Beer Me

Think beer is just for the summer? Think again!

The Cincy Winter Beerfest brings more 150 local and craft brews, as well as new craft wineries and distilleries to the Duke Energy Convention Center on Friday, Feb. 3 and Saturday, Feb. 4.

Ready to go? Get tickets!

Dive Right In

If even thinking about the scene in the freezing water at the end of Titanic is too much for you, jumping into the Greater Cincinnati Polar Plunge the Polar Plunge may not be for you.

But you can still support Special Olympics during this annual event and still stay warm and dry!

This year’s Polar Plunge returns to The Banks on Saturday, Jan. 28, with the opening ceremonies starting at 10:15 a.m. Then those who have raised at least $75 will jump into the cold water, many in costume.

Along with the Plunges, the day includes a costume contest as well as fun throughout the day for participants and spectators alike. There will also be vendor booths set up near the Plunge and many restaurants at The Banks will be opening early on Plunge day.

Prizes are awarded for best costume – the best individual and team costumes will receive the coveted Golden Plunger award – and for the top individual fundraiser and for the top fundraising teams in corporate/civic, school and law enforcement divisions.

Held in front of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, the event is a fundraiser for both Special Olympics Ohio and Special Olympics Kentucky to support the Special Olympics mission of providing sports training and competition opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The Plunge has raised nearly $1.9 million for the two programs. 

Special Olympics is the world’s largest program of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Participation is open to all individuals eight years of age or older. Training and competition in local, area, state, and national programs is offered year-round in 25 sports.

For more information about Special Olympics Programs, visit www.sooh.org or www.soky.org.

From Soup to Nuts

Bringing delicious and nutritious meals to people is the mission of both La Soupe and Meals on Wheels Southwest Ohio & Northern Kentucky. It’s fitting, then, that these two organizations have teamed up for a new project.

Working with La Soupe, a nonprofit that bridges the gap between food waste and food insecurity, Meals on Wheels will deliver fresh, chef-driven medically tailored meals to their clients, using sustainable, rescued ingredients.

This marks the first collaboration between a local Meals on Wheels America organization and a food rescue nonprofit.

La Soupe chefs have been creating “Medically Tailored Meals” for over a year as part of their Food as Medicine Program, which provides healthy food as nutrition intervention for those with chronic illnesses in the community. La Soupe's recipes will provide an increased variety of flavors for those receiving Meals on Wheel’s diabetic and heart healthy therapeutic meals.

Through this new partnership with La Soupe and its recent merger with 55North, Meals on Wheel is continuing to innovate in its fight against food insecurity, malnourishment, and senior isolation in the community.

Drink in the History

If You Go

Brewing Heritage Trail Guided Tours
1939 Race St.

Tours offered include the winter Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour, Built on Beer, and Over & Under the Rhine

For more information visit brewingheritagetrail.org/tours.

If you like your pint of beer with a side of Cincinnati history, look no further than Brewing Heritage Trails in Over-the-Rhine.

We took you along on a haunted brewery tour last Fall, and recently we stopped by for another tour, with beer and spirit tastings!

Brewing Heritage Trails has a number of guided tours, but the new winter tour is an indoor tour focused on Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting.

During the tour, we learned about modern and historic brewing and distilling. We sampled a flight of beers from Rhinegeist and a flight of spirits from Northern Row Brewery & Distillery.

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The first stop on the tour is the Rhinegeist Brewery

We toured the pre-Prohibition brewing structure, got a behind the scenes tour & finished our time there with a flight of their winter beverages.

Safety glasses are needed for this portion of the tour – We walked past the “employee only” signs (with our tour guides, of course) and learned about historic and modern day brewing techniques!

We stood in awe of the massive pallets of IPA Truth, then finished our tour with a few cold ones.

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Next, we walked through the lagering cellar of the historic Jackson Brewery.

We explored underground passages where beer was fermented and cold stored dating back to the 1850s!

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After touring the tunnels below Jackson Brewery, we made our way back to West McMicken, to our final stop, Northern Row Brewery & Distillery.

