hills Winery in Logan. Enjoy live local music while warming up by their fire pit — the perfect ending after a day of hiking through the nearby Hocking Hills State Park or zip lining on one of the area’s courses.

Hocking Hills Winery in Logan

Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa

ose looking for the feel of a European getaway without straying far from home can nd it at Canton’s Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa. It has elds of grapevines, charming villas and a selection of wines with names like Celebrazione and Passione from which to choose.

“It’s the aesthetic,” says Sco Swaldo, Gervasi’s general manager and CEO. “It doesn’t feel like Canton, Ohio. It feels like Tuscany.”

All the buildings at Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa boast Italian architecture. The Casa has 24 luxury suites, while The Villas span six buildings that each contain four suites with replaces, heated oors and a shared patio that make them popular with families and groups of friends planning a getaway together. e Farmhouse can also be rented by groups who can prepare their own meals in the large kitchen or gather on the spacious porch. Guests also have access to Gervasi’s concierge services and are welcome to explore the walking trails that traverse the estate’s 55 acres.

“O en, people just walk and enjoy and take photos,” Swaldo notes.

ere’s also a full-service spa on the grounds that opened in 2023, and those who want to take in a round of golf can do so thanks to Gervasi’s arrangement with Glenmoor Country Club, a private course in Canton just a short drive away.

On-site dining includes e Crush House and e Bistro, where guests can choose from a wide selection of Gervasi wines, including 10 private-labeled wines cra ed in Italy. A seasonal restaurant, e Piazza is open through October. Wine tastings and tours, including experiences in e Cave (another 2023 addition to the property), are also available. 1700 55th St. NE, Canton 44721, 330/497-1000, gervasivineyard.com

The Winery Loft at Le Petit Chevalier Vineyards and Farm Winery

Ever wish you were a vintner? Or maybe a farmer? Book a stay at e Winery Lo at Le Petit Chevalier Vineyards and Farm Winery, and you can pretend you’re both. is working family farm spans 7 acres of vineyards and 21 acres overall, and a er hours, you’ll feel like you have the whole place to yourself. e Winery Lo occupies the second oor of the main winery and tasting room, giving guests the opportunity to explore the grounds and watch the sunrise. e airy, wood-walled place sleeps two but has a fold-out couch, making it as much a fun family getaway as it is a romantic oasis.

“Mostly we get couples, but we get families too,” says owner Mark Chevalier. “We have animals here — sheep, chicken, dogs — that’s part of the appeal.”

Gervasi’s The Farmhouse (top); The Winery Loft at Le Petit Chevalier Vineyards and Farm Winery (above)

unwind.

1700 55th St. NE Canton, Ohio 330-497-1000 gervasivineyard.com

9050 West Old Lincoln Way Wooster, Ohio 330-804-9463

lincolnwayvineyards.com

Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa

This fall, escape to Gervasi Vineyard and experience the beauty of a unique, Tuscan-inspired winery resort and spa. Three distinct restaurants offer casual and upscale cuisine paired with awardwinning wines and spirits. Retreat to a luxurious suite and enjoy the comforts of high-end amenities, as well as an outdoor patio providing beautiful lake views. Treat yourself to a tranquil spa treatment or experience the intimate wine-tasting room in The Cave.

Lincoln Way Vineyards

Come sit in the tasting room, on the patio, picnic area or our event space relax as you enjoy our wine, hard cider, fruit-based wine slushies and more. Check out our website or like us on Facebook to see our year-round food truck and entertainment schedule.

Brady Vineyards of Ohio and Heron Creek Winery

52185 West Griggs Road Wellington, Ohio 440-506-7022 heroncreekwine.com

The grapes to produce the awardwinning Heron Creek Wine are grown, processed, fermented and bottled in a sustainable way at the Brady Vineyards of Ohio 140-acre family farm. Fourteen acres of wine grapes, including seven different varietals, are grown in the Lake Erie region of North Central Ohio. Visit our website for details.

