YOUR #1 HOMETOWN RESOURCE
DECEMBER 2023
2023
JOLLY HOLIDAYS! HOW TO BRING THE MAGIC EXPERIENCE GIFTS
12 DAYS
OF WINNING!
WO M E N ’S H E ALTH
Stronger women and brighter tomorrows Personalized women’s care in Hamilton to help you be your best. Kettering Health Medical Group OB-GYN in Hamilton offers expert care to the local community. From adolescence to motherhood to menopause, you can count on our women’s health specialists for compassionate, expert care. A better you starts at Kettering Health Medical Group.
Scan the QR code or call (513) 867-1200 to schedule an appointment.
PUBLISHER Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com EDITOR Amanda Hayward amandahayward@ daycommedia.com THINGS TO DO/ ASSOCIATE EDITOR Amanda Ciani amandaciani@ daycommedia.com GRAPHIC DESIGN DayCom Associates PRODUCTION Tim Henard timhenard@ daycommedia.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Theresa Cicchinelli theresa@daycommedia.com Amanda Ciani amandaciani@ daycommedia.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jonathan McCormack distributioncf@ daycommedia.com
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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 © 2023 by DayCom Media, Inc., a member of The Ohio Parent Media Network. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
Holiday Junction at the Cincinnati Museum Center is a don't-miss holiday tradition for train-lovers of all ages!
IN THIS ISSUE 2 3
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Editor's Note Keep the magic going!
Beat that holiday stress by winning a gift card to Mitchell's Salon and Day Spa. Plus, parents reveal their least-liked toys.
Cincinnati News
Kids Health RSV season is upon us and babies are especially susceptible. Learn about the new antibodies that doctors are recommending to offset problems.
THINGS TO DO! " I thought maybe we could make ginger bread houses and eat cookie dough and go ice skating and maybe even hold hands!"
Feedback
Don't let the kids just turn into potatoes over the break; sign'em up for a winter break camp. Plus, give the gift of an experience to your family.
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FEATURES
— Buddy, from the movie, Elf
15
LL HO Y D A Y S !
Bundle up and head out to make a little merry with the kids. It IS the most wonderful time of the year — relax and enjoy.
10 Bring the Magic Let's face it, we bring the wonders of the season to our kids — or not. Christmas lets you have fun with all of the happenings around us. All you have to do is give in!
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
Cincinnati's largest drive-through, synchronized light show is Coney Island's Nights of Lights taking place Nov. 10 - Jan. 1. Get your tickets at coneyislandpark.com. december 2023 1
the little things By Amanda Hayward
ABA Therapy Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy NEW LOCATIONS in Loveland & Milford! 10 Convenient locations throughout Dayton and Cincinnati Contact us today! 513-755-6600
abcpediatrictherapy.com
The best memories are made together.
featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains
2 december 2023
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Keep the Magic Going
ou never know when it will be the last of something: The last time they believe in Santa. The last time they want to go to the pumpkin patch with you. The last time they want to take a picture with Santa. The last time they want you to carry them to bed. The last time you are able to throw them up in the air and catch their fall. The last time they ask you to read a book to them and tuck them into bed. Every time I think it is going to be the last time, I’m in for a surprise, and I still have an extra year or two, if I’m lucky. Sometimes it’s like a flash before my eyes and something that I never anticipated. I think, “When and why did we stop doing that? When did they stop wanting me to give back scratches or read them a story?” This to me, is one of the hardest and most emotional things about parenting. (I’m not crying, you’re crying!) One thing I can always count on is the magic of the holiday season. There is something magical about Christmas and Santa Claus. It brings all of us together and no matter how old my kids get, I think they still hold on to some of that magic, too. This is one of the many reasons why this is my favorite holiday. I get to gather all of my kids in a row and continue traditions just because. We love going to pick out a real Christmas tree at our favorite spot, Station Road Farm. Then, choosing who is going to put the star on top of the tree brings anticipation, and then there is handing out years worth of handmade ornaments, one-by-one to the kids. This part alway sparks tiny memories for me, and the kids love remembering the time it took them to create their masterpieces. I did this when I was a kid and here I am, doing it all over again through their eyes. We love going ice skating at Summit Park (it truly is the perfect rink for all of us!); sledding down our tiny hill (or going to find a big one!); deciding who will host Christmas dinner; seeing our favorite light displays; and spending all day baking Christmas cookies on Christmas Eve. The plate for Santa gets put out and food gets sprinkled on the lawn and everyone gets to bed late because we're all too excited to fall asleep. The presents around the tree the next morning never get old; it’s always a big “oooo” and “ahhh”; the kids’ faces— priceless (yes, I film their reactions every year). These are the moments that keep me going. This part of the holiday is something that will never be forgotten and it will never completely go away. For me, this is my reason for keeping traditions going and going. Because no matter how busy we get and no matter how much they grow up, the holidays are a time for us to really be together. Of course, it’s not always that perfect and yes, the kids fight or something gets broken, but that is life and insignificant in the grand scheme of things. This holiday season, I really hope you appreciate your family traditions and each other. Not every day will be perfect and as always, life will throw surprises. But to your heart’s content, enjoy the moments with the kids as much as you can, aside from the stress and craziness. The kids love this time and it’s up to us to keep the magic going. Happy holidays everyone!
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Question!
What toy do you regret allowing your child to have?
“That rolling popper push toy for toddlers still haunts me." Laura Landoll "Anything technology. Even though we limit. I wish that it didn’t exist for kids."
“A Little People's tractor with the trailer on the back of it does not have an off switch! Anytime you bump into it or touch it (even if you trip over it in the middle of the night, lol), the noise starts going off." Amberly Hutton
Tina Pratt
Holiday stress? Get yourself a little much-needed pampering with a Mitchell's Salon & Day Spa Gift Card!
Win! A $75 Gift Card to Mitchell's Salon & Day Spa
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“Legos. They cost a small fortune and have taken over my house! Constantly asking for them to be picked up. And the tempers when they can’t find the one piece that they JUST HAD. An hour later you find it nowhere near where they just had it." John Horton "Wii, way back when." Amy West
es, you can relax during the holidays! With four locations in Cincinnati, this award-winning spa has it all.
" Technology."
Get a facial, mani & pedi, relaxing massage or a new hairdo to take off the stress during the holiday sea-
son. Learn more at mitchellssalon.com or call 513-793-0900. Enter to win at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com under the "Contests" tab through Dec. 15!
Amanda Barnhart Eten “Air ball toy that shoots balls in the air ... They end up under the bed, couch, dressers."
“Play-Doh! For some reason she thought it was a good idea to use it as a hair extension." Deborah Jordan “Bikes, which seemed smart, but have been sadly unridden." Lisa Dee “Nintendo Switch. Endless begs to play and buy game cards. Nope sorry kid, play what you have with the game time I allow." Jessica Stiver “Transformers that have 103,847 steps to make them transform." Kelsey Kreke “Singing Cat Keyboard!" Niki Kosse
Brianna Cox
ON THE COVER Siblings Will, Eva, Catherine and baby Jack, photographed
“Always slime ... ugggg, why are they sooo obsessed!? We came home from vacation once to find slime that fell on our carpet and sat there for the whole week while we were gone ... and it was red slime!!!! That stuff is the devil's work!" Tracy Noel
in the studio by Wendy Magee Photography.
