Everything Kid-Friendly Cincy: Gift Guide Edition

Shopping can be difficult and, not only that, it can often feel like a chore and less like the spirit of the gift-giving season was intended to feel.

I have partnered with Everything Cincy to make gift giving that much easier for you; to share with you a guide to shopping local for the kids in your life.

Check out the list below for several local gift ideas—all things from sporting events and experiences, to memberships and art-related activities.

Activities

Pogo Pass*
Multiple Locations
With one pass, you get visits to more than a dozen local places for the entire year—everything from sporting events and museums to indoor activities perfect for the cold weather.

Kid party at OTR Funplex*
OTR
Splatter room, slime making, and karaoke room options, as well as kids party experiences. Gift cards available.

Happy Hangout* Membership
Covedale
600-square-foot indoor playground.

Click here to read more about our visit to Happy Hangout.

Five Iron Golf*
Central Business District
Golf simulator games and competitions fit for any age.

Arts

Cincinnati Ballet*
Downtown
Single tickets to productions such as The Nutcracker or to Family Series: The Little Mermaid.

Cincinnati Art Museum*
Mount Adams
Art Together: Art Making for Families with Children Ages 3–5 and Family Studio: Art Making for Families with Children Ages 6–12.

Cincinnati School of Music*
Montgomery, Mason, Anderson Twp
Cincinnati music lessons for all ages, including piano, voice, guitar, strings, drums, wings, and more.

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati*
Central Business District
From a single show to a season membership, enjoy the arts courtesy of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.

Madcap P uppets
Westwood
Tickets to single performances and more available.

Creativity

Craft Set
King Arthur’s Court Toys (Oakley)
King Arthur’s is a local toy store where you can get everything from craft sets and puzzles to science kits and Barbies, and so much more.

Jewelry Making Set
Learning Express Toys (Crestview Hills)
Pretend play and stuffed animals to games and crafts.

LEGO Sets
King Arthur’s Court Toys (Oakley), Joseph Beth Booksellers (Norwood)
Get your LEGO sets locally!

Color Me Mine*
Crestview Hills
Walk in to the studio to paint your ceramic piece(s) on the spot. Gift cards are also available.

Experiences

Cincinnati Museum Center
West End
Daily admission and memberships available for the All Museums Package: Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science, the Children’s Museum, and Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center.

Cincinnati Observatory
Hyde Park
Daily tickets and memberships available.

Reds Hall of Fame and Museum*
Central Business District
Daily tickets and memberships available.

American Sign Museum
Camp Washington
Daily tickets and memberships available.

EnterTRAINment Junction
West Chester

Gift cards**

Aglamesis Bros*
Oakley, Montgomery
Scoop ice cream, chocolates, and candy.

The Acres*
Evendale
Driving range, two mini golf courses, pro shop, and restaurant and bar.

Check out all about our visit to The Acres!

Reading

Book Light**
Joseph Beth Booksellers (Norwood)

Games and Puzzles
Gumdrop (Covington, Norwood)

Sports

Koch Sports
Central Business District
Jerseys, local team apparel, and sporting goods store.

Apparel and Accessories
Cincy Shirts (Hyde Park, Fort Mitchell)
HOMAGE (OTR)
Rivertown Inkery (Oakley, OTR)

Or, of course, you can always go directly to a team’s pro shop to get apparel and gifts.

Cincinnati Cyclones*
Central Business District
Single game tickets and season tickets available.

Florence Y’alls*
Florence, KY
Single game tickets and season tickets available. Check out their onsite shop for more gift ideas.

If you are you looking for any specific or custom recommendations, just ask!

*Everything Cincy partner
**Stocking stuffer option

Written by: Linsey Kraeling – Woman, wife, and mother about town; proud millennial; and lifelong Cincinnatian with an invested interest in community involvement and having a full plate—literally and figuratively. Follow along with and read more about eating like a sophisticated six-year-old, supporting local, and acting like a tourist in her own city at instagram.com/linsinnati and tourdecincinnati.com.

Savings & Deals in the City (5/2)

Moerlein Lager House
$15 off Derby Party Tickets

Ault Park
$10 off the Malts in Ault Event

Five Iron Golf
Founding Membership 50% Off

Shiners on the Levee
.75 Wing Monday

The Plant Dads
$5 Off Online Purchase of $30 or More

Hoxworth Blood Center
Free Zoo Ticket

MediMorph
Buy 4, Get 4 Free

On the Rhine Eatery
1/2 off Wine Every Wednesday

The Art of Shopping

Cincinnati has many wonderful artisan shops and boutiques throughout the area that feature unique handcrafted pieces that are decorative and functional. Support local artists and small businesses by shopping at thoughtfully crafted stores that highlight creativity in the community.

P eddler’s Mall

This impressive store is the perfect place to take a step into nostalgia with its wide variety of items that make you feel like you’re on an adventure discovering rare and beautiful pieces that are from the past.

“Whether you are looking for retro clothing, repurposed furniture, antique decor, vintage memorabilia… Peddlers Mall has it all, y’all.”

Enchanted Moments

Explore everything that magic and mystery have to offer with this metaphysical gift shop that offers educational workshops located in downtown Milford!

“We are more than just a brick-and-mortar gift shop. We are a community of like-minded individuals sharing our collective gifts and experiences with our growing family. We have a shared belief centered around the natural world and the Divine Feminine. We know that everyone has their own path to enlightenment, and we welcome and encourage individuals from all paths of lives.”