Here, we were treated to a behind the scenes tour and finished our day with a Northern Row spirits tasting.

There’s nothing quite like this in Cincinnati. It’s so fun to walk through the old lagering tunnels and learn more about the history of brewing in the Queen City.

– Lauren Artino

Connecting Community

Admission to the Freedom Center’s exhibits and permanent collection are FREE on Monday, Jan. 16 for their MLK Fifth Third Community Day.

Art Activity with local artist Brent Billingsley

11 a.m. – 4 p.m. I Grand Hall

Brent Billingslev. is an artist and empowering voice behind young, disenfranchised youth. Stop by for an art activity about the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Unpacking Love & Justice with Brittany Packnett Cunningham

2–3 p.m. I Harriet Tubman Theater

Moderated by Angenita Brown with Union Institute & University, this open discussion explores the intersection of culture and justice with Brittanv. Packnett Cunningham. Brittany is an award-winning activist, educator and writer. Cited by President Barack Obama as a leader whose “voice is going to be making a difference for years to come,” Brittany is an award-winning educator, organizer, writer and leader. Brittany has become a remarkable voice in the work of social change, empowerment and freedom.

Education Resources

All day I 3rd floor

Stop by and learn about the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center's educational resources, field trip opportunities and youth initiatives.

The King Legacy Celebration at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center begins at 8 a.m. with a continental breakfast and an opportunity for fellowship before the program begins. Tickets available.

Artist Destiny L will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing” to start the program and Revolution Dance Theatre will perform prior to the keynote. The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra’s Nouveau program will perform in reflection to Dr. King’s philosophy and students from the Freedom Center’s Youth Docent Program will speak about Dr. King’s six principles.

The event also includes a keynote discussion between Brittany Packnett Cunningham and Lacey Roberts from WLWT.

Brittany Packnett Cunningham is an award-winning educator, organizer, writer and leader who is leading at the intersection of culture and justice.

Doctor's Orders

The outpouring of love and generosity for Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin was inspiring. From Bengals fans gathering for a vigil outside UC Medical Center to the millions of dollars donated to his Chasing Ms foundation, people were trying to find ways to show support.

Last Sunday, as the Bengals faced the Ravens, the bars and restaurants at The Banks joined the cause.

Fans made direct donations to Hamlin’s foundation by scanning a QR code shown on the Reds Hall of Fame video board on Joe Nuxhall at Freedom Way.

But inside the establishments, money was being raised for the UC Medical Center Trauma Center. From the proceeds of drinks sold before and after the Bengals game, $18,853 was donated to the UC Health Foundation, designated for the Trauma Center.

Save the Date

A new year means a chance to do it all over again, and maybe – to try things for the first time. Whichever bucket you fall into, it’s time to make a plan for fun.

As we turn the calendar page (does anybody use paper calendars anymore?), let’s take a look at some of the things Cincinnati People is most looking forward to in 2023. 

Reds Opening Day

The city may have Bengals fever right now, but Reds Opening Day is right around the corner. Baseball’s oldest team will open play on Thursday, March 30 against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Great American Ball Park. A new beginning might be just what the doctor ordered. The team’s performance on the field left something to be desired in 2022, but hope springs eternal in the Cincinnati sports world. Besides, the Findlay Market Opening Day parade never disappoints.  

Flying Pig Marathon

One of the country’s favorite marathons celebrates its silver anniversary in 2023. The 25th Flying Pig Marathon weekend is May 5-7, 2023 in downtown Cincinnati. Races range from one to 26.2 miles, with events perfect for serious runners, furry friends - and those looking for some family fun. Don’t miss the P&G Health and Fitness Expo at the Duke Energy Convention Center on Friday and Saturday, May 6-7 and the Family Fun Fest at Smale Park on Saturday, May 6.