Three Rivers Wine Trail

Three Rivers Wine Trail

4599 S. Madison Road Madison, Ohio 440-296-9175

laurentiawinery.com

6062 South Ridge Road W. Geneva, Ohio 440-466-0626

thewineryatspringhill.com

Laurentia Vineyard and Winery

Laurentia Vineyard and Winery is located within the Grand River Valley. We are ideally situated upon 48 acres of estate vineyards which cultivate our abundant varietals. Laurentia’s awardwinning wines, such as our Double Gold Stoltz Block Cabernet, may be perfectly paired with a variety of boards, shared plates, and artisan flatbreads. From vineyard to barrel, come experience Laurentia’s expansive patios and tasting room.

The Winery at Spring Hill

In both the Grand River Valley and Lake Erie wine growing regions, we are an upscale country winery with a friendly, relaxing atmosphere. We offer our dry vinifera wines and sweet labrusca and fruit wines, hard ciders, craft beers and cocktails. Enjoy food from our kitchen on our patio or in front of our two indoor fireplaces.

Laurello Vineyards

4573 Route 307 E. Geneva, Ohio 440-415-0661

laurellovineyards.com

Laurello Vineyards is a familyowned winery providing handcrafted, award-winning wines and specially prepared foods as well as beer on tap. Laurello’s offers premium, vinifera wines in addition to unique blends and delicious ice wines. We invite you to stop by to experience our boutique winery.

Merry Family Winery

432

432 North Whitewoman St. Coshocton, Ohio 740-622-4877

Fill your glass on the Three Rivers Wine Trail! Enjoy the wide-open spaces of the Appalachian foothills and explore the eclectic mix of seven unique wineries and a craft brewery, all within a short drive of one another in beautiful Coshocton County. It’s the perfect romantic getaway or girls’ weekend adventure.

Coshocton, OH 740-622-4877

threeriverswinetrailohio.com

threeriverswinetrailohio.com

Fill Your Glass on the Three Rivers Wine Trail! Enjoy the wide-open spaces of Appalachian foothills and explore the eclectic mix of seven unique wineries and a craft brewery, all within a short drive of one another in beautiful Coshocton County. the perfect romantic getaway or girlsʼ weekend adventure.

2376 state Route 850 Bidwell, Ohio 740-245-9463

merryfamilywinery.com

Come sip, sit and relax at Gallia County’s first winery/ brewery. Take in the picturesque views of the countryside, stroll through the vineyard. Sample handcrafted wines and beers, try our homemade root beer soda. With so many great varieties to choose from you are sure to find something to love!

North Whitewoman Street

In fact, the farm practices integrated agriculture in which livestock and crops coexist.

“We o en have families who want their kids to help or watch when we herd the ock of sheep between the vineyards and the barn at night,” Chevalier adds.

Located 7 miles from Hocking Hills State Park, Le Petit Chevalier is remote, so many overnight guests bring their own food to prepare in the lo ’s fully stocked kitchen. Enjoy the plentiful outdoor seating, or relax on the lo ’s porch looking out over the vineyards where the grapes were picked while enjoying a glass of Le Petit Chevalier’s

wine. If you like, you can even pretend you made it yourself. 26328 Locust Grove Rd., Creola 45622, 740/988-6150, lepetitchev.com

Headley Inn Winery and Vineyard

ere are two places to stay at Headley Inn Winery and Vineyard: the Amelia Suite and the Chestnut Cabin. e Amelia Suite, which sleeps two, is the lo of the tasting room located in an 1800s tavern. It has a bedroom and a living room, and during the day, guests can enter directly into the winery, while nigh ime access to the suite is via an outdoor staircase.

e property is nearly two centuries old, and Brian Adams, who owns the business with his wife Carrie and daughter Ashley, says that history is ever present.