“The popping vacuum."
“Slime." Sarah Ann “Bouncy balls, slime, whistles, and kiddie nail polish." Cindy Yavorsky “Ball pit." Tracy Pohlmeyer Helmer
Jessica Ann Gilmour
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
december 2023 3
CINCINNATI NEWS
by Amanda Ciani
Kids on the climbing wall at USA Ninja Challenge, located in Cincinnati. Three-day camps are available this month during the break.
Winter Break Camps for Kids! Get the kids out of the house and off of their devices by enrolling them in one of these fun camps while school is out.
CINCINNATI BALLET 1801 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati 513-621-5219 | cballet.org December 27 - 29 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. daily; ages 4 - 8 Ballet training while journeying through arctic landscapes and swirling snowflakes.
dbatwestchester.com Available as single or multiple days December 20 - 23 and December 27 - 29 Co-ed camps run 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.; ages 5 - 12 Practice hitting, throwing and running the bases.
CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati 513-281-4700 | cincinnatizoo.org Three-Day Winter Camps December 18 - 20 and December 27 - 29 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. with aftercare available; grades preK - 8 Winter hikes at the zoo, meet ups with animal ambassadors, games and more.
KIDSTRONG KENWOOD 8740 Montgomery Road #105a Cincinnati | 513-401-9070 kidstrong.com December 27 - 29 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.; ages 4 - 9 Campers can have a blast learning with their peers and getting physical activity.
D-BAT WEST CHESTER 9021 Meridian Way, West Chester | 513-855-3228 |
KIDSTRONG MASON 8457 Mason Montgomery Road Mason | 513-398-1315 kidstrong.com December 21 & 22 and December 27 - 29
Camps run from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.; ages 4 - 9 Campers will learn skills like confidence, teamwork, physical fitness, social skills, good sportsmanship and more. KIDS FIRST TOO 885 State Route 28, Milford 513-831-4333 | kidsfirsttoo.com Daily options December 18 - 22, December 26 -29 and January 2, 2024 8:45 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.; ages 4 - 12 Campers can enjoy gymnastics, games and more. MAYERSON JCC 8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati 513-761-7500 | mayersonjcc.org December 18 - 22 (Thursday/Friday only option available) and December 26 - 29 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.; grades K-8
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Campers can swim, play sports, do arts and crafts and so much more with friends. PERFECTION GYMNASTICS 5637 Union Center Drive West Chester | 513-860-3351 perfectiongymnastics.com December 20 & 21 and December 27 - 29 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. / Half Day available from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. or 12 - 4 p.m.; ages 5+ Gymnastics, games, crafts and so much more. USA Ninja Challenge 4727 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati 513-739-5528 ninjacincinnati.com Three-day camps December 20 22 and December 27 - 29 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.; ages 4 - 13 Campers will learn new ninja skills, play games and more.
december 2023 5
local news
Experience gifts are great for kids and you can get your family a Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden membership through their monthlong December sale. PHOTO CREDIT: Lisa Hubbard.
Newsy Bits: Experience Gifts All Around! Zoo Membership
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ake advantage of Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s big membership sale all monthlong! New animals families can meet include three manatees that have been welcomed to Manatee Springs for rehabilitation. Nolia, Amethyst and Waffles can be seen in Cincinnati until they reach their goal weight of 600 pounds. These orphaned manatees were rescued in early 2023 and transported to CZBG. Once these manatees are big and strong, they will be returned back to Florida waters. For now, families can visit Nolia, Amethyst and Waffles to watch them grow at the Cincinnati Zoo, located at 3400 Vine St. Visit cincinnatizoo.org or call 513-281-4700.
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Taft Museum
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ake advantage of the Taft membership sale to see all of the museum’s upcoming exhibits; enjoy 20 percent off of Dual/Family level gift memberships through December 31. Members receive discounts on programming and on Summer Art Camps, too! Visit taftmuseum.org/membership or give 513-241-0343 a call.
PASSES & MEMBERSHIP IDEAS BEHRINGER-CRAWFORD MUSEUM bcmuseum.org
KINGS ISLAND AMUSEMENT PARK kingsisland.com
CMC
CINCINNATI NATURE CENTER cincynaturecenter.org
KIRKWOOD ADVENTURE PARK gokirkwood.com
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CINCINNATI OBSERVATORY cincinnatiobservatory.org
LAND OF ILLUSION ADVENTURE PARK landofillusion.com
CONEY ISLAND AMUSEMENT PARK coneyislandpark.com
NEWPORT AQUARIUM newportaquarium.com
ave 20 percent on a year of discovery and exploration. A new exhibit — Girlhood (It’s Complicated) — dives into how girlhood has changed through news, politics, education, work, wellness and fashion. Visit cincymuseum. org or call 513-287-7000 for more information.
GORMAN HERITAGE FARM gormanfarm.org
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PYRAMID HILL SCULPTURE PARK pyramidhill.org
M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S F R O M C I N C I N N A T I F A M I LY !
12 DAYS OF
GIVEAWAYS! Happiest of holidays to all of our Cincinnati Family readers! To celebrate the season, we're giving away more than $5,000 in experience gifts! "12 Days of Giveaways" happens on our Facebook page for 12 consecutive weekdays GAYLORD OPRYLAND 2-NIGHT GETAWAY for four + ICE!, ice tubing & more
GREAT WOLF LODGE MASON 2-NIGHT GETAWAY for four + kids' activity passes
beginning MONDAY, DEC. 4 and continuing thru TUESDAY, DEC. 19.
PLAY TO WIN: • THE GIVEAWAY OF THE DAY will be announced on our Facebook page between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Watch for #12DAYSOFGIVEAWAYS! • WE'LL PROVIDE THE LINK to the day's contest entry form so you can apply to win. • FULL PRIZE DETAILS will be included in the post.
An Experience MIDDLETOWN HOLIDAY WHOPLA Giveaway
A Family Four-Pack to BB RIVERBOATS' NEW YEAR'S EVE CRUISE
A Winter Flavors Sampler Pack of JENI'S SPLENDID ICE CREAMS
A Reciprocal Membership to PYRAMID HILL SCULPTURE PARK
A Family Membership to TAFT MUSEUM OF ART
A Family Membership to CINCINNATI ZOO and BOTANICAL GARDEN
• THE DAY'S WINNER will be selected via a RANDOM DRAWING and announced on our Facebook page the same day by 5 p.m. • You can DOUBLE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING by "Liking" us on Facebook and subscribing to our newsletter at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com. Join us at facebook.com/ cincinnatifamily
A one-year Family Membership to CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER
A holiday package for six weeks of swim lessons, Storyboard Books, goggles and four A Carrot Cake Soy candle; a family swim Pecan Pie soy candle; 1 DIY passes to Holiday Cookie kit and a $25 gift GOLDFISH card to THAT'S SO SWEET SWIM SCHOOL cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
A GOLD STAR and TOM & CHEE GIFT BASKET
december 2023 7
kids health by Amanda Hayward
RSV season is here and now the CDC is recommending infants for the new preventative antibody treatment. Here’s what you need to know.
