CLEVELAND — It’s the most wonderful time of the year, with lots of activities happening all over Northeast Ohio.
From real-life renditions of classic board games to theatrical productions of classic Christmas movies, the Buckeye State has plenty of options to entertain you and your crew this weekend.
You can also stimulate your mind with a documentary screening, rest and recharge with a yoga session and jam out with rappers and hip-hop artists from Cleveland and beyond. Read on for what’s happening in our communities this weekend.
Candyland by Lorain County Metro Parks
What: Come out and play the popular Candyland game, recreated with popular stops the gingerbread people visit along the way. Go through Peppermint Forest, Gumdrop Pass, Licorice Lagoon, Lollipop Lane, and more to reach the famous Candy Castle. Admission is $2.
Where: Miller Nature Preserve at 2739 Center Road in Avon
When: Open daily 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. through January 5
Reboot
What: Led by Kelly Allen, E-50-RYT, UZIT, this monthly Urban Zen workshop offers the perfect blend of restorative yoga and mindful movement, breath work, meditation, and essential oil therapy to help you feel calm and re-energized. Salt Therapy will be included in this class, which costs $25 per person.
Where: Vivify Wellness at Avenues 843 North Cleveland-Massillon Road in Akron
When: Friday at 5:30 P.M.
Black Buckeyes: A Tale of Two Cities
What: This event is a screening of the initial version of the Cleveland portion of the documentary film, “Black Buckeyes: A Tale of Two Cities.” Twenty-four Clevelanders are featured in a probing documentary film that addresses the African American experience in Cleveland. Produced and directed by the Reverend Dr. Leah Lewis, this film is a springboard to comparing the Cleveland experience to that of African Americans in Cincinnati.
Where: Greg. L. Reese Performing Arts Center at the East Cleveland Public Library at 14101 Euclid Avenue
When: Saturday from 1-3:30 P.M.
2019 Toys for Tots Holiday Party & Celebrity Fashion Show
What: Join the Friends of Zack Reed 2019 Toys for Tots Holiday Party & Celebrity Fashion Show, and help collect 1,000 toys for the needy children of Northeast Ohio. Celebrities invited include: Alex Stokes, Andrew Jackson, Austin Kirkland, Carl Kirkland, Homa Bash, Jenice Contreras, John Gadd, Kenya Brown, Kevin Clayton, Lauren Welch, Maria Belay, Melissa Mack, Rebecca Cardamone, and Vanessa Whiting, Esq. Admission is $10 at the door with a new, unopened toy for donation (or $20 without a toy, which you can buy in advance here). If you’re bringing a toy, you can pay at the door. Those who can’t make it can also send checks to Toys for Tots at 3232 E. 119th St., Cleveland, Ohio, 44120.
Where: Lake Affect Studios at 1615 East 25th Street in downtown Cleveland
When: Saturday from 6-11 P.M.
Muttley Crue’s 5th Annual Santa Paws
What: Bring your friends for an adult evening out featuring a decadent buffet prepared by Chef Chad, casino games, a DJ, photobooth, prizes, raffles and silent auctions. Tickets are $30 presale or $35 at the door and include all you can eat buffet, 2 drink tickets for wine, beer & specialty cocktails, casino chips, entertainment, unlimited photo booth, raffles and silent auctions, where 100% of proceeds will go to helping Muttley Crue Dog Rescue. This event is in memory of Linda Costanzo, who was a lifelong advocate of animal rescue and welfare as well as a loving friend.
Where: Grindstone Tap House at 826 Front Street in Berea
When: Saturday from 6-10 P.M.
Patrick Barlow’s "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens
What: See this new adaptation of the Christmas classic by Patrick Barlow. Tickets are available online and range between $10-$18.
Where: French Creek Theatre at 4530 Colorado Avenue in Sheffield Village
When: Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday, now through December 22
Cruel Winter Fest
What: The sixth annual event will showcase rappers and hip-hop artists from Cleveland and beyond. This year’s headliner is Kosha Dillz, a Jewish rapper from New Jersey. The lineup also includes Sam Supreme, Peter Blvnco, Logan, Joey James and more. Tickets are $15 (and $17 if you’re under 21).
Where: The Grog Shop at 2785 Euclid Heights Boulevard
When: Friday at 8:30 P.M. (Doors open at 7:30 P.M.)
Wintertide
What: The annual Wintertide musical festival at Gordon Square in the Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood includes local theater companies, musicians, restaurants and shops coming together for a free, outdoor celebration of the season, full of fun for all ages. The free Kid Zone at Near West Theatre includes hands-on activities and photos with Santa, and a free trolley can take you to Cleveland Bazaar’s handmade holiday market at 78th Street Studios and back.
Where: 1390 West 65th Street in Cleveland
When: Saturday from 2-6 P.M.
Cleveland Bazaar Holiday Market
What: Since 2004, handmade artists from across Northeast Ohio (and beyond!) have gathered at 78th Street Studios to sell their amazing work during this annual holiday show. Find one of a kind gifts for everyone on your list from both Bazaar makers and resident art studios!
Where: 78th Street Studios at 1305 West 80th Street in Cleveland
When: Saturday from 10 A.M. – 9 P.M., Sunday from 10 A.M. – 6 P.M.
Cleveland Play House presents “A Christmas Story”
What: The 1983 movie “A Christmas Story” comes to life onstage for its annual show, with tickets ranging from $20-$97.
Where: Allen Theatre at 1407 Euclid Avenue in Cleveland
When: Now through Dec. 23
Cinderella's Masquerade Ball
What: Attention all Princes and Princesses! Cinderella and friends request your presence at an afternoon of royal fun at the 2019 Cinderella's Masquerade Ball. This royal event is for the WHOLE family and each ticket include a lunch buffet, a masquerade mask to decorate, an autograph card to get signed by Cinderella and her friends, music, dancing, and photo opportunities. Tickets are $35 each or $330 for a table of 10, and must be purchased in advance.
Where: Guy's Party Center at 500 East Waterloo Road in Akron
When: Sunday from 1:30-4 P.M.
Festive Holiday Pride Brunch
What: This festive, fun holiday brunch will have all the staples, including bloody marys and mimosas, while Akron Royalty performs.The lovely Alejandra J-Love, reigning Queen Cherry Veneer and King Jerimiah will take the stage for a festive drag performance. There are gluten free options, and Akron Pride Merch will be available to purchase for your holiday needs! This event is brought to you by Akron Pride Festival and Jilly's Music Room. Seating is limited and reservations are suggested. This event is free! Call Jilly’s at (330) 576-3757 for reservations.
Where: Jilly's Music Room at 111 N Main Street in Akron
When: Sunday from 11:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.