“We tie the winery very closely to the history of the inn,” he says. “It’s got all the original decor — nothing replaced, just restored. It’s like taking a step back in time and experiencing the history of the inn itself.”

e Chestnut Cabin is a fully renovated and modernized cabin that was originally constructed in Pennsylvania in 1777. is is the type of place guests can se le into with its full kitchen and washer and dryer.

e wine selection includes o erings like Chardonel, which won two silver medals in 2023, and the Noiret, which also won a silver medal. A true bed-and-breakfast, each morning begins with a homemade breakfast — fresh fruit,

Chestnut Cabin at Headley Inn Winery and Vineyard

WINERIES

eggs, toast, bacon and mu ns — that guests can have on their own or with others in the dining room.

“Because we are so small, I get the opportunity to know the people who come and stay if that’s what they want to do,” Carrie Headley says. “A lot of guests become friends of ours.” 5345 West Pike, Zanesville 43701, 740/487-1446, headleyinn.com

Red Fern Inn at Rocky Point Winery

Island hoppers and Lake Erie lovers will nd lots to love here as the names of the rooms themselves suggest: ere’s the Kelleys Island, Johnson’s Island, Bay Point and Lakeside. (A newer property, the Lake Erie Lo , is across the street.)

e rooms are on the second and third oor of the former Marblehead Schoolhouse Building, and the winery is on the rst oor.

“Every guest gets a complimentary bo le of wine upon arrival,” says owner Chris Redfern. “When you make reservations, we ask what kind you like. And for kids, there’s Marblehead Soda, our own label.”

Rooms have upscale furnishings like granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, full kitchens and replaces. Winery happenings include trivia nights, live music and Friday-night ights with the winery’s sommelier. ere is also an outdoor

patio that is an ideal spot to enjoy a glass or two. Once the winery closes, overnight guests have use of the patio, the outdoor grill and the re pit that can be stocked for lighting upon request.

“You have the place to yourself, and no one is going to shoo you away,” says Redfern. “ ere’s a light breeze. We’re only one block from Lake Erie.”

Speaking of one block from Lake Erie, guests can grab a bike from the inn and pedal on over or anywhere else they’d like to go, including the historic Marblehead Lighthouse.

“It’s just like home. If you want to use a bike, use a bike,” Redfern says. “Just take one and go. If it breaks down, call us, and we’ll come pick you up.” 111 W. Main St., Marblehead 43440, 419/967-5344, redferninn.com

Celebrate Life

Red Fern Inn at Rocky Point Winery provides a fire pit for its overnight guests.

sip, stay & play in Canton

LOOK NO FURTHER FOR A DESTINATION TEEMING WITH PLENTY TO ENJOY. STARK COUNTY OFFERS A PLETHORA OF WINERIES AND BREWERIES SERVING UNIQUE BEVERAGES, ALONG WITH A VARIETY OF OTHER ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES THAT ARE SURE TO IMPRESS. FROM QUICK WEEKEND GETAWAYS TO LONGER TRIPS, YOU’LL BE ABLE TO CHOOSE FROM A VARIETY OF ACCOMMODATIONS TO SERVE AS YOUR HOME BASE TO SIP YOUR WAY THROUGH FIVE DISTINCT SECTIONS OF THE AREA’S SCENE.

PHOTO BY MAL MCCREA

The Cave at Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa

Downtown Canton

There’s always something happening in downtown Canton. Whenever you plan your visit, you’re bound to find live music, museums, art, restaurants and unique events. Luckily, there are many ways to take in everything.

Start by exploring Canton’s showstopping restaurants on a Canton Food Tour. With options to tour during the day or in the evening, you’ll be able to sample dishes from an average of four restaurants. As you bop from one restaurant to the next, you’ll see more of the city and learn about local points of interest. Keep the party going as you move through downtown Canton’s DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area). Spanning nearly 69 acres, the DORA features 19 participating businesses where you can purchase alcoholic beverages to take with you as you stroll through the area.

