If you plan on being in Cleveland, Ohio for the 2006 holiday season, there are plenty of events and celebrations scheduled this year. You don’t need to look very far for something to get your in the spirit of the holidays. Tree lighting events, Christmas parades, holiday music and festivities for the entire family can be found. Many events are free and some charge an admittance fee, but there will be something for everyone, both young and old. Just get ready to go out and enjoy the beauty of the season in Cleveland, Ohio this year.
A Christmas Carol House,” is located in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood and was the main set for the classic1983 Christmas movie, “A Christmas Carol.” The house is a newly restored attraction and museum that opened in November of 2006. A Christmas Story House was purchased by movie fan, Brian Jones in 2005. Mr. Jones quickly restored the house to its original 1983 condition.
The tour begins at the museum across the street. The museum features original props and set pieces used in the movies as well as over 100 behind-the scenes photos from the filming of “A Christmas Story.” You’ll then take a guided tour of the house and the yard, peppered with anecdotes from the movie.
Opening weekend events are November 24-26, 2006. The opening weekend includes a movie marathon at the Cleveland Renaissance Hotel in downtown Cleveland, autograph signings and meet and greet session with many of the movie’s actors, and Lolly the Trolley shuttles from the Renaissance Hotel to A Christmas Story House.
It will be open year-round, beginning November 25, except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas, and every Wednesday from January 15 to October 31. Hours are Wednesday – Saturday: 10am – 5pm and Sunday: Noon – 5pm. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. Contact information is as follows: A Christmas Story House, 3159 W. 11th St., Cleveland, OH 44109, phone 216 255-6651.
Following is a list of Cleveland area holiday events.
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens transforms itself each holiday season into a winter wonderland. For 2006, the theme is the “Nutcracker.” Outside, the gardens will be strung with thousands of glittering lights. The museum shop will be open for holiday shopping and the cafe will serve hot chocolate, cookies, and other holiday treats. “Deck the Halls” begins November 24 and ends December 31.
WinterFest – Tree Lighting at Public Square
WinterFest is the annual holiday celebration in Cleveland’s Public Square and held the Friday after Thanksgiving each year. Over 50,000 people attend the event each year. The light display is kept up until after New Year’s Day. The event is free to all.
Lighting Display at Nela Park
The lighting display at the GE Lighting Center in NELA Park in East Cleveland has been a holiday tradition since 1925.
The Nutcracker
For the 2006 season, the Cincinnati Ballet Company is dancing to the music of Tchaikovsky at Playhouse Square from December 6-10. For tickets, visit the Playhouse Square Center website or call the ticket office at 216 771-8403 or 800 352-0212.
“A Christmas Carol” by the Great Lakes Theater Festival
Great Lakes Theater Festival production of the classic Dickens story will run from November 24 to December 23. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling the Playhouse Square box office at 216 241-6000.
WinterShow 2006 at the Cleveland Botanical Garden
For the holidays season, the Cleveland Botanical Garden is transforming itself into a Gingerbread Dreams fantasyland. The show runs from November 24 until December 31.
Holiday Display at the Rockefeller Greenhouse
The Cleveland Greenhouse, just north of University Circle, transformed itself into a holiday wonderland with hundreds of red, white, and pink Poinsettias and other Christmas flowering plants. For 2006, the show runs from December 1 to January 5, 2007. Hours are 10am to 4pm daily and admission is free.
Christmas at Hale Farm
The holiday season at Hale Farm, in Bath, is a traditional period 19th century with Lantern Tours of the historic site. The dates for 2006 are December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16.
Country Lights at Lake Farmpark
Horse drawn wagon rides, a Santa’s workshop, decorated trees in the visitors’ center, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. 2006 dates are December 1-3 and 7-22. Admission is $5 – 7. Call 880 366-FARM for more information.
Whatever your preference, whatever makes the holidays special for you, Cleveland will most likely have it ready and waiting this year. Whether it’s the soft glow of twinkling lights on fragrant pine trees or a cup of hot chocolate while you watch the Christmas parade, you can find it here. Put on your hat, warm coat, gloves, and a smile and head out into the holiday season ready to experience the joy in Cleveland, Ohio this winter. The magic of the holiday is just around the corner.
