With all your little one’s records kept within the TriHealth health care system, any doctor you may need will have full access to this information –making your child’s care more convenient for you.
Find a doctor near you at TriHealth.com/Pediatrics or call 513 853 2100 .
Stewart Day
Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com
Amanda Hayward amandahayward@ daycommedia.com
Amanda Ciani amandaciani@ daycommedia.com
DayCom Associates
Tim Henard timhenard@ daycommedia.com
Theresa Cicchinelli theresa@daycommedia.com
Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com
MANAGER
Jonathan McCormack distributioncf@ daycommedia.com
Your kids' first fall.
Parents share their thoughts on a four-day school week; and we are giving away two fantastic fall prizes!
Private school open houses to mark on your calendars; BLINK! returns; plus, dinosaur happenings to roar about.
CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by DAYCOM MEDIA, INC. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, DAYCOM MEDIA cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. Editorial and business offices are located at 10945 Reed Hartman Hwy., Ste 323, Cincinnati, OH 45242. The phone number is 513-322-5052.
CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is copyright © 2022 by DayCom Media, Inc., a member of The Family Magazine Syndicate. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
Kids come up with sore throats in the fall, but is it just a seasonal thing or something more? Plus: Things We Like for the multitasking family!
“Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall."
— From The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, American novelist
Daily events including day outings, movies, nature center activities, festivals, concerts, shows & more.
Explore a castle, visit a safari wildlife park, discover the Amish way of life and many more unique road trips for the family and you this fall — all in your home state!
Editor's Picks for everything fun and festive going on this season.
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
Burwinkel Farms, located in Hamilton, Ohio, is ready to welcome visitors for fall fun activities.
Andre Hawkins | stardust@cchc.org 513-636-8549
cincinnatichildrens.org/clinicl-studies
facebook.com/cincinnatichildrensstudies
pinterest.com/cincykidsstudies
CCHMC IRB # 2018-7258: V2 BRV152411
By Amanda Hayward
Did you ever break a bone as a kid? Get stitches? It’s one of those moments that sticks in your memory for the rest of your life. As I grew I wondered, how did my parents feel when I fell and got stitches? I remember them being so calm. The truth is, they weren’t — on the inside that is. I mean, what parent is actually calm when their kid takes that first fall? Not me. On the outside, I may seem cool and collected, but inside is a different story.
My brother and I were jumping on the bed, surrounded by hardwood floors and a giant, brick fireplace. Innocent, playful fun soon turned into me rolling off the bed. It felt like slow motion and there was nothing I could do about it. There I was, headed straight for that awful fireplace. Head first, I went crashing right into it. My terrified brother stood there crying. I was crying. Then comes my mom — I don’t remember her crying. Only grabbing me, taking me downstairs and straight to the hospital. I remember laying there looking up at the ceiling with my parents looking down at me, calm as can be. That was the day I got my first stitches in my head. Let me tell you, I was livid. After multiple attempts to escape from the nurses down the hallway, stitches were done and I walked right out of that hospital with a lollipop. Still I wonder, how did my mom handle all of that?
Now I know after experiencing this for myself. My 6-year-old, Eva, gave us a scare. We were playing a game of basketball, laughing and taking turns shooting hoops as I lowered the hoop to her level. The moment I decided to walk away, asking her older brother to take over while I put the baby to bed, was the moment it happened. Jumping to touch the hoop for a slam dunk, she cut her finger on the metal net. It was the dreadful cry that got me. I could hear her screaming as she walked into the house — it wasn’t the, “My brother is teasing me scream,” it was a scream I had never really heard before. There went her dad sprinting down the stairs. All I saw was blood all over the floor and all over Eva’s hand. On the outside I gasped just a little, but on the inside I was terrified. We did what we naturally should have done (cleaned it up and put on bandages) then wondered if this meant a trip to the emergency room.
We were torn — does she need stitches? Do we keep her home? It turns out she didn’t, but days later sitting in Children’s Hospital with Eva, we waited patiently together for the doctor to call us back. I contemplated whether I waited too long to take her and whether we needed to be at Children’s Hospital in the first place. Watching Eva laugh, smile and run around happy as can be, I calmed down a little. She obviously wasn’t in any excruciating pain, are we doing the right thing I thought.
We got called back and my mouth went a hundred miles per hour explaining it all. I was a worried mom, second guessing each and every decision I made up until then. In retrospect, that is how my mom had felt — it was awful. No one wants to see their kids go through that, but more than likely, everyone has a scare or two (at least!) throughout their life — it happens!
The doctor listened then looked right at me saying, “You did the right thing, Mom. She looks great.” And that is exactly what I needed to hear.
A scene from Jurassic World LIVE!
Be amazed as Jurassic World comes to life right before your eyes in this action-packed, live arena show! Along this exhilarating journey, the whole family will experience some of Jurassic World's most iconic dinosaurs including Blue the Raptor, Stegosaurus, Triceratops and the mighty Tyrannosaurus rex! Learn more at heritagebankcenter.com/event/2022/10/jurassic-world-live.
“Only if employers will do a four-day week and keep FT pay. Sure, you can adjust hours, but then after-school activities and such have to adjust as well or participation drops. Net: it needs to be a system/culture shift, not just at the school level."
Brooke Woods“I like it for 7 - 12 [grades], with the idea that on the fifth day they are doing some sort of real-world learning …community service activities, shadowing for job interests, etc."
Leah Aguilar“No no no!!! For working parents this is a nightmare. For kids who need a safe zone, this is a nightmare!"
Mary Ann Twidale Flynn“Shorter school day would be my preference over four days. An 8:45 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. day is long for elementary kids and leaves little time in winter for daylight playing."
Nicola Qureshi“Abso-freaking-lutely! That, or a shorter school day would be great! I help with homework anyway, so if there are a couple more things for my kid to do at home and I help if needed to provide clarification, so be it!"
“Nope. Nothing to do with child care, either. I just don’t see how it would be beneficial having to cram five days worth of teaching and work into four days."
Lana SmithPainted pumpkins at Shaw Farms.
Two lucky winners will each receive a family-four pack of fun from Shaw Farms including four tractor drawn hayrides and four tickets to take on the corn maze. Each prize package is valued at $48! Learn more at shawfarmmarket.com/FallFestival.
Enter to win one of these prizes under the "Contests" tab at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com through Friday, October 7.
“Would love a four-day for the kids, but would rather have a fiveday with more recess/movement time. Kids would learn better and more!"
Kelly Dalen“I would love to have the extra day home with my kids — my son’s first year of full-day school is this year (first grade) and I miss that time with him.
I know that scheduling of four days would be difficult for a lot of families, though."
Cover Kid, Owen, photographed by Wendy Magee Photography, featuring a 1953 Chevy 3100 truck from Old School Pix at Blooms and Berries Farm Market in Loveland.
“Mine go in at 7:45 a.m. and get out at 2:15 p.m. I would like longer time in school because my kids have very short lunch and recess. Most of the time they tell me that they didn’t have time to eat all of their lunch; one told me that the teacher said it was late and they needed to leave — she's only 6, I get it, but it makes me sad. So I tell my kids every morning when I take them not to talk much at lunch, to eat and talk and play outside/recess. I make their lunch, too, to avoid any lines wait, etc."
Queenie Shaday Amanda Renderos“100 percent all for it! School and work should be four-day work weeks with the fifth day being family day. America needs it."
Tatyana Baker“Yes. Especially for the high school students who don’t necessarily need a parent at home with them on the fifth day. High school is so hard physically and mentally. High schoolers are always so tired and drained."
As the fall season kicks into gear, it's time to explore educational options for your kids. Independent schools are plentiful in our area; one of the best ways to know about anything is to GO!