Retire for the evening at the DoubleTree by Hilton, right in the heart of downtown Canton. Along with an onsite restaurant and bar, you’ll be able to enjoy amenities like an indoor pool and fitness center during your stay.

Notably non-alcoholic

Stop by two favorite downtown coffee shops for that morning (or even afternoon) pick-me-up. Muggswigz offers coffee roasted in-house and a variety of high-quality teas. Stop in on select evenings for open mic nights. Carpe Diem Coffee Shop pairs classic coffees with fresh-baked scones and croissants.

Coffee fans will love Gervasi Caffè, the vineyard’s signature coffee roast. The Italian coffee is USDA certified organic and is featured in hot and cold beverages at The Still House on property. Take home a bag of beans for the perfect souvenir.

In Minerva, stop by Minerva Perk and have a seat on the orange sofa for a Friends-themed coffee stop.

Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa

A fully operational vineyard, Gervasi boasts more than 30 wine varietals in its award-winning wine portfolio, including four estategrown varietals. Pair wine tastings with delicious food at three signature restaurants throughout the vineyard, ranging from more casual fare to fine Italian cuisine. You can even travel belowground to The Cave, an intimate wine tasting and barrel room that you can book for a luxury experience like no other.

Looking for vodka, gin or bourbon? Gervasi also features a distillery, which you can tour to see how they make their spirits for yourself. Slip into The Sin Room to sample a wide selection of cigars alongside an extensive bourbon list.

While at Gervasi, don’t forget to treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment. You’ll emerge feeling refreshed after a massage, facial or manicure. Can’t stand the thought of just staying for the day? Book one of the resort’s luxury rooms; you can choose from a Tuscaninspired villa, a boutique inn and a restored 1800s farmhouse.

ABOVE: Palace Theater

PICTURED: Spa at Gervasi

Vineyard Resort & Spa

RIGHT: Minerva Perk

Canal Fulton & Downtown Massillon

If you’re hoping to get active on your getaway, look no further than the Towpath Trail. Winding from Canal Fulton to downtown Massillon, the 9.4-mile stretch of the 90-plus mile trail is popular among bikers, hikers and runners. You can even bring your furry friends if they happen to be traveling with you. Paddle down the scenic Tuscarawas River with a canoe or kayak from the Canal Fulton anoe ivery. You’re likely to see wildlife from the river, including deer, blue herons, turtles and even bald eagles. In downtown Massillon, you’ll find historic homes with unique 19th and 20th century architecture — the city itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Once you’ve had your fill e ploring, settle into a relaxing night at the Massillon Hampton Inn. With a variety of amenities, your stay is sure to be a pleasant one.

LISTEN TO THE Music

rom wineries and breweries to huge concert venues, you’ll find live music performed by talented musicians all across Stark County. Scan the QR code to find more information on upcoming live performances.

Minerva

With no shortage of small-town charm, Minerva is a quaint village dating back to 1818. Immerse yourself in the town’s history by booking a stay at Century Home at SSBC. Adjacent to and owned by Sandy Springs Brewing Company, the 100-plus-year-old home is a mix of old and new. The home, now an Airbnb, has been completely renovated with new appliances while still maintaining its original allure.

Sandy Springs Brewing Company also owns Brewers Quarters, an Airbnb in an s second oor studio. With e posed brick walls and finishes meant to emulate a brewery, you’ll feel like you’re about to brew your favorite drinks. Plus, there’s a growler on tap in the room, so you’ll never be far from an ice-cold beer.

non-alcoholic

Plan an outing to Dragon y Tea oom to relax over a cup of tea and delectable bites. Whether you prefer a Victorian High Tea, complete with finger sandwiches and desserts, or a more traditional lunch, you’ll be satisfied in this cozy tearoom.

