Fun

Lights are the hallmark of the holiday season. We're fortunate here in Northeast Ohio that we have plenty of places to see them. One that might not be on your radar is the Magic of Lights display at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds. Head on over and see the light. ...

The power of puzzles isn't surprising to Kathryn M. Kilpatrick, an NEO-based Geriatric Life Enhancement Consultant. All types of puzzles help build brain health and can provide a common ground for grandparents who want to connect with grandkids, she says. ...

Check out the gift shops at the Cleveland Botanical Garden, Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Then navigate to Little Italy for an eclectic assortment of boutiques from handmade jewelry to imported Italian dinnerware. ...

Need an excuse to ramble outdoors when the weather is cold and blustery? Grab a birding guide, a pair of binoculars and head out to one of NEO's premier birding spots. From the shores of Lake Erie to the cornfields of Geauga County, we're in the catbird seat, so to speak, for winter birding. Read on to learn what birds to see and where to see them. ...

Yes, technically it's too early for Christmas but not if you're buying a pre-decorated tree for charity like the ones on display in Akron through Thanksgiving weekend. This free event (plan to pay for parking) features lots of elaborately decorated trees and wreaths, all created by folks who want to wow visitors this season. Don't miss it. ...

Ghost stories of the Hanna Theater detail the specters of former actors watching the stage from the balcony along with a top hat-wearing man who appears from the waist up only. These figures, along with reported "cold spots" and other strange occurrences, led the theater itself to host events detailing the theater's own haunted history. ...

The fire pit is the place to relax and warm up with refreshments from the Gingerbread Bakeshop, and the Salty Reindeer: hot gingerbread cookies, cocoa, popcorn, beer, wine, Bavarian pretzels and more. Molly's Shop is fully stocked for holiday shopping and the Café is a place to enjoy more substantial fare and holiday treats. ...

More than 60 companies and food vendors were on hand to meet and greet our guests. About 450 people turned out for the Bash. They danced, had fun in our photo booth, sipped a cocktail or two, and checked out our array of raffle items and prizes. ...