Mercy McAuley High School
6000 Oakwood Ave. Cincinnati, Oh 513-681-1800 | mercymcauley.org
Open House: October 30: 1 - 3:30 p.m.
Seton High School 3901 Glenway Ave., Cincinnati, Oh 513-471-2600 | setoncincinnati.org
Rise & Shine Parent Coffee and Conversation:
October 4 and 26: 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Open House: November 9: 4:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Seven Hills School Hillsdale Campus: 5400 Red Bank Road Cincinnati, Oh Doherty Campus: 2726 Johnstone Place Cincinnati, Oh 513-728-2400 | 7hills.org
In Person Tours
PreK 2- 5: October 11 and 13: 9 - 10 a.m.
Grades 6 - 12: October 19 and November: 9 - 10 a.m.
Virtual Events: Middle and Upper School
October 20: 7 - 8 p.m.
Lower Middle School
November 3: 9 - 10 a.m
St. Ursula Villa School 3660 Vineyard Place Cincinnati, Oh 513-871-7218 | stursulavilla.org
October 23: 1 - 4 p.m.
Students run through a "tunnel" at Seven Hills School.
Bethany School
555 Albion Ave., Glendale, Oh 513-771-7462
bethanyschool.org
November 13: 2 - 4 p.m.
Calvary Christian School
5955 Taylor Mill Road Covington, Ky 859-356-9201 | ccsky.org|
November 15: 6 - 8 p.m.
Cincinnati Christian Schools 7474 Morris Road, Fairfield, Oh 7350 Dixie Highway, Fairfield, Oh 513-892-8500
cincinnatichristian.org
November 12:
Elementary: 1 - 3 p.m. JH/SH: 3 - 5 p.m.
Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy 8283 East Kemper Road Cincinnati, Oh 513-247-0900 | chca-oh.org
Open House: November 5: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Cincinnati Waldorf School 6743 Chestnut St., Cincinnati, Oh 6703 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, Oh 513-541-0220
cincinnatiwaldorfschool.org
Lower School Open House: November 5: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
High School Open House: November 5: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.:
Oaks Career Campus 110 Great Oaks Drive Cincinnati, Oh 513-771-8840 | greatoaks.com 360* virtual tour available online
Mars Hill Academy 4230 Aero Drive, Mason, Oh 513-770-3223 | marshill.edu November 4: see website for time
Mount Notre Dame High School 711 E Columbia Ave. Cincinnati, Oh 513-821-3044 | mndhs.org November 6: 1 - 5 p.m.
Royalmont Academy 200 Northcrest Drive, Mason, Oh 513-754-0555 royalmontacademy.org November 13: 2 - 4 p.m.
St. Xavier High School 600 W. North Bend Road Cincinnati, Oh 513-761-7600 | stxavier.org November 13: 1 - 4 p.m.
St. Gertrude 6543 Miami Ave., Madeira, Oh 513-561-8020 | stgertrudesch.org
November 9: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.; and 7 - 8 p.m.
The Summit Country Day School 2161 Grandin Road, Cincinnati, Oh 513-871-4700 | summitcds.org
Open House: November 17: 6:30 - 9 p.m.
The Ohio River Sweep offers a great way for families to participate in cleaning up local watershed areas. The Ohio River Sweep is a seasonal event and joint venture between the Ohio River Valley Water Commission (ORSANCO) and the Foundation for Ohio River Educations (FORE).
Helping to keep the Ohio River clean is an all-volunteer effort. Volunteers can choose a date and location for their cleanup event and the Ohio River Sweep will provide support and supplies for the event.
While kids under 18 need a parent to sign a liability waiver in order to participate, when they do, they can earn community service hours, if needed.
If you have a group who is interested in joining or organizing an Ohio River Sweep cleanup event this month, contact ORSANCO coordinator Nick Callahan at 513-231-7719, ext. 102.
To learn more about volunteering, visit orsanco. org/river-sweep/where-tovolunteer.
Lights, camera, action! BLINK, the nation’s largest light, art and mapping event, is back and bigger than ever. Grab a camera and get ready for the action October 13 - 16; the immersive experience will take place nightly from 7 - 11 p.m. Families can explore 30 blocks of amazing murals, music and projections spanning from NKY into Cincinnati. The four-day public art show will kick off with an illuminating parade that will light the way for even more amazing memory making. See the map and learn more by visiting blinkcincinnati.com.
BLINK! brings an experience of light, street art, murals and live performances throughout 30 blocks of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Photo: Facebook.
The Cincinnati Museum Center, located at 1301 Western Ave., has a brand-new, immersive exhibit taking over this month. Opening October 14, Dinosaurs of Antarctica explores fossils and paleontology in a seriously cool way; families will feel like they have traveled back in time 200 million years to ancient Antarctica to investigate prehistoric beasts like the 25-foot-long Cryolophosaurus. This adventure is included with museum admission and free with membership. To complement the Dinosaurs of Antarctica exhibit, the OMNIMAX theater is debuting a film with the same name. Viewers will be surrounded by forests as dinosaurs thunder across the landscape. Visit cincymuseum.org for tickets and showtimes or call 513-287-7000 for more information on Dinosaurs of Antarctica.
Fans of the Jurassic Park franchise will be excited to learn that the Jurassic World Live Tour is coming to Cincinnati for the first time ever. The groundbreaking tour, which features impressive puppetry and jaw-dropping special effects, will run October 13 - 16 at Heritage Bank Center. Audiences will find themselves invested in the plot where Jeanie, a Troodon, seems destined for a terrible fate. Scientists will have to work together to protect the dinos and save the day. There will be appearances from many fan-favorite dinos like Blue the Raptor, Stegosaurus, Triceratops and the mighty T-rex during this exhilarating show. Ready to be immersed into the world of Jurassic World Live? Head to jurassicworldlivetour.com to buy tickets today!
Look out Duke Energy Convention Center (525 Elm St.), Dinos and Dragons are invading on October 1 and 2! Dino & Dragon Stroll features massive life-like dinosaurs, some of which stand more than 28 feet tall or 60 feet long, that move and sound like the real deal. Children can participate in story time and crafts during their excursion, or for an extra fee, participate in additional activities like inflatables, dinosaur scooters, walking dinosaur rides, stationary rides and more. This event encourages visitors to bring food items which will be donated to a local food bank as a part of Dino and Dragon Strolls, “Stomp Out Hunger” initiative. A sensory-friendly session will be offered on October 1 at 8:30 a.m. Head to dinostroll. com to purchase tickets today.
VIRTUAL EVENT: EARLY CHILDHOOD INFO SESSION (Pre-k for 2-yr-olds through kindergarten)
Tuesday, Sept. 27 1:30-2:15 p.m.
VIRTUAL EVENT: LOWER SCHOOLS INFO SESSION (Pre-k for 2-yr-olds through grade 5)
Thursday, Nov. 3 9-10 a.m.
VIRTUAL EVENT: MIDDLE SCHOOL AND UPPER SCHOOL INFO SESSION (Grades 6-12)
Thursday, Oct. 20 7-8 p.m.
VIRTUAL EVENT: STUDENT & PARENT PANEL (Grades 6-12)
Thursday, Jan. 19 7-7:45 p.m.
VIRTUAL EVENT: COLLEGE COUNSELINGOUR COMPREHENSIVE 4-YEAR PROGRAM (Grades 6-12)
Wednesday, Jan. 25 12-12:45 p.m.
Northern Kentucky CAC’s Head Start prepares children for academic success with Center-Based, Home-Based, and Early Head Start Services. Head Start provides quality preschool education for children ages 0 to 5. Combining Early Head Start Services and resources with traditional childcare and family childcare settings creates opportunities to improve outcomes for infants, toddlers, and their families.