Oakwood Square

When weather allows on second Saturdays of the month, you’ll find an eclectic open air marketplace in Canton’s Oakwood Square. Sidestreet MKTS allow local vendors to set up tented outdoor shops to sell their wares. If you’re feeling peckish as you shop the day away, explore the unique local restaurants and brewery in the pla a. In the same pla a, you’ll find SI Tobacco, one of the largest cigar shops in Ohio. The store offers a wide selection of quality brands, along with expertise in making recommendations if you’re looking to try something new.

The square’s newest addition is the Plain Township Amphitheater, which will host a variety of free concerts, alongside other special events and seasonal entertainment.

PICTURED: Centennial Plaza Pride

BELOW: Sandy Springs Brew Quarters

Sip

Wineries

1 Cherry Road Winery 1133 27th St., N.W., Massillon, OH 44647 330-265-5830; cherryroadwinery.com

2 Creekside Cottage Winery 8818 Cleveland Ave. S.E., Magnolia, OH 44643 234-386-0162; creeksidecottagewinery.com

3 Dragonfly Winery 215 Market St. W., Canal Fulton, OH 44614 330-854-4832; dragonflyontheriver.com/winery

4 Gervasi Vineyard 1700 55th St. N.E., Canton, OH 44721 330-497-1000; gervasivineyard.com

5 Lost Trail Winery 5228 State St. N.E., Canton, OH, 44721 330-754-9643; losttrailwinery.com

6 Maize Valley Winery & Craft Brewery 6193 Edison St. N.E., Hartville, OH 44632 330-877-8344; maizevalley.com

Breweries

7 77 Brew House 21 Canal St., Navarre, OH 44662 234-410-4420; 77brewhouse.com

8 Aeonian Brewing Co. 120 W. Chestnut St., Alliance, OH 44601 330-596-1004; aeonianbrewing.com

9 The Brew Kettle Canton & Top Golf Swing Suites 2018 Champions Gateway, Ste. 101, Canton, OH 44708 234-999-3040; thebrewkettle.com

10 New Brewery Coming Soon 120 Third St. N.W., Canton, OH 44702

11 Codex Brewing 6305 Whipple Ave. N.W., North Canton, OH 44720 codexbrewing.com

12 Fat Head’s Brewery 3885 Everhard Rd. N.W., Canton, OH 44709 330-244-8601; fatheads.com/canton.html

1) Hartville Kitchen

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13 McAlpine Meadery 10035 Johnsford Rd. S.W., Beach City, OH 44608 330-756-5019; mcalpinemead.com

2) Maize Valley

19 Sandy Springs Brewing Company 232 N. Market St., Minerva, OH 44657 330-522-4024; sandyspringsbrewery.com

14 Muskellunge Brewing Company 425 Fifth St. N.W., Canton, OH 44702 513-802-3417; muskellungebrewing company.com

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Wineries & Breweries

5) Sandy Springs Brewery

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15 New Berlin Brewing Company 1664 N. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720 330-526-6123; newberlinbrewingco.com

20 UnHitched Brewing Co. 115 S. Mill St., Louisville, OH 44641 330-871-8021; unhitched.beer

3) Cultured Coffee & Waffles

notably non-alcoholic

16 Paradigm Shift Craft Brewery 128 North Ave. N.E., Massillon, OH 44646 330-880-0008; theshiftbeer.com

17 Royal Docks Brewing Co. Taproom & Kitchen 7162 Fulton Dr., Canton, OH 44718 330-353-9103; docks.beer

Find hours, events and more from the wineries and breweries who create your favorite drinks.

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6) Massillon Museum

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18 Royal Docks Foeder House & Kitchen 2668 Easton St. N.E., Canton, OH 44721 330-353-9103; docks.beer

Explore the inviting local coffee shops scattered around Stark County.

Stay

Choose from a variety of hotels and unique accommodations to host your stay.