RSV IMMUNIZATION FOR BABIES
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is the season for viruses, and pinpointing what is what can be tough. It seems like the coughing and runny nose is ongoing, and when it comes to respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, it’s nothing to ignore. RSV is a respiratory infection that can lead to an upper respiratory tract infection (cold symptoms) or lower respiratory tract infection (bronchiolitis and pneumonia with cough, wheezing, low oxygen levels as well as apnea), and infants are more susceptible to it. It’s why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends that infants get the new antibody treatment called Beyfortus with a monoclonal antibody, different from the RSV booster for adults. According to John LaCount, pediatrician at St. Elizabeth Physicians, RSV can lead to significant respiratory illnesses in infants and older adults. With RSV season extending from October to May, peaking in January and February, is the treatment necessary? “It (RSV antibody treatment) is a monoclonal antibody that can provide a protective headstart to prevent the most serious infections,” he explains. “This means the body can recognize the virus and move forward with resolving the symptoms before the serious symptoms occur,” says LaCount. Although studies show the treatment to be highly effective, it does not mean kids won’t get any other colds. So, it may be worth it to ask your pediatrician. PROTECTING YOUR INFANT Some infants are more susceptible to RSV
8 december 2023
than others. According to Thomas Lamarre, infectious disease specialist at The Christ Hospital Health Network, babies who are at higher risk include infants under 6 months old (particularly preemies born during the first half of the RSV season); ones who attend daycare; those with older siblings (who may have asymptomatic RSV infection); those who have underlying lung disease or congenital heart disease; and those who are exposed to secondhand smoke. For kids younger than 2, they are more susceptible to URI symptoms. There are plenty of ways you can protect your babies from RSV this season, according to LaCount. “Avoiding locations where RSV rapidly spreads such as daycare or school are recommended,” he says. “Prevention of the illness in grandparents by assuring they receive vaccinations is appropriate.” In addition, covering your cough around baby and caring for your older kids right away if they get the virus. “We encourage parents and schools to be aware and encourage children to stay home until their symptoms abate,” LaCount continues. YOUR LITTLE POWERHOUSE As far as babies go, it’s good to know that you have a little powerhouse on your hands. In fact, after the first two months of life, your baby’s immune system begins to skyrocket. “Infants develop the ability to respond to an array of infections in the first year of life,” says Lamarre. “Serum antibody (called bmIgG) levels in childhood increase dramatically within the first two months of life with a gradual
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increase over the first year of life.” In addition, antibodies produced by Mom while Baby was in the womb also play a role in protecting babies for quite some time after birth (largely clearing from the baby’s circulation by 6 months of age).” If you are concerned about whether your baby might have RSV (runny nose, sneezing, conjunctivitis, irritability, poor feeding / not eating or drinking well and / or fever) contact your pediatrician right away.
For the first time, there’s a universal recommendation to give passive immunity to all infants. These are recommendations:
For Healthy Infants: • Born during RSV season or younger than 8 months when RSV season begins. • If a dose is not received during Baby’s first RSV season or younger than 8 months old entering their second RSV season.
For Infants at Risk for Severe RSV • Infants born during RSV season or upon entering their first RSV season. • Babies younger than 19 months when entering their second RSV season.
Amanda Hayward is the editor of this publication and a mom of four.
Star Glazers
Pottery Paintat YOUR Location! Voted a Reader Favorite
Award-winning live educational reptile encounters for kids of all ages! Invite us to your birthday party, classroom, private event, library, summer camp and more!
PAINT POTTERY FOR HOLIDAY GIFTS! Dec. 2, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Evendale Cultural Arts Center
Register by calling 513-563-2247 Voted a Reader Favorite
www.starglazers.com
513-474-6364
StarGlazersPaintPotteryAtYourLocation
513-460-2737 dinobuddies513@gmail.com facebook.com/dinobuddiesllc
through December 31st
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december 2023 9
Ho ho ho! 101
by Amanda Hayward
L Y L O DA J ! YS Bring the magic this year with Santa visits, Christmas Markets and Lots of Merry-Making Activities
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ou bring the magic to the kids but little do they know,
there are the little things. Think, reindeer games, driving around
they bring the magic to you, too. There are big things
town to check out your neighbors’ Christmas light displays, Santa
you can do with the family this holiday season (see our
visits and so much more. We have all of the holly for you right here.
calendar of holiday events beginning on page 15) and
10 december 2023
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
SEE TRAINS Take the kids to see a magical train display! Chug along the tri-state and you’ll discover: the Krohn Conservatory’s Golden Days of Yule featuring traditional garden railways and miniature Cincinnati landmarks (this year’s newest addition, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center); the Duke Energy Holiday Trains at the Cincinnati Museum Center; EnterTRAINment Junction’s Main Street Holiday Train Display at the Expo Center (note: this will be temporarily closed on select days due to private events, check their website for details and dates); Behringer-Crawford Museum’s Holiday Toy Trains (a holiday tradition since 1992!); Heritage Village Museum’s Train Days; and hop on the LM&M Railroad North Pole Express.
VISIT SANTA MAGIC LAND PLAY CAFÉ 10501 New Haven Road Suite E and F, Harrison Sat, Dec. 9, 9 - 11:30 a.m. Join in for a jolly morning of munching on delicious breakfast treats, hanging out with Santa, and having a blast playing! CREATIVE TOTS’ ANNUAL LUNCH WITH SANTA Kenwood Country Club 6501 Kenwood Road, Cincinnati eventbrite.com/e/creative-totsannual-lunch-with-santa-tickets-690584325307 Dec. 13, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m Enjoy a tasty lunch, smile big with Santa and Mrs. Claus, watch a puppet and marionette show and make a special ornament! BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT DAVE & BUSTERS FLORENCE 781 Heights Blvd., Florence prekindle.com/promo/ id/532452770768103973 Dec. 9, 10 a.m. Meet & greet with Santa then visit the one-stop-Santa-shop and enjoy a morning of holiday fun. TRI-STATE WARBIRD MUSEUM SANTA FLY-IN 4021 Borman Drive, Batavia 513-735-4500; facebook.com/ events/176562945500556
Dec. 2 Santa arrives around 10:15 a.m. (doors open at 9:45 a.m.); meetand-greet until 11:30 a.m. Kids love the activities, cookies and hot drinks; advanced registration required. BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT THE SHARONVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER 10990 Thornview Drive Cincinnati 513-563-2895; sharonville.org Dec. 2 Cool holiday activities and a hot breakfast; register at the Community Center front desk (or online). TEA WITH SANTA AT THE BONBONERIE 2030 Madison Road, Cincinnati 513-321-3399; bonbonerie.com Dec. 16 & 17 Choose from three seatings: 10 a.m., 12:30 or 3 p.m.; includes all of your favorites from the Bonbonerie menu plus holiday favorites; each registration includes tea, meet-and-greet and cookie decorating!
MARKETS, ETC. READING HOLIDAY WALK readingholidaywalk.com December 2; 6 - 9 p.m. Kick off the holidays on Reading’s charming Benson Street; begins on the corner of Reading Road and Benson Street with the Girl Scouts’ annual crib dedication and tree lighting event, plus a live nativity, Santa and Mrs. Claus and more. PURPLE PEOPLE BRIDGE WINTER NIGHTS RIVER LIGHTS purplepeoplebridge.com 1 Levee Way, Newport Through Jan. 7, 2024 Christmas lights and holiday decorations spread across the bridge; complete your walk by stopping by the 25-foot-tall Christmas Wish Tree! THE WINTER MARKET WASHINGTON PARK 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati washingtonpark.org/series/ winter-market-2023 Dec. 2 & 3; 9 & 10; and 16 & 17 Regional artisans and crafters in cozy huts selling unique, one-of-akind pieces; stop by the Porch for full concessions including beer, wine and hot drinks.