Lucky Cat Museum and Gift Shop

Make an appointment to visit this delightful Japanese influenced gallery and store in the Essex Studios.

“Why? Because cats. That’s why.”

Indigo Hippo

This creative gem is an amazing nonprofit that sells artwork and secondhand art supplies that is affordable. You can find all the materials you need for your next project at this influential store in the art district of OTR on Main St.

“We aim to make creativity accessible to everyone by offering creative materials to the community with pay-what-you-can pricing.”

Jet Black Vintage

Sustainable fashion has been elevated to a new meaning with the way Jet Black Vintage curates the looks they put together to create a clothing line that’s a vibe.

“Exploring our connection to fashion and comfort.”

https://www.everythingcincy.com/listings/jet-black-vintage-shopping-cincinnati-oh

Little Mahatma

“The Little Great One” is a mesmerizing international that sells one-of-a-kind pieces and artifacts from all around the world. Each item tells a story and gives insight to different places and customs. Located near Washington Park, the Art Academy of Cincinnati, and tons of restaurants and shops to enjoy.

Kismet

Kismet is a travel inspired retail store that celebrates the life on earth. This whimsical boutique is nestled in O’Bryonville in addition to other locations throughout Ohio.

“Our vision is to bring locally sourced and worldly inspired products to our community through a unique shopping experience.”

Align Retro Furniture

This funky furniture store is a fabulous spot to check out vintage and local inspired pieces that have a modern flair. They are partnered with Urban Timber Cincinnati and even offer design consulting for the space you’d like to style. Located right down the street from the famous Arnold’s Bar and Grill, which is known for showcasing creatives of all kinds.

Vada Gallery

This special gallery makes an incredible effort to support and uplift the creative community. They are collaborating with local artists to sell and showcase their work in a welcoming environment. The owners are a friendly and enthusiastic family that is embracing and sharing their love for art and people.

“Let us connect you to local artists to bring the magic of the arts to you.”

Hail

If you’re looking for something quirky and a little out of this world you should go to this fascinating oddities and record store located in the historical Mainstrasse Village in Covington, Ky. The shop is humorous and educational, you’ll be sure to laugh and discover something new each and every time.

“You just gotta hop over the river and you’ll be right here! Don’t worry. We heard you’re big jumper.”

Article & Photos by:
@christencc

Everything Black-owned Cincinnati

According to the US Census Bureau, only about 10% of US businesses are Black owned. And, unfortunately, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, minority owned businesses were disproportionately affected, resulting in over 40% of Black-owned businesses closing. Black entrepreneurship in America has a rich history and strong ties to the overall economic impact of African-American communities, and businesses owned by BIPOC are crucial to growing the economy. If you are looking for an impactful way to celebrate Black History Month, show solidarity with Black entrepreneurs by supporting Black-owned businesses this month and beyond.

Supporting Black-owned businesses doesn’t just contribute to creating entrepreneurial opportunities (thus fueling economic prosperity), Black businesses are more likely to hire Black workers, which positively impacts the disparity among broader community wealth and opportunity.

Supporting Black-owned businesses acknowledges the wealth gap by creating a path for establishing sustained, multi-generational wealth in the Black community. It also celebrates Black culture.

Below is a comprehensive list of Black-owned businesses in Greater Cincinnati, including Food + Drink, Retail, and Wellness.

FOOD + DRINK

RESTAURANTS

6 ’N the Mornin’ (Kenwood)
Southern-style breakfast restaurant
6inthemornin.com

221 Restaurant Westwood
Senegalese cuisine
Website

Agape Cafe Madisonville
American cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner
agapecafeoh.com

The Aperture Coming to Walnut Hills in summer 2023
Mediterranean, Levantine, and American south influences
theaperturecinci.com

Big Jay’s Place Finneytown
Catering, soul food, Caribbean
Facebook

Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey Union
Contemporary take on classic American frontier food
boomtownbiscuitsandwhiskey.com

Burnett’s Soul Food Walnut Hills
Soul food
Menu

Conscious Kitchen Corryville [temporarily closed]
Vegan and health food restaurant
consciouskitchen.org

COPA Lounge OTR
Nightclub with Sunday brunch
Facebook

Crown’s Kitchen Cheviot
Wings, sandwiches, soul food
Menu

Darou Salam Northside
African Halal and Senegalese cuisine
Menu

Divine Appetite Cafe West Chester
African food—everything from Waakye to Jollof Rice
Website

Elephant Walk Corryville
Indian and Ethiopian cuisine
elephantwalkcincy.com

Emma’s All In One Occasions Westwood
Soul food, breakfast, and catering
Facebook

Essen Kitchen OTR
Plant-based food, vegan; breakfast, lunch, and dinner
essenkitchen.com

Express Wings Roselawn
Chicken wings, sandwiches, seafood
Menu

Gee’s Caribbean Style Groesbeck
Fresh, authentic Caribbean cuisine
Facebook

Habesha Ethiopian Restaurant Westwood
Ethiopian and Eritrean dishes
Menu

Island Frydays Corryville
Jamaican cuisine
islandfrydays.com
Pickup window available

K&J Seafood Bond Hill
Louisiana-style fresh seafood
kjseafood.com

Katch the Kitchen Northside
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
ktkrestaurant.com

