What Locals Like About Cleveland Plus

What Makes a Rembrandt a Rembrandt?

PositivelyCleveland — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 21:26:29 +0000

On Sunday, Feb. 19, the Cleveland Museum of Art opens the first major exhibition to explore in depth the collecting of Rembrandt paintings in America. Organized by the Cleveland Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the exhibition takes a look at the artist’s contributions and more importantly, what makes a Rembrandt truly a Rembrandt.

Famous painter Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn, born July 15, 1606, is generally considered one of the greatest painters in European history. Though his life was marked with personal tragedy and financial hardships, his paintings were incredibly popular throughout his time, and to this day Rembrandt is easily recognized for his contributions during the Dutch Golden Age.

Consisting of approximately 50 works, the exhibition brings together autographed paintings by Rembrandt as well as others thought to be by the artist when they entered American collections, but whose attributions can no longer be maintained. The exhibition presents a survey of the long career of Rembrandt as a painter, including his studio and a broader network of adapters, followers and copyists. Rembrandt in America offers the public the rare opportunity to examine the evolving opinions and methods of scholars and collectors regarding what constitutes an autograph Rembrandt painting.

Rembrandt in America begins Feb. 19 and runs through May 28, 2012 in the Kelvin and Eleanor Smith Foundation Exhibition Hall at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and students, $7 for children 6-17 and free for children five and under. Discounted admission is available for groups of ten or more. Email groupsales@cleveland.org for more information or to buy your group’s tickets.

- Corinne Allie

What Are You Afraid Of?

PositivelyCleveland — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:16:58 +0000

Why do our hearts race, our knees shake and our bodies sweat when we are scared? Find out in Great Lakes Science Center’s new exhibition, Goose Bumps! The Science of Fear, open now through April 29.

More than 20 engaging activities in Goose Bumps! allow visitors to experience fear in a safe and enjoyable environment, rate their response, understand the science behind the emotion and reflect upon its personal meaning.

For more information, visit http://www.greatscience.com.

What are you afraid of? Spiders? Deep water? Clowns? All of the above? Tell us in the comments.

- Freddie Coffey, Web Manager

The 2012 Great Big Home & Garden Expo

PositivelyCleveland — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 19:26:39 +0000

Get inspired at The Great Big Home & Garden Expo at Cleveland’s I-X Center February 4-12. Find fresh ideas and smart advice for gardening, home improvement, decorating and more and do it at a discount price with promo code POSITIVE.

This year’s event brings more than 650 exhibitors, new home improvement features, appearances by home and garden celebrities and returning favorites that are sure to excite and surprise visitors. Shop for home improvement contractors, lawn and garden equipment, home décor and numerous products and services to transform any home or garden.

New this year is The Home Builders Association Pavilion showcasing a 53-foot interactive mobile display with new exterior siding, metal roofing and accessories from various manufacturers. Homeowners can bring their digital home exterior photos and watch their house undergo a complete digital makeover. Experience the Dream Home Theater featuring 16 recliner home theater seats with automated one-touch lighting and theater control and a state-of-the-art multi-functional laundry room incorporating innovative, high-performance fabric care products and appliances within a convenient space for family members to do more than just laundry, such as crafts, homework and a variety of projects. Also new are two luxurious getaway log homes built by Timeless Timbers.

The popular Garden Showcase, featuring classic television show-themed gardens returns this year along with The Club Cambria Café where visitors can relax and enjoy a beverage and light snack in the martini bar among the beauty of the gardens. The beautifully crafted, 2,800-square-foot Idea Home offers affordable renovation ideas inspiring extraordinary living within ordinary budgets. The home features current housing trends with energy conservation and green products in mind.

Visitors will also enjoy Celebrity Designer Rooms, the Loretta Paganini Cooking Stage where they’ll have the opportunity to taste culinary delights in a state-of-the-art kitchen, The Belgard Landscapers’ Challenge and much more.

For more information about The Great Big Home & Garden Expo click here.

Celebrating MLK Day 2012

PositivelyCleveland — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:52:12 +0000

A number of Cleveland arts and cultural institutions offer free admission and special programming in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Recital at The Music Settlement
Sun., Jan. 15; 3pm

The Music Settlement in University Circle features works by Hale Smith, Leslie Adams, George Walker, Duke Ellington, the Cleveland Boys Choir and more. The recital will be held in the Glick Recital Hall and is free and open to the public.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Festival at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum
Mon., Jan. 16; 10am-5:30pm

Each year, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum not only opens its doors to the public for free, but also puts on a day-long celebration to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the Maltz Museum
Mon., Jan. 16; 11am-5pm

Participate in a tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr. with free admission to the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage along with guided tours of An American Story, a musical performance Unchained: From Slavery to Civil Rights and HATE (Malt Museum’s award-winning short film).

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the Great Lakes Science Center
Mon., Jan. 16; 10am-6pm

Enjoy a free day of exploration at the Great Lakes Science Center. Explore your fears in the special exhibition, Goose Bumps! The Science of Fear!, enjoy “electrifying” Big Science Shows at 11:30am and 3:30pm, tour the NASA Glenn Visitors Center and BioMedTech Gallery and experience hundreds of hands-on, interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.

MLK Day at Cleveland Botanical Garden
Mon., Jan. 16; 10am-5pm

The Cleveland Botanical Garden will be open on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day with free admission and special craft making to celebrate African American heritage from 1-4pm.

Cleveland Orchestra Open House
Mon., Jan. 16; noon-5pm

Severance Hall, home of the Cleveland Orchestra, joins the city-wide celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.’s life with a Community Open House offering free instrumental, vocal and spoken-word performances throughout the afternoon. Admission is free and no tickets are required. Spend the day at Severance Hall or stop by to see community music ensembles and performances including presentations by the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra and Cleveland Orchestra Youth Chorus.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at Western Reserve Historical Society
Mon., Jan. 16; 10am-5pm

The Western Reserve Historical society offers free admission and the opportunity for children and their families to explore museum exhibits including Do You Know Your Lincoln, Rally ‘Round the Flag, Through the Lens of Allen E. Cole and Meet Clio the WRHS Digital Curator. Guests to the WRHS History Center can make a card or flower with an inspirational greeting to be distributed to families who have meals delivered to them by the Golden Age Centers of Cleveland.