Taste of Cincinnati

It feels only right to follow up Cincinnati’s healthiest weekend with one full of gastronomic delights. Kick off your summer with Taste of Cincinnati, May 27–29. The nation’s longest-running culinary arts festival begin in 1979 and has expanded into a bucket-list item for foodies everywhere. More than 450,000 hungry folks are expected at the annual food extravaganza in downtown Cincinnati, where more than 50 restaurants and food trucks will serve up delicious menu items. Taste is also a music festival, with continuous live entertainment throughout Memorial Day weekend.

Summerfair

Let’s roll right into the next weekend, when Summerfair Cincinnati takes the spotlight. In its 56th year, Summerfair will be held once again at historic Coney Island, June 2–4, 2003. More than 300 artisans and craftspeople from all over the country will feature their work, along with a variety of gourmet arts and regional performers. Artists apply and then are judged, allowing only the best to exhibit their pieces for the more than 20,000 who visit Summerfair yearly.

Queen City Championship

In 2022, the LPGA returned to Cincinnati after more than 30 years. The Kroger Queen City Championship, presented by P&G, drew enormous crowds in its inaugural year at Kenwood Country Club, and will return there September 4-10, 2023. The gorgeous grounds at Kenwood CC are the perfect backdrop for the world’s best female golfers to show their incredible skill and their personalities, as fans cheer them along the way.

Oktoberfest Zinzinnati

Prost! Cincinnati loves its festivals, and its German heritage. Put them together and you have the marquee event of the year: Oktoberfest Zinzinnati. The event is the second largest Oktoberfest in the world, behind only Munich, Germany, and returns to downtown streets in mid-September. A half million patrons will eat 20,000 cream puffs, 23,000 Bavarian pretzels and 3,600 pounds of sauerkraut. And the beer. Oh, the beer. Last year’s Oktoberfest featured more than 130 varieties of beer and alcoholic beverages from national and local breweries.

Kroger Wellness Festival

The newest addition to Cincinnati’s festival lineup is the Kroger Wellness Festival. This free two-day health and wellness festival brings together all the good stuff: healthy foods, celebrities, interesting discussions, live entertainment and tons of freebies. You can check out chef demos, product sampling, celebrity fitness challenges and hear from industry experts – at The Banks in downtown Cincinnati. Dates for the 2023 festival have yet to be announced.

Cincinnati loves its festivals and big events, and you will, too. From baseball to beer, golf to great art,  there’s something for everyone in 2023.

– Kathrine Nero

Bring the Heat

If the college bowl games over New Year’s left you hungry for more, you’re in luck!

The board of the Cincinnati USA Sports Commission is exploring a new college football bowl game that would be held at TQL Stadium, and air exclusively on The CW Network.

Called the Cincinnati Chili Bowl, the new event will feature two Division I conferences where two of their Bowl eligible teams will be invited to play in the December postseason game. Discussions with conferences are underway. Pending official approval, the three-hour telecast would air on The CW Network and would be available in 100+ million homes across America. 

Officials from the Cincinnati USA Sports Commission have studied best practices from college football games over the last year to ensure the following ideals: A professionally managed football game aired on national TV to promote the Cincinnati region, a fiscally responsible opportunity for the participating colleges, unique fan engagement events and an opportunity for the student athletes to network with area executives for future employment opportunities.

On the day after the Bowl Game, 30 regional corporate leaders will be invited to host the “Big Wigs Business Brunch” where student athletes from both schools can meet and network with business leaders to discuss employment opportunities.

Additionally, the Player Gifting Suite will be focused on professional attire and tools the student athletes can use for internships and employment.

The proceeds from the Cincinnati Chili Bowl will benefit the Cincinnati USA Sports Commission to be used in attracting new sporting events to the region to drive economic impact.

To that end, the Cincinnati Chili Bowl Champions—a collective of regional executives—will be invited to support the Bowl Game with a financial contribution, sponsorship opportunities and ticket purchases for the Bowl Game.

The feasibility study for the Cincinnati Chili Bowl will be led by Jackie Reau, CEO of Game Day, along with local businessmen Steven Young and John Schenk.

The financial support needed to move forward will include a mix of corporate sponsors, hospitality and ticket sales as well as local event tickets.

