Best activities to enjoy in Cincinnati this weekend, Dec. 5-7

If youre looking for festive cheer and outdoor fun instead of staying home with holiday movies or cooking shows, Cincinnati has plenty to offer this weekend. Heres a curated list of the top 10 events happening around the city.

1. Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade and Festival

The 36th annual festival features a mini highland cow petting zoo, photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and two horse-drawn carriage paradesone in daylight and another by candlelight.

When: Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; parades at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Where: Downtown Lebanon
More info: lebanonchamber.org

2. Pinball Extravaganza

Over 120 pinball machines from the 1930s to present are available for free play. Families and enthusiasts of all ages can enjoy rare and unique machines at the Holiday Inn Eastgate.

When: Friday 2 p.m.-midnight; Saturday 10 a.m.-midnight; Sunday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: 4501 Eastgate Blvd., Union Township
More info: pincinnati.com

3. Santa Paws at Red Dog

Bring your dog for a digital photo with Santa with a suggested $15 donation to the League for Animal Welfare. Donate a gently used toy, enjoy local vendors, and food and drinks from MadTree Brewing. All friendly, leashed dogs are welcome.

When: Saturday, noon-4 p.m.
Where: 3310 Madison Road, Oakley

4. Light in the Forest at Cincinnati Nature Center

Take a mile-long stroll through illuminated woods featuring ponds, fields, and light displays by seven Blink artists. Enjoy crafts, live music, holiday shopping, food trucks, and a bonfire.

When: Friday-Sunday, 5:30-8:30 p.m., runs Dec. 5-28
Where: 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford
More info: cincynature.org

5. Holidays on the Farm

Experience festive music, meet reindeer, stroll through thousands of lights, and visit the cheer garden. Food and seasonal treats are available for purchase.

When: 5-9 p.m. nightly, Dec. 4-23
Where: Winton Woods Farm and Equestrian Center, 10073 Daly Road, Springfield Township
Admission: $12-17 per night, $20-25 season pass, free for ages 2 and under
More info: greatparks.org

6. Covington Christkindlmarkt

Enjoy a festive holiday market with local vendors, food, drinks, and a Saturday tree lighting ceremony from 3-6 p.m.

When: Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: George Steinford Park, West Sixth Street, Covington

7. East Row Victorian Christmas Tour

Step back into the Victorian era by touring eight historic homes decorated for the holidays. Admire Queen Anne and Italianate architecture, original fireplaces, staircases, and ornate woodwork.

When: Saturday-Sunday, noon-6 p.m.
Where: East Row Historic District, Newport
Admission: $22
More info: eastrow.org

8. Winter Wonderland in Lawrenceburg

Watch a holiday parade and a PAWS pet parade, participate in snowman voting, enjoy face painting, caricatures, live ice carving, and snacks from local vendors. Entertainment is suitable for all ages.

When: Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Lawrenceburg Civic Park, 111 E. High St., Lawrenceburg
More info: downtownlawrenceburg.com

9. 1980s Cincinnati Band Reunion

The band featuring Rob Fetters, Ricky Nye, Bob Nyswonger, and Bam Powell reunites for a performance at Woodward Theater.

When: Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.
Where: 1404 Main St., Over-the-Rhine

10. 'It's Fritz!' Musical at Ensemble Theatre

The sequel to 'Fiona: The Musical' follows Fritz, Fiona the hippos brother, as he finds his own spotlight in this family-friendly production.

When: Tuesday-Friday 7 p.m., Saturday 2 & 7 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m., Dec. 3-31
Where: 1127 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine

Author: Sophia Brooks