NORTHEAST OHIO
FAMILY FUN GUIDE HOLIDAY 2020
TOP 10 PLACES TO SEE
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS HOLIDAY FUN GUIDE: BEST THINGS TO DO THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
EXPERIENCE GIFT GUIDE:
WHAT TO BUY & HOW TO WRAP
WANT MORE FAMILY FUN IDEAS? VISIT NORTHEASTOHIOFAMILYFUN.COM
Our Holiday Adventures Guide makes holiday activity planning so easy all you have to do is make memories!
Welcome! After all the craziness of 2020, I bet you are ready for some holiday magic! You’re in luck because we can help you make the most of the next two months. Start by checking out our extensive Holiday Fun Guide. It’s packed with events including an opportunity for a magical holiday experience from the comfort of your own home. When you’re ready to start decorating, turn to page 14 to find a nearby Christmas Tree Farm. Choose and cut your own tree or select a fresh cut tree to bring home. Want to limit the amount of “stuff” your kids accumulate this year? Give them experience gifts instead! Turn to page 18 for ideas. Plan a kid friendly New Years Celebration using one (or more) of our ideas on how to Ring in the New Year with Kids. Spread a little cheer this season by using our Random Acts of Kindness ideas. How many kind deeds can you check off this year? Enjoy this special time of year as you create memories with your family and friends!
Our Team
Danielle Weiler - Publisher Jen Zils - Client Engagement Manager Elise Egbert - Graphic Designer Nikki Doyle - Contributor Darlene Walker - Contributor
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What’s Inside 04 BEST PLACES TO SEE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 08 20 RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS FOR KIDS AND FAMILIES 10 HOLIDAY FUN GUIDE: BEST THINGS TO DO THIS HOLIDAY 14 BEST AREA CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS 18 EXPERIENCE GIFT GUIDE: WHAT TO BUY & HOW TO WRAP THEM 20 5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH KIDS
FREE DOWNLOAD:
HOLIDAY FUN BUCKET LIST VISIT NORTHEASTOHIOFAMILYFUN.COM TO DOWNLOAD OUR FREE PRINTABLE HOLIDAY FUN BUCKET LIST! Holiday 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 3
BEST PLACES TO SEE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Wondering where the Best Christmas Light Displays in Northeast Ohio are? We’ve got you covered! Discover community light displays as well as neighborhood houses with thousands of choreographed Christmas lights set to music. Enjoy! See page 6 for a bingo game to play while you drive around to see the lights!
VISIT OUR CHRISTMAS LIGHT DISPLAY LIST & SEE OUR INTERACTIVE MAP: northeastohiofamilyfun.com/must-see-christmas-light-displays-in-northeast-ohio/
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Northeast Ohio Christmas Lights
penguin
icicles
an american gingerbread flag men
someone wearing a santa hat
a candy cane
a north pole sign
santa’s sleigh
reindeer
someone wearing a scarf
music playing
someone drinking hot chocolate
FREE SPACE
elves
an igloo
a nutcracker
lights in your favorite color
a cartoon character
someone wearing snowboots
a nativity scene
a dinosaur
carolers
the words “Merry Christmas”
a snow globe
an angel
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20 Random Acts of Kindness for Kids and Families This holiday season let’s encourage our kids to spread kindness to friends, family members and even strangers. Here is a list of 20 simple, easy to do random acts of kindness.