Maize OTR
Venezuelen and Latin American comfort food
maizeotr.com

Mango’s Tropical Oasis Fairfield
Sports bar and grill
Facebook

Millie’s Place Madisonville
Southern, soul food, diner
Menu

Mz. Jade’s Soul Food Middletown
Fresh, homemade southern dishes
mzjadessoulfood.com

Nolia Kitchen OTR
Classic southern flavors and unconventional twists on familiar staples
noliakitchen.com

Ollie’s Trolley West End
Burgers, ribs, and other southern dishes
Facebook

Park Place Restaurant Forest Park
American restaurant and lounge
Facebook

Rasheedah’s Cafe College Hill
Soul food and halal meats since 1993
rasheedahscafe.com

Richie’s Avondale, Bond Hill, Colerain, West End
Soul food featuring spicy fried chicken, deep fried fish, rib tips, and classic soul food sides and desserts
richieschicken.com

SeneGrill West Chester
Senegalese and American fusion
senegrill.com

Teranga Restaurant Hartwell
African and American fusion
terangacinci.com

Wing Champ Sharonville
Wings, ribs, ice cream, and events
originalwingchamp.com

BBQ

Alabama Que Corryville
alabama-q.com

Benin’s BBQ & Steak Westwood
bbqnsteak.com

C&M BBQ Grill Kennedy Heights
Caribbean BBQ
cmbbqgrill.com

Goodies Mt. Healthy
Southern BBQ
Facebook

Ike’s BBQ Evanston, Silverton
Facebook

J & W Bar-B-Que Walnut Hills
Facebook

Just Cooking BBQ Bond Hill
justcookingbbq.com

Just Q’in Walnut Hills
justqin.com
Dine in, carryout, catering

Midwest Best BBQ and Creamery Loveland
midwestbestbbq.com
Lunch, dinner, catering

COFFEE SHOPS

BlaCk Coffee Lounge Central Business District
Coffee, sandwiches, pastries, pressed juice
Facebook

Cream+Sugar Coffeehouse Evanston
Hot and cold coffee drinks, and light bites
creamandsugarcoffeehouse.com
Catering available

Drip Coffee Lounge Camp Washington
Coffee bar serving locally roasted specialty coffee, plus a unique selection of mixed drinks and quick bites
dripcoffeelounge.com

Muse Cafe Westwood
Coffee, fine wine, jazz, sandwiches, cheese plates, and salads
musecafecincy.com

Sunny Blu Coffeehouse OTR
Coffee drinks, light bites, and ice cream
sunnyblucoffee.com

BARS AND DRINKERIES

Danyelle’s Bellevue Tavern Bellevue
Bar and tavern
danyelles.com

Esoteric Brewing Company Walnut Hills
Brewery with Decibel Korean-fried Chicken onsite
esotericbrewing.com

Kombuchinnati
Non-alcoholic, probiotic kombucha
Website and where to buy

Newport Ultra Lounge Newport
Dance club with craft beer and cocktails
Facebook

Nostalgia Wine and Jazz Lounge OTR
Facebook page

Revel OTR Urban Winery OTR
revelotr.com

CATERING AND CHEF SERVICES

Afromeals OTR
Cooking classes and catering services, featuring African and Caribbean cuisine.
afromeals.com

Dada Smokes BBQ
Catering
dadasmokes.com

Eddie’s Southern Style BBQ
eddiesbarbque.com

The Passion Plate
Personal chef and caterer featuring everyday gourmet and boutique catering
thepassionplate.com

Soleil Kitchen
Personal chef and boutique catering company
soleilkitchen.com
Occasional pop-ups

Soul Secrets Catering Findlay Kitchen
Corporate catering
soulsecretscincy.com
Occasional pop-ups

Southern Grace Cincy
Breakfast, catering
southerngracecincy.com

FOOD TRUCKS AND TAKEOUT

AJ’s Cheesesteaks
Cheesesteaks, wings, fries
ajscheesesteak.com
Streetfood Finder

Best Thing Smokin’
BBQ and classic favorites
Facebook

BOL Acai Bowl Bar
bolonline.org
Streetfood Finder
Catering available

Burger World
Facebook
Streetfood Finder

Pata Roja Taqueria OTR
Mexico City-style street tacos
patarojatacos.com
Catering available

Smokin’ Inferno BBQ & Catering
Facebook

Triple J’s BBQ
thetriplejbarbq.com
Catering available

Turkeys R Us
Chicken, Turkey, pork, sandwiches, fries
turkeysrus.net
Catering available

Tip: Follow the truck on social media to get their schedule and to see where they will be next!

SWEETS

A Mother’s Touch Cakes virtual and pop-ups
Vegan, organic, sugar-free, and gluten-free desserts. Can be found weekly at Market Wagon, Black Coffee Lounge, Madeira Farmer’s Market, Ajani’s Gourmet Strawberries Sweet Boutique, and Findlay Market.
amotherstouchcakes.com

Aunt Flora’s Cobbler Pie Co Northbrook
Caterer and bakery specializing in cobbler pies, cakes, and Southern comfort food
aunt-flora.com

Cora’s Cakery online
Cupcakes, meringues, cake pops, sugar cookies, and more
corascakery.org

Davis Cookie Collection Bond Hill
Cookies, brownies, and other desserts
daviscookiecollection.com

Jazzy Sweeties Bakery Walnut Hills
jazzysweetiesbakery.com

Kishia’s Kakes
Website

Keys Cheesecake and Pies online
Facebook

Lala’s Blissful Bites Madisonville
lalasbliss.com

Makers Bakers Co. Findlay Market
Artisan cheesecakes, handmade cakes and pies, and other bakery items
makersbakersco.com