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4) Pro Football Hall of Fame

1) Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa

4) 720 Market

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7) Canton Latino Fest

Celebrate Fall at Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa. Dine in one of their three unique restaurants, stroll the beautiful property, and retreat to a luxurious suite at the end of your day. Treat yourself to a luxurious spa experience or immerse yourself in an educational wine tasting in the new Cave. GervasiVineyard.com

7) McKiley Memorial

2) Belden Village Mall

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Enjoy open-air shopping - with a curated mix of makers bakers, brewers and growers of 720! Find live music, food trucks, coffee and craft beer, too. Plan to spend the day shopping and enjoying local small businesses. All the Food, Art, Music & Fun starts at 10 am! 720 is free; family + pet friendly. UPCOMING EVENTS

SEPT 23 - North Canton & OCT 7 - Village of Hartville. EventsBy720.com

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Latino Fest is a free, family-friendly event celebrating community and the Latino/Hispanic culture during National Hispanic Heritage Month. Entertainment will include Latin cuisines, shopping vendors, live music, bounce houses, mechanical bull, games, and much more! Please join us on Saturday, September 30th at the Centennial Plaza in Downtown Canton from 12pm-10pm. Facebook.com/CantonLatinoFest

8) Gervasi Vineyard

Belden Village Mall, the premier destination located in the hub of Eastern Ohio, boasts over 105 specialty shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Conveniently located off I-77, just minutes away the nationally known Canton Pro Football Hall of Fame and Akron-Canton Airport. The center is a cornerstone across generations with community-centric programming, and experiential activities. BeldenVillageMall.com

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3) Experience Hartville

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5) Cultural Center for the Arts

The Main Stage at Cultural Center Theater located inside the Cultural Center for the Arts is available to rent for live performances, with seating for over 400 guests and state-of-the-art sound and lighting. A smaller arena-style stage is also available for smaller shows. CulturalCenterforTheArts.com

6) Canton Museum of Art

8) Strauss Studios

Strauss Studios creates artistic objects for meaningful spaces. It is a design partnership formed by furniture craftsman John Strauss and interior designer Carisa Marie. John’s experience in materials combined with Carisa’s West Coast sensibility creates a dynamic style. Strauss Studios also regularly showcases art exhibits, featuring local and international artists. TheStraussStudios.com

PRO TIP

Hartville is the perfect place for all ages! Located between Cleveland and Amish Country, Hartville offers indoor shops, an outdoor Flea and Farmers Market, a celebrated restaurant featuring classic homestyle cooking and baked goods, America’s largest independent hardware store, and plenty of familyfriendly entertainment. Learn more at ExperienceHartville.com/ohiomag

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Visit the Canton Museum of Art, August 22nd through October 29th, and explore four exciting Fall Exhibitions including “Family Album: Our Stories.” CMA is open six days a week and offers FREE admission every Thursday, courtesy of PNC Foundation. Go to cantonart.org for hours and admission rates. CantonArt.org

PRO TIP

Don’t miss out on a full calendar of events online at VisitCanton.com. Check out upcoming concerts and live entertainment. Find haunted thrills and spooky fun. There are new events added daily! Check out all the fall fun and festivities at VisitCanton.com/Events.

HAUNTED OHIO

From spooky tours to autumn festivals to frightful fun, check out these happenings across the state this season.

Fall Fun & Frights in Canton

Halloween-season activities abound in Canton and Stark County. Canal Fulton hosts the Spirits & Spirits Cruise aboard the St. Helena canal boat on Oct. 6 and 7. This guided tour explores local lore and comes with a complimentary shot of whiskey. Later in the month, lace up those running shoes for the Haunted Forest Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K in Canal Fulton on Oct. 29.

In Canton, Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa hosts its Haunted Wine Run that leads participants on a course that winds through the vines of the 55-acre estate on Oct. 21.

Those looking to move at a slower pace can join in on the Massillon Zombie Walk, a leisurely stroll through town on Oct. 14 that invites guests to don their undead garb. The city is also the site of Dine with the Dearly Departed: Massillon’s Macabre History & Lore on Oct. 6. This event serves up dinner alongside ghost stories rooted in local legend.