Give your change to the Salvation Army bell ringers or sign up to ring the bell for the Salvation Army Leave a happy note in a library book for someone to find later Pick up trash at your local playground Donate a new toy to Toys for Tots Write notes of encouragement and leave them on a car windshield in a parking lot Pay for the person’s order behind you in line 8 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Holiday 2020
Donate food to a local food bank Write and mail cards to out of town family members Write and send a letter to someone in the military thanking them for their service Collect Pop Tabs for Ronald McDonald House Let someone go in front of you in line at the store Find Amazon wish lists and help a non-profit get something they need Be a layaway Santa (put money towards someone’s layaway at the store). Offer to walk a neighbors dog Set the table for dinner and clean up afterwards too Donate a new or gently used coat for kids (and adults) in need Paint and hide rocks for someone to find later #NortheastOhioRocks Bake cookies and deliver some to a neighbor Leave quarters in the carts at an Aldi store or in gum ball machines Shovel the drive and walkway for a neighbor who is unable to do so Looking for more ways to help our community? Check out our huge list of places to volunteer with your kids. Holiday 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 9
Holiday Fun Guide: Best Things to do this Holiday
Christmas in Northeast Ohio is one of our favorite times of year. We love the lights, sitting in front of a fire with the Christmas tree glowing in the corner and attending our favorite events. Mark your calendars make your reservations now to attend these fun filled holiday happenings!
Mr. Kringle® Suite Mr. Kringle has taken up residence at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown hotel! He keeps a busy schedule and welcomes believers to look after his room while away. This Christmas, you’re invited to cuddle up cozy, and sit amidst the twinkle of Mr. Kringle’s private quarters. Overnight Includes: A Note from Mr. Kringle and Milk & Cookies Book Now at mrkringle.com or by calling (216) 413-5000
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MANY THANKS TO MR. KRINGLE & COMPANY®️ FOR SPONSORING OUR HOLIDAY FUN GUIDE!
Letters From Mr. Kringle® Receive official correspondence from the desk of Santa Claus! Have a personalized letter from Mr. Kringle delivered directly to your mailbox. Choose from 6 endearing templates that can be customized to delight one very special recipient. Each letter is postmarked to perfection with authentic embellishments and delivered via USPS. Book Now at mrkringle.com or by calling 1-855-MRKRINGLE
eVisit With Mr. Kringle® Have a magical holiday experience from the comfort of your own home by booking a virtual visit with Mr. Kringle! Whether LIVE streaming or a pre-recorded video message, Mr. Kringle offers delightful new traditions guaranteed to make any spirit bright! Mr. Kringle entertains diverse families from all over the world and boasts the “Best Santas in the U.S.” according to TIME.com. Book Now at mrkringle.com or by calling 1-855-MRKRINGLE Continued on pg. 12
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Breakfast With Mr. Kringle® Join Mr. Kringle & Friends for a delicious buffet style breakfast at The Burnham Restaurant inside the Hilton Cleveland Downtown. Honored guests will dine with Mr. Kringle and his fellow merry makers who, mingle during the meal, eventually making their way to everyone – remember to bring your camera! Book Now at mrkringle.com
Hartville Children’s Shop, Your Local Toy Store Filled with quality, imaginative toys, you’ll uncover new ways to encourage a child to play and grow. Featuring books and educational materials, games, puzzles, baby gifts, piggy banks, clothing and much more! The hand-painted Noah’s Ark play area creates the perfect atmosphere for any little one to explore and play while you shop. hartvillechildrensshoppe.com | (330) 877-2172
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Other Ideas: Take a ride on the Polar Express and experience the magical journey to the North Pole! Offered by both the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and the Dennison Depot. northeastohiofamilyfun.com/holiday-trains/ Head out to get pictures with Santa, we’ve got details on all the places he’ll be including details on soothing Santa events for those with special needs and spots where you can get photos with your pets. northeastohiofamilyfun.com/pictures-with-santa/ Experience a live Nativity and bring the Christmas story to life! A variety of local churches and organizations host these every holiday. northeastohiofamilyfun.com/live-nativity/ Grab your family and head out to one of the seasonal outdoor skating rinks. Admission is typically inexpensive (and sometimes FREE) and there is a small fee to rent ice skates. northeastohiofamilyfun.com/indoor-outdoor-ice-skating Drive around to see Christmas Lights. Discover community light displays as well as neighborhood houses with thousands of choreographed Christmas lights set to music. northeastohiofamilyfun.com/must-see-christmas-light-displays-innortheast-ohio/ Visit a holiday market or craft show where you can support local businesses and find unique gifts for the people on your shopping list. northeastohiofamilyfun.com/christmas-events-activities-northeast-ohio/ Holiday 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 13
Best Area Christmas Tree Farms
There is nothing quite like heading to a local farm to pick out the perfect Christmas tree. Whether you want to head out to the field and cut your own Christmas Tree, or you prefer to choose from a selection of fresh-cut Christmas trees, our handy guide will help you find the Best Christmas Tree Farms near you. Plus, many area farms offer unique experiences to make your visit even more memorable!