For more information, visit our website at www.nkcac.org.
Childcare centers and family childcare providers respond to the needs of working families by offering flexible and convenient full-day and full-year services. Early childhood classroom instruction promotes positive socialization and creates a supportive network for parents.
Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission 717 Madison Ave., Covington, KY 41011 859-581-6607
It can be confusing and leave you feeling icky trying to decide what is causing your kids’ frequent sore throats — especially during these fall and winter months. Could it mean a trip to the doctor? Hold the phone - more factors come into play when it comes to kids’ sore throats.
Nurse Practitioner, Alyse Knapp, with Mercy Health - Southwest Schools Community Clinic at Harrison High School, says there are many reasons your kids can be waking up with a sore or scratchy throat, and it’s not always viral.
“Particularly in the fall and winter, when the heat is turned on in your home, kids can wake up with a sore throat,” Knapp says. “When we sleep, we naturally produce less saliva. When we do not have as much saliva to help moisten our mouths and throat and we add the dry air from the heating, we can wake up in the mornings with some throat irritation.”
Sore throats can also be caused from smoke exposure, gastric reflux, allergies, viruses or bacteria, she continues. How does a frustrated parent decipher the cause of it all?
Begin by asking your kids questions such as: How bad does your throat hurt? Is it painful or scratchy? Does your head hurt? Do your ears hurt? Do you have a bellyache? Does your body hurt? Are you extra sleepy today?
Collin Burkart, ear, nose and throat specialist with The Christ Hospital Health Network, says if your kid has a severe sore throat and is not able to tolerate food or liquids - associated with fever and any sort of discoloration of the throat — this is when it’s time to call the doctor.
The change of season may be why your kid wakes up complaining about a painful, hard-to-swallow throat. However, know the signs that indicate something else may be going on.
“Other symptoms that suggest seeing a doctor quickly would be systemic symptoms such as body aches, chills, muscle aches and or rash,” continues Burkart. “If the child has just a mild sore throat and no fever and no other systemic symptoms, they can try hydration and rest to see if this helps symptoms. If it does not improve, then see a medical specialist.”
Also keep a lookout to see if your kids’ throat is severely swollen, or if they have trouble swallowing or breathing – if this is the case, seek medical attention right away.
To add some more confusion, isn’t a sore throat a symptom of COVID-19? Yes, however, according to Knapp, sore throats only occur in approximately 30 percent of children who are symptomatic with COVID-19. Since with a sore throat comes cough, fever, fatigue, body aches, nasal congestion or runny nose, diarrhea, and an upset tummy, the only way to know if a sore throat is caused by the COVID19 virus is to be tested, she says.
“It is much more common that a sore throat could be due to the typical reasons that a child gets a sore throat such as the reasons mentioned above,” Burkart adds. “These include allergies, viral causes other than COVID and bacterial infections.”
When in doubt, call your pediatrician.
A viral infection, including adenoviruses (which typically cause mild cold or flu-like symptoms) and Coxsackie viruses (hand, foot and mouth disease — sometimes causing small blisters in the mouth, making the throat sore — more
common in young children), decreases in frequency as they get older, according to Knapp
“It is important to note that viral infections are not treated with antibiotics,” she continues.
Common non-viral conditions include strep throat and, in infants, oral thrush. Amanda Hayward is editor of this magazine and a mom of three kids.
Help your kiddos wake up ready to take on their day!
• Keep up-to-date on vaccinations
• Keep away from the germs
• Maintain distance from the sick
• Practice good hand hygiene
• Do not share food or drink utensils
• Teach kids to not touch their face, eyes or mouth
• Provide nutritional diets to kids
• Give kids plenty of fluids
• Make sure kids get lots of sleep
• Place a humidifier in bedrooms
Editor Note: If your kids have allergies, talk to your family doctor or pediatrician about appropriate allergy medications.
SOURCE: Knapp and Burkart
page)
Make juggling kid paraphernalia a little more feasible with these nifty products you can take anywhere.
If you’re on the road with Baby, there seems to be no way around packing what feels like your whole life. That’s why items with multiple uses are a must! Multifunctional items (and those on-the-go items to entertain and educate along the way) are perfect for saving space, time and your sanity.
Babies and tots can sleep safe and sound on-thego no matter how bright the room is. This cool travel cover not only protects your littles from the sun, Baby can nap peacefully in a recreated dark cozy nursery - just how he likes it; fits all standard rectangular pack-n-plays sized up to 41 inches long and 31 inches wide (when assembled), as well as travel cribs and portable cribs.
This adorable, educational audio play system captures your kids’ imaginations as it brings stories to life. For ages 0 - 6, it’s perfect for different developmental stages. It’s an audio experience built around a special speaker that encourages kids to engage with audio characters, read-along books and flashcards, too. Choose from a wide variety of interests and subjects.
An all-terrain workhorse with rugged all-terrain wheels and welded aluminum frame for strength and stability. Your little ones will have a smooth and comfy ride thanks to the slick and sleek steering. Convert to recline mode for rest time and it quickly folds up flat when it’s time to hit the road; includes two extra-large canopies that zip closed to protect your littles from rain, wind and sun.
Don’t end up down the road without a booster seat ever again – whether at a restaurant or at a family/ friend’s house. This cool diaper bag takes care of it all - a booster seat and diaper bag all in one - genius!
Easily unzip and securely attach to a chair. Your little one can now safely participate in on-the-go mealtimes and mama, your lap is now free. Transition it to diaper bag mode and you’re on your way.
Pack n SnoozeShade Play Blackout Travel Crib Canopy Cover; amazon.com; $89.99
Explore 2 Stage Portable Booster Seat and Diaper Bag; contoursbaby.com $49.99
Storypod; storypod.com; $99.99
re we there yet?”
That is probably the most common question that children ask their parents on family road trips. The family road trip is an American family tradition, and Ohio offers many interesting venues for families to visit, and not all of them are in big cities. Ohio has a few gems off the beaten path that offer families with kids more bang for their buck.
African Safari Wildlife Park
267 South Lightner Road, Port Clinton 419-732-3606
africansafariwildlifepark.com
African Safari Wildlife Park offers two kinds of safaris and several other animal experiences.
The Drive-Thru Safari features alpaca, American bald eagle, American bison, Ankole-Watusi cattle, Bactrian camel, elk, emu, fallow deer, gemsbok, giant eland, giraffe and Grant’s zebra, to name a few. In addition, there are many species of wildflowers and plants on the safari. Families can encounter unique animals
through the Walk-Thru Safari, too from African crested porcupines, to the African grey parrot and sacred ibis, to the African spurred tortoise and warthog, to red kangaroos and tons more distinctive animals. This one-of-a-kind experience is a favorite amongst the whole family! Kids get a kick out of the camel rides, Zooit-all encounters, EdZOOcational programs, HogWILD experiences and gem mining. Note to help you plan ahead: park rules prohibit guests from leaving their cars and touching the animals during the drive-thru safari.
Ohio is full of wild, wondrous and mysterious adventures for the whole family. Embark on a journey this fall to one of these unique spots the kids will love.The African Safari Wildlife Park, located in Port Clinton, will have your family experiencing animal encounters whether drive-thru or walk-thru!
