Find holiday cheer at the Taft Museum of Art and in Oakley with these new events

While many traditional holiday events have been altered this year, several local organizations are also creating new events to make the season bright.

The Taft Museum of Art is shaking up its holiday traditions with three new ways to celebrate the season. This month, visitors to the museum will be able to see a tree decorated by award-winning fiber artist Cynthia Lockhart. According to a press release, Lockhart hopes her work “encourages us to seek joy despite the challenges we have faced in 2020,” and “believes this holiday season will have a deeper meaning, perhaps more so than ever before,” including “a greater love and understanding for families across our nation and the world.”

Dec. 5, 12 and 19 from 1 to 2 p.m., the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra will play holiday music throughout the museum. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time, but the Taft Museum will also make excerpts available online.

In addition, the museum will be streaming fireplaces throughout the museum so you can enjoy them at home Dec. 24 at 6:30 p.m. on YouTube.

The neighborhood of Oakley is also debuting a new holiday event this year. Called Light Up Oakley, the event will run Dec. 14 through Jan. 1 throughout the neighborhood. Both residential homes and businesses will be decorated, and those who view the lights can vote for their favorite homes, businesses, window displays and more.