Twinsberry Tree Farm
Nestled in the heart of Ohio’s Amish country, Twinsberry Tree Farm is dedicated to helping your family make memorable traditions. Offering cut your own and pre cut Christmas Trees, handmade wreaths, garland and much more. Spend time together surrounded by the beauty of the farm as you find your perfect tree this holiday. 8916 S. Jefferson Road, Shreve (330) 567-3902 | twinsberrytreefarm.com
Sugar Pines Tree Farm
Families and friends have been making memories at Sugar Pines Farm for over thirty five years! Explore our 100 acre farm with dozens of acres of cut-yourown Christmas trees, shop for fresh pre-cut trees and holiday greenery in our cozy barn, take a ride on our tractor-drawn hay wagon, enjoy hot chocolate, kettle corn and other goodies by our roaring fire. 9500 Mulberry Road, Chesterland (440) 729-1019 | sugarpinesfarm.com
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Medina Christmas Tree Farms
Two family-owned Christmas Tree Farms with thousands of trees where you can cut your own or select from the many freshly cut trees. Friendly staff will help you find, cut, carry, net, drill, bag and tie your tree to your vehicle. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and cozy up to the campfire, or meet some of the friendly farm animals on your visit. Two locations in Medina (330) 723-2106 | medinatrees.com
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The Farms at Pine Tree Barn
It’s the place to kick-off your complete family holiday experience! With 150 acres and some 75,000 trees, the Farms at Pine Tree Barn is home to one of Ohio’s oldest and largest Christmas Tree Farms. You’ll find farm fresh Christmas trees, holiday decor, fresh greens, caboose rides, Village Cafe and much more. 4374 Shreve Road, Wooster (330) 317-0567 | pinetreebarn.com
Storeyland Christmas Tree Farm
Family-owned farm growing more than 100 acres of evergreen trees. Enjoy a tractor pulled hay ride to the fields to choose and cut your own tree or select a fresh cut tree. Stop by the bonfire and enjoy a free cup of hot chocolate or coffee. A selection of fresh cut trees, trees to plant, wreaths, swags, pine roping and grave blankets is also available. 5148 State Route 7, Burghill (330) 772-8733 | storeyland.com
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Galehouse Tree Farms 11762 Coal Bank Road, Doylestown (330) 658-2480 | galehousetreefarms.com Manners Christmas Tree Farm 780 Dodgeville Road, New Lyme (440) 294-2444 | fb.com/MannersChristmasTreeFarm
Moore’s Christmas Tree Farm 6767 Edison Street, Hartville (330) 877-6520 | moorestreefarm.com River Run Tree Farm 5620 Streeter Road, Mantua (330) 888-9005 | riverruntreefarm.com
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Experience Gift Guide: What to Buy & How to Wrap Them The joy of an experience can last a lifetime while even the hottest toy often ends up collecting dust in just a few months. Here are some amazing experience gifts that are perfect for Northeast Ohio families. Give the gifts of lessons to try something new or continue an activity they already love. Get inspiration from these kids classes & extracurricular activities ideas. Passes or gift cards to one of the many indoor play centers or ninja obstacle courses are a fun way to get kids moving. Save the passes for the upcoming winter days when it’s too cold to play outside. A membership to a local museum or science center is another great option. Many offer reciprocal admission privileges to participating museums across the country. That means you can use your membership to get in free (or with a discount) to another museum when you are traveling. If your child is an animal lover, a day pass or membership to an area zoo, aquarium or animal reserve is a great option. Some locations even offer special behind the scenes tours and animal encounters to make it even more memorable. 18 NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com | Holiday 2020
There is something magical about seeing the world while rolling down the track on a train ride. Train lovers of all ages would love tickets for these popular train rides in Ohio. All Aboard!