6947 Riverview Road, Peninsula 440-717-3890
nps.gov/cuva/index.htm
The best place to begin your visit to this national park is at the Boston Mill Visitor Center. Cuyahoga Valley has over 125 miles of hiking trails, including deep forests, rolling hills and open farmlands. Families looking into a more physically fit journey can partake in hiking, biking, fishing, birding, backpacking, paddling the river, horse trails, questing, picnicking, golfing and even winter sports. If you have little ones or pysically-taxing activities aren’t on the agenda, you may want to take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which races along with the rushing Cuyahoga River. The national park features over 90 species of grasses, over 70 species of sedges and a large variety of wildflowers. Explore the wilderness with the kids and keep a lookout for amphibians, birds, insects, mammals and reptiles lurking throughout the park. Note: Camping is not offered at Cuyahoga Valley however, families wanting to lodge at the park can opt for Stanford House or the Inn at Brandywine Falls.
19852 State Route 664 South, Logan 740-385-6841
thehockinghills.org
Hocking Hills offers hiking, camping, cabins, and cottages. This gorgeous state park offers lots of family fun adventures including fishing, picnicking, archery, canoeing, horseback riding, golfing, gem mining, Adventure Golf at Rempel’s Grove, an 18-hole mini-golf course, and more. Shopping anyone? There are tons of unique shops in the area: the Shops by Olde Dutch Restaurant, Grandma Fayes Grocery & C/O, Hocking Hills State Park Gift Shop, Midwest Glassware Outlet, Hocking Hills Antique Mall and Hocking Hills Craft Mall are amongst the favorites. Families looking to lodge and absorb the beautiful Hocking Hills scenery, choosing one of the seven types of Hocking Hills Cabins is the way to go: Comfort in the Woods, Whispering Oaks Cabin, Nature’s Retreat Cabin, Brimstone Ridge Cabins, Queen Bee Cabins and Cottages, LLC, Beverly Hills Cabin and Eagle’s Nest Cabin. Camping is available, too, or families can also lodge at Hocking Hills State Park Cottages. There are 40 cottages with heating and air-conditioning that accommodate up to six people, and Hocking Hills State Park Campground has 156 electric sites and 13 non-electric sites.
1400 State Park Road, Oregon 419-836-7758
stateparks.com/maumee_bay_state_ park_in_ohio.html
Located near Lake Erie and is nestled among scenic meadows, wet woods and lush marshes with wildlife habitats. The wetlands are home to over 300 species of birds, fox
snakes, northern water snakes, painted turtles, chorus frogs, green frogs, spotted salamanders, raccoons, muskrats, dragonflies, caddis flies and water striders. They also feature plant life diversity, such as cattails, buttonbush, phragmites, burreed, cottonwood and black willow. The state park offers golf, fishing, hiking, bicycling and lodging. Maumee Bay State Park has a campground with 256 sites, featuring shower houses, flush toilets, electricity, and playground equipment. There are also deluxe cottages equipped with a gas fireplace, heating, air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, a living area, and bedrooms. Maumee Bay features Quilter Lodge, overlooking the Maumee Bay of Lake Erie, which offers 120 guest rooms, each with a balcony. There are also two sand beaches, one on the Lake Erie shore and the other lines the park’s inland lake.
Ravenwood Castle, located in New Plymouth is a medieval-themed hotel that is sure to spark your kids’ imaginations to know more about that period in time.
from. Plus, stay overnight and get a free breakfast in the Great Hall! A delicious buffet dinner is usually offered on Friday and Saturday nights in the Great Hall, and grown-ups can enjoy a craft beer, wine, cider or mixed drink at Raven’s Roost Pub. Kids will really have a blast at the unique Ravenwood Castle playing board games and more.
The Wilds 14000 International Road, Cumberland 740-638-5030
thewilds.columbuszoo.org
Ohio Amish Country – Holmes County
6 West Jackson Street, Millersburg 330-674-3975
holmescountychamber.com
In Ohio Amish Country, families can learn about the Amish at the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center. More importantly, you can even meet the Amish, and do business with them. Several Amish businesses operate there, such as Walnut Creek Cheese, Country Fabrics, Lehman’s Hardware, and Kauffman’s Country Bakery. Families wanting to learn more about Amish life can sign up for tours, workshops, and other exciting experiences; some tours will even bring you to Amish homes and Amish businesses. If you’re looking for an opportune teaching moment for the kids, learning about Amish canning, quilting and lifestyle are some more options to look into. Finish the evening with a fine dinner at an Amish home or a local restaurant (check for reservations before you go).
Ravenwood Castle 65666 Bethel Road, New Plymouth 740-596-2606
ravenwoodcastle.com
Ravenwood Castle is a medieval-themed hotel nestled in the woods of Hocking Hills with cool medieval themes that cater to your little one’s big imagination: Rapunzel’s Tower, The Duke’s Dungeon, Queen Elizabeth Suite, Queen Victoria Suite, Empress Matilda Suite, Shakespeare Suite, King Arthur Suite, Candlemaker’s Cottage, Cinderella’s Coach House, Forester’s Cabin, and so much more where that came
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
A safari park and conservation center that combines science and education programs, and should we mention, truly lives up to its name. The Wilds offers daily, specialty and zipline tours — the Open-Air Safari being the most popular, taking you on a wild adventure in an open-air vehicle through open-range animal areas. Families will see rhinos, giraffes, and many other rare, endangered animals. Tours last at least two hours and stop at Lake Trail and the Carnivore Center. For smaller groups, the Wildside Tour (also at least two hours long) offers specially modified fourwheel drive trucks; watch the kids’ eyes light up as you drive up to herds of rhinos and even feed a giraffe! If you’re interested in a more specialty tour, checking out Secrets of the Zoo Wildside Tour, Wildside Tour, Sunset Safari Tour, Fishing Safari Tour, Horseback Safari, Sunset Wildside Tour and more is worth your time. Feeling very wild? The Wilds also offers a variety of Zipline Safari Tours. Call it a day or extend your stay and take advantage of the lodging offered at the safari park. Nomad Ridge is an adult-only (21 and older) private yurt with bamboo flooring and Asian-inspired décor; or, The Lodge is a private luxury cabin with six cabins that can accommodate up to 12 guests. Cabins at Straker Lake are also worth your “wild” and are for up to six guests each. We also recommend giving Wildnight at the Outpost a gander where you can actually spend the night with giraffes, rhinos and other rare animals.
Charles Infosino is a freelance writer who resides in Cincinnati.
8216 Highland Pointe Drive, West Chester
513-779-2413 | bucknermartialarts.com
Voted one the best martial arts studios in Cincinnati, we combine defense skills with personal development. Students progress quickly while learning leadership and strong values under the teaching of master instructors. Free uniform with class sign-up.
290 CCM Blvd., Cincinnati
513-556-2595 | ccm.uc.edu/arts4all/prep.html
CCM Prep offers music, dance and theatre arts for students of all ages and abilities — including classes for adults, children, teens and pre-professional students preparing careers in the performing arts. Both at CCM and through satellite locations and partnerships, we provide excellent, enjoyable and accessible performing arts opportunities that educate and inspire the whole student and serve as a catalyst for transforming lives and empowering communities.
600-B Reading Road, Mason
513-398-0353 | masondance.com
We provide an opportunity for anyone ages 3 - adult to discover the joys of dance. Ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, modern, pre-professional ballet, pre-dance combos, adult classes. We offer summer and mini-camps!
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BLUE MARBLE BOOKS
1356 S. Fort Thomas Ave., Fort Thomas, KY 859-781-0602 | bluemarblebooks.com
Blue Marble Books was founded in 1979 as a way to promote youth literacy and a joy for reading. We continue that legacy to this day, curating a space where children can discover the magic of books and the adventures to be found therein. We also enjoy special ordering for adult books, kid-friendly events, virtual Story Times every Saturday, and customer rewards. We also work closely with schools, providing special discounts and free delivery. Thank you for supporting your local indie bookstore!