In downtown Canton, haunted history abounds during the Autumn Mystery, History & Hauntings Tour on Oct. 20, 26 and 27. Learn about the murders, mysteries and ghosts said to haunt the city. For those who like a serious scare, a trip to Canton’s Factory or Terror is in order. The attraction is open Sept. 23, Friday through Sunday Sept. 29 to Oct. 29 and Nov. 4. For more information, go to visitcanton.com.

Get into the fall spirit during the last full weekend of September at the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival, in Belmont County, Ohio. See record-breaking size pumpkins, enjoy pumpkin ice cream, pumpkin donuts, and pumpkin pies as we celebrate together all things pumpkin!

Halloween in Chillicothe and Ross County

This Halloween season, Chillicothe and Ross County are home to several fall-themed events and activities for families and fright lovers alike. For those who enjoy the feeling of a chill up their

spine or revel in the adrenaline rush that inevitably comes with a good scare, look no further than the festival of frights that is The Last Carnival. Like something wicked blown into town on a chilling autumn breeze, this unusual, latenight carnival show delights guests with dedicated actors, surprising scares and frights that last until the clock strikes midnight.

The Chillicothe Halloween Festival, which runs during the second weekend in October, welcomes local and visiting families and friends to come enjoy the seasonal fun. Live entertainment will be o ered along with the opportunity to shop from a variety of craft and food vendors and compete in the co n race or costume contest.

From the page to the stage, Frankenstein is coming to excite audiences at Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre with a lively, 65-minute performance. The show can be accompanied by a nightlong experience with additional ticket purchases for a laboratory-themed escape room and haunted trail. A nightly showing of a classic horror movie, tomahawk throwing and a scavenger hunt are included with the price of show admission. For more information, go to visitchillicotheohio.com.

Stark Count Stark County

The Chillicothe Halloween Festival returns the second weekend in October (above). Canton and Stark County have a full slate of seasonal fun (opposite page).

The Frankenstein Experience at Haunted Mountain

The creative team that stages the outdoor drama “Tecumseh!” in Chillicothe each summer brings one of the most beloved horror stories of all time to life at Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre this fall. The Frankenstein Experience comes to Haunted Mountain Thursday through Saturday evenings in October.

The centerpiece of the night is a 65-minute-long, performance of the Frankenstein story, complete with lighting, sound and special effects. The show’s producer, Brandon Smith, says he enjoys entertaining guests and providing a space for them to experience the season.

“What we’ve learned over the past seven years or so of doing Haunted Mountain is that people really appreciate a spectacle,” he says. “Halloween is about having a good time, putting on a fun show and making sure that people have an experience that they want to come back for.”

Prior to the general admission seating for each performance, the evening begins with a 20-minute laboratory-themed escape room, and after the show, the Haunted Trail welcomes guests to take a spooky stroll through the woods (both require separate tickets). Show attendees can also enjoy tomahawk throwing, a scavenger hunt and a screening of a classic horror film on the largest outdoor movie screen in southern Ohio as part of the regular admission. For more information, visit hauntedmountain.org.

Barnesville Pumpkin Festival

Giant pumpkins are the highlight at this fall festival in Barnesville, Ohio. The Barnesville Pumpkin Festival takes place annually the last full weekend of September and celebrates the fall harvest season with an emphasis on growing pumpkins.

The origins of The Barnesville Pumpkin Festival dates to 1964, and it has remained an iconic Ohio event. The festival is organized by a locally appointed committee and attracts over 100,000 attendees each year.

Of all the pumpkin-themed activities, you won’t want to miss the weigh-in of champion pumpkins.

Behemoth pumpkins in 2017 and 2022 set the record for the state of Ohio, weighing in at 2,150 and 2,195 pounds respectively. In 2022, the King Pumpkin also set the Pennsylvania state record when a grower from Harrison City, Pennsylvania, entered his 2,405-pound pumpkin. It also holds the title of being the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival’s largest pumpkin ever and was sold for $13,000 at the festival’s auction.