Winter Discovery Day at The Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Mon., Jan. 16; 10am-4pm

In cooperation with Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland’s museums and cultural institutions, The Cleveland Museum of Natural History offers free admission all day in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Explore the Smead Discovery Center, watch a mini-planetarium show for only $1, make a craft project to take home, examine nature’s material with scientists and students from Case Western Reserve University and much more.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the Children’s Museum
Mon., Jan. 16; 10am-4:45pm

Help create a community quilt in honor of Dr. King’s message of peace for all. Decorate a square of fabric and then attach it to our quilt. Explore three permanent exhibits; Big Red Barn, Bridges to our Community, and Splish! Splash! Then explore artifacts from centuries past as you set sail on the ship in Galapagos Sands. Admission is half-price all day.

Reflection of the Dream at the Cleveland Museum of Art
Mon., Jan. 16; 11am-5pm

Bring family, friends and neighbors to this special event and enjoy FREE activities for all ages. Celebrate the day with gallery talks presented by CMA curators; docent-led tours; hands-on art projects; art and twister games designed and presented by Museum Ambassadors; and band, choir, quartet and jazz music performances. Attend a free screening at 11am or 2pm of the soul-stirring film Rejoice and Shout, an uplifting new documentary that traces the history of African-American gospel music.

MLK: Honoring His Legacy in a New Era at Case Western Reserve University
Mon., Jan. 16-22

Each year, Case Western Reserve University honors Martin Luther King, Jr.—the holiday, the man and the legacy—with a week-long celebration that includes workshops, films, panel discussions and speakers.

27th Annual Martin L. King, Jr. Commemorative Day Program at Cleveland Public Library
Mon., Jan. 16; 1pm

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy was a legacy of servant leadership – of giving back. Cleveland Public Library honors the legacy with a panel discussion about the many issues surrounding the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial, from concept to construction. A reception follows the event. - Corinne Allie, Social Networking Specialist

Brite Winter Festival 2012

PositivelyCleveland — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:27:55 +0000

Cold temps, falling snow and blustery winds? Bring it. It’s winter in Cleveland and there’s no better way to celebrate than at the Brite Winter Festival.

On Saturday, February 18, Brite Winter Festival lights up the city again. Live music rules the stage; bonfires burn bright against the dark winter sky and nearby restaurants and bars invite festival-goers in for a warm beverage or two. A lighting design competition sponsored by GE and art installations centered on light, fire and ice brighten things up while a giant skeeball game, fire performers and homemade instruments keep you moving all night long.

Brite moves to a new location this year in Ohio City. Located just five minutes from downtown, on Cleveland’s near west side, Ohio City has become incredibly popular with locals and visitors alike. Named one of the best places to bar hop in the world, Ohio City offers a warm neighborhood feel with lots of energy making the perfect setting for outdoor winter fun.

This year’s festival promises to inspire us all to embrace winter in Cleveland. For more information visit www.britewintercleveland.com and for up-to-the-minute additions to the festival follow @britewinter on twitter. See you there!

- Corinne Allie, Social Networking Specialist

Dive In! Beach Season Never Ends in Cleveland Plus

PositivelyCleveland — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 20:02:59 +0000

You can make a big splash whatever the weather in Northeast Ohio at one of the region’s great waterparks.

Grab your flip flops and head to the Caribbean-themed Castaway Bay (www.castawaybay.com), a tropical indoor waterpark in Sandusky packed with 38,000 square feet of slides and rides. And after the tropical adventure of wave pools and whirlpools, you can relax at a full-service spa offering aromatherapy, facials and massages.

Also in Sandusky, Great Wolf Lodge (www.greatwolfsandusky.com) is a 200,000-gallon waterpark that features an assortment of kiddie slides and pools designed to accommodate the “54 inch and under” set. Whether you’re floating down a lazy river or headed out on a Wolf Walk, there’s no “roughing it” required here.

Just down the road, Kalahari Resort (www.kalahariresorts.com/oh/) includes both an indoor and outdoor waterpark with two boogie board/standup surf Flowriders, water roller coasters and a swimup bar, there’s something for everyone. And, the African-themed resort is in the process of adding on to its already spacious convention center. This $22 million expansion will bring Kalahari’s convention center total square footage to 215,000 so it can accommodate even more faith-based retreats, family reunions, tradeshows, special events and corporate outings.

Just half an hour southeast of Cleveland, Geauga Lake’s Wildwater Kingdom (wildwaterfun.com) is an outdoor cabana-lined watery playground boasting, among many soak-tacular attractions, a 60-foot tall, 253-foot-long funnel slide and a 30,000 square foot wave pool. Groups of 15 or more qualify for discount admission.

- Jeff Niesel

Cleveland New Year’s Eve Packages, Parties and Events

PositivelyCleveland — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:17:03 +0000

PARTIES + PACKAGES for the ADULTS

Landerhaven: Dancin’ On The Red Carpet
Head to the luxurious Landerhaven Party Center for a New Year’s Eve event featuring live music, a DJ and dancing all night long. Enjoy top-shelf open bar, a midnight champagne toast, unique appetizers, decadent food stations, indulgent sweets tables and a 1am breakfast buffet. Valet parking is complimentary and reservations are required at 440.449.0700. $135/person + tax or $125/person + tax for groups of eight or more. Special room rates are available at the adjacent Staybridge Suites.
440.449.0700, www.executivecaterers.com

Sushi Rock: “Masquerade in NYC”
Ring in the New Year at Sushi Rock on W. 6^th Street in Cleveland’s Warehouse District. “The Metropolitan” package features open bar from 8pm-midnight with unlimited hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast for $50. “The Big Apple” package offers a three-course dinner including one signature appetizer, one main entrée and one signature dessert bar, open bar from 8pm-midnight and a champagne toast for $75. Sushi Rock’s regular menu will be served until midnight and the party goes until 2am. Masks will be provided and VIP bottle service is available.
Downtown 216.623.1212, Beachwood 216.378.9595, www.sushirockohio.com