927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland 513-683-4757 • cmhschool.com
Children’s Meeting House fosters the development of the whole child by implementing the philosophy and curriculum of Dr. Maria Montessori, using the abundant natural resources of our seven-acre campus.
Voted Best Preschool by the readers of Cincinnati Family magazine. Open House, Jan. 29 from 2 - 4 p.m.
11711 Princeton Pike, Ste. 451, Cincinnati 513-671-0239 | cincinnatiquestcenter.com
We are Cincinnati’s elite martial arts and self-protection location. The training is fun, informative, and effective. Best of all, they are for everyone! We have classes for students as young as age 4 as well as classes for adults of every age, fitness level, and ability.
CODE NINJAS – GREEN TWP
6507 Harrison Ave., Cincinnati 513-878-1338 codeninjas.com/oh-green-township
Unleash your child’s inner Ninja! Transform your child’s love for technology into an exciting learning adventure. Guided by our team of Code Senseis, Code Ninjas empowers kids to gain valuable tech skills and make new friends. We offer an immersive environment for kids to explore and develop new skills, gain confidence, and have fun with friends. From coding and game building, to STEM and robotics - it’s an unforgettable experience!
GIRLS RUGBY Teams in Fairfield, Oxford and Norwood girlsrugbyinc.com/cincinnati
Each Girls Rugby program focuses on helping every participant lead and succeed by focusing on teaching positive core values and life skills through non-contact, flag rugby. Flag Rugby is a fun, all-inclusive way to introduce participants to the fundamental skills of rugby with a big emphasis on having fun! No experience is needed to play and all are welcome.
MOSS PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY 1671 Park Road #2, Ft. Wright, KY 859-344-6362 mossdanceandperformingartsacademy.com
Moss Performing Arts Academy is the only all-inclusive performing arts studio in the NKY and Greater Cincinnati area. They offer 150 classes in acting, dance, theatre, voice, acro, tumbling, piano, stage tech, college prep and fitness. Moss offers classes for the recreational student, as well as the student preparing for a career in the performing arts. Try your first class for free!
STAR GLAZERS
513-474-6364 | starglazers.com
Paint pottery at your location. Pottery experts will bring all the supplies and offer booklets and ideas for your masterpiece. Pricing includes the cost of supplies, glazing and firing. No mess!
WEST CHESTER ACADEMY MUSIC, DANCE, ACTING AND GYMNASTICS
8107 Market Place Drive, West Chester 513-829-2345 | westchesteracademy.com
From a child’s very first lesson to the experienced adult, West Chester Academy has something for everyone in music, dance, acting, and gymnastics. Located in West Chester, we specialize in beginners of all ages and offer training through pre-professional levels. We also have camps for all ages.
Find a happening any day of the month.
We’ve rounded up the not-so-scary seasonal events for all of your Littles! The best time of the year is finally here! Dig in!
PHOTOS: Burwinkel Farms; Shaw Farms’ Facebook pages.
When you see the little ghost next to an event in the Daily Events, it signifies a scary event.
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BURWINKEL FARMS FALL FESTIVAL
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COUNTRY FIRESIDE NIGHT
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FALL ON THE FARM
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JACK O’LANTERN JUNCTION
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BURGER FARM FALL FESTIVAL
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NELTNER’S FALL FEST
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SHAW FARMS PUMPKIN TIMES
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Scary highlights include the haunted Madame Fatale’s Cavern of Terror and rides like The Beast. Not recommended for kids under 13. Kings Island, 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason; 6 p.m. - 12 a.m.; buy online for savings; visitkingsisland.com.
Pivoting prisms provide light and reflections. Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; daily through Oct. 16. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; $10 adults, $7 ages 5 - 17, free for ages 4 and younger; 513-4214086 or cincinnatiparks.com.
Join Cincinnati Ballet for a family fun evening of dance, performances, food trucks, community art projects and more. Cincinnati Ballet, 1801
Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati; 3 - 7 p.m.; 513-621-5219 or cballet. org.
A day of art activities, performances and a scavenger hunt. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 513-721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.
Make mysterious discoveries under logs, beneath rocks, etc., then turn in a finished hunt sheet for a prize. Woodland Mound, 8250 Old Kellogg Road, Cincinnati; 1 - 4 p.m.; vehicle permit required for park entry; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.
Explore the world through stories, songs, activities and discussions. For kids in grades 1 - 3. Clifton Branch, 3400 Brookline Ave., Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 513-369-4447 or cincinnatilibrary.org.
Life-size dinosaurs and dragons! Extra ticketed activities include inflatables, dino scooters, rides and more. Sensory-friendly session on Saturday, October 1 at 8:30 a.m. Duke Energy Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Cincinnati; Saturday, October 1: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday, October 2: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $19.99 + service fee; free for military, veterans and ages 23 months and younger; dinostroll. com/events/cincinnati-oh.
Celebrate German culture with music, dance, food and a play area for kids. The Oktoberfest Car Show is Sunday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Donauschwaben, 4290 Dry Ridge Road, Cincinnati; Saturday, October 1: 1 - 11 p.m. Sunday, October 2: 12 - 8 p.m.; $5 admission; 513-385-2098 or donauschwabenreceptionhalls. com.
Celebrate fall by browsing more than 50 booths. Extra activities available for purchase. Country Pumpkins Farm, 1835 Sherman Mount Zion, Dry Ridge; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 859-905-9656 or countrypumpkinsky.com.
Wear orange and blue and head to TQL for a Football Club Cincinnati home game. 1501 Central Parkway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; see website for ticket pricing; 513-977-5425 or fccincinnati.com.
Enjoy nature together! Precampsite reservations ($60 for a shared fire ring; $30 without) required. Check-in begins at 2 p.m. Free programming takes place in the evening
starting at 4 p.m. Lake Isabella, 10101 Montgomery Road, Montgomery; 2 p.m.; 513-5217275 or greatparks.org.
The smash musical about Alexander Hamilton. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; see website for more showtimes; tickets start at $59; 513-6212787 or cincinnatiarts.org.
Combine science, play and art to create something new. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 2 p.m.; $16.50 adults, $12.50 seniors and ages 3 - 12, free for members; 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.
This Agatha Christie murder mystery is for ages 12 and
Disney’s Descendants: The Musical helps to launch the Children’s Theatre ofolder. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 2 or 7:30 p.m.; see website for additional showtimes; tickets start at $33.50; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org.
Time Travelers Weekend; dress like a movie/TV/book character. Ohio Renaissance Festival, Harveysburg; 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; $25 adult general admission, $7 child general admission (5 - 12) + FREE parking; 513-897-7000 or renfestival.com.
Enjoy live music, food trucks, inflatables, face painters, balloons, games and more!
Owls Nest Park, 1984 Madison Road, Cincinnati; 2 - 6 p.m.; 513-861-0023 or cincinnatiparksfoundation.org.
What’s lurking in the woods? Kids 12 and younger must be with an adult.
Twisted Trails, 5719 Ohio 73, Wilmington; 7 - 10:30 p.m.; admission includes a game of Alien Invasion Gel Soft and 18 holes of Eaglewood Mini golf; $22 general admission, $30 fast pass admission + group pricing available; 513-317-0983 or twistedtrailshaunt.com.
Families can have lots of fun at this NKY flea- jam to live music, food trucks and local artisan and craftsman vendor booths plus touch a truck! Tower Park, 900 South Fort Thomas Ave., Fort Thomas; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 859572-1209 or ftthomas.org.
Kids create art each week. Duke Energy Children’s Museum, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; $16.50 adults, $12.50 seniors and ages 3 - 12, free for members; 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.