CREATIVE WAYS TO WRAP EXPERIENCE GIFTS To add to the fun, find creative ways to wrap the experience gift so it is fun to open. For example, make opening the gift an adventure by drawing a map and sending your child on a treasure hunt for their gift. Frame tickets or gift certificates and then reuse the frame to display a picture of the experience after you’ve done it. Or put the gift inside a balloon for an exciting reveal!
LOOKING FOR MORE IDEAS? Check out our full list of Experience Gifts for Kids & Families.
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5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH KIDS Your New Year’s Eve may look a little different than it did before you welcomed children into the family. Whether you are planning on keeping your little ones up until midnight for an apple juice “cheers” or you would rather follow their normal bedtime routine, there are plenty of ways to make the day memorable.
COUNTDOWN EARLY! There are several services online that offer a midnight countdown earlier in the day. With younger children, they probably do not completely understand the concept anyway, but they are sure to comprehend the fun of “3-2-1, Happy New Year!” Recreate the midnight countdown, but just at noon so that you can put your kids to sleep at their normal bedtime. You can still go all out for the celebration, and they will never know the difference. Then you’ll have the night to either get to bed early yourself or stay up for the festivities.
GRAB INEXPENSIVE PARTY SUPPLIES Plastic horns and confetti poppers are the perfect addition to any New Year’s celebration. There is just something about balloons that makes everything more fun. You can bet your kids will have a blast with this simple addition. You might want to hide the horns the next day, but you will have a blast at the moment.
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HAVE A MOVIE MARATHON If you have children that are a little bit older, you can make your mission to last until midnight. So why not make the most of the countdown? Find some New Year’s themed treats to make, mix together a few mocktails or pull out the sparkling cider and get into your coziest pajamas. Then pick out a series that you have been wanting to watch together. The Harry Potter Series or a Disney Princess theme are sure to be a hit!
PLAN A FAMILY GAME NIGHT Pull out the board games and a deck of cards. Then order in your favorite dish for the entire family. You can let everyone pick their most beloved game and alternate as you wait for the clock to strike midnight. Throw a batch of cookies in the oven for dessert and you are all set for a night of fun! You can turn on the ball drop and pause your games for the official countdown.
CHOOSE AN OUTDOOR ACTIVITY It might be cold on New Year’s Eve, but that’s a perfect reason to get bundled up and get outside! Ice skating, sledding or skiing would all be ideal ideas of fun for the entire family.
Parent Poll
Then, you have a great excuse to make hot chocolate and build a fire before the countdown later that night. Your little ones will be tuckered out from the day of activity and you will be ready for a night in.
How do you plan to celebrate New Years Eve this year? Movies, board games and snacks. ~ Allison K. Countdown at 8pm with the kids and then my husband and I try to stay up to midnight to watch the ball drop. ~ Saundra J. Kids are going to grandparents and we’re having friends over. ~ Calie H. Holiday 2020 | NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com 21
It’s Time for an Adventure! Can you solve the mystery phrase and come out victorious at the end?! Have a blast as you follow the map on a family friendly quest. Your team will look for clues, solve puzzles and complete challenges all while having fun!
Purchase your scavenger hunt today and start your adventure any time!
The Six Page Downloadable Scavenger Hunt Includes:
A 10 question scavenger hunt with mystery phrase final answer
Detailed map with a clearly marked path
Spot-it scavenger hunt for little kids
5 choose-your-own adventure activities
Scavenger hunt tips to make Details on where to get your hunt a success hints in case you get stuck
Fun photo-op ideas for the whole family
Our top picks for things to do nearby
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