Wonder Bar NYE
Join the party at Wonder Bar where the cover charge is free and optional party packages are available for purchase. “Pants on Fire” performs 9pm-12am. The Silver Package is $50 person/$90 couple and includes mixed drinks, domestic bottles and sparkling wine. The Gold Package is $60 person/$110 couple and includes mixed drinks, domestic bottles, house shots, sparkling wine, house Caberbet and Chardonnay and preferred seating for the performance. The Platinum package is $80 person/$150 couple and includes premium mixed drinks, domestic and draft beer, house shots, wines by the glass, sparkling wine, one entrée and premium seating for the performance. For advance tickets, email Andrea at kayakandrea8@gmail.com.
216.298.4050, www.wonderbarcleveland.com

The Cleveland Improv: New Year’s Eve with Loni Love and the Lovers
Spend New Year’s Eve with “Loni Love and the Lovers” at the Improv. Loni Love and The Lovers is a hilarious live stand up show hosted by Loni Love (of the “Chelsea Lately Show”) and features several of Loni’s closest comedian friends. Various New Year’s Eve packages are available.
216.696.4677, www.clevelandimprov.com

Grand River Cellars Winery & Restaurant
The evening begins at 6:30pm with light appetizers followed by a large buffet dinner featuring entrees including beef, chicken and seafood. Dancing begins at 8:30pm with the Four Kings and a Queen. Enjoy late night desert, snacks all night long and a bottle of wine per couple. A light breakfast will be served at 12:30pm. Reservations are required. The cost is $67.95/person + tax.
440.298.9838, www.grandrivercellars.com

Pickwick & Frolic
A variety of NYE packages at Pickwick & Frolic makes it easy to plan the perfect night. Catch a show before the ball drops from comedy star John Caponera. Pair the show with dinner or arrive later for dancing and drinks. Click here for all your options.
216.241.7425, www.pickwickandfrolic.com

Windows On The River
Ring in the New Year on the banks of the Cuyahoga River with stunning views of Cleveland’s unique bridges and gorgeous skyline. From 8pm-1am, guests enjoy an open bar, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, two rooms of entertainement, party favors, champagne toast at midnight, free parking and entertainment provided by Jerry Bruno Productions. The cost is $80/person + tax.
216. 861.1445, www.windowsontheriver.com

House of Blues: Bruce in the USA
Special New Year’s Eve packages are available at House of Blues Cleveland including dinner/show packages and hotel packages. Click here for details and pricing.
216.523.BLUE, www.houseofblues.com/cleveland

Nautica Queen: New Year’s Eve Cruise
Get cozy on the Nautica Queen. Guests enjoy a scenic cruise with hors d’oeuvres, dinner, dancing, party favors and a bubbling bottle of champagne. $75/person plus tax. Reservations are required.
216.696.8888, www.nauticaqueen.com

The Cleveland Pops Orchestra: 16^th Annual New Year’s Eve Concert & Dance
Three of Broadway’s famous stars of Phantom of the Opera star are this year’s New Year’s Eve guest artists. Gary Mauer, Craig Schulman and Ciaran Sheehan combine to bring in the new year with solos, duets and trios from Broadway musicals including Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Guys and Dolls, Kiss Me Kate, Jekyll & Hyde, Sweeny Todd, West Side Story and more. The concert begins at 9pm followed by dancing from 11pm-1am. Champagne, beer and wine may be purchased from cash bars. Ring in the New Year with a balloon drop.
216.765.7677, www.clevelandpops.com

Hard Rock Café: Rockin’ New Year’s Eve
The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel and Hard Rock Café Cleveland team up to celebrate the beginning of a New Year. The night includes deluxe overnight accommodations, complimentary self-parking, live performance by Entertainment MD, appetizer buffet, bar and champagne toast at midnight. The cost is $349/couple plus tax. For reservations contact the Renaissance Cleveland at 1.800.HOTELS1 or click here.
216.830.7625, www.hardrock.com/cleveland

Sergios SARAVA
Come for dinner, the party or both. Join the party after 10pm for just $15 per person to ring in the year at SARAVA’s annual New Year’s Eve party featuring DJ Mazi and DJ Frankie Flores, spinning Samba, Bossa Nova and Salsa on vinyl with party favors at midnight. Or, reserve your table for a $55 three course dinner menu. Learn more about your options here. Reservations are required for dinner.
216.295.1200, www.sergioscleveland.com

Progressive Field: Snow Year’s Eve
Ring in 2012 with “Snow Year’s Eve” at Progressive Field’s Snow Days. The party starts at 9:30pm with a DJ and dancing, a cash bar (two drink tickets per person included), a delicious dessert bar, a fireworks show and champagne toast, midnight breakfast buffet, party favors and complimentary parking. Pair it with dinner at 7:30pm. Purchase party tickets for $49/person or dinner+ party tickets for $99/person.
www.indians.com

Great Lakes Brewing Company: Brew Year’s Eve!
Rock in the New Year with Great Lakes Brewing Company. GLBC is decking out the brewpub for a special evening of dancing, live music from Becky Boyd’s Jazz Trio, magic tricks from magician Rick Smith Jr. and award-winning beer. Heavy hors d’oeuvres and three drink tickets (beer and wine only) will be provided and a cash bar is available all night. Enjoy a very special beer toast at midnight. $60/person. Reservations are required.
216.771.4404, www.greatlakesbrewing.com

Vermilion Valley Vineyards
Celebrate the New Year at Vermilion Valley Vineyards with dinner and live music from Around Acoustic Trip at 9pm. Buffet includes stuffed pork tenderloin, roasted potatoes, green beans, salad, desert and a glass of wine. The cost is $40/person and reservations are required.
440.965.5202, www.vermilionvalleyvineyards.com