Get ready for kindergarten with stories, songs and activities. Ages 4 - 6; no registration required; every Monday through October 17. Harrison Branch, 10398 New Haven Road, Harrison; 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.; 513369-4442 or chpl.org.
The annual outing contributes to distributing diapers and needed items to local babies. Traditions Golf Club, 2035 Williams Road, Hebron; 10 a.m.; foursomes available for $500; sweetcheeksdiaperbank.org.
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Every week is something new. Newport On the Levee, 1 Levee Way, Newport; 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.; 859-291-0550 or newportonthelevee.com.
A four-week nature-based for toddlers with games, stories and animals. LaBoiteaux Woods, 5400 Lanius Lane, Cincinnati; 9:30 - 11 a.m.; $40 for an adult and child age 1-and-ahalf to 2-and-a-half years old; explorenature.regfox.com.
The high-energy, interactive stage production. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; tickets starting $25; 513-621-2787 or mastercheflivetour.com.
Littles ages 0 - 5 can explore music, movement, instruments and more with their caregivers! Owl’s Nest Park, 1984 Madison Road, Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; $13 per class, weekly sessions offered through October 11; 513673-0797 or queencityzbini.com.
Preschoolers can make friends and do activities with Ms. Barbara every Wednesday. The Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum, 3738 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati; 10 a.m.; $15 pp per day; 513-473-5745 or thecarnegiecenter.org.
Learn about area owls, then take a hike to visit birds of prey with RAPTOR Inc. Ages 10 and older with an adult; Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 6 - 8 p.m.; $26 non-members, includes daily admission, $20 members; 513831-1711 or cincynature.org.
FREE OPERATION PUMPKIN Turn to page 22.
Spooktacular Halloween movies all weekend. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati; 8 p.m.; washingtonpark.org/series/frightnight-weekend-2.
All-things sheep plus live bluegrass, arts and crafts vendor booths and festival food. 48 Concord Caddo Road, Falmouth; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 10
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• Bring a lightweight stroller: Little legs can tire quickly.
• Dress for the weather: If it rains on your parade, have ponchos at the ready.
• Dress in play clothes: Put play clothes under costumes and bring boots for mud!
• Let them explore: Follow your child’s lead and when they are done, let them be done.
• Pack snacks: A happy belly equals a happy kiddo!
• Bring cash
• Go early and plan ahead: Know that most farms will close early on Halloween.
Fall is a wonderful time for Littles to run and play, so mark some fall fun on your calendar and most importantly, have yourselves a ball!
Wagon and pony rides, corn mazes, petting zoos and fall-themed games are all part of the fun this fall. Little kids love to explore and take in all of the excitement made especially for them at the farms and festivals, and dig into sweet treats, too!
Brown’s Family Farm Market 11620 Hamilton - Cleves Road Hamilton, Oh; 513-738-0404 brownsfarmmarket.com
Now open daily 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; fall activities include pick your own pumpkin patch, hayrides, corn maze, straw maze, farm animals, picnic area, several play areas and lots of photo opps! Fall decor and fresh produce include corn stalk bundles, Indian corn, squash, gourds, mums, and pumpkins; school groups can attend sessions during the week; call ahead to reserve. Private parties welcomed on weekends. Call to reserve your picnic area.
Burger Farms’ Fall on the Farm 7849 Main St., Cincinnati, Oh 513-561-8634; burgerfarms.com Saturdays and Sundays every weekend in October from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; free parking, hayrides to the Pumpkin Patch (last hayride at 5 p.m.) pumpkin Land (story book world walk through with animated characters and scavenger hunt); puppet show (help the “Pumpkin Pals” solve the missing pumpkin mystery. Shows start at 12 p.m. and runs on the hour); giant straw
castle; playset area; giant jumping pillow and a whole lot more. Plus, Weekday Hayrides from 1:30 - 5 p.m.; take the little ones on a relaxing hayride and pick up some pumpkins, gourds, hay and more at the Garden Center while you’re at it; $5 hayrides + additional fees for fall produce and merchandise.
Burwinkel Farms Fall Festival 4359 Hamilton Cleves Road Ross, Oh; 513-738-1145 burwinkelfarms.com Fall Festival is Saturdays and Sundays through October 31, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Burwinkel Farms open daily, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Jump on a hayride through the blooming sunflower fields to the pumpkin patch, corn mazes, and then scurry on over to a Halloween scavenger hunt. Don’t forget your camerathere will be tons of photo opps, too. Be sure to shop for your fall décor and so much more. Check their Facebook for weekday public hayride announcements, additional weekday time openings and more. Note: Saturday, October 1, public hayrides will end at 5 p.m.
Country Pumpkins Fall Festival 1835 Sherman Mount Zion Dry Ridge; 859-905-9656 countrypumpkinsky.com
Through October 30, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; hayrides, a corn maze, barrel train, petting zoo, U-pick and pre-picked pumpkins, delicious concessions and more are all at this 250-acre farm! Activity options for added fun include: Gold Bundles (U-Pick Hayride (includes a large pumpkin), Cotton Wagon, barrel train ride, Turbo Slide, four-acre corn maze, and two shots from the Chunkin’ Pumpkin launcher; Pumpkin Ridge includes two pre-picked pumpkins, a petting zoo, giant slides, corn box, photo spots, the all-new Pumpkin House and more. Plus, don’t miss out on special events such as Country Fireside Nights, October 1 OR October 7 from 7 - 10 p.m.; $15 admission per person; admission includes bonfire, lantern-lit hayride, corn maze in the dark and five shots from the Chunkin’ Pumpkin Launcher. Head to their website for more details and early bird savings; rides and U-Pick available Friday nights 5 - 7 p.m. and
weekends only; rides and corn maze weather permitting; concessions available weekends only; and for Little Boos: Candy Express Barrel Train, Saturday, October 29; 2 - 3 p.m.; little pumpkins (12 and younger).
Fall on the Farm at Blooms and Berries Farm Market 9669 Ohio 48, Loveland, Oh 513-697-9173 bloomsandberries.com
Through October 31, SundaySaturday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.; wind through a corn maze, hop on the pumpkin bounce pad, take a hayride or spin around the bee train, pick a pumpkin, explore the petting farm, browse tasty seasonal baked goods and more.
Neltner’s Fall Fest
6922 4 Mile Road, Melbourne, Ky 859-496-7535 neltnersfarm.com
9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekends through October 31 + music will be performed on weekends 1:30 - 4:30 p.m.; take a ride on a horse-drawn wagon ride, check out a cool model train display, browse craft vendors, listen to live music, visit the petting zoo and more.
Shaw Farms Pumpkin Times
1737 Ohio 131, Milford, Oh 513-575-2022; shawfarmmarket.com
Shaw Farms open daily 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Pumpkin Times, featuring live bluegrass music available on weekends; grab a camera, and get ready to experience the best of fall! Littles will love the interactive playground with themed cut-outs, plump pumpkin people and more for fun photos. You can’t have a fall fest without a hayride - hop on a tractor drawn hayride, find fresh pumpkins, venture through a challenging corn maze, enjoy pedal carts, horse drawn hayrides, the little blue train and even live bluegrass music on weekends.
Trick or Treat on the Farm Hidden Valley Orchards 5474 Ohio 48, Lebanon, Oh 513-932-1869; hiddenvalleyorchards. com
October 29 & 30, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; put on a costume, and don’t forget your candy pail! Kiddos will visit “spooky” treat stations throughout the farm. Be sure to grab some treats from the bakery before you go, and grown-ups can try a pumpkin beer from the Crate Room; must register.
Fall Fest at Washington Park 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati, Oh 513-621-4400 washingtonpark.org October 22 - 23: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; dance to a fantastic entertainment lineup, check out local craft vendors, kids’ activities, animal encounters and a free pumpkin patch!