Maya’s Bakes pop-ups, Findlay Market
Cookies and other goodies
mayasbakes.com
Catering available

Sugar OTR
Cookies, cakes, weddings, catering, and more
sugarcincinnati.com

Sweet Jazz Treats Lockland
Cake pops, brownies, cakes, cupcakes, pies, party platters, dessert jars
sweetjazztreats.com

Sweet Mae’s Cookie Co.
Stuffed cookies with a thick southern accent
sweetmaescookies.com
Available at regional Target stores and these locations

Sweet Petit Desserts Evanston
Cookies, cakes and pies, cheesecake, lemon bars, macarons, and more
sweetpetitdesserts.com
Pre-orders only; now available at Cream+Sugar Coffeehouse

Sweets by LaDawn Silverton
Wedding cakes and more
Facebook

RETAIL+

Alexis Nickelle Co
Soy candles
alexisnickelleco.com

All Cheri’s Intriguing Crystals
Accessories, jewelry, and art
allcheri.com
Formerly Art by Autumn M

Alumni Ink virtual
Online apparel company
alumniink.com

am|PM Exchange
Women’s apparel and beauty products
ampm.exchange

Art on Vine
Monthly market featuring fine art and handmade goods from dozens of artists throughout the Ohio region
artonvinecincy.com

Barcode Glam Montgomery
Beauty meets fashion
barcodeglam.com

BlaCk OWned Outerwear Central Business District
Apparel and accessories for men, women, and children
blackowned19xx.com

Blossoms Florist Reading
Full-service florist servicing Cincinnati for over 30 years
blossomsfloristinc.com

Brittney Kelley Brands
apparel and makeup
brittneykelley.com

The Confetti Room OTR
Event venue
confettiroomcincy.com

The Culture Locker
Provide a positive influence and discovery of black-owned businesses
theculturelocker.com

Curious Concoctions
Soaps, scrubs, body butters, candles, and more
curiousconcoctions.net

Detailed Days Events Design
Event planner
detaileddays.com

Diamyn’s Crystal Bar Pause Cincy (Corryville)
Crystals, jewelry, and sage
diamynscrystalbar.com

District 78 Pause Cincy (Corryville)
Luxury candles and lifestyle brand
bydistrict78.com

Everyday Black
Apparel
everydayblack.net

Fill More Waste Less
Refillable soaps, shampoo, cleaning products, and more
fillmorewasteless.com

Flora Lee Naturals
Plant-based skincare
floraleenaturals.com

Fly By Nature OTR
Apparel
flybynatureclothing.com

From the Sidewalk OTR
Creative hub of streetwear and culture; home of Jet Black Vintage
thesidewalkshop.com

Gee Horton
Hyper-realist visual artist
geehorton.com

Gingham & Glam
Fashion, jewelry, accessories
ginghamandglam.com

GO(O)D Co. OTR
Hats, accessories, and apparel for men, women, and children
goodcoapparel.com

Hard Ta Knock Shoppe Camp Washington
Apparel

Heads Up Trading Co. Camp Washington
Fair trade headbands, head wraps, and Guatemalan jewelry
headsuptc.com

HoopNerdz
Apparel for men, women, and children
thenerdzbrand.com

Hutch Baby OTR
Children’s boutique
hutchbaby.com

Jet Black Vintage OTR
Curated sustainable fashion
jetblackvintage.com

Junebug Jewelry Designs
Jewelry design
junebugjewelrydesigns.com

Legacy Genius
Black history trivia
legacygenius.com

Make.Do. Pleasant Ridge
Yarn, fabric, fibers, and classes
heymakedo.com

Matunda Juicery Pause Cincy (Corryville)
Smoothie and juice bar
Facebook

Me by Lee
Formal fashion boutique
mebylee.com

Minor Obsession
Vegan soap
minorobsession.co

Murelle’s Florist Central Business District
Website

Native Moon Apothecary Mt. Healthy
Alternative and holistic health
nativemoonherbals.com

Originalitees
Apparel and accessories for men, women, and children
originalitees.com

OTR Funplex OTR
Entertainment venue
otrfunplex.com

Pause Corryville
Health, wellness, and relaxation, made up of Diamyn’s Crystal Bar, District 78, and Matunda Juicery
Instagram

Peony Jean Boutique
Customizable clothing for the entire family
peonyjeanboutique.com

RaJean Beauty
Shea butter, sugar scrub, and men’s products
rajeanbeauty.com

Red’s Westside VenYou
Event space
redswestsidevenyou.com

RJS Fashion
Accessory design and styling
beyondfreshrjs.com

Ryan Nichole Studios
Visual artist and art educator
ryannicholestudios.com

Switch Central Business District
Lighting, furniture, and design
switchcollection.com

Touch of Heaven Floral Shoppe Mt. Healthy
Website

TIQUE by Victory Lane Boutique Springfield Twp
victorylaneboutique.com

The Voice of Your Customer Walnut Hills
HUBZone, MBE, WBE, DBE, SBE
Marketing consulting firm
thevoiceofyourcustomer.com

WELLNESS + FITNESS

1 More Rep Madisonville
Gym
1-more-rep.com

A Better You Counseling Springdale
Therapy practice specializing in treating individuals, couples, and families.
abetterucounseling.com