Initial fan engagement plans feature bourbon and craft beer tours, culinary tours, college marching band, cheer and dance team challenges, an esports tournament between the two schools and a fan fest. 

4 More: Adam Turer

As part of our year-end issue, we are revisiting some of our favorite Cincinnati People from 2022.

We checked in with Saturday Hoops’ Adam Turer.

What’s been the biggest surprise to you in 2022?

A pleasant surprise has been a significant influx of young volunteers. We’ve seen tremendous and consistent dedication from local high school and university students volunteering their time each Saturday morning. We hope to continue that trend in 2023.

What’s changed since we last spoke?

We opened the resource closet courtesy of Bigger Than Sneakers, which allows us to provide our kids with new basketballs, shoes, clothes, and other accessories each week. For the first time, we started programming in September in Winton Terrace and the West End, serving over 500 kids this Fall. We officially became a program of Cincinnati Youth Collaborative, providing additional resources and leadership for our group mentoring model.

What have you learned about our community this year?

The future is in great hands. We’ve had so many alumni of our program who are now young adults continue to come back and serve. The younger kids look up to them as role models and that’s exactly what our program is designed to build. We mentor our community’s future mentors, strengthening the cycle of cheerful giving and good stewardship.

What are you most looking forward to in 2023?

We aim to open our third Saturday Hoops location in Avondale in February, which creates an opportunity to serve hundreds more children. This presents an opportunity for new volunteers and donors to help us reach more kids and serve in a new community.

Find more info on Saturday Hoops and its impact here.

4MORE: Tamara Harkavy

As part of our year-end issue, we are revisiting some of our favorite Cincinnati People from 2022.

We checked in with Tamara Harkavy, co-chair of the Jewish Cincinnati Bicentennial.

What’s been the biggest surprise to you in 2022? 

The committee intentionally planned offerings that were as diverse as our community. Activities were planned in partnership with Cincinnati’s many Jewish institutions; the Skirball Museum, Mayerson JCC, Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati, and American Jewish Archives among them. But to our delight we found that so many of Cincinnati’s institutions were also eager to participate. From the Museum Center to the Cincinnati Art Museum to the Playhouse in the Park to the Opera, all going above and beyond to present relevant and captivating performances, exhibitions and events that celebrated our 200-year history in Cincinnati. 

What’s changed since we last spoke?

Initially, we offered a lot of amazing programming in celebration of the bicentennial. There were about 30 planned events, in total. But as the community became more involved and recognized the significance of the bicentennial, we actually doubled that number, to about 60 events! Some of the events were small and intimate, others were months-long and aimed at attracting the broader public. Many were postponed or retooled because of Covid.  The “Leaders in Light Speaker Series” was a great example of this. In partnership with the Mercantile Library, the series was to feature in-person engagements with four dynamic speakers; but we had to pivot. Still, we saw people log on and join us virtually for this very timely series. We believe each speaker made an impact on the audience. This was witnessed by the willingness of attendees (virtually or in person) to participate with questions and responses that showed how profoundly important it is to address issues that relate to hatred, racial bias and antisemitism.

What have you learned about our community this year?

I’ll use one amazing event as an example and it’s one that inspired me the most: Rainbow Shabbat. It was fun, colorful and filled with joy. This event, like no other, showed how eager the Jewish Community is to embrace diversity and celebrate differences. Music, food and even a drag queen were the backdrop of Rainbow Shabbat, but the real stars were the people who attended. LGBTQ+ Allies coming together to pray, eat, dance and share in a shabbat experience like no other. The minute it ended, people started talking about next year!  A new Jewish Cincinnati Tradition is born. I am already looking forward to Rainbow Shabbat 2023! 

What are you looking forward to in 2023?

Obviously, Rainbow Shabbat 2023! We have made so many new friends during this celebration and we want to strengthen those bonds as we move forward into 2023 and beyond. What we found, is that people are interested and appreciative of our Jewish community. When we opened our arms and invited people in, they responded with energy and excitement. To celebrate the way the Jewish culture and Jewish people are interwoven into Cincinnati’s history was a very significant aspect of the bicentennial, but equally significant, is the desire to look ahead and figure out how to be more inclusive, more welcoming, and more engaged. I think we created a solid foundation for that, that we will continue to build on, for another 200 years.