CINCINNATI CHRISTKINDLMARKT 2023 cincinnatichristkindlmarkt.com Wednesdays & Thursdays: 5 - 9 p.m.; Fridays: 5 - 11 p.m.; Saturdays: 12 - 11 p.m.; Sundays: 12 - 7 p.m. through Dec. 31 A holiday-themed Christmas festival featuring food, drinks, lights, choral, themed character visits, a four-lane Ice slide, Igloo rentals and musical entertainment; visit their website for the full schedule of events. Located next to the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage in Smale Riverfront Park adjacent to The Banks. PIONEER CHRISTMAS Keehner Park 7211 Barret Road, West Chester westchesteroh.org/Home/ Components/Calendar/ Event/9208/122 Dec. 10, 1 - 4 p.m. Take pictures with Santa and celebrate the holidays just like the pioneers would have during this re-creation of a classic 19th century American Christmas party; cozy up by the fireplace, enjoy complimentary treats and pioneer fare and more.
PICK A TREE BARTELS FARM 4427 Cotton Run Road, Hamilton 513-795-2271; bartelsfarm.com By appointment only; weekends through Dec. 10. BERNINGER CHRISTMAS TREES AND WREATHS 1220 Stubbs Mill Road Lebanon | 513-932-2780 berningertreesandwreaths.com Open Dec. 1 - 3 (weather permitting), 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; cut your own or choose from a selection of precut trees; free popcorn and hot cocoa; dogs are welcome; bring your own handsaw (they have them, but it is first come, first serve; no chainsaws allowed). BIG TREE PLANTATION 2544 South Waynesville Road Morrow | 513-836-0975 bigtreeplantation.com/christmas Regular Season now through Dec. 10; Late Season Dec. 11 - 20; includes wagon ride to field, cut your own.
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JOHN T. NIEMAN NURSERY 3215 Hamilton New London Road., Hamilton 5133-738-1012; johnniemannursery.com/christmas-trees Through December 23; cut your own, choose a pre-cut or a balled and burlapped tree to plant after Christmas; enjoy cocoa and cookies in the Christmas barn! SHAKER TRACT TREE FARM 8626 New Haven Road Harrison 864-986-8510; shakertract.wixsite.com/index Dec. 2 & 3, 9 & 10, 16 & 17 Cut your one and sip on a complimentary warm-up beverage and cookies in their gift shop and more. STATION ROAD FARM 6749 Station Road West Chester 513-777-3650 stationroadlandscaping.com A variety of trees, wreaths, holiday decor, and of course, hot cocoa in the barn! Find additional inclusive
REINDEER GAMES and
‘SEPARATION ANXIETY’ MINUTE TO WIN IT GAME You need a cup full of various holiday candies; sort out the candies by type in under 60 seconds without dumping them out. Source: liveabout.com. CHRISTMAS STACKING CUPS Another minute-to-win-it game, a DIY Jenga game; pick up some festive cardstock and a sleeve of red solo cups, and watch the fast-paced fun unfold. Source: kidfriendlythingstodo.com. GO ON A CHRISTMAS LIGHT SCAVENGER HUNT Go for a walk around the neighborhood (or drive through many!) and bring along a free printable scavenger hunt; see how many candy canes, wreaths, nutcrackers and more you can spot. Source: happinessishomemade.net.
THINGS TO DO For Christmas lights, ice skating and more holiday festivities, flip to our awardwinning events calendar on page 15! december 2023 11
THE ULTIMATE RIDE THROUGH HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE FOR FAMILIES! ARTIST INSTALLATIONS, LIGHT PROJECTIONS, AND INTERACTIVE GAMES SET IN OUR 2 MILE ART AND NATURE FILLED ROUTE
HOLIDAY
savings SAVE ON
dresswear pajamas apparel toys & more!
Happy Holidays
NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2023 TUESDAY TO THURSDAY: 6PM – 9PM FRIDAY TO SUNDAY: 6PM – 10PM CLOSED ON MONDAYS
PYRAMIDHILL.ORG
Anderson • Beavercreek • Colerain • Dayton Mall • Fields Ertel Florence • Huber Heights • Hyde Park • West Chester • Western Hills
Christmas at the Junction • Christmas Displays • Christmas Journey • Christmas Shopping • World’s Largest Train Layout • A-Maze-N FunHouse • Marbleous Life Museum And don’t forget Santa!
ALL IN ONE PLACE!
Purchase tickets online and save!
(513) 898-8000
EnterTRAINmentJunction.com 12 december 2023
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
A SPECIAL ADVERTISING DIRECTORY
Dino Buddies
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati
Dino Buddies is a fun, exciting and educational way to spice up any event, program, classroom, scout program, birthday party, or camp! We bring the ZOO to YOU by providing unique and up-close encounters with reptiles. Dino Buddies specializes in getting kids and adults excited about wildlife and taking care of the environment during our worthwhile award-winning encounters!
TCT Academy offers performing arts instruction from a professional theatre company, introducing children to all elements of live theatre, incorporating educational aspects as well as important life skills and milestones. It isn’t just learning how to sing, dance and act…It’s about gaining confidence, learning life skills and keeping your children active.
513-460-2737 | facebook.com/dinobuddiesllc
513-569-8080 | thechildrenstheatre.com 4015 Redbank Road, Cincinnati
Mason Dance Center
Star Glazers
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. Register now for our 2023/24 school year classes. Fall mini sessions open soon. We also offer summer camps.
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! Awesome for birthday parties, church groups, school events, scout troops, and more.
513-398-0353 | masondance.com 600-B Reading Road, Mason
513-474-6364 | starglazers.com
Enrichment Programs and After-School Activities Learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. There’s so much more available for your child with programs and activities that cover all the bases, from the arts to sports, STEM to advanced academics. Explore the options offered in our area, including those listed here.
West Chester Academy Music, Dance, Acting and Gymnastics 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. 513-829-2345 | westchesteracademy.com 8107 Market Place Drive, West Chester
Look for more activities and programs in the directories on our website at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com/directories.
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by Amanda Ciani 2023
DECEMBER THINGS TO DO 16 The Dailies Events in day-by-day order.
Follow the Snowman Cookie for holiday events!
The Nutcracker
A
little girl named Clara receives a nutcracker on Christmas Eve. Her dreams that night take her on an adventure to the Land of Sweets and beyond. The beloved ballet — accompanied by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s famous score — includes dozens of young performers plus Cincinnati Ballet principals. Performances are in the Springer Auditorium, located at Cincinnati Music Hall at 1241 Elm Street in Cincinnati. Tickets for matinee or evening performances range from $39 to $129 and are available at at cballet.org. Discover THINGS TO DO on your cell phone! Scan the QR Code!