A Crystal Mind LLC Sharonville
Psychiatric and mental health practice. In-office and telehealth options available.
acrystalmind.com

A Ruth Creations virtual+
Artist and educator specializing in visual art and poetry.
annieruth.com

A Sound Mind Counseling Hartwell
Behavioral health practice providing therapy to people of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
asoundmindcounseling.com

Adrienne’s Love Fairfield
Postpartum products, services, and doulas.
adrienneslove.com

Art of Fitness North College Hill
Facebook

Cincinnati Muscle Therapy College Hill
cincinnatimuscletherapy.com

Curvy Cardio
Fitness
morganaowens.com

Fitness 1o1 Liberty Twp
Personalized group training
fitness1o1.com

Grind Shop Sports Performance Training Lockland
Fitness facility
grindshoptraining.com

If you ever have any questions about any of these businesses or need a custom recommendation specific to what you’re looking for, all you have to do is ask!

I would like to encourage you all to support Black-owned businesses and creators all month long (and beyond).

Go to the link in my bio for a list of Black-owned businesses in Cincinnati, including Food + Drink, Retail, and Wellness.

For more resources for and to support Black Cincinnati, follow:
@blackcincy
@cincy.cocoabloggers
@voiceblackcincy
@thecincinnatiaachamber

Written by: Linsey Kraeling – Woman, wife, and mother about town, proud millennial, and lifelong Cincinnatian with an invested interest in community involvement and having a full plate—literally and figuratively. Follow along with and read more about eating like a sophisticated six-year-old, supporting local, and acting like a tourist in her own city at instagram.com/linsinnati and tourdecincinnati.com.

Sources: census.gov, nationalgeographic.com

Holiday Art and Activities at Findlay Market

Christmas at the Market

Christmas creativity comes to life at Findlay Market each year with endless festive possibilities to add to your holiday traditions! The Market is a wonderful place to discover delicacies that are sure to delight all the senses and this is the best time to check out what they have to offer for the season! The aromas of the sweet and savory treats that you’ll find are made extra special to fit with the holiday theme and bring you joy with each delicious bite!

And that’s not all! This incredible place has the best artisan made gifts from local artists and craft makers! You’ll come across the most beautiful decorative and functional pieces from a variety of unique vendors. Most of them will even gift wrap your items right there for you, which is an artform in its own! If you need some inspiration on what to gift your loved ones look no further! Findlay Market is the right place for you with their convenient Holiday Gift Guide that walks you through subscriptions, gift cards, and many more items that could be awesome stocking stuffers!

Activities and More

They also have a “Merry Market Tour & Treat” where you can learn about the fascinating history of Findlay Market while tasting holiday treats from Market Merchants. Get your tickets for the “Merry Market Tour & Treat”, happening on Saturdays, until December 17 at 2pm. Along with their stunning Christmas Tree Sale that’s going on until December 18! In addition they will have wreaths and garland at the Elm Street Esplanade. When you purchase a tree you get a free commemorative 2022 Findlay Market ornament! Throughout the Market you’ll hear happy sounds from Christmas Carolers singing all your favorite holiday songs that you can join in on. Have the kids enjoy a cup of hot
chocolate as they play games and get artsy at their winter wonderland coloring booth. Grab yourself a hot toddy from the bar to treat yourself while you’re doing your
entertaining and shopping.

Christmas trees for sale at Findlay Market — Images of Findlay Market during the Holiday Season

Wreath hanging at Findlay Market — Images of Findlay Market during the Holiday Season

The food and gift selections are so nice that you’ll want to buy something for everyone there, including yourself! It’s really a spectacular sight to see! All around you is sparkling glitter, bountiful bows, colors of red and green with hints of shimmering silvers and golds that are cheerful and uplifting! Plus there’s tons of fun things for the entire family to get involved in! You’ll be amazed by how much there is to offer along with their outstanding food and beverages!

Hours and Information

Tuesday – Saturday : 9am-6pm

Special Hours:
Saturday, December 24: 9am-3pm
Sunday, December 25: Closed

1801 Race St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
https://www.findlaymarket.org

Everything Local Gift Guide

Avoid parking lots and shopping malls for Black Friday and beyond. Instead, preserve your mental and physical health by shopping small and contributing to your local economy for the holidays this year.

In addition to presumed health benefits, shopping local ensures that nearly 70 cents on every dollar remains in the local economy. When you shop small, you help to build a better local economy, reduce environmental impact, put your taxes to good use, create jobs, get better customer service, keep the community unique, and you encourage local prosperity. Whew—that’s a lot of good!

It is extremely important to share some of our favorite local businesses and gift ideas, as well as encourage everyone to Shop Small on Black Friday, Small Business Saturday*, and beyond (holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, retirements, and more).

Gifts and Retail

Can’t decide what you want to give, but want to provide a number of local options? Check out the Queen City Card, which features dozens of participating restaurants, drinkeries, shops, markets, hotels, experiences, museums, and more. Click here to buy yours and to see a complete list of participating merchants.

In addition to its OTR location, the Columbus-based retro and vintage sports clothier, HOMAGE, also calls Liberty Center home. HOMAGE always has great deals after the holiday, so keep your eye out to support local for Small Business Saturday.

If you’ve got any music lovers in your life, treat them to analog tunes courtesy of Everybody’s Records, Plaid Room Records, or Shake It Records. For home decor, visit Wildfire Hygge Goods, High Street, and Sara’s House. If you have a loved one with a green thumb, consider a plant from Frond or a local nursery, the gift of classes from The Budding Florist or Fern, or even a flower or plant subscription to Sadie Blossoms.