Velvet Dog: NYE 2012
Bring 2012 in with style at Velvet Dog’s massive New Year’s Eve celebration. VIP tickets are $125, which includes top shelf open bar all night, fully catered buffet by Sushi Rock and exclusive access to the third floor VIP lounge and heated rooftop patio. General admission is $25 in advance or $35 at the door. This includes two floors of partying, hats and party favors, two DJs and a champagne toast at midnight.
216.664.1116, www.velvetdogcleveland.com

The Grog Shop
The Grog Shop’s annual NYE bash features a free champagne toast, costume performers, lasers and an all-night dance party with musical performances by Nathan Sloan, DJ Lo Bear, Rhyme X Reason and DJ Self-Help. The party kicks off at 9pm and admission is $5 in advance at $8 at the door.
216.321.5588, www.grogshop.gs

B-Side Liquor Lounge
B-Side’s NYE party features DJ MisterBradleyP and a champagne toast at midnight. VIP packages are available.
216.932.1966, www.bsideliquorlounge.com

Sawmill Creek Resort
Celebrate the arrival of the New Year at Sawmill Creek Resort in Wilderness Hall. Tour the Sawmill Pathway of 32 holiday light displays. Dance and enjoy the music and live entertainment Las Vegas style at the Charity Casino. The package includes a deluxe guest room, early noon check-in, two tickets to the Casino Party with live entertainment and a hot breakfast for two.
800.729.6455, www.sawmillcreek.com/pleasure/new-years-ohio.asp

Local Rock NYE Bash
As part of the ongoing Local Rock series, the Woo Who Foundation has teamed up with local bands to host a NYE bash at the Halcyon Masonic Temple, now dubbed the Ohio City Sonic Temple (2831 Franklin at Fulton). Live, local, original and cover bands will keep the beat going. Other fun includes a champagne toast at midnight, games and raffles, full bar, Masonic Temple tours, old time photos, plenty of free on-site parking and more. Admission is $50/person pre-sale or $65/person day of for heavy appetizers and open bar all night. Come after 10pm for $25/person open bar.
www.woowhofoundation.com/Events.html

The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake
Ring in the new year with a one night stay, dinner for two in Horizons Restaurant including wine service, live entertainment, a 5-hour open bar, a champagne toast at midnight with a bigscreen view of the ball drop, gala celebration, party favors, endless snack bar, breakfast for two the following morning and a late check-out.
440.466.7100, www.TheLodgeatGeneva.com

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Great Lakes Science Center: New Year’s Eve Eve (Dec. 30, 7 – 11:30pm)
Celebrate the New Year with the kids one night early during Great Lakes Science Center Seventh Annual New Year’s Eve Eve. The family-friendly event features a unique indoor carpet skating rink, as well as activities such as making fake polymer snow to take home and watching fruitcake explosions. Families also are able to explore the entire Great Lakes Science Center during the event. Also, two OMNIMAX® movies are included in the price of admission. Pricing for this program is $24 per person and $20 for members. Advanced reservations are suggested, as space is limited.
216.621.2400, www.GreatScience.com

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: Noon Year’s Eve (Dec. 31, 10am – 1pm)
Bring the entire family to celebrate Noon Year’s Eve, now in its sixth year. Young guests will ring in 2012 with a dance party, a countdown to noon complete with a ball drop and non-alcoholic toast and the chance to make their own eco-friendly noisemakers. Visitors can also check out ice carving demonstrations, make their New Year’s ReZOOlutions and see a special holiday performance of Professor Wylde’s Animal Show. Admission to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is $7 for adults and $4 for children 2-11. Admission for children younger than 2 and zoo members are always free.
216.661.6500, www.clemetzoo.com

First Night Akron (Dec. 31, 6pm-midnight)
Downtown Akron hosts First Night Akron, a family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration of the arts. Families can enjoy indoor entertainment and fun for all ages throughout downtown Akron featuring the region’s best in music, dance, theater, visual and interactive arts. Everything pauses at 9pm and midnight while the fireworks display in front of Lock 3 on Main Street. Admission is $10, children under the age of 10 are free.
330.374.7690, www.firstnightakron.org

The Children’s Museum of Cleveland: 6th Annual New Year’s at Noon Celebration (Dec. 31, 10am – 2pm)
Countdown the New Year at noon and 1pm during this totally kid-friendly New Year’s Eve event at the Children’s Museum of Cleveland. The event includes a buffet, beverages, desserts and party favors. Kids can make a New Year’s hat to take home, watch the ball drop, participate in a dance party, bean bag toss or limbo contest. Reservations are required. Ticket prices are $10 per person for members, $15 for nonmembers.
216.791.7114, www.clevelandchildrensmuseum.org

Cleveland Indians: Snow Days (Dec. 31)
Experience one of Cleveland’s newest and most unique wintertime attractions – Snow Days. Each day, Progressive Field (home of the Cleveland Indians baseball team) is transformed into a winter wonderland complete with a 10-lane snow tubing hill, a quarter-mile ice skating rink, walking trails and a fire pit for enjoying hot chocolate. And, the evening concludes with one of the infamous Cleveland Indians fireworks show to welcome 2012. On New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, the event is open to the public. General admission is $5, ice skating and snow tubing are additional costs (or purchase a combo ticket for $28).
www.indians.com/snowdays

Castaway Bay (Dec. 31 – Jan. 1)
Head on over to Cedar Point’s indoor waterpark resort, Castaway Bay, for the New Year’s weekend. Sure, kids will have a blast in this awesome indoor waterpark. But the weekend is also packed with a schedule designed specifically for kids with meet-and-greets with the PEANUTS characters, a scavenger hunt, karaoke, a kids-only dance party and a New Year’s Eve balloon drop. Activities are included in overnight stay, some additional craft fees apply.
419.627.2106, www.castawaybay.com/public/play/special_events/index.cfm

Cleveland Botanical Garden: WinterShow (Dec. 31, 10am – 3pm)
WinterShow at the Cleveland Botanical Garden is a Cleveland family tradition. The Cleveland Botanical Garden with its giant glasshouses, exotic plants and 11 acres of gardens, can be a pretty magical place all-year round. But, add gingerbread houses, a great big tree, nostalgic department store window-like displays, traditional holiday trains and festive decorations and visitors experience something even more special during the annual Wintershow events. Admission for adults is $8.50 and children (3-12) $3.
216.721.1600 (ext. 100), www.cbgarden.com