SUGAR PLUMS, ANYONE? Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker is set to delight young and old Dec. 14 - 24 in Springer Auditorium at Cincinnati Music Hall. cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
december 2023 15
DAILY EVENTS
fri 1+ Ongoing ‘SPORTING FASHION: OUTDOORS GIRLS, 1800 TO 1960’ Explore the evolution of women’s sporting and leisure attire. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; included with general admission: $12 adults, $10 seniors, members free and FREE on Sundays and Mondays!; 513-241-0343 or taftmuseum.org. A 19TH CENTURY HOLIDAY GUIDED TOUR (register) Learn how Christmas celebrations have evolved over the years. Tours leave every hour from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Dec. 1 - 2 & Dec. 6 - 8. Heritage Village, 11500 Lebanon Road, Cincinnati; $10 per person. $8 per member; ages 4 and younger are free; 513-563-9484 or heritagevillagecincinnati.org. A CHRISTMAS CAROL The holiday family favorite updated with a new set, MERRY AND BRIGHT: Deck the Y’alls Lightfest is at Thomas More Stadium in Florence, KY Nov. 24 - January 2, costumes and more. Cincinnati 2024 and includes an on-field ice rink, Friday night fireworks and lots more. Playhouse in the Park, 952 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati; 7 + $5 skate rental Sun. - Thu.; $7 Center, 2715 Reading Road, CONEY ISLAND’S NIGHTS p.m., see website for additional Cincinnati; 9 - 10:30 a.m.; 513-221skate rental Fri. & Sat.; 859-594OF LIGHTS showtimes; tickets starting at 0981 or civicgardencenter.org. 4487 or decktheyalls.com. Drive through the region’s $33.50; 513-345-2242 or cincyplay. largest synchronized holiday com. HOLIDAY JUNCTION FITTON FAMILY FRIDAYS – light show. Coney Island, 6201 Don’t miss the Duke Energy GINGERBREAD JAMBOREE Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; nightly in BALLY SPORTS OHIO Holiday Trains at Cincinnati December: 6 - 10 p.m.; $30 Fri. - Ralphie the Elf has one REDSFEST Sun.; $25 Mon. - Thu. (up to eight dangerous job: he has to feed the Museum Center,1301 Western Player meet-and-greets, Ave., Cincinnati; Thu. - Mon. Gingerbread Beast! Puppeteer in a car); coneyislandpark.com. autographs, interactive games through January 10, 2024: 10 Dylan Shelton brings a puppet for fans, memorabilia and more. a.m. - 5 p.m.; closed Christmas; story to life. Fitton Center CYCLONES COFFEE MUG The first 8,000 fans receive a $10 general admission, free for Creative Arts, 101 South GIVEAWAY free Redsfest drawstring bag for members; 513-287-7000 or Monument Ave., Hamilton; 7:30 The Cyclones vs. the Iowa and sticker sheet. Duke Energy cincymuseum.org. Heartlanders. The first 3,000 fans p.m.; $9 general admission, $7 Convention Center, 525 Elm Fitton Center members; 513-863get a Biggby Coffee/Cyclones St., Cincinnati; 3 - 10:30 p.m., HOLIDAY WHOPLA ICE RINK 8873 or fittoncenter.org. mug. Heritage Bank Center, 100 December 2: 11 a.m. - 6:30 Skate with the fam! Holiday p.m.; see website for 2023 ticket Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; GOLDEN DAYS OF YULE AT Whopla Ice Rink, 39 North Broad $21 preferred advanced ($23 information; reds.com/redsfest. St., Middletown; see website KROHN CONSERVATORY day-of), $33 front row advanced Illuminated stars, poinsettias, for times; $10 admission, group ($35 day-of); 513-421-4111 or CHRISTMAS AT THE discount available; holidaywhopla. Christmas trees and mini Cincy heritagebankcenter.com. JUNCTION org. landmarks. Krohn Conservatory, See the world’s largest indoor DECK THE Y’ALLS LIGHTFEST 1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; train display and visit with Santa. HOLIDAYS ON THE FARM Lights, a ferris wheel, carnival through January 7, 2024: 10 a.m. EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Walk a lighted loop, ride a 8 p.m.; $10 adults, $7 ages 5 - 17, Squire Court, West Chester; Mon. games, an ice rink, firework free for ages 4 and younger; 513- wagon through the woods, see - Sat.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun.: 12 - Fridays and more. Thomas More trains, animals and character 421-4086 or cincinnati-oh.gov. 6 p.m., closing 4 p.m. Christmas Stadium, 7950 Freedom Way, meet-and-greets, visit with Santa Florence, KY; 5:30 - 10 p.m.; Sun. Eve/closed Christmas; 513-898FREE HOLIDAY FAMILY FUN and more! Parky’s Farm, 10073 - Thu.: $13 adults, $9 ages 12 and 8000 or entertrainmentjunction. Daly Road, Cincinnati; Dec. 1 - 3, Craft something natureyounger, $10 military/senior; Fri. & com. 8 - 10, 15 - 17, 21 - 23, 26 and 27 based and enjoy a book in Sat.: $16 adults, $12 ages 12 and - 31: 5 - 9 p.m.; $15 at the door, younger, $13 military and seniors the reading corner. Civic Garden 16 december 2023
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
$12 advance online tickets, free for ages 18 months and younger; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org. HOLLY JOLLY DAYS AT BCM Vintage Christmas vignettes and 250 feet of tracks showcasing train displays. “A Winter Wonderland” in NaturePlay is open evenings with lights and a 20-foot-tall snowman. Admission to the Winter Wonderland is free, from dusk until 9 p.m. BehringerCrawford Museum, 1600 Montague Road, Covington, KY; through January 7, 2024: Tue. - Sat.: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun.: 1 - 5 p.m.; closed Christmas; $9 adults, $8 seniors 60+, $5 children, free for members and ages 3 and younger; 859-4914003 or bcmuseum.org. KINGS ISLAND WINTERFEST Go ice skating, enjoy millions of lights and live entertainment, meet holiday characters and ride the rides. Kings Island, 6300 Kings Island Dr., Mason; select nights through December 31: 5 - 10 p.m.; online jr/sr tickets $19.99; online regular tickets $29.99; group discounts available; 513-754-5700 or visitkingsisland.com. LAND OF ILLUSION CHRISTMAS GLOW Drive through more than 3.5 million lights, do some holiday shopping, enjoy the petting zoo and see Santa, too. Land of Illusion, 8762 Thomas Road, Middletown; 6 - 10 p.m.; 513423-9960 or landofillusion.com/ glow. LIGHT IN THE FOREST (register) Walk through illuminated woods and enjoy activities, music, food trucks, drinks and holiday shopping. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; select nights in December: 5:30 - 9 p.m.; $15 non-member adult, $10 nonmember child, $12 member adult, $8 member child; 513-8311711 or cincynature.org. FREE LIGHT UP MIDDLETOWN Drive through holiday lights! Donations benefit Middletown City Parks. Smith Park, 500 Tytus Ave., Middletown; nightly, 6 - 10 p.m.; lightupmiddletown.org.
FREE METAMORA CHRISTMAS WALK Make merry memories in Indiana’s Canal Town. Decorations, live music, shopping and Santa! Metamora Canal Town, 19060 South Main St., Metamora, IN; 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; 866-647-6555 or facebook. com/MetamoraChristmasWalk. NORTH POLE EXPRESS (register) Take a one-hour-fifteen-minute train ride with Santa and his elves! All kids receive a souvenir bell and a cookie. Select weekday departures: 6 & 8 p.m. Saturday departures: 12, 2, 4, 6 & 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 departures at 11 a.m., 3 and 5 p.m. Sunday departures: 12, 2, 4 and 6 p.m.; LM & M Railroad, 16 East South St., Lebanon; $35 coach adult, $30 coach child (2 - 12) and seniors (62+); deluxe seats available at $45 adult, $40 child/senior; 513-933-8022 or lebanonrr.com.
Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton; through December 31, Tue. Thu.: 6 - 9 p.m.; Fri. to Sun.: 6 - 10 p.m., closed Mondays; $25 per carload for non-members, $15 for members; 513-868-8663 or pyramidhill.org. REVOLUTION DANCE THEATRE PRESENTS HOT CHOCOLATE A soulful retelling of the classic Nutcracker tale featuring dancing dolls, falling snow and the land of sweets. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 8 p.m.; $35; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org.
SCUBA SANTA AT NEWPORT AQUARIUM Santa’s back through December 24! He’ll be diving with three rare Shark Rays, a mischievous Loggerhead Sea Turtle and other animals. Newport Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; included with general admission, free for FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA members; 1-800-406-3474 or newportaquarium.com. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and get a photo taken. SERVATII CINCINNATI Primo Italian Steakhouse; 6 S. CHRISTKINDLMARKT Broad St., Middletown; select A four-lane innertube ice slide nights in December: 5 - 8 p.m.; ($20 each), private igloos, holidaywhopla.org. family fun Wednesdays, themed character days and more. PNC FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Moerlein Lager House, 115 Joe Bask in the glow of 4 million Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati; select lights, see a black-light puppet nights in December: 5 - 11 p.m.; show, search for Fiona fairies in no admission but paid activities. Fairy Land, marvel at the Swan cincinnatichristkindlmarkt.com. Lake show and enjoy seasonal treats. Through Jan 7, 2024; STRAIGHT NO CHASER: Sun. - Thu. 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Fri. SLEIGHIN’ IT TOUR - Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Closed An evening of acappella holiday Christmas Eve and Christmas; tunes. Taft Theatre, 317 E. 5th activities begin at 4 p.m.; Dec. St., Cincinnati; 8 p.m.; see 23rd is the last night to visit website for ticket pricing details; with Santa. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., 513-232-6220 or tafttheatre.org. Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; WARM 98.5 ICE RINK AT PNC Festival of Lights included SUMMIT PARK with zoo admission; free for Skate with the fam in sessions; members; 513-281-4700 or see website for exact times. cincinnatizoo.org. Summit Park, 4335 Glendale Milford Road, Blue Ash; $7 per PRESCHOOL STORY TIME AT person, includes skate rental; HAPPY HANGOUT summitparkblueash.com. Little ones can hear a story and dance. Happy Hangout YULETIDE VILLAGE: Westside, 2041 Anderson SEASON OF LIGHTS Ferry Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m.; included with playpass; 513-458- Shop a 16th-Century yuletide market, bask Gum Drop Alley, 1470 or happyhangoutws.com. listen to strolling carolers and get a photo with Woodland PYRAMID HILL LIGHTS Santa or Krampus! Renaissance Drive through lights, art Park, 10542 East State Route 73, installations and sculptures. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, 1763 Waynesville; through December cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
16: Fridays: 5 - 9 p.m., Saturday 3 - 9 p.m.; $15 for ages 13+, free for children under 13; 513-8977000 or yuletidevillage.com.
sat 2 FREE ALL ABOUT ESTHER PRICE Learn about the history of Esther Price Candies. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 1 - 2 p.m.; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net. FREE BOOKERY STORY TIME Join Ms. Becca to hear a story, sing songs and meet Mr. Sprinkles! Bookery, 3704 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; bookerycincy.com. BREAKFAST WITH SANTA (register) Meet Santa and enjoy pancakes, sausage, fruit and drinks. Joseph-Beth Booksellers, 2692 Madison Road, Cincinnati; December 2 or 9: 9 a.m.; $20 per person; josephbeth.com; 513-396-8960. CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY See decorations of a by-gone era, enjoy live music, carolers, dancing, crafts for the kids and more. Dinsmore Homestead, 5752 Burlington Pike, Burlington, KY; 12 - 5 p.m.; included with general admission: $10 adults, $3 ages 5 - 15; free for members and ages 5 and younger; dinsmorefarm.org. COOKIES WITH SANTA (register) Get a photo with Santa, play in the open gym and decorate cookies, too. Kids First Too, 885 State Route 28, Milford; 1 - 3 p.m.; $25 first child, $15 second child, $10 third child, $50 family max; 513-831-4333 or kidsfirsttoo.com. CYCLONES SCARF GIVEAWAY The Cyclones meet the Fort Wayne Komets plus the first 3,000 fans get a Cyclones scarf. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $21 preferred advanced ($23 day-of), $33 front row advanced ($35 day-of); 513-421-4111 or heritagebankcenter.com. (please turn the page) december 2023 17
DAILY EVENTS FAMILY DAY: HOLIDAY FUN See a holiday display and get a fun family photo. Kids can make a craft, meet Santa and enjoy a snack and improv by Comedy Sportz. American Sign Museum, 1330 Monmouth Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.; included with museum admission: $15 adult, $10 seniors/youth 13 - 18/military and first respondesr; three children 12 and younger free with each paid adult; 513-541-6366 or americansignmuseum.org. HOLIDAY CERAMIC PAINTING (register) Paint a piece of ceramic with Nakama Studio, 600 Kilgore Ave., Batavia; 6 - 8:30 p.m.; fee from $14 - $95; 513-827-1299 or nakamastudio.org. FREE HOLIDAY CRAFT SALE Shop local artisans. Crestview Hills Town Center, 2791 Town Center Blvd., Crestview Hills, KY; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. FREE HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW Shop a wide array of items including candles, jewelry, food items, soaps and more. Blue Ash Recreation Center, 4433 Cooper Road, Blue Ash; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; blueash.com. HOLIDAY TEAS (register) Hear live music, sample bites and sip on Churchill’s Teas. Tea times available at 12 and 1:30 p.m. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; select days in December; $55 non-member, $45 Taft member, $25 ages 12 and younger; 513-241-0343 or taftmuseum.org. HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES Ride through Historic Downtown Middletown all decked out for the holidays. Historic Downtown Middletown, Central St., Middletown; select nights in December: 5 - 8 p.m.; $5 per person; holidaywhopla.org. FREE MARKET BLEU Browse handmade products artisan crafts at the Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St, Cincinnati; 6 - 10 p.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org. 18 december 2023
sun 3