Peruse gifts at MiCA 12/v, a local art, fine craft, and design-based gift shop in OTR. Additional apparel, gift, and accessory shops include BlaCk Owned Outerwear, Buff City Soap, The Candle Lab, Cincy Shirts, Corporate, Handzy Shop + Studio, Hi-Bred, Inspired Fashion, Jet Black Vintage, Junebug Jewelry Designs, Koch Sporting Goods, Manitou Candle Co., Originalitees, Queen City Alchemy, REKKIE, Rivertown Inkery, Wolfpack, Yellow Dahlia Candle Co., and many more.

For the readers, peruse the Ohio section of local reads and goods or buy a book written by a local author from Joseph-Beth Booksellers, or head to Downbound Books in Northside for books, games, or stationery. Some favorite local books include SENATE: Street & Savory, a cookbook by local chef, Daniel Wright; The Cincinnati Anthology, edited by Zan McQuade; and Walking Cincinnati, a guide to urban hikes in many of Cincinnati’s historic neighborhoods. For any Queen City lovers in your life, a subscription to Cincinnati Magazine is an excellent option.

Head to Findlay Market for one of their many events, a free tour, retail goods, or for Tablespoon Cooking Co. classes. Like food? Check out a Cincinnati Food Tour, kitchenware at Artichoke, everyday gourmet or boutique catering options through The Passion Plate, or serve up a gift to the award-winning The Cooking School at Jungle Jim’s.

Shop ethically and sustainably at Flora Lee Naturals (garden-based skincare), Deerhaus Decor (sustainable general store), zero waste refillery Fill More Waste Less, or by buying a gift card to organic, natural Spruce Nail Shop (nail and skin services). You can also stop by &Sundries, a handcrafted soapworks and home goods maker, for the bath and body lover in your life.

For the Kids

King Arthur’s Court Toys, Learning Express Toys and Gifts, and Stoney Village Toy Shoppe all purvey toys and games for young people of all ages, including STEAM toys, board games, puzzles, and so much more.

Gumdrop, a shop for tots (and sister store to Handzy Shop + Studio), is located in Covington and purveys beautiful and thoughtful goods, such as apparel, toys, and games. Hutch Baby, an upscale, sustainable children’s boutique from NB to youth sizes 14–16, is located on Vine Street in OTR.

You can also head to O’Bryonville for LilyPad, where you engage children through purposeful play, classes, parties, and other events; Northside to enjoy an afternoon or make a donation on behalf of your gift recipient at Happen, Inc.; give a membership to The Play Library in OTR, where, you can Play & Borrow (and Play it Forward!) with a monthly or yearly subscription, or by buying playdates in bulk; give the gift of language to play dates and classes (including virtual options) through Spanish Play Dates; or purchase a membership or gift card to Happy Hangout, an indoor play space on the westside.

Markets and Craft Fairs

Patronize local and regional vendors and local food trucks at Cincinnati’s famed urban flea market, The City Flea (Holiday Market December 11) as well Art on Vine in November and December and Crafty Supermarket. The latter will be back in the Music Hall Ballroom featuring dozens of makers—local and regional—on November 26.

More area craft shows and various flea markets can be found here.

Art

If you’re looking to give the gift of local art, ideas include James Billiter (letterpress, woodcut, greeting cards, cross stitch, etc.), Janneke Beuerlein Art (abstract visual artist), Gee Horton (hyperrealist visual artist), Christen Collins Art, and Ellebrux, (jewelry, fine art, and handmade gifts). Work by James Billiter and Ellebrux can be found at The City Flea and various shops in greater Cincinnati. You can also have alpdesign create a custom home illustration, support local institution Rookwood Pottery, or give the gift of classes to Queen City Clay.

Fabulous Frames & Art is not only the world’s largest Charley Harper dealer, it also features custom framing and Rookwood and Cincinnati gifts. Visit one of their four Cincinnati locations to see their goods.

If you’ve got someone in your life interested in musical arts, give the gift of music lessons through Cincinnati School of Music, which has options for all ages. You can also give the experience of painting at Color Me Mine in Crestview Hills, Not Your Average Paint & Sip class, or youth classes and workshops through Liberty Exhibition Hall.

Pets

Our four-legged friends are family and, thus, we like to spoil them as such. I recommend doing so at Argos All-Natural Pet Food and Supply, Findlay Market, Fuzzybutts Dry Goods, Jungle Jim’s Market, or by finding your neighborhood Pet Wants. For a complete list of community vendors where Brewhaus Dog Bones are sold, click here.

Experiences, Not Things

Give the gift of wonder from the Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens, EnterTRAINment Junction, Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, Kings Island, Coney Island, Newport Aquarium, or Madcap Education Center.

For the 21+ crowd, consider giving a Cincy Brew Bus, Brewing Heritage Trail, or an American Legacy Tours tour; creating a custom six pack at Higher Gravity or Root Cellar; picking up a hard-to-find bomber from Cappy’s; or attending a beer or wine tasting at Jungle Jim’s Market or Marty’s Hops and Vines.

Check out one of Cincinnati’s excellent museums in the Cincinnati Museum Center, Taft Museum of Art, National Underground Railround and Freedom Center, Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, Fire Museum of Greater Cincinnati, Harriet Beecher Stowe House, Railway Museum of Greater Cincinnati, Cincinnati Observatory, or give a membership for a loved one to the American Sign Museum. (General admission to the Cincinnati Art Museum, 21c Museum Hotel, Contemporary Arts Center, Greater Cincinnati Police Museum, and the William Howard Taft National Historic Site is free.)