Cleveland Metroparks: A Fishy New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31, 7 – 9pm)
Ring in the New Year a bit early during this fun outside event at North Chagrin Nature Center in the Cleveland Metroparks in North Chagrin Reservation. Visitors can learn about our local fish through a presentation, games, crafts and more. Event is free, but registration is required.
440.473.3370, www.clevelandmetroparks.com

Cleveland Metroparks: Chalet Toboggan Chutes in Strongsville (Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, noon – 5pm)
Feel the cool, crisp breeze as you plunge down the 70-foot vertical drop along the 1,000-foot ice chutes at roughly 50 mph. The season-long Chalet promotional schedule continues with a free ice scraper on New Year’s Eve and a free travel mug to toast the new year at the only public ice chutes in Ohio. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for children 11 and younger. Watch our video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEVGUQ-NHqk.
216.635.3200, www.clevelandmetroparks.com

Swings-N-Things: New Year’s Eve Family Style (Dec. 31, 5-8pm)
Travelers can aim for a strike on mini bowling lanes or glow-in-the-dark targets inside the laser tag zone at Swings-N-Things family park featuring 13 acres of outdoor and indoor games that will keep the kids (and parents) busy with hours of fun. The New Years Eve celebration takes place at a family friendly time with a balloon drop around 7pm complete with confetti and blowers. Event is included in cost of admission (varies on activities).
440.235.4420, www.swings-n-things.com

Ghostly Manor Thrill Center: New Year’s Eve Dance Party (Dec. 31, 8pm-12:30am)
Bring your friends for dancing, food, prizes, games, skating and more. Welcome the New Year at a celebration unlike any other while creating memories at Skateworld and Ghostly Manor Thrill Center. General mission is $10 and includes access to the dance party and quad roller skate rental. VIP admission is $20 and includes the dance party, quad roller skate rental, pizza, pop and a ride in the XD Theater or Wizards Journey Blacklight Mini Golf.
419.626.4467, www.ghostlymanor.com

– April Ingle + Corinne Allie

98W83Z7RSJGQ

CLE Presents that Rock

PositivelyCleveland — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 18:40:13 +0000

It might be goodbye for now, but Cleveland will always be in your heart. So don’t forget a souvenir to help you relive your experiences and all the rockin’ good times you had here. If you’re searching for quirky and eclectic doodads, independent art, delectable chocolate or uniquely Cleveland postcards, t-shirts and giftware, Cleveland Plus offers incredible shopping for every taste and budget.

Cleveland Sweets
Visitors can dive into a chocolate drizzle pecan almond crunch gift box from Olympia Candies (www.olympiacandy.com) or some of Baker’s Candies (www.bakercandies.com) famous whipped eggs, a fluffy combination of marshmallow and whipped cream covered in chocolate. Or, they can find the perfect wine or craft beer pairing with chocolate confections at Lilly’s Handmade Chocolates (www.lillytremont.com). Lilly’s creations are unique with both sweet and savory flavors such as “Sweet Cheeks,” a dark chocolate piece filled with burned salty caramel and “That Bacon One,” a milk chocolate piece filled with bacon and organic maple butter. For those who like the saltier side of sweets, try one of the 18 different flavors of popcorn or chocolate covered jalapeños at Campbell’s Popcorn Shop (www.campbellssweets.com) at the West Side Market.

Cleveland Plus Pass
This multi-attraction pass saves at least 30 percent off access to ten of Cleveland’s big attractions. For visitors who missed some of the great museums Cleveland Plus has to offer during this visit, the two-, three- or five-day Plus Pass (www.positivelycleveland.com/pluspass) will help them see it all during the next time in town. The pass includes admission to ten area attractions including the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Lake Metroparks Farmpark, the Cleveland Botanical Garden and other top destinations, as well as value-added offers from restaurants, retail establishments and more. The Plus Pass doesn’t activate until the user visits the first location, so travelers can plan a return anytime in the future.

Cleveland T-Shirts
Clevelanders wear their hearts on their sleeves, literally. Visitors can be a part of this trend with quirky shirts with as much style as Cleveland pride from C.L.E. Clothing Co. (www.cleclothingco.com) or GV Artwork and Designs (www.gvetchedintime.com). For an extensive collection of Cleveland gear beyond just t-shirts, holiday travelers should shop at The Only Cleveland Store (www.theonlyclevelandstore.com) located in the heart of downtown at Tower City Center.

Anything from Big Fun
There’s no better place for affordable, kitsch gifts ranging from whoopee cushions to GI Joe thermoses than Big Fun (www.bigfunbigfun.com). This eclectic vintage toy store with two Cleveland locations is bursting with little novelty items and big ticket, hard-to-find pop culture collectibles.

Cleveland Seasonal Brews
Around Cleveland, seasonal beers fly off the shelves faster than Tickle-Me-Elmo toys. The ultimate Cleveland seasonal beer – Great Lakes Brewing Company’s Christmas Ale (www.greatlakesbrewing.com) is one hot brew. For visitors interested in checking out the environmentally-conscious brewing company with beers named after Cleveland history (Eliot Ness, Commodore Perry, etc.) at home, the brewery has distribution in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Wisconsin or they can buy a tap handle for a beer lover’s home bar. Also produced locally, Thirsty Dog makes the “12 Dogs of Christmas” Ale (www.thirstydog.com), Hoppin’ Frog has its Frosted Frog Christmas Ale (www.hoppinfrog.com) and Indigo Imp, releases a seasonal Winter Solstice (www.indigoimpbrewery.com).

A Christmas Story House Leg Lamp
While visiting the museum dedicated to the cult classic film shot in Cleveland, guests should pick up a nightlight, desk-ready and lawn ornament-sized versions of the A Christmas Story leg lamp adorned with a fringe skirt and fishnet tights. Or, purchase bunny pajamas just like Ralphie received from Aunt Clara. Also available online at www.redriderleglamps.com.