Halloween Walk in the Woods Blue Ash Nature Park 4337 Cooper Road, Blue Ash blueash.com
Saturday, October 22; 12 - 3 p.m.; kiddos will love testing out their Halloween costumes with some fun trick-or-treating at the Blue Ash Nature Park.
HallZOOween Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati 513-559-7781 cincinnatizoo.org
October 15 - 16, 22- 23 and 29 - 30, 12 - 5 p.m.; ghouls and little boos can visit trick-or-treat stations, watch animals enjoy enrichment, see Phil Dalton’s Theater of Illusion Show and more.
Haunted Village at Heritage Village 11450 Lebanon Road Sharonville; 513-563-9484 heritagevillagecincinnati.org/ events/haunted-village
October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29: 6 - 10 p.m.; the 19th century village inside Sharon Woods Park is the perfect setting for a spooky October evening! Trick-or-treat through the village meeting ghosts, witches and a fortune teller along the way. The littles will surely enjoy the balloon art, games, theater, storytelling, a maze, a creepy critter zoo and more!
The Howl Voice of America MetroPark Wiggly Field Dog Park 7850 VOA Park Drive 513-867-5835 yourmetroparks.net
Saturday, October 15, 4 - 7 p.m.; bring the kids and their furry best pals for a costume parade, a trick-or-treat trail for owners and pups, an obstacle course, vendors and more! Stick around for a screening of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians at sundown. Don’t have a dog of your own? Adoptable dogs from Animal Friends Rescue Society will be available for loan for the duration of the event. Must register; $5 per pup, free for families without dogs (yet!); valid vehicle permit required for park entry.
Howl-O-Ween Hootenanny ArtsConnect Front Lawn 9158 Winton Road, Cincinnati 513-522-2108 theartsconnect.us
Saturday, October 29, 12 - 3 p.m; This not-so-scary, outdoor celebration will have your little ones saying “Scooby, dooby doo!” Kids can put on their best costumes for some trunkor-treating, a fun hay maze, Scooby-Doo scavenger hunt, DJ, face painting, mini pumpkin painting ($4), hot cocoa, a pet costume contest at 2 p.m. (must register for pet contest) and more! Sponsored by ArtsConnect and Powel Crosley YMCA.
Jack O’ Lantern Junction
EnterTRAINment Junction 7379 Squire Court, West Chester, Oh; 513-898-8000 entertrainmentjunction.com
Through October 31, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; navigating through a maze has never been so fun. You’ll find friendly ghosts, skeletons and trick-or-treat candy. Plus, kids can check out the pumpkin-filled cargo trains making their way all around scale train neighborhoods and cities and Halloween mini scenes.
6300 Kings Island Drive Mason; 513-754-5700 visitkingsisland.com
Through October 30, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tasty treats, lively entertainment and of course, tons of exciting rides are all part of this annual fall fest.
Cincinnati Nature Center 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford 513-831-1711 cincynature.org
Friday, October 28, 7 - 9 p.m.; spiders, bats and bones, oh my! Don a costume for this nonspooky woodland Halloween adventure. Little ones can enjoy hands-on, on-trail nature crafts, activities and festive treats; must register.
Operation Pumpkin 1 High St., Hamilton, Oh operation-pumpkin.org
October 7 - 9, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m; get ready to celebrate 11 years of awesomeness at this pumpkin and art festival; live music, kids’ activities, a pageant, pup parade, vendors, food and HUGE carved pumpkins.
Sensory Friendly Mornings at the Contemporary Arts Center: Halloween Treat 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati Oh; 513-345-8400 contemporaryartscenter.org. October 29, 9 - 10 a.m.; the CAC has made extra welcoming to sensory sensitive guests. Get into the spooky spirit with fun activities during this morning adventure.
Wyoming Fall Festival Wyoming, Oh wyomingohio.gov
Saturday, October 1, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; browse more than 80 vendor booths, enjoy live performances and more.
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
We feature over 100 shows daily. Hold your breath watching the dueling swordsmen, daring fire jugglers, or the joust.
Enjoy dozens of savory offerings at the Ohio Renaissance Festival! Turkey legs, burgers, pulled pork and of course…beer!
Our sprawling village is filled with shoppes featuring home-made crafts, ambiance, and charm of a time over 400 years past.
Where will we see you next? Join in one of these Special Events, from shows to the pub crawl, to have even more fun during your visit.
p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; $10 adults, $5 ages 7 - 18, free for ages 6 and younger; $20 3-day passes; kywoolfest.org.
Head to the Rosenthal Education Center for art-making using reclaimed materials from Indigo Hippo. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 11 a.m.; 513-7212787 or cincinnatiartmuseum. org/events-programs/events-list.
Watch the offspring of Maleficent, Cruella De Vil and Jafar navigate school. Fellow students include their parent’s sworn enemies! Taft Theatre, 317 East 5th St., Cincinnati; 2 or 5 p.m.; see website for additional showtimes and ticket pricing; 513-569-8080 or thechildrenstheatre.com.
Create a pumpkin and black cat craft and take home a live plant. Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $10 adults, $7 ages 5 - 17 years old, free for ages 4 and younger; 513-421-4086 or cincinnati-oh.gov.
Viking Weekend.Ohio Renaissance Festival, Harveysburg; 10:30 a.m.7 p.m.; $25 adult general admission, $7 child general admission (5 - 12) + free parking; 513-897-7000 or renfestival.com.
Drop off kids ages 4 and older for Halloween crafts, games and a movie plus pizza. Perfection Gymnastics, 5637 Union Center Drive, West Chester; 6 - 10 p.m.; $30 for one child/$20 each additional; 513-860-3351 or perfectiongymnastics.com.
Runners can participate in a half marathon, obtain a finisher’s medal and enjoy a post-race party. Cincinnati, 644 Linn St., Cincinnati; $90 half marathon, $45 4-miler; 513-721-7447 or queenbeehalf.com.
Hit the trails at night and enjoy a Hunter’s Moon! Recommended for adults and children 12 and older. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 7:30 p.m.; $13 non-members, includes daily admission; $7 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
Gather round the tree for a nature-themed story each Monday in the Nature Center at The Summit. Nature Center at The Summit, 1580 Summit Road, Cincinnati; 12 p.m.; vehicle permit required; 513521-7275 or greatparks.org.
A certified yoga instructor introduces families to yoga. Hyde Park Branch, 2747 Erie Ave., Cincinnati; 6 - 6:45 p.m.; 513-369-4456 or chpl.org.
Meet critters, see them get fed and learn from a Nature Center Naturalist. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 3 - 3:15 p.m.; included in daily admission; $10 non-
member adults, $6 non-member children, free for members; 513831-1711 or cincynature.org.
Let the good times roll with the Cincinnati Parks Foundation and Skate Downtown Cincinnati. Skating events run Oct. 1215; see website for schedule. Outdoor Skating Rink, 925 Riverside Drive, Cincinnat cincinnati
Stop by the “spooked out” nature station for a self-guided exploration of the creatures that once called Ohio home. Through October 30. Sharon Woods, Sharon Centre, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville; 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; vehicle permit required; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.
Scientists unravel a corrupt plan and save a Troodon from a terrible fate in this interactive show. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; October 13, 14: 7 p.m.; October 15: 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m.;
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October 16: 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; tickets start at $19; 513-4214111 or heritagebankcenter.com.
HAUNTED VILLAGE AT HERITAGE VILLAGE
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THE HOWL (register) Turn to page 22.