The Barnesville Pumpkin Festival offers four days of nonstop fun, including two stages hosting live musical entertainment, an antique and classic car show with over 400 vehicles and rides and games set up in traditional carnival fashion. There are competitions, educational agriculture and horticulture displays and a giant pumpkin parade.

Attendees can shop from vendors offering harvest-inspired crafts and enjoy pumpkin-flavored culinary delights. For more information, visit barnesvillepumpkinfestival.com ●

The Frankenstein story comes to life on stage at Haunted Mountain this fall (opposite page). Celebrate the pumpkin in Barnesville (above).

A Shopping Experience

Easton Town Center in Columbus draws travelers from Ohio and beyond with its mix of shopping, dining and entertainment.

Easton Town Center is the Midwest’s premier destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. Located in the northeastern quadrant of Columbus, the collection of more than 250 best-inclass shops, restaurants and entertainment venues has grown into a thriving hub that o ers an engaging experience for people of a diverse range of tastes and interests.

Walking through Easton, you’ll nd pedestrian-friendly pathways that guide you to an open-air town square, fountains and green spaces. One of the many things that sets Easton apart is its commitment to staying relevant and fresh, bringing the best brands and latest stores to Columbus.

Easton’s newest district features en-

tertainment, restaurant, hotel and retail o erings, as well as new o ce space. It is also home to RH Columbus, The Gallery at Easton Town Center — an innovative retail concept that features home furnishings in a gallery setting.

The new district is also the only place in Ohio you’ll nd the botanical brewery Forbidden Root or cocktail spot The Beeline. Culinary enthusiasts will want to check

out Slurping Turtle and True Food Kitchen, two restaurants that have their only Ohio locations at Easton. There’s also Ivan Kane’s Forty Deuce, which mixes a New York pizzeria with a hidden nightclub.

Another highlight the district boasts is a rst-of-its-kind collaboration between artists in the central Ohio region, creating a unique blend of creativity and commerce. For more information, visit eastontowncenter.com. ●

MILESTONES

The Chicago Cubs Play in Marion

In September 1920, the Major League ballclub traveled to Ohio to face off against the hometown team of presidential candidate Warren G. Harding.

With just two months left before the 1920 presidential election, Sen. Warren G. Harding was well on his way to the White House, but the lifelong baseball fan was not too keen on having missed out on an entire season of America’s pastime.

Organized by Harding’s supporters, the Chicago Cubs boarded a train for Harding’s hometown of Marion to face off against the Kerrigan Tailors, a local semi-professional team, at the city’s Lincoln Park on the afternoon of Sept. 2, 1920.

“Shortly after 10 o’clock, with an escort of members of the Harding Marching Club and Baker’s Band, the visitors marched to the Harding residence and were introduced to the senator by

William L. Veeck, president of the [Chicago Cubs],” The Marion Daily Star reported in its Sept. 2, 1920, edition.

The newspaper’s Fred Kraner wrote in his report the day after the game that admission to the park grounds was free, but those wishing to enjoy grandstand seating were charged 50 cents.

“The visitors sought places of vantage on the side lines and soon the crowd encircled the entire playing field,” Kraner noted in his report. “Baker’s Band was out early in the afternoon and entertained with musical numbers until the arrival of the presidential candidate and his party.”

The soon-to-be president and first lady arrived at the park at 3 p.m., and Harding responded to requests for photos and autographs before throwing out the first pitch around 3:15 p.m.

“I pay to you my tribute to baseball, because I like the game, just as every other real American,” Harding said in a speech. “It has been in the blood for over half a century, and it has helped us as a people.”

By the seventh inning, the score was 1-0 in favor of Chicago, and there was hope among the crowd that the Kerrigan Tailors could come back for a hometown win, but the Chicago Cubs came out on top in a 3-1 victory. Nathan Havenner

A Chicago Cubs player signs autographs at the game in Marion on Sept. 2, 1920.