FREE MAINSTRASSE CHRISTKINDLMARKT Experience a traditional BREAKFAST WITH SANTA German Christmas market (register) with unique gifts, music Join Santa Claus for breakfast. and children’s activities. Velocity Esports, 1 Levee Way, MainStrasse Village, 602 Newport, KY; Dec. 3,10 and 17; Main St., Covington, 10 a.m.; $25; eventbrite.com. KY; 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; facebook.com/ BREAKFAST WITH THE mainstrassevillage. GRINCH (register) Meet the Grinch and enjoy pancakes, sausage, fruit and drinks. Joseph-Beth Booksellers, FREE COSPLAY CAMP 2692 Madison Road, Cincinnati; Learn how to make a 8:30 a.m.; $20 per person; 513cosplay or LARP costume 396-8960 or josephbeth.com. using provided supplies. Westwood Branch, 3345 FREE CINCINNATI CIVIC Epworth Ave., Cincinnati; ORCHESTRA 2 - 3 p.m.; 513-369-4474 Enjoy a holiday concert featuring or chpl.org. a 60-piece orchestra. Grove Event Center, 9158 Winton Road Building A, Cincinnati; 4 - 6 p.m.; donations accepted; 513-5222108 or theartsconnect.us. FREE ART PLAY HIKE (register) DIRTY DANCING IN CONCERT Ages 2 - 7 can get Watch the 80s film with a live moving outside with WHEN IN DOUBT: The national tour of Mrs. band and singers performing a naturalist. Stick Tony-nominated performance. It’s at the Aronoff the music’s iconic songs live! around for kid-friendly Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut yoga. LaBoiteaux Woods St., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; tickets 7500 or myj.mayersonjcc.org. Nature Center, 5400 starting at $50; 513-621-2787 or Lanius Lane, Cincinnati; 10:30 cincinnatiarts.org. FREE REC READS - 11:30 a.m.; 513-345-8400 Young artists will hear artorcontemporaryartscenter.org. FREE HOLIDAY FAMILY themed stories, sing songs FUNDAY and explore sensory activities. MRS. DOUBTFIRE Make art, enjoy music and Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Rob McClure reprises his browse the Taft’s decked-out Eden Park, Cincinnati; 10:30 Tony-nominated Broadway Today’s theme is “German a.m. - 12 p.m.; 513-721-2787 or performance in the U.S. Christmas.” Taft Museum of cincinnatiartmuseum.org. tour of the comedic show. Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; 10 Recommended for ages 8 and a.m. - 4 p.m.; 513-241-0343 or ZUMBINI HOLIDAY CLASS older. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut taftmuseum.org. (register) St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m., see Ages 0 - 5 can enjoy a website for additional showtimes; FREE HOLIDAY MUSIC 45-minute music and dance tickets starting at $35; 513-621SERIES class. LilyPad Play, 2008 Madison 2787 or cincinnatiarts.org. Holiday music performances Road, Cincinnati; 9:15 a.m.; $15, featuring German band, Vereins includes play pass; lilypadplay. Musikanten Dec. 10: Jake Speed com or 513-321-1379. & The Freddies Dec. 17: Sergio CELEBRATING SELF – Pamies Quartet Taft Museum THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; Happy Hanukkah 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.; 513-241-0343 or (register) Sing seasonal songs with taftmuseum.org. EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY Miami University’s Professor EVER TOLD (AND THEN Ben Smolder. Fitton Center LUNCH WITH SANTA SOME!) for Creative Arts, 101 South (register) Monument Ave., Hamilton; 11:30 Cincinnati Shakespeare Enjoy pizza, cookies, a Madcap puppet performance of The Night a.m.; $27 general admission, $21 Company’s hit is back. The Otto Before Christmas, Santa photos Fitton Center members; 513-863- M. Budig Theater, 1195 Elm St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m., see 8873 or fittoncenter.org. and more. Grove Event Center, website for additional showtimes; 9158 Winton Road Building tickets starting at $14; 513-381POKEMON CLUB A, Cincinnati; 11:30 a.m. - 2 Bring cards from home or borrow 2273 or p.m.; $18 ages 2 and older, $8 cincyshakes.com. from the J. Dinner provided. adults, free for ages 23 months Mayerson JCC, 8485 Ridge Road, and younger; 513-522-2108 or SCIENCE BY THE BITE: Cincinnati; 5:30 - 7 p.m.; $13 theartsconnect.us. HOMESCHOOL COOKING public, $10 J Member; 513-761-
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Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
the Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Cincinnati; 11 a.m., 7:30 p.m., see website for additional showtimes; adult tickets starting at $26, youth tickets start at $15; 513-381-3300 or cincinnatisymphony. org.
sat 9
Doubtfire includes the actor Rob McClure in his Center Dec. 5 - 17.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA, ELVES, ANNA AND ELSA (register) Breakfast with Santa, Elves, Anna and Elsa plus singing, dancing and photos. Receptions Fairfield, 5975 Boymel Drive, Fairfield; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $34.95; 513-8604100 or receptionsinc. com/breakfast-withsanta-elves-anna-andelsa.
CLUB (register) Ages 7 - 14 can discover chemical reactions that change foods and reveal cultural histories. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.; $30 non-member, $25 member; 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum. org.
CYCLONES ORNAMENT GIVEAWAY The Cyclones meet the Toledo Walleye; the first 3,000 fans get a Cyclone ornament. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $21 preferred advanced ($23 dayof), $33 front row advanced ($35 day-of); 513-421-4111 or heritagebankcenter.com.
THURSDAY ART PLAY: LITTLE ARCHITECTS Learn all about the artists in the exhibit, A Rehearsal on Legacy and create artwork. Stick around for kid-friendly yoga. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 per non-member child, free for members; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.
FITTON SHOWSTOPPERS: A MOTOWN & MORE CHRISTMAS (register) A night of holiday music with tunes from the Motown Christmas catalog. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 South Monument Ave., Hamilton; 7:30 p.m.; $43 non-members, $35 Fitton Center members; 513863-8873 or fittoncenter.org.
fri 8
FREE HANUKKAH STORYTIME Head to Joseph Beth in Rookwood Commons for a special Hanukkah story time. Joseph-Beth Booksellers, 2692 Madison Road, Cincinnati; 2 p.m.; 513-396-8960 or josephbeth.com.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS WITH THE MIGHTY WURLITZER One-of-a-kind special effects and jingling bells! Music Hall Ballroom, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; tickets starting at $34; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org. HOLIDAY POPS Beloved classics come to life in the winter wonderland of
NARNIA THE MUSICAL Follow four children on a journey through a magical wardrobe during this musical rendition of Narnia! Taft Theatre, 317 E. 5th St., Cincinnati; 2
or 5 p.m., see website for additional showtimes; tickets starting at $10; 513-598-8080 or thechildrenstheatre.com/shows/ narnia-the-musical.
sun 10 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA (register) Face painting, cookie decorating, crafts, pictures with Santa and a breakfast buffet. Maggiano’s Cincinnati, 7875 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati; 9 a.m., additional dates available; $40 adult, $35 children; 513-7940672 or maggianos.com. CINCINNATI BENGALS HOME GAME Vs. the Indianapolis Colts. Paycor Stadium, 1 Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; see website for ticket details; 513621-8383 or bengals.com. HOLIDAY CRAFTS BY LITTLE HANDS Collect natural materials to create ornaments. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. or 2 - 3 p.m.; see website for pricing details; cincynature.org. FREE HOLIDAY FAMILY FUNDAY Art-making, bluegrass music and the Taft decked-out for the holidays. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 513-241-0343 or taftmuseum.org. FREE HOLIDAY MUSIC SERIES Special performances featuring Jake Speed & The Freddies; Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.; 513241-0343 or taftmuseum.org. FREE SANTA’S WORKSHOP HANDMADE MARKET Support local businesses by shopping for holiday gifts. Nakama Studio, 600 Kilgore Ave., Batavia; 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 513-827-1299 or nakamastudio. org.
