These five activities will get you out of the house and having fun this winter
As we enter the season of hibernation, it’s tempting to curl up on the sofa and post a sign to your front door that says, “Can’t talk. Not here. No money.” The holiday is over, and the January lethargy has begun. And likely, you have some New Year’s savings goals. We get that you’re maybe too fatigued to part with your living room—but that’s not going to stop us from trying to tempt you to open the door and step into Cincinnati’s 2022. Here’s some suggestions that can take place both within and without the house. The good news? Most of these won’t break the bank.
Get Creative with Candle Lab Cincy
When it comes to winter living room aesthetics, few things top a burning candle. This January, consider temporarily relocating from one cozy space to another and book a spot with (or just walk in) Cincy Candle Labs. With locations in both Over-the-Rhine and Anderson, it’s the perfect weekend outing for those who have caught the creative bug.
On paper, 100 fragrances might seem overwhelming, but when you walk into the minimalist-yet-homey interior, you’ll feel a sense of order and peace. If COVID hasn’t yet killed your sense of smell, it’ll be a sensorial experience, as you challenge your fellow candlemakers to take your scented creation to the next level. (Don’t worry. The friendly faces behind the desk will help you).
Be prepared for intrigue. The scents are unreal—or rather, really real. The ginger ale scent will tickle your nose just like you’ve popped open a fresh can, while the fresh mint smells like you’re in the middle of muddling some you picked right from the garden. From toasted marshmallows to Cuban tobacco, and yes, that ethereal “old book” smell—you can recreate any atmosphere you want to envision. My recommendation? Cranberry-mint-orange. Simple, but heavenly. The Candle Lab Anderson, 7454 Beechmont Ave., #308, Anderson Township. The Candle Lab OTR, 1325 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine. thecandlelabcincy.com
Take a Terrarium Class at Fern
If you want a breath of fresh air—literally—it’s time you check out Fern. This Cincinnati-based plant store now has two Instagram-worthy central locations. The flagship store in North College Hill has become a well-loved favorite in the community, while the new Walnut Hills location is just spreading its roots as it celebrates its first anniversary.
“There’s not a better place to restock your indoor garden and bring life into your house,” says Manager McKenna DuBach.
However, you can do more than shop plants in the New Year. Fern also provides several hands-on classes per month. Upcoming classes include Houseplants 101 with Fern’s founder Megan Strasser, How to Make a Terrarium and a collaboration with Four Eyes Ceramics—where founder and artist Jenny Rush teaches students how to make wall art inspired by organic shapes that fall in with the Fern collection. College Hill, 6040 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati. Walnut Hills, 737 E. McMillan St., Cincinnati. fern-shop.com
Eat in with Domo, Catered by Cincinnati’s Top Chefs
If you want the restaurant experience but want to stay home, we’ve got you with Domo. Unlike your typical take-out, these meals were crafted with chefs from some of our Cincinnati favorites, including Sotto, BOCA and Nada. Meals are said to be 95% completed—leaving you the last 5% to bring to life and serve fresh.
The seasonal menu is constantly changing, but past weeks have included Southwestern inspired flavors, including Grilled Steak & Chimichurri, served with heirloom tomatoes and red onion salad with spinach and potato empanadas, and modern Italian takes, like Gnocchi alla Romana with garlic bread stuffed zucchini and a pizzeria salad.
Domo occasionally offers intermittent add-ons as well, such as brown butter chocolate chip cookie dough, or s’more cookies. domoathome.com
Start Skating at 50 West Brewing
Do you want to skate somewhere that’s not Fountain Square? And do you also want beer? Well, good news. Cincinnati’s 50 West has continued to expand and flourish during the past two years. Owing much of its success to its large outdoor spacing and serendipitous timing, it’s the perfect place to meet up with friends and family who are wary of viruses and enjoy beer and burgers. Yes, even in winter—when bonfires and a small skating rink takes over the sand volleyball area.
Skate rentals are available for those who need them, and skate trainers are free, making it easy to take and teach little kids. While the rink is admittedly on the smaller side, with the big open sky above you, it will feel like an exapansive atmosphere as you watch everyone cuddle over bonfires, sip on a craft booze and enjoy freshly made hamburgers. If you have time, check out some of the beers being bottled indoors! 7605 state Route 50, Cincinnati. fiftywestbrew.com
Playhouse the Park’s Incident at our Lady of Perpetual Help
These days, we could all use some help. The Playhouse in the Park is ready to give it to us in the form of laughter by introducing us to the O’Sheas—an Irish-Catholic family who are intent on both saving their souls and not offending their parish priest in this comedy. Whether or not you grew up in a big Catholic family, Incident at our Lady of Perpetual Help is packed with of relatable and hilarious entertainment that might have you crying with laughter. Jan. 29-Feb. 27. Playhouse in the Park, 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati. cincyplay.com
