Take a break from holiday shopping and enjoy the spirit of the season with Five Rivers MetroParks’ holiday events. Whether you step back in time to enjoy Christmas traditions of the 1880s or take a peaceful stroll along an illuminated path at Aullwood Garden MetroPark, there are opportunities for people of all ages to get outside and create new holiday traditions.
Christmas on the Farm
December kicks off with Christmas on the Farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark. On Sunday, Dec. 4, from noon to 4 p.m., families can experience what Christmas was like in the 1880s.
Why it’s a holiday must: The combination of history and hands-on activities provide guests with a unique holiday experience. Visitors enjoy timeless Christmas traditions, while learning and having fun with their families.
For the kids: From historical demonstrations of crafts to music and ornament making, there are myriad engrossing activities for kids of all ages. Families also can help decorate the farm house, and then enjoy a holiday bonfire.
How to go: Carriage Hill MetroPark is located at 7800 E. Shull Rd. in Dayton. Christmas on the Farm is free; registration is not required. Learn more about Carriage Hill MetroPark here.
Aullwood Winter Luminary Walk
After Christmas on the Farm, visit Aullwood Garden MetroPark for its annual Winter Luminary Walk on Sunday, Dec. 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. Dress for the weather and enjoy a quiet stroll along the beautifully lit pathways that lead to the Aull house.
Why it’s a holiday must: The combination of festive lights, outdoor winter fun and local history make this a special holiday tradition for people of all ages.
“We see many familiar faces each year,” said Betty Hovel, MetroParks’ education coordinator. “Adults who came to this event with their parents or grandparents now bring their children.”
The luminary walk culminates with a visit to the Aull house. Dating back to 1907, this rustic Arts and Crafts-style house will be filled with refreshments, simple decorations and historical charm. Guests will also have a chance to learn about the Aulls and their home, which is on the Ohio State and National Historic Registries.
For the kids: Not only will children love some time outdoors along Aullwood Garden MetroPark’s illuminated paths, they will get a chance to meet the jolly man himself! Santa will be passing out candy canes and taking Christmas requests from everyone on his list. Bring your camera for your child’s Santa photo op, and then enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while you explore the Aull house.
How to go: Aullwood Garden MetroPark is located at 955 Aullwood Rd. in Englewood. Park in the lot adjacent to the Stillwater River. Rangers and volunteers will be available to help you find your way to the path and Aull house. The Aullwood Winter Luminary Walk is free. Online registration is not required, but recommended.
Holiday Evening at Carriage Hill
Spend a chilly winter evening by the warmth of a bonfire as you experience seasonal history come to life. On Saturday, Dec. 4, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., families can interact with living historians and watch demonstrations, all by the light of candles and luminaries throughout the Carriage Hill Historical Farm.
Why it’s a holiday must: An immersive experience for people of all ages, Holiday Evening at Carriage Hill breathes life into Victorian-era holiday traditions. Families can experience what the holidays were like on a working farm more than 100 years ago.
For the kids: Curious kiddos have an opportunity to ask living historians questions while they watch period demonstrations. Walk through the 1880s farm house to see sweets being made, visit the barn animals, and then finish the evening by watching blacksmith and woodshop demonstrations.
How to go: Carriage Hill MetroPark is located at 7800 E. Shull Rd., Dayton. Holiday Evening at Carriage Hill is free; registration is not required. Learn more about Carriage Hill MetroPark here.
Three FREE Not-to-Miss MetroParks Holiday Events