mon 11 FREE LIL’ SPROUTS Little kids can make nature discoveries during this bi-weekly drop-in series. Civic Garden Center, 2715 Reading Road,
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
Cincinnati; 9 - 10:30 a.m.; 513221-0981 or civicgardencenter. org.
wed 13 CYCLONES PUCKS N PUPS Watch hockey with your pup! Dog-owners can purchase tickets by calling 513-421-7825. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $21 preferred advanced ($23 day-of), $33 front row advanced ($35 day-of); 513-421-4111 or heritagebankcenter.com. HOMESCHOOL SKATE It’s the final two homeschool skate events of the year. Beechmont Rollarena, 3988 Commercial Blvd., Cincinnati; 12 - 2:30 p.m.; $7 admission + $3 regular skate rental/$5 speed skate rental; 513-753-6868 or beechmontrollarena.com.
tue 14 CINCINNATI BALLET PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER The beloved holiday tradition includes dozens of young, local performers and Tchaikovsky’s score performed live by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Music Hall, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m., additional showtimes available; tickets starting at $39; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org. THURSDAY ART PLAY: HOLIDAY GIFTS Kids can create one-of-a-kind presents. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 per non-member child, free for members; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.
fri 15 PARENT’S NIGHT OUT: WINTER WONDERLAND (register) Take an evening off while the kids have a themed night of fun! Kids First Too, 885 State Route 28, Milford; 6 - 9 p.m.; $40 for the first child, $29 for each additional child; 513-831-4333 or kidsfirsttoo.com. (please turn the page) december 2023 19
FREE POLAR EXPRESS PAJAMA PARTY Hear The Polar Express, enjoy cocoa and holiday tunes. Barnes & Noble, 7663 Mall Road, Florence, KY; 7 p.m.; 859-6476400 or barnesandnoble.com.
Recreation Center, 320 McAlpin Ave., Cincinnati; 12 - 4 p.m.; carolstrunkshow.com.
STAR WARS NIGHT AT THE CYCLONES The Cyclones meet the Kalamazoo Wings. Enjoy roaming Star Wars characters and the Cyclones in Star Warsinspired jerseys. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $21 preferred advanced ($23 day-of), $33 front row advanced ($35 day-of); 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com.
FREE HOLIDAY FAMILY FUNDAY Enjoy art-making, music and browse the Taft’s decked-out halls! Today’s theme is Jazzy Holiday. Taft Museum of Art, 316 BEAM ME UP: Rock in the new year when the Trans Siberian Orchestra Pike St., Cincinnati; 10 brings their tour to Heritage Bank Center on Friday, Dec. 29. a.m. - 4 p.m.; 513-2410343 or taftmuseum.org.
sat 16 FREE BRUNCH WITH FROSTY AND FRIENDS Donuts, juice, shopping and more. Liberty Home Association, 2361 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 513-973-6153 or eventbrite.com/e/brunch-withfrosty-and-friends-holiday-eventtickets-740251812097. FREE CINCINNATI SPORTS CARDS & MEMORABILIA SHOW Cincinnati’s biggest largest sports card and memorabilia show. EastGate Mall, 4601 Eastgate Blvd., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; cincinnatisportscards.com. HOLIDAY CARTOONING WORKSHOP (register) Young participants will study animation principles then apply them to their drawings. CCAC @ Short Vine, 2728 Short Vine, Cincinnati; 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.; $60 per student; 513-497-2860 or cliftonculturalarts.org. FREE SENSORY FRIENDLY MORNINGS AT THE CAC: BUILD, BUILD, BUILD Enjoy the museum in a laidback setting. The theme is architecture and construction. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. 6th St., Cincinnati; 9 - 10 a.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org. FREE TIS THE SEASON CRAFT SHOW Shop for the holidays to see lots of local vendors. Clifton 20 december 2023
sun 17
FREE HOLIDAY MUSIC SERIES Music performances featuring Sergio Pamies Quartet. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.; 513-241-0343 or taftmuseum. org. THE NUTCRACKER - ALL JAZZED UP! Mason Dance Center’s Nutcracker, available at 1 and 4 p.m.; Mason High School Theater, 6100 MasonMontgomery Road, Mason; see website for ticket pricing details; 513-398-0353 or masondance. com/nutcracker.
wed 20 CHRISTMAS WITH C.S. LEWIS Experience yuletide recollections through Lewis’ journey to discovering the true meaning of Christmas. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; starting at $67; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org.
fri 22 RECREATIONS OUTLET CHARITABLE PLAY Kid can play with 50 percent of the proceeds going to a nonprofit. Recreations Outlet, 885 Oh 28, Milford; 9 - 11 a.m.; $4 per child; recreationsoutlet.com.
wed 22
A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS Magical performances accompanied by beloved holiday tunes. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 7:30
p.m.; tickets starting at $49.50; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts. org/events/detail/a-magicalcirque-christmas-2. CYCLONES NUTCRACKER GIVEAWAY The Cyclones vs. the Wheeling Nailers. The first 3,000 fans get a Cyclones Nutcracker. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $21 preferred advanced ($23 dayof), $33 front row advanced ($35 day-of); 513-421-4111 or heritagebankcenter.com.
mon 25 Merry Christmas! thu 28 HAPPY (ALMOST) NEW YEAR’S PARTY (register) Make masks and decorations. and enjoy a balloon drop. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 11:30 a.m.; $5 non-member children (3 - 8 years old), free for members; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.
fri 29 CINCINNATI POPS ORCHESTRA and STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI The film on the big screen with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra playing the score. Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; tickets starting at $26; youth tickets half off with an accompanying adult ticket; 513-744-3344 or cincinnatisymphony.org.
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA Rock out with TSO at Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 3 or 7:30 p.m.; tickets starting at $39; 513-4214111 or heritagebankcenter.com.
sat 30 HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 2024 WORLD TOUR Outrageous basketball. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 2 or 7 p.m.; tickets starting at $38; 513-421-4111 or heritagebankcenter.com.
sun 31 CINCINNATI CYCLONES The Cyclones vs. the Jacksonville Icemen followed by fireworks! Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 6 p.m.; $21 preferred advanced ($23 day-of), $33 front row advanced ($35 day-of); 513-506-7931 or heritagebankcenter.com.eveindoor-fireworks. HAPPY ZOO YEAR A kid-friendly countdown at 8 p.m. featuring the zoo’s new 40-foot digital tree. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 5 - 9 p.m.; included with zoo admission; free for members; 513-281-4700 or cincinnatizoo.org. Discover THINGS TO DO on your cell phone! Scan the QR Code!
Every holiday season, Gaylord Opryland becomes a winter wonderland of fun, including our dazzling attraction ICE! featuring The Polar Express™, endless hours of festive family fun, delightful dining, and more. Tickets and packages are on sale now. Book a room night or package and receive exclusive benefits for overnight guests. NOV. 10 - JAN. 1 ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
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Children’s Medical Center Why Flu Vaccines? By getting a flu vaccine for yourself and your entire family every year, you can help prevent flu-related illness, missed school, and missed work. Everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop an immune response. Get vaccinated now so you will be protected all season long!
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NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
Children’s Medical Center
Rebecca A. Dandoy, MD
James M. Komer, MD
Kenton A. Pate, MD
Diana E. Small, MD
Jennifer Thornicroft, FNP
Memory Basile, PA
331 N. Breiel Blvd., Middletown, OH
(513) 424-1856
www.childrenscmc.com