A Book from Gray and Company Publishers
Cleveland meteorologist Dick Goddard has been around for, well, ever. In Six Inches of Partly Cloudy, one of the newest books from Cleveland publishing company Gray and Co. (www.grayco.com), Goddard celebrates a remarkable 50 years on television with personal stories, witty cartoons, fun facts, and essays about weather, pets, Ohio history, the TV business, and much more. Or, sports fans can read up on Cleveland’s storied athletic history, such as Joe Tait: It’s Been a Real Ball and Things I’ve Learned from Watching the Browns by Cleveland Plain Dealer sports writer Terry Pluto or Pass the Nuts by Dan Coughlin.

A Recording of the Renowned Cleveland Orchestra
Consistently ranked among the top ten orchestras in the world, the elegant melodies and passionate symphonies that fill Severance Hall by The Cleveland Orchestra make for the perfect reminder of an enjoyable holiday in Cleveland Plus. Stop by The Cleveland Orchestra Store (1101 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland) or shop online at www.clevelandorchestra.com.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Trivia Board Game
With more than 1,700 questions and clues about the greatest people, events, recordings and dates in rock and roll history, the official Rock and Roll Hall of Fame trivia board game (www.rockhallstore.com) is the ultimate test of player’s knowledge of the genre that shaped generations. Players travel through various spaces on the game board with the goal to be the first player to rich the Hall of Fame. This is the perfect gift for visitors to take home and finally show those youngsters they still know a thing or two.

Ohio Ice Wines
Visitors can return home and attend a to holiday dinner bearing a bottle of dessert ice wine from Ohio’s Debonne Vineyards (www.debonne.com), Ferrante Winery & Ristorante (www.ferrantewinery.com), Mon Ami Restaurant and Historic Winery (www.monamiwinery.com) or Firelands Winery (firelandswinery.com), just to name a few. Ice wine is made by allowing grapes to remain on the vine until the first freeze thereby concentrating the flavors. Ice wines are a much sweeter wine, typically enjoyed as an after dinner treat or paired with sweet food (such as vanilla ice cream or sponge cakes). While the majority of the world’s ice wines come from Canada, the Cleveland Plus counterparts are considerably less expensive, but equally delicious.

Lake Erie Crushers
The Lake Erie Crushers, the 2009 Frontier League Champions, play ball at All Pro Freight Stadium, located in Avon, OH. The Frontier League is an independent baseball league with 14 teams operating throughout the Midwest. Full season tickets and mini-plan ticket packages for the 2012 season are on sale now! For more information on tickets, promotions and team news, visit the team website at www.LakeErieCrushers.com or call 440-934-3636. Crushers Baseball – Grand Slam Family Fun! Holiday Packs are on sale now through Dec. 23 at 12 pm.

Cleveland Zoo Society
Adopt a Masai giraffe for someone special and your shopping is done! Give all the joy of being a ZooParent without any of the work! We’ll feed and clean up after the whole herd (one of the biggest in the country); all you need to do is visit as often as you can! For just $75, your holiday gift package will include:

A collectible plush giraffe
Official “Proud ZooParent” keychain
Personalized adoption certificate
Color photo of a giraffe
Fun fact sheet all about giraffe
Invitation to ZooFriends’ Night 2012, an exclusive summer family event (mailed separately)
Name recognition on ClevelandZooSociety.org

Order by December 13 to ensure holiday delivery, however you may adopt at any time and send an eCard (at the end of your transaction) to let the recipient know their packet is on the way! Call 216.661.6500, x4440 or visit www.ClevelandZooSociety.org for more information. Available while supplies last!

Did we miss any? Help us out and comment below with great CLE gifts and souvenirs. Happy Holidays and safe travels!

– K Nacion, Tourism Intern

Cleveland is a Holiday Wonderland

PositivelyCleveland — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:47:08 +0000

Suit up your winter gear, grab some hot chocolate and prepare to have some fun with these winter adventures filled with bright lights and crisp entertainment. Cleveland’s a holiday wonderland that has something for the young and the young at heart. Whether you are a local or a visitor, create new memories with our colorful assortment of event offerings.

Burning River Brass Performs at Severance Hall: Dec. 15

As part of the Cleveland Orchestra’s 2011 Holiday Festival, Burning River Brass, the acclaimed 12-member Cleveland brass ensemble founded in 1996, will perform a concert of Christmas music at Severance Hall on Thursday, December 15, at 8 p.m. Burning River Brass made its Severance Hall debut in June 2003 and has performed as part of The Cleveland Orchestra’s Holiday Festival annually since December of that year.
216.231.1111 www.clevelandorchestra.com

Neil Zaza’s “One Silent Night”: Dec. 17

Neil Zaza is world renowned for his holiday mash-ups featuring traditional melodies intertwined with classic rock standards. This season, in celebration of the 10^th anniversary of his show “One Silent Night,” Zaza is bringing his audience together in a high-tech way. Along with the performance at PlayhouseSquare, fans can participate and communicate by sharing messages and holiday pictures throughout the show. As an added holiday bonus all attendees will get a free EP with Holiday classics and previously unreleased tracks.
216.241.6000, www.playhousesquare.org

Christmas on the Farm: Dec. 17-18, 23

The entire family can spend an evening with Rudolph’s long-lost cousins feeding the elk herd at Bonnie Brae’s Farm in Wellington, about 50 miles southwest of Cleveland. A farm wagon, decked out in jingle bells, takes visitors out to the fields where the elk herd roam. Then, families can visit the barn with a decorated Christmas tree to receive a free hand made ornament. The spicy scented gingerbread village entertains guests who are munching free cookies and sipping hot chocolate. Reservations are suggested for this event.
440.647.3232, www.theelkfarm.com

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra at Quicken Loans Arena: Dec. 30

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s distinct twist on holiday classics are right at home here in the city of rock and roll. The powerful musical group puts a magical edge on Christmas tunes that are both unique and easily identifiable.
888.894.9424, www.trans-siberian.com

