DATEBOOK

Biggest Week in American Birding

May 5–14, Oak Harbor

Fans of our feathered friends flock to northwest Ohio each year for the Biggest Week in American Birding. The warbler capital of the world brings bird-watchers to Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center May 5 through 14 for a lineup of activities that includes guided walks and photography workshops. Spring at Magee Marsh draws more than 300 types of birds, making it the perfect destination to spot warblers, songbirds, ducks, geese and more. The Biggest Week also includes free events, such as a Beginning Birding Outing at Pearson Metropark, where kids’ interest in birds can take flight. biggestweekinamericanbirding.com

Fine Lines: Keith Haring’s distinctive art rose from the streets of New York City to become part of popular culture as it explored subjects ranging from AIDS to apartheid.

Calendar of Events: Your summer plans start here. Check out our guide to exhibitions, festivals and other happenings scheduled between now and the end of June.

Blast from the Past

By Jessica Hensley

Make a toast to history at wineries all around Ohio. These special locations have been repurposed to breathe new life into their communities.

What was once an 1875 general store offers a relaxing space to enjoy delicious wine. Located in Ravenna’s historic district, West Main Street Winery and Brewery is family owned and operated. Sing along to your favorite songs on open mic night and enjoy live music throughout the weekend. Try a wine slushy for a refreshing treat on those warm summer nights.

Jilbert Winery and Brewery in Valley City captures the essence of antiquity and old-style charm. This 1905 historic dairy barn has been restored for intimate dinners beside a cozy double fireplace. Unwind on the enclosed patio or take in the warmth of the sunroom. Whether you enjoy the sweet nectar of the gods or the crisp taste of Niagara grapes, there is a blend made especially for you.

School’s out for the summer, but you can still indulge in a glass of wine at Dennison’s Casella Winery & Distillery This oneroom brick 1918 schoolhouse is a perfect space for enchanted ceremonies of all kinds. Fill up on decadent dishes like the Greek flatbread pizza. After dinner, dance the night away to the live musical performances.

Placed along the picturesque Maumee River, The Lumberyard Winery & Supply is a great getaway. Converted from a timber lumber storage building, the covered patio is the perfect place to savor a creative collection of wines. For a fruity flavor, be sure to try Rusty Nail, a peach blend that bursts with the flavors of the season. Enjoy seasonal fruit wine or a pizza by the pond at School House Winery in Dover. Built in 1886, this winery was a one-room schoolhouse called Oak Grove School #6 until 1941. The owners pay homage to the building’s origins through their 17 “Building 6” wines featuring classroom-inspired names like Teacher’s Ade, a sweet lemon wine perfect for summer sipping, and Bully Red, a semi-dry Chambourcin that packs a full-bodied punch.