Last-Minute Gift Guide

Cincinnati Holiday Markets and Craft Shows - Cincinnati Parent Magazine

It’s the most ~~wonderful~~ busiest time of the year. And if you’re like me, early holiday shopping has taken a back seat this month. Thankfully, there’s still hope for last minute gift givers with tons of holiday deals throughout the city. Plus, shopping locally is a great way to support small businesses, especially in lieu of the devastating economic hit most shops took this year.

The Gift of Wearable Art

Forget basic jewelry you can find anywhere. Give a gift that stands-out with one-of-a-kind pieces from Junebug Jewelry Designs. They supply hand-crafted designs that are described as “wearable art.” And once you take a peek, you’ll understand why. No two pieces are the same and each one is as extravagant as the next. Whether you’re looking for pendant necklaces, statement rings, exquisite cuffs, or unique earrings, Junebug has an assortment to please the Bohemian in your life.

Check out their 2020 holiday gift guide, or stop by their pop-up boutique, Thursday through Saturday, 12-6 PM, located at: 1327 Vine Street in Over-the-Rhine.

The Gift of Work-From-Home Chic

The Native One has lots to offer, but their curated selection of stationary, plants, potters, candles, and diffusers make great gifts for those looking to transform their at-home office space into a zen oasis. They also have stylish attire including comfy yet chic lounge sets that make the perfect work-from-home outfit.

Order online or visit one of their two locations at 1400 Vine St, Cincinnati, or, 326 Scott Blvd. Covington, KY

The Gift of Socially-Conscious Cosmetics

Launch Party is a hub for all things indie beauty. The best part? All of their products are women-owned, eco-friendly, cruelty-free, organic, vegan, and socially-good (say that five times fast). Launch Party puts a spotlight on emerging indie brands that started small with a founder and a dream. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for all things beauty, you’re going to love what they have to offer.

Need help deciding? Dive into some of their gift guides, or check out their pop-up shop inside Wolf Pack at 1813 Elm St., in Over-the-Rhine.

The Gift of Everyday Streetwear

The Native Brand started as one man selling T-shirts out of his backpack and has transformed into a lifestyle brand popping up all over the Queen city – and the nation. From streetwear to lounge wear, The Native has a rad collection of snapbacks, beanies, hoodies, and more to gift those who like to kickback, relax and look good while doing it.

View some of their favorites online.

Happy Shopping!

Magical holiday light festivals in NKY

One of the joys of this season is seeing the beautiful lights brightening the chilly winter nights. Northern Kentucky has several of its own light festivals and one of them is this Saturday only (and it’s free). Read below for all the details.

Drive-Through Winter Wonderland, December 12 from 6:00-9:00 pm:

The Erlanger branch of the Kenton County Library has created their first “parking lot light festival.” It includes light tunnels, special effects from Cincy Illuminations and a scavenger hunt-style search for animals hidden in the scenes. You can even wave to Santa as you drive by.

Free event, no registration necessary

Winter Nights, River Lights, through January 15, 6:00-10:00 pm:

Stroll across the Purple People Bridge, which is hung with hundreds of soothing lavender lights. You can enjoy the beautiful river views and visit the Wish Tree on the Newport side.

Free event, no registration necessary

Light Up the Fair, through January 2, 5:30-9:00 pm, open ‘til 10:00 on Fridays and Saturdays

This incredible light experience takes visitors on a 1.5 mile drive through Boone County Fairgrounds, lit by more than 500,000 individually controlled LED lights. The captivating displays are choreographed to holiday music you play on your radio.

$6/person, children under 3 are free. No contact ticketing is available.

These family-friendly events will make the holiday season even merrier.

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.

Finders Keepers – Thanksgiving Weekend Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger Hunt Provides Challenging Fun Over Thanksgiving Weekend

If you are looking for a fun, safe group activity for the holiday weekend, consider the Finders Keepers Thanksgiving Weekend Scavenger Hunt.

This family-friendly hunt will get you out of the house and into five of Covington’s neighborhoods, rich with art, history and things to do and see. The hunt’s clue locations are based on murals, statues and other public art and are accessible without going indoors.

Using their Code Kit, players solve puzzles and complete photo challenges for chances to win prizes, including original art by local artists.

Organizer Jill Morenz explained, “The puzzles are designed for adults and older children and young kids can help spot the clues and enjoy the playgrounds at the parks included in the hunt.”

Morenz points out that this is not a timed hunt. “Players will have all four days of the holiday weekend to finish it and submit their solutions,” she said. The puzzles range in difficulty from easy to challenging.

Proceeds from Finders Keepers will support the Catalytic Fund’s public art initiatives, including NKY ArtQuest, a free calendar of arts-related events and NKY Art Tours, which are free, self-guided tours of public art in the river cities.

For more information and to purchase a Code Kit, visit the Finders Keepers website, www.NKYFindersKeepers.com. Registration ends on November 18.

Writer Bio: 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.