ONGOING EVENTS

“The Santaland Diaries” at the 14^th Street Theater: Now-Dec. 17

Based on the story by David Sedaris and produced by Cleveland Public Theatre, this show is sure to bring a smile to any Grinch’s face. The show is a hilarious recount of the trials and tribulations told by a Crumpet, now in his mid fifties, about the time he was an out-of-work actor and forced to work as a Macy’s Christmas Elf in 1989.
216.771.8403, www.playhousesquare.org

Ohio City Christmas Festival: Saturdays, Now-Dec. 18

The Market District transforms into a German Weihnachtsmärkt, or Christmas Market, for a delightful holiday shopping festival. Market Avenue, which houses the ever-popular Great Lakes Brewing Company, closes down to traffic and is filled with vendors in tents selling chocolates, spices, nuts, ornaments and other Christmas items. Other highlights of the event include horse and carriage rides, Christmas tree sales and visits from Santa Claus himself.
216.781.3222, www.ohiocity.org

“Conni’s Avant Garde Restaurant: Home for the Hollandaise” by Cleveland Public Theater: Now-Dec. 18

“Conni’s Avande Garde Restaurant” is a quirky theatrical event that mixes fine food, wine and ensemble theatre together with cabaret, improv comedy and a five-course meal. This year’s show tells the story of an aging actress and her career-ending decision to have a child. Follow her on a miraculous journey that includes a visit from the Soup Angel, a radical re-interpretation of the Nutcracker Suite and even instructions on the art of bussing tables from general manager Sue James. In an odd and unforgettable evening, this show is the perfect cure for any bah-humbugs.
216.631.2727, www.cptonline.org

Winter Show at the Cleveland Botanical Garden: Now-Dec. 21

The Cleveland Botanical Garden with its giant glasshouses, exotic plants and 11 acres of gardens, can be a pretty magical place all-year round. But, add gingerbread houses, a great big tree, nostalgic department store window-like displays, traditional holiday trains and festive decorations and visitors experience something even more special during the annual Wintershow events.
216.721.1600, www.cbgarden.org

Country Lights at Lake Metroparks: Now-Dec. 23

Families can snuggle together on a horse-drawn wagon ride in the country and enjoy the wondrous twinkle of approximately a quarter of a million festive holiday light displays at Lake Metroparks Farmpark, an agricultural “amusement park” for kids of all ages. Located 25 miles east of Cleveland, Country Lights is a winter wonderland perfect for the whole family with so much more than lights, such as model train displays, “Santa’s Workshop” and the “Well Bred Shed” featuring multiple horse presentations. Due to the popularity, the event usually sells out quickly; tickets go on sale Nov. 15.
440.639.7275, www.lakemetroparks.com

Great Lakes Theater presents “A Christmas Carol”: Now-Dec. 23

The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without an authentic presentation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. Visitors can celebrate the season by heading to the stunning Hanna Theater in PlayhouseSquare to enjoy “A Christmas Carol”, a true holiday tradition.
216.664.6064, www.greatlakestheater.org

Holiday Lantern Tours at Hale Farm and Village: Weekends, Now-Dec. 23

Stroll through the 19^th century village by the light of a lantern and experience the holiday season years’ part, where it is Christmas Eve in 1861 and are welcomed into the village homes by Civil War era residents whose holiday traditions are as diverse as their ethnic and religious backgrounds.
330.666.3711, www.wrhs.org

Cleveland Orchestra Concerts: Now-Dec. 18, 20-23

Holiday travelers can hear The Cleveland Orchestra and Choruses perform holiday favorites in the festive splendor of the opulent Severance Hall, with a special visit by Santa. The 2011 Christmas Concert performances include all types of holiday music – from classical to jazz. A Cleveland holiday tradition presented by one of the world’s renowned orchestras.
216.231.1111, www.clevelandorchestra.com

Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge: Now-Dec. 25

Being able to splash around in an 84-degree indoor water park is pretty enchanting to begin with, but add appearances from Santa Claus, holiday carol sing-alongs, nightly story time and even polar bear races and it truly becomes magical. “Little Elves” can attend North Pole University, explore Santa’s workshop, create at the writing, the wrapping and the toy station and, enjoy the daily snow shows in the Grand Lobby (yes, it will be snowing indoors!).
419.609.6000, www.greatwolf.com

Deck the Hall at Stan Hywet: Weekends Now-Dec. 30

The elaborate 25-room Manor House at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens hosts its annual holiday celebration, Deck the Hall. This year’s theme “Joys of Christmas Past” celebrates 100 years of Christmas treasures through fashion, music, toys and holiday traditions in each room of the hall. Other festivities include a winter wonderland of 250,000 twinkling holiday lights, a massive Legos play area, a poinsettia tree in Corbin Conservatory, Santa’s Workshop, the Gingerbread Bakeshop and holiday treats in the Carriage House Museum Store and Café. Each evening features a tree-lighting ceremony at 5:30pm.
888.836.5533, www.stanhywet.org

Historic Kirtland Temple “Wise Men Still Seek Him Nativity Exhibit”: Now-Dec. 31

“Wise Men Still Seek Him” is a seasonal exhibit that features a collection more than 500 individual nativity sets from around the world exploring the way various cultures celebrate the season. In addition to the exhibit, the historic school house features international exhibits and children’s nativity scenes.
440.256.9805, www.kirtlandtemple.org

Winter Lights Lantern Festival and Circlefest: Now-Dec. 31

The Cleveland Museum of Art brightens up the holiday season with a festival inspired by centuries-old, cross-cultural traditions of ceremonial lighting displays. The free annual festival includes an array of workshops for making lanterns and a stunning display through the Environment of Lights led by guest lantern artists, illuminated dancers and giant puppets during Circlefest on Dec. 4.
216.421.7350, www.clevelandart.org

3D Winter Wonderland and Holiday Light Show at Ghostly Manor Thrill Center: Now-Dec. 31