4 More: Jennifer Steele

As part of our year-end issue, we are revisiting some of our favorite Cincinnati People from 2022.

We checked in with Jennifer Steele, CEO of Meals on Wheels Southwest OH & Northern KY.

Check out an interview with Jennifer, below.

What’s been the biggest surprise to you in 2022?

 I was continually surprised by the pure goodness of others in 2022. In spite of so many challenges, I was still brought to tears more than once by just how thoughtful and kind people can be. People stepped up to help in the most amazing ways: rushing to our aid when catalytic converters were stolen from vehicles we use to take seniors to critical medical appointments, giving to seniors on fixed incomes even as inflation hit their own families hard, giving of their time when they had so little for themselves. It has been truly inspiring to witness. I wish that everyone could see what I get to see each day – there is just so much good in this world, so much reason for hope.

What’s changed since we last spoke?

The biggest change for Meals on Wheels has also been the most recent! We announced a merger with 55 North this month, which will improve services for more than 11,000 area seniors. Combining the resources of two forward-thinking organizations will help us increase the quality of life of the seniors in the communities we serve.

What have you learned about our community this year?

I like to think that when we merged with Cincinnati Area Senior Services last year we kicked off a trend in nonprofit mergers and combinations in our region. I’ve learned that we are a community of leaders, donors, volunteers, and supporters willing to do whatever it takes to work smarter, serve more people in better ways, and to have a greater collective impact. I love that we’re closing out the year with a bang, and with another merger. Togetherness is something we care a lot about at Meals on Wheels, and it takes many forms. 

What are you looking forward to in 2023?

Growth! In 2023 we will be expanding innovative programs and services to keep seniors healthy and connected in this rapidly changing world. I’m also really looking forward to continuing to put our region on the map nationally through our research into senior hunger and loneliness, and to rolling out an equity-based innovation roadmap that we’ve been working on for the past 18 months.  

Light Year

Cincinnati’s Jewish community is inviting the city to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

Hanukkah on the Square
Wednesday, Dec. 21, 6 p.m.

Fountain Square
Fifth and Vine Streets

Details at mayersonjcc.org/hanukkah-at-fountain-square

“The message of Hanukkah is the message of light,” said Rabbi Yosef Kalmanson of Chabad of Southern Ohio. “The nature of light is that it is always victorious over darkness. A small amount of light dispels a lot of darkness. Another act of goodness and kindness, another act of light, can make all the difference.”

Though the official Hanukkah at Fountain Square event is sold out, guests are still welcome to come to Fountain Square and enjoy the light show and lighting of the menorah.

The evening also includes ice skating, bumper cars, and more on Fountain Square. 

“With public celebrations in the area, Jewish children get to grow up with pride in their Jewish heritage and a feeling of equality and
self-confidence as Americans,” said Rabbi Kalmanson.

Rabbi Kalmanson was instrumental in fighting for the display of a menorah on Fountain Square, which began in 1985.

“For many years it was challenged in court, but still appeared on the Square,” said Rabbi Kalmanson. “Chabad also lit the Menorah in City Hall and the Mayor's office starting in the late ‘80s.

Hanukkah on the Square is is presented by the Mayerson JCC in partnership with Jewish Federation of Cincinnati and Chabad of Southern Ohio.

“The Menorah serves as a symbol of Cincinnati's dedication to
preserving and encouraging the right and liberty of all its citizens
to worship God freely, openly, and with pride,” said Rabbi Kalmanson. “This is especially true in the United States, a nation that was founded upon and vigorously protects the right of every person to practice his or her religion free from restraint and persecution.”

Holiday Fandemonium

Got a Cincy sports fan on your list? You probably have more than one!