Celebrate Cincinnati’s robust arts scene with a show at the Aronoff Center, Know Theatre, Ensemble Theatre, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati POPS Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Opera, or the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra. Memorial Hall’s Longworth-Anderson Series features Grammy Award-winning talent in a “perfect jewel” of a theater.

Want to give the gift of fitness while supporting community? Consider giving a Y membership. Looking for an adventure? Full Throttle Adrenaline Park has a rage room, virtual reality, go-karting, axe throwing, and paint ball all in one fun-filled destination. Similarly, the OTR Funplex has a smash room, paint splatter room, karaoke, escape room, slime making room, cocktail/mocktail crafting, and more. Gifts cards are available to both.

Consumable Gifts

Instead of buying more things, I recommend getting a gift card to a small business or restaurant so that they can try a new place or patronize a favorite. A gift card may not seem fun, but I assure you that they are practical!

You can also consider a tea sampler from Churchill’s Fine Teas; coffee beans and a mug from a local coffee shop or roaster such as Coffee Emporium, Deeper Roots, and Urbana Cafe; or spices from Colonel De’s in Findlay Market.

Wellness

Treat yourself or a loved one to to a spa day at 21c Museum Hotel or The Woodhouse Day Spa; retreat getaway, fitness event, empowerment workshop, or social with The Beauty Boost; professional makeup and medspa services for skincare, lips, lashes, and brows at Omega Beauty; or medusa services with Victory Wellness MedSpa or Pure Vive Med Spa. Savannah’s Hyde Away offers massage services and has a Black Friday deal of 10% off all gift cards through November 28. (Use code blackfriday at checkout.)

Let the Metro, fare free Connector, Red Bike, or an electric scooter connect your trip to shops, restaurants, parks, and drinkeries when you spend time in the urban core this holiday season!

*Small Business Saturday is on November 26, 2022 and it is an initiative to shop small and to support local businesses. In fact,“For every $100 spent at a locally-owned business, $73 remains in the local economy.”

The Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market Is Back with More Vendors and Benefits Local Make-A-Wish Kids November 11-13

Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market

CINCINNATI, OH – October 3, 2022 – The highly anticipated Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market is back and even bigger this year with 325+ vendors for its 22^nd annual show.

One of the largest of its kind in the Midwest, the Cincy Holiday Market features 325+ vendors with everything you need to make your season bright. This is the premier holiday shopping event of the season with hundreds of local boutiques and specialty stores all in one place, one weekend only, November 11-13 at the Duke Energy Convention Center.

Be Merry Christmas Sign — Photos from Previous Holiday Market’s

Display of Christmas Decor — Photos from Previous Holiday Market’s

Show Features

This beloved Cincinnati holiday tradition boasts an expansive variety of unique holiday gifts, décor, apparel, toys, handmade treasures, gourmet food and baked goods to delight the senses and spark joy into your life as you get into the holiday spirit. The show returns with several new features, a new charitable partnership and an abundance of giveaways. Show features include:

VIP ACCESS + DISCOUNTS
- Shop VIP style on Friday from 8-11:00 a.m. before the general public! VIP ticketholders receive exclusive early access, a VIP bag, special discounts, and more.
HERO DAY
- Free general admission* for active military, veterans, police, fire and first responders on Friday, Nov. 11 with valid ID. *Please note, this offer does not extend to family members and is only valid during regular show hours 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.

PACKAGE CHECK FOR A CAUSE (new this year!)
- The Cincy Holiday Market has partnered with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana to support critically ill local children, their families and their caregivers. When you check packages at the hold area, be sure to give them a tip or donate to make more local wishes come true this holiday season!

CINCINNATI ZOO PHOTO OPP (new this year!)
- Say hello and snap a pic with some of Cincy’s favorite zookeeper friends at the entrance!

FREE GIFT WRAPPING (new this year!)
- Stop by the Cincinnati Open Box Outlet booth to have your gifts wrapped for free!
PHOTOS WITH SANTA
- Snap your Santa selfie during select hours throughout the weekend. Donations to the Butler County Special Olympics are welcome.

GIRLS NIGHT OUT
- Grab your gal pals for a glorious evening night out with shopping, wine, more. Discounted tickets are available for Girls Night Out both Friday and Saturday from 4-7:00 p.m.
MERRY MONEY DRAWINGS
- Show guests can enter to win hourly drawings for $50 in Merry Money redeemable at any one vendor during the show weekend only.

WINE + APPETIZER LOUNGE
- Take a break from your holiday haul to grab a bite and a glass of wine! Enjoy a variety of cheeses, jams, chutneys, hummus, artisan crackers and breads to complement your wine.
GIVEAWAYS GALORE
- Snag unique giveaways from vendors on the official Cincy Holiday Market Facebook page leading up to and on-site at the show. Giveaway items include jewelry, tasty treats, artisan candles, holiday décor and so much more!

Holiday Market Logo

More Information and Tickets

“We are so excited to welcome Cincinnati’s passionate holiday shoppers back this year to sip, shop and sleigh their holiday gift lists,” said Rosanna Hrabnicky, Marketplace Events Ohio Group Manager. “The Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market truly kicks off the holiday season for the Queen City, and we are bringing you more holiday fun and festivities than ever before. We are so proud to showcase so many local and regional boutiques, artisans and exhibitors, and can’t wait for you to join us for a weekend full of joy, shopping and holiday cheer!”

