Keeping the kids entertained over winter break can be a challenge. And this year it will take a little more creativity because many of the normal events and activities aren't happening or are limited. Don't worry though, we've got you covered with some ideas for things to do during winter break including both indoor and outdoor activities, virtual experiences, and quite a few free options as well. Enjoy!
A Garden Holiday at Cleveland Botanical Garden
It’s the most wonderful time of the year at the Cleveland Botanical Garden!
Join us for A Garden Holiday Saturday, November 20th through Sunday, January 2nd.
Kick-off the season with festive holiday plants and beautifully decorated trees in our gardens. Be reminded of holiday traditions filled with flora that adorn our home, the herbs, and spices that fill our kitchens, or the fruits and vegetables that we feast on.
Children (and the young at heart) will enjoy special play areas both indoors and out, complete with seasonal crafts, games, indoor curling, and more.
On weekends and every day between Dec. 20 – Dec 31, outdoor activities may include hot cocoa storytime, marshmallow roasting, and community crafts. Be sure to get a picture in front of our stunning 16-foot-tall tree, with handcrafted decorations by a local artisan!
Click here for a full list of events and to purchase tickets now
Holiday Movies at the Canton Palace Theatre
Experience your favorite holiday films on Canton's largest screen during the 2021 Holiday Movie Series!
Purchase your tickets now and preorder concessions to be delivered to your seat prior to showtime.
Special Deal: Enjoy discounted admission to any of the 2021 Holiday Movie Series features with the holiday movie pass!
2021 Holiday Movie Schedule:
- A Christmas Story – November 26 and November 27 at 7:30pm
- The Polar Express – December 3 at 7:30pm
- Sensory Cinema: The Polar Express – December 18 at 11:00am
- Elf – December 19 at 7:30pm
- The Grinch – December 20 at 7:30pm
- It's a Wonderful Life – December 21 at 7:30pm
- National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation – December 22 at 7:30pm
Holiday Movies at the Canton Palace Theatre
When: Select dates between November 26 & December 22
Where: 605 Market Avenue North, Canton OH 44702
Holiday Happenings Across Stark County
Kids on break from school? Family in town for the weekend?
Discover fun holiday performances, events and entertainment, winter activities for the whole family to enjoy, and delicious holiday meal options.
Plus, shopping destinations to check off everyone on the gift list this year. Find it all in Stark County.
For more things to do this holiday season, check out visitcanton.com.
Drive Around to See Christmas Lights
The list of Amazing Christmas Light Displays is growing more and more each day. Many thanks to those who have emailed to let us know about new displays to add. We've added a map to make it even easier for you to plan your driving routes!
Hike to a Waterfall
Put on some layers, a hat, and some gloves and get outside to enjoy the fresh air and a beautiful waterfall. Some of our favorite easy-access waterfalls include Berea Falls at Rocky River Reservation, Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and Chagrin Falls in downtown Chagrin Falls. For details (where to park, length of hike, etc.) about these and many other area waterfalls, check out our article on the best waterfalls in Northeast Ohio (including map).
Go Sledding or Experience Toboggan Chutes in Cleveland, OH
You've been sledding down hills but have you ever been to the toboggan chutes? It's time to make your way to the Cleveland Metroparks and try it out!
If it snows, check out our list of the best sled riding hills in Northeast Ohio. Of course, you don't need snow to try out the Toboggan Chutes at the Cleveland Metroparks. You will need to make reservations ahead of time on their website. We've heard it's booking up quickly this year so book now so you don't miss out.
Paint Rocks & Spread Some Cheer
Have you ever painted and hidden rocks for others to find? Have you ever been lucky enough to find a painted rock that someone else hid? Did you know that Northeast Ohio is home to the largest community-based rock painting groups in the world? Painting rocks is a fun activity that can bring joy to both the painter and those in the community who see and enjoy their art. Think rock painting is something you'd like to try this break? Then you'll want to check our article -> Painting Rocks: Easy Rock Painting Ideas, Tips & a Local Rock Painting Group
Discover Activities to Do at Home With Your Kids
Perhaps you're looking for things to do at home. We'll you're in luck because we've compiled a huge list of boredom-busting, fun and creative activities for kids at home! It has ideas for all ages. Some of our favorite ideas include making a laser maze, homemade sprinkles, and minute to win it games.
Experience Winter Riverfest
Experience festive decor, a beer garden and firepits, retail shop and igloo village along the Cuyahoga River in The Flats. New this year, enjoy an authentic ice-skating rink and appearances by Santa (Fridays-Sundays). {Find Out More}
When: November 26, 2021-January 2022
Where: Merwin's Wharf, 1785 Merwin Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
Cost: FREE admission; some activities, like ice skating, have a fee [REGISTER]
Hand feed Chickadees
It's an experience you won't want to miss! The feeling of tiny bird feet on your hand as they snack on the sunflower seeds is sure to bring a smile to your face. Wondering where to go? Head to Bird in Had at Beech Creek Gardens, the Cleveland Metroparks Brecksville Reservation, or the hand feeding station at West Woods in the Geauga Parks District.
Experience a Live Nativity
You can set up a nativity scene with figurines at home (there are even little people nativity sets for young children to play with), but a live reenactment really makes the first Christmas come alive for your kids. Use our roundup to Find a live Nativity near you and introduce your kids to a special experience this Christmas season!
Pop Popcorn & Watch Holiday Movies
With so many streaming services, your family can enjoy holiday movies from the comfort of your own comfy couch – pop some popcorn or grab some movie-style candies and enjoy a home theater experience.
Enjoy Books, Crafts & Activities at Your Local Library
A trip to the library can make for a fun outing for all ages. You can even coordinate your visit so your kids can participate in storytime, craft or other librarian-led activity. Enjoy the time at the library and then check out a book or two to read at home. Remember to bring a reusable bag to easily bring home the crafts you make and a book to read later.
Remember that spaces are limited and you'll likely need to register in advance to participate in the library programs. The good news is most libraries publish an event calendar at least a month in advance. Visit your local library's website to view the event schedule and reserve your spot.
Celebrate New Year's Eve
Your New Year’s Eve may look a little different than it did before you welcomed children into the family. Whether you are planning on keeping your little ones up until midnight for an apple juice “cheers” or you would rather follow their normal bedtime routine, there are plenty of ways to make the day memorable. Check out our ideas for Ways to Celebrate New Year's Eve with Kids.
Order Takeout and Support a local Restaurant
We know that restaurants have been hit hard and many local favorites are struggling. If you feel comfortable dining in person, plan to visit your favorite restaurant over the break. Or if you'd prefer, order curbside pickup so you can eat the food at home. Either way, you'll get a break from cooking and you'll be helping support a local small business.
Free Noon Year’s Eve program at the Massillon Public Library on Wednesday, December 31st from 10:30 am to 12 pm. For families of kids 6th grade and under. Stories, crafts, dancing, and a balloon drop at noon.
And again this year—same time!