After Halloween, the spirits are put to rest at Ghostly Manor Thrill Center and the facility becomes a 3D North Pole adventure. The Christmas Winter Wonderland exhibit invites families to walk through the complex designed as the home of Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Visitors can take a once-in-a-lifetime “Snow Ride” in the XD 4D Motion Theater and stick around for the Christmas Light Show. Choreographed to seven songs over FM radio, visitors watch a 25-minute light show synchronized with more than 75,000 lights from the warmth of their own vehicle.
419.626.4467, ghostlymanor.com

Lolly the Trolley Holiday Light Tours: Now-Dec. 31

From one of the best-known tour companies in the area comes a unique holiday light adventure. Riders can learn about the past, present and future of the “All-American City” with a focus on the lighting displays in Public Square and the North Coast Harbor. Most stops include visits to Tower City or the historic Arcade to view the holiday decorations, as well.
216.771.4484, www.lollytrolley.com

Twelve Days of Winter at Lake Metroparks: Now-Jan. 1, 2012

Visitors are invited to sing and play along in the all new indoor winter playland at Penitentiary Glen Reservation. On a life-sized game board guided by the familiar holiday song, “The Twelve Days of Christmas” visitors can take a turn to pop the dice, move along from space to space and discover through interactive play the many things that nature gives to us in the winter season. There also are family crafts, activity pages and scavenger hunts, as well as a classic board game exhibition.
440.256.1404, www.lakemetroparks.com

Snow Days at Progressive Field: Now-Jan. 16, 2012

After a successful inaugural season that attracted more than 50,000 attendees to Progressive Field, Snow Days returns in 2011. This unique outdoor event features snow tubing down the Batterhorn, a 10-lane hill stretching more than 200 feet from the Home Run Porch to centerfield. The Frozen Mile, a quarter-mile ice skating rink, will outline most of the outfield. And this year, on Jan. 15, Snow Days will host the “Frozen Diamond Faceoff,” an outdoor hockey match-up between Ohio State University and University of Michigan. It will be the first outdoor college hockey game held in Ohio. To complete the experience, the stadium is decked out with festive winter decorations and features fire pits and warming concessions.
216.420.HITS, www.Indians.com/snowdays

Tobogganing at The Chalet: Now–March 2012

This winter, visitors must experience the thrill of tobogganing at The Chalet in Mill Stream Run Reservation in Strongsville. The two 1,000-foot-long refrigerated ice chutes operate with or without snow, weather permitting, and are frozen fun for everyone all season.
440.572.9990, www.clemetparks.com

The Rink at Wade Oval: Now-March 2012

Visitors can lace up their ice skates and slide on over to the Rink at Wade Oval, a unique polymer-surfaced ice skating rink located in University Circle. Each year, more than 20,000 visitors come to skate, take-in the wintry Wade Oval Circle and enjoy a coffee or hot chocolate from the concession stand. Visit through Dec. 21 to experience the WinterShow activities at the adjacent Cleveland Botanical Garden.
216.707.5033, www.universitycircle.org

Ma & Pa’s Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides: Now-March 15, 2012

There’s nothing more seasonal than dashing through the snow in a one horse open sleigh. Visitors can create a lasting winter memory cuddled under a blanket and riding through the snow in an authentic sleigh or buggy in the town of Burton, approximately 40 miles southeast of Cleveland. Afterwards, they can warm up by the fire with fresh coffee and cookies made by Burton’s own Mrs. Claus, better known as “Ma.”
www.maandpas.com

A Christmas Story House and Museum: All Year (Wednesday-Sunday)

Leg lamp entrepreneur Brian Jones bought the house in local neighborhood Tremont where “Black Bart” and other scenes from A Christmas Story took place and restored it to its big screen look with original props and images for public viewing. Visitors should be sure to head across the street to the gift shop to purchase major award leg lamps, official Red Ryder bb-guns, secret society decoder pins, Lifebuoy Soap and other movie related gifts.
216.298.4919, www.achristmasstoryhouse.com

– K. Nacion, Tourism Intern

Technicolor Dreamcoat at Beck Center

PositivelyCleveland — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:50:00 +0000

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has returned to the Beck Center for the Arts in Lakewood. This is a great show for the entire family, as a cast of 44 actors, including 16 school-age children in the Youth Chorus, brings this magical story to life with bright lights, vibrant colors, and joyful song.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat tells the Biblical story of Joseph of Canaan, found in the Book of Genesis. As the show opens, the Narrator introduces us to Jacob and his 12 sons. Joseph’s brothers become jealous of their father’s favorite son after Jacob gives him a beautiful “coat of many colors.” In retaliation, they sell Joseph into slavery, and he is taken to Egypt.

Joseph lives several years as a slave, but after interpreting Pharaoh’s dream, he is promoted to the second most powerful man in Egypt. Eventually, a happy ending comes about as Joseph reconciles with his family, and they join him in Egypt. The show incorporates a lot of humor and parody, especially in its menagerie of musical styles, including French ballads, the Charleston, country-western, reggae, disco, and even Elvis-inspired rock and roll.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has always been a Broadway favorite for community and school performances. It is a fun show, but also wholesome and appropriate for the entire family. Joseph, written in 1968, was the second collaboration by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. This powerhouse British team would soon collaborate on another classic of musical theatre, the groundbreaking rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar (1970). And Lloyd Webber and Rice’s rock opera Evita (1976) would arrive six years later.

Beck Center’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat continues the tradition above. The cast, including the children, play their parts with a zest for life and great storytelling. And the beautiful sets and costumes blanket the Mackey Main Stage in a rainbow of color throughout the entire production. Although Joseph is not a “holiday show,” it is a perfect show for the holidays. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat will run through December 31.

Coming this spring to the Beck Center for the Arts is Spring Awakening (February 3 – March 4), The Velocity of Autumn (March 23 – April 29), and Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson (May 25 – July 1), with Legally Blonde: The Musical closing the season (July 6 – August 12). Subscription packages are still available. Be sure to secure your seats for the Beck Center’s exciting 2011-2012 Season.

The Beck Center for the Arts is located at 17801 Detroit Avenue in Lakewood. Convenient, free on-site parking is available. For information on showtimes, pricing, and future productions, please visit the Beck Center’s website at www.beckcenter.org. – Chris Musselman