The open-air vintage market features home decor, gifts, food trucks and photo ops. 4953 Bunnell Hill Road, Lebanon; 3 p.m. October 15: 12 - 4 p.m.; October 16: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; see website for ticket details; charmatthefarm.com.
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An outdoor market with vendors, food trucks and the playground. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; thecityflea.com.
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Kids ages 12 and older can take a full-moon hike at Cincinnati Nature Center on Sunday, Oct. 9
Kids can decorate a “Black Box” T-shirt. Weston Art Gallery, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m.; $5 per child; 513-977-4165 or cincinnatiarts.org.
Ages 2 - 5 can have fun with crafts, games and visits from not-so-creepy critters. Glenwood Gardens Highfield Discovery Garden, 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati; 10 - 11:15 a.m.; $9 child nonmember, $6 adult non-members, $7 child member (includes one adult caregiver); 513-5217275 or greatparks.org.
GET YOUR GLOW ON Learn how signs glow plus create flashlights and glow-in-the-dark signs. American Sign Museum, 1330 Monmouth Ave., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; included with daily admission, $15 adults, $10 youth/senior, free for ages 12 and younger; 513-541-6366 or americansignmuseum. org.
Hands-on STEM activities and demonstrations. Kids can try on a space suit, launch rockets, drive a robot and more. iSPACE, 10020 Reading Road, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 513-554-0425 or ispacestem.org.
Romance weekend. Ohio Renaissance Festival, Harveysburg; 10:30
a.m. - 7 p.m.; $25 adult general admission, $7 child general admission (5 - 12) + free parking; 513-897-7000 or renfestival.com.
Halloween crafts and games, spooky stories, critters. Woodland Mound, Seasongood Nature Center, 8250 Old Kellogg Road, Cincinnati; 12 - 3 p.m.; valid vehicle permit required; 513-5217275 or greatparks.org.
Explore instruments, the indoor playscape, the city and more. Happy Hangout Westside, 2041 Anderson Ferry Road, Cincinnati; 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; included with playpass; 513-458-1470 or happyhangoutws.com.
AEW Dynamite is wild wrestling. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; tickets starting at $33.40; 513-421-4111 or heritagebankcenter.com.
Scientists from UC’s College of Engineering talk robots and competing in STEM contests. Ages 8 - 14; College Hill Branch, 1400 West North Bend Road, Cincinnati; 3 - 4 p.m.; 513-369-6036 or chpl.org.
An art show with works throughout the Art Center through Nov. 18. ArtsConnect, 9158 Winton Road, Cincinnati; 7 - 10 p.m.; 513-5222108 or theartsconnect. us.
Use flashlights to experience nature in a night scavenger hike. Long Branch Farm & Trails, 6926 Gaynor Road, Goshen; 7:30 - 9 p.m.; $13 nonmembers, includes daily admission, $7 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
Madcap Puppets perform a production of Sleepy Hollow full of pranks and ghost stories. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 South Monument Ave., Hamilton; 7:30 p.m.; $8 general public, $6 members; 513863-8873 ext 110 or fittoncenter.org.
Non-scary, for ages 3 - 10: Walk through a pumpkin-lit trail and meet costumed characters. Hikes begin at 6 p.m. and last one hour. Caldwell Nature Center, 430 West North Bend Road, Cincinnati; 6 - 9 p.m.; $8 per person, ages 2 and younger, free; 513-321-6208 or explorenature.regfox. com.
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FREE FALL FEST AT WASHINGTON PARK
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FREE HALLOWEEN WALK IN THE WOODS
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Meet a few critters up close to see why they exhibit odd behaviors and have strange features. Woodland Mound/ Seasongood Nature Center, 8250 Old Kellogg Road, Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; vehicle permit required; 513- 521-7275 or greatparks.org.
Feast of Fools weekend. Ohio Renaissance Festival, Harveysburg; 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; $25 adult general admission, $7 child general admission (5 - 12) + free parking; 513-897-7000 or renfestival.com.
A free campfire treat and an afternoon of fun. Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; included with daily admission, $10 adult, $6 child; free for members; 513- 831-1711 or cincynature.org.
Enjoy a less crowded visit. Kids can borrow a bag with hands-on materials to make the visit more interesting. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum. org.
Kids can explore the skills needed to become an expert sign-maker. American Sign Museum, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.; included
Madcap Puppets present Sleepy Hollow on Friday, Oct. 21 and Sunday, Oct. 23.with admission: $15 adult, $10 youth 13 -18, three children (12 and younger) free with each paid adult; 513-541-6366 or americansignmuseum.org.
A fun bat program including a nighttime hike. Governor Bebb MetroPark, 1979 Bebb Park Lane, Okeana; 6 - 7:30 p.m.; valid vehicle permit required for park entry; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.
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Get ready to holler, “WHO DEY!” at a roaring Cincinnati Bengals home game at Paycor Stadium. Today the Bengals are taking on the Falcons. Paycor Stadium, 1 Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; see website for ticket details; 513-621-8383 or bengals.com/tickets.
Head to the Carnegie Center of Tusculum for performance full of pranks and ghost stories. The Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum, 3738 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; 513-473-5745 or thecarnegiecenter.org.
Trunk-or-treat with vendors from around the area; there will be decorated vehicles. Puzzle Pieces, 11912 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati; 2 - 4 p.m.; 513583-1874 or puzzlepiecesohio. com.
Get an up close look at the deathly décor without actors inside. All tickets include entry to The Monster Midway. Ages 11 and older; free photo opps,
mini escape rooms, axe throwing, The Cincinnati Haunted House Museum, The Jack O’ Lantern Showcase and more. The Dent Schoolhouse, 5963
Harrison Ave., Cincinnati; 4 - 6 p.m.; $12 adults, $10 children; 513445-9767 or frightsite.com.
The lights are on, the crew is away and most of the spooky surprises are on break. The lights- on tour lets you see details of the show and the massive equipment located on the historic dredge. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Riverboat Row, 101 Riverboat Row, Newport; 4 - 6 p.m.; tickets starting at $8; 859740-2293 or ussnightmare.com.
Kick back and watch The Nightmare Before Christmas on a jumbo LED screen. The Gallery at Newport on the Levee, 1 Levee Way, Newport; 6 - 8 p.m.; 859-291-0550 or newportonthelevee.com.
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FREE HOCUS POCUS AT THE PARK
Food and drinks will be available for purchase; movie begins promptly at dusk. Sharon
Woods, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville; 6 - 11 p.m.; vehicle permit required; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.
FREE CANDY EXPRESS BARREL TRAIN
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FREE HOWL-O-WEEN HOOTENANNY
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FREE SENSORY- FRIENDLY MORNINGS AT THE CAC: HALLOWEEN TREAT
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The first home game face-off is tonight! Enjoy $2 hot dogs, sodas and beers, plus the first 5,000 fans will receive a Cyclones calendar. 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; tickets starting at $19 ($21 day of, front row $31 ($33 day of), family packages available; 513-421-7825 or cycloneshockey.com.
The celebration invites all ages to explore, play and create with activities and entertainment. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.
Get into the spooky spirit by wearing a costume for a treat-seeking hike at Sharon Woods! Sharon Woods, Sharon Centre, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville; 6 p.m.; vehicle permit required for entry; 513521-7275 or greatparks.org.
Take a self-guided jack-olantern-lit hike; families can enjoy a campfire and take part in a drawing to take a Jack-o’lantern home. Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve/ Ellenwood Nature Barn, 3455 Poole Road, Cincinnati; 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.; $5 per person + $3 to take home a pumpkin of your choice; vehicle permit required; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org/calendar. for entry; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.
Happy Halloween!
The puck drops on the Cyclones’ 2022 - 23 season on Saturday, Oct. 29.
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