Get gifts for everyone, and something for yourself, at the Sports Flea at The Banks on Saturday, Dec. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Cincinnati sports teams will be on-site selling merch and apparel, giving you a one-stop shop for all your holiday present needs.

Teams will be set up at Sample Space, 140 Marian Spencer Way. Find unique items from

• FC Cincinnati

• Cincinnati Fear

• Cincinnati Cyclones

• UC

• Xavier

The Bengals and Reds team shops will be open, too, so you can stroll through The Banks and wrap up all your shopping!

A Dickens of a Time

If You Go

Mr and Mrs. Fezziwig’s Holiday Party
Dec. 14–18, 7 p.m.
The Phoenix, 812 Race St.

Get tickets and information.

Ticket price includes lite bites, dessert and unlimited punch, cider and hot cocoa.

Adults will receive one drink ticket for beer, wine or spiced mead. Cash bar available for additional adult beverages. Holiday attire is welcome. Period costumes are not necessary.

If you think you can’t enjoy a Victorian holiday celebration because Playhouse in the Park isn’t performing A Christmas Carol this year, think again!

While we all wait for their all-new production to debut next year, you can celebrate the holidays Dickens-style with everyone’s favorite party hosts, Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig.

Immerse yourself in a Victorian-era party at The Phoenix! Carolers and actors will perform throughout the party for an interactive, festive evening that takes you back in time and celebrates the cheerful spirit of the season.

Like any good party, guests will enjoy holiday-styled beverages and light bites, play a variety of parlor games, including knock rummy, charades and “Yes or No,” as seen in the Playhouse’s production of A Christmas Carol, and have the chance to learn Victorian-era group dances. All the while, Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig and other Victorian-era characters will be mingling among the guests!

Dylan Shelton in rehearsals for Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig’s Holiday Party, at the Phoenix Dec. 14–18.

Even the youngest guests (children ages 5 and up) will have a grand time, with guided, fun activities in the library and parlor, including Victorian-era floor games, holiday arts and crafts, puppet shows, a magician, and even a short, original melodrama written and performed in the Victorian style.

Out of this world

It’s been more than two years since the red planet was closest to Earth. This Saturday, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with it.

Cincinnati Observatory is hosting “Mars-a-palooza”, where you’ll learn about Mars, tour the observatory, and weather permitting, get a good look at Mars through the historic telescopes.

For ticketing info and more, click here.

Next Sunday, Dec. 11, the observatory welcomes the holiday season with a special open house. The afternoon includes tours, safe solar viewing (weather permitting), holiday refreshments, and shopping.

Plus you can take your holiday photo by their special Galaxy Tree. Admission is free, with no reservations required.

All the Bright Lights

If You Go

PNC Festival of Lights
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Zoo Hours, through Jan. 8, 2023
Sunday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

North Polar Express train ride begins at 2:30 p.m. Activities, including visits with Santa, begin daily at 4 p.m.

PNC Festival of Lights is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas

Share your #PNCFestivalOfLights pictures on your social channels using #cincyzoopic for a chance to be featured in future Zoo marketing materials!

Did you ever think you’d fall in love with a baby hippo? Did you ever think you’d fall in love with a baby hippo TWICE?

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, home to our beloved Fiona and Fritz, is celebrating the holidays in a big way with the 40th annual PNC Festival of Lights.

“I was here for the first PNC Festival of Lights and look forward to enjoying the 40th anniversary of one of my favorite Zoo events,” said Cincinnati Zoo director Thane Maynard. “We add something new every year and keep the favorite things that bring back great memories for repeat guests.”

Photos by Shae Combs

Festival of Lights is the region’s longest-running holiday tradition, with four million LED lights, hung with care by Zoo employees and volunteer elves. Visitors coming to see animals should come earlier in the day or visit indoor habitats such as World of the Insect, Night Hunters, and Manatee Springs, where they can see the three manatees that arrived earlier this month.

The Zoo is bringing back its popular Under the Sea area, where guests are surrounded by lights and giant, colorful jellyfish. Pose for Instagram-worthy photos here and at Elfie Selfie Stations throughout the Zoo. 