Visit the Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market’s official social media for the latest updates, exclusive specials, discounts and giveaways @cincyholidaymarket on Facebook and Instagram.

Find more information, view the full schedule and buy tickets at cincinnatiholidaymarket.com. Buy online to save $2 on general adult admission tickets courtesy of General Electric Credit Union.

About Marketplace Events
Marketplace Events creates vibrant expositions connecting enthusiasts with experts, products and services in dynamic face-to-face environments. The company produces more than 75 consumer shows in North America including home, garden, holiday and wedding shows. The 75+ combined events, in 35 markets, currently attract 22,000 exhibitors, 2 million attendees and another 3 million unique web visitors annually. The company produces some of the most successful and longest-running shows in North America, including market-leading shows in Minneapolis, Atlanta, Indianapolis, Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal—some of which have thrived in their markets for more than 75 years. For a full list of upcoming events visit marketplaceevents.com

Savings & Deals in the City (8/9)

Pig Works
10% Off TQL Beer Series Registration

Yankee Doodle Deli
15% Off ZELS Order

Butcher and Barrel
Half-Priced Short Rib on Tuesdays

Aglamesis Brothers
Free Sugar Cone Voucher With Donation

O’Malley’s in the Alley
$10 Lunch Specials

Logan A/C and Heat Services
Summer Savings: Save Up To $1,500

TinnCann
10% Off Bookings

Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati USA
20% Discount to Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra shows

Full Throttle Adrenaline Park
Summer Deal: $40-50 Adrenaline Pass

Bounce House Babes
Weekday Special: $250 Bounce House and Slide or Ball Pit for 8-hours!

Does your business offer Savings/Deals? Run Promotions/Discounts? Email us today at info@everythingcincy.com to learn how we can help promote your offerings!

Everything Cincy is your one-stop shop to Local Events. Local Deals. Local Jobs.

Savings and Deals in the City (6/28)

Mobile Glow Cincy
Group Discounts for Groups 6+

Listermann Brewing Company
$11 Wine on Wednesdays

Green District Salads
$2 Off in The App for GD’s New Menu

SS Tiki Tours
Private Cruise Auction

Mayweather Boxing and Fitness
20% Off Unlimited Membership + 1 Free Fitness Assessment for New Members

21C Museum Hotel
Love is Love Package: 1-Night Stay, Dinner Credit, Swag Bag, and Donation

Prime Cincinnati
25-50% Off Bottles of Wine on Wednesday

Butcher and Barrel
Parrillada Experience for 2 or 4 Every Friday and Saturday

Sub Station II
$2 Off Large Turkey Subs on Tuesdays

Define
First Class Free

Does your business offer Savings/Deals? Run Promotions/Discounts? Email us today at info@everythingcincy.com to learn how we can help promote your offerings!

Cool Down in NKY

When the sun is shining and the temperature is rising, you need a place to cool down. Here are some great spots in NKY, perfect for chillin’ on a hot summer day.

Take a Dip

When it’s time to cool off, go to the Florence Aquatic Center, where you can float down a lazy river, splash in the zero-depth pool or zip down the spiral slide. Families love to frolic in the spray grounds and under the sprinkling “funbrellas.” You can drop in with a daily pass or buy a membership. You don’t even have to live in Florence to enjoy this classic summertime experience.

Skating By

Lace up your skates at Northern Kentucky Ice Center in Crescent Springs and spin (or slide) your way across the ice. They offer daily public skating sessions, perfect for everyone, from the wobbly-kneed beginner to the next Olympic figure skating hopeful.

Penguin Palooza

Be transported to the arctic home of playful penguins at Newport Aquarium. Watch the adorable waddlers as they hop up rocky, snowcapped cliffs and slide down a snowbank into icy water.

Cone by Cone

Northern Kentucky knows ice cream, which is why the options here are so delicious. We’ve got Graeter’s and Cold Stone, of course. You can also indulge in more than a dozen homemade flavors at Schneider’s Sweet Shop in Bellevue or Piper’s Café in MainStrasse offers hundreds of flavors of their creamy soft serve.

Super Slushie

Frosthaus, in Covington’s Roebling Point neighborhood, specializes in boozy (and non-boozy) frozen drinks. Be sure to sip carefully to avoid the dreaded brain freeze!

Cupful of Heaven

For the creamiest frozen treat around, come to Golden Gelato in downtown Covington. They make all their gelato and sorbet from scratch using traditional Italian methods and locally sourced ingredients. You will love the flavor selection and you may even want to try an Affogato, a scoop of vanilla gelato topped with a shot of espresso.

NKY Ice Balls

A summertime favorite that is sure to cool you down is the ice ball, available at Sweet Tooth Candies & Ice Cream on Newport’s West Side. What’s an ice ball? Picture a scoop of ice cream covered in a snow cone, giving you the smooth texture of the ice cream with the syrupy, crunch of the snow cone ice. Get creative with the flavor combinations and you’ll see why this dessert is perfect for hot afternoons.

This summer, let Northern Kentucky cool you down and chill you out.

About the author: Jill Morenz is the Director of Community Initiatives and Communications for the Catalytic Fund and also runs the NKY Public Arts Network. She is an enthusiastic evangelist for all things NKY.