“The events team has done a spectacular job reimagining Santa’s Village and moving it to our new picnic shelter area.  The space is new, but our wonderful Santa hasn’t changed!”

Santa will be available for visits and photos in the all-new Santa’s Village, sponsored by Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky Honda Dealers, starting at 4 p.m. To give more people a chance to ride the popular North Polar Express Train, sponsored by Superior Credit Union, it will start running at 2:30 p.m. daily.  It will chug through a longer-than-ever light tunnel to make your ride extra bright!

Kind of a Big Deal

Sure, shopping online has its perks. Need a gift in a flash? It’ll be at your door tomorrow morning!

But where’s the fun in that?

While we love a good online deal (especially this time of the year!), there’s just something about hunting down the perfect gift at a local business, chatting with the owner and leaving the store with that perfectly wrapped present. Andd Saturday, Nov. 26 is the perfect time to do it!

OTR Chamber just released it’s “Buy OTR Made” list:

Here, you can find discounts, holiday happenings and more! Click here for that.

It’s Small Business Saturday.

The movement kicked off in a big way back in 2010, in the midst of the recession.

It’s a wonderful way to kick of the holiday shopping seasons, while supporting local businesses!

Here’s a list of Tristate businesses who are signed up for the official event, but it’s likely that every local store you know and love will be taking part.

Light Hearted

A Northern Kentucky holiday tradition is back, and bigger than ever.

Light Up The Fair is open for the season at the Boone County Fairgrounds, 2819 Idlewild Rd., Burlington, Ky. The family favorite light show is Northern Kentucky’s only drive-thru light display, and even if it’fs been a part of your family’s tradition for years, there’s something new this time around. 

This is the fifth year for the event, and just as its popularity has grown over that time, so has the display itself. Light Up the Fair is now longer than ever – you can now work your way through two full miles of twinkling, brilliant lights set to holiday music you can hear through your car’s stereo.

If You Go

Light Up The Fair
Boone County Fairgrounds
2819 Idlewild Road, Burlington

Open rain, snow, or (moon)shine

Sunday–Thursday: 5:30–9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 5:30–10 p.m.

Open holidays through New Years Eve.

Tickets:

$7 per person (1-3 people); $25 carload of 4- 8 people

Free for active Military and First Responders

 The LED light show lets you enjoy the holiday scenes from the comfort of your own vehicle, and features more than a million lights. Keep an eye out for quite a few local touches, like a replica of the famous Florence Y’all water tower as a centerpiece to one display. A 300-foot long Snowflake Tunnel is also an annual favorite. Organizers promise a few surprises as well this year.

To enjoy music on the ride, tune the radio in your car to 97.9 FM. A Light Up The Fair team member will also remind you of the channel information, when you enter the fairgrounds!

Light Up the Fair is created by Boone Lighting Effects, and opens at dusk every day through Dec. 31, including holidays. 

Crazy in Love

The Cincinnati premiere of the Timothée Chalamet feature film shot in Cincinnati, “Bones and All” was held Sunday evening, November 13, before a packed house at the Esquire Theatre, Clifton. 

Attending the local premiere were David Kajganic, screenplay/producer and a graduate of Miami University, and Theresa Park, producer. The movie was directed by Luca Guadagnino, who also directed Chalamet’s breakout film, “Call Me by Your Name.”

“Bones and All” received a 10-minute standing ovation at its premiere at the Venice Film Festival in September and won two awards at Venice, including Best Director for Guadagnino and Best Young Actor for Taylor Russell.

“Bones and All” will be released nationally in theaters on November 23

Stars & Stripes Forever

Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati will host its second annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Friday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m.

At the ceremony George Goldhoff, president of Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati, will present a $10,000 donation to Jeremy Yost, assistant national employment director at the DAV and a Marine veteran.

Robert Lomax, from the Hamilton County Sherriff’s office, will sing the National Anthem.

Hard Rock Cafe and Brick’d Oven Pizza will be offering Veterans Day lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for all military personnel, veterans, and first responders.