This holiday season, Findlay Market has brought back a classic Cincinnati Christmas tradition, the Shillito's Elves, but with a boozy twist.
These mechanical elf dolls have been around the Queen City for years and through the end of the year, six elven vignettes will be on display at the old Leader Furniture Store in Findlay Market.
Keeping with the elf theme, Findlay Market has created a series of programming — and a pop-up bar — called "Elves on Elder," all located in the Leader Furniture space.
During the day on Saturdays and Sundays, there will be rotating family-friendly events inside the store, including storytelling, crafts and a music lab programmed by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. All activities are free for children.
Friday and Saturday evenings after the kiddos have had their fun, Elves on Elder will change vibes and transform into a “cozy cocktail and musical experience.”
From 5-10 p.m., enjoy drinks and food from many of Findlay Market’s delicious dining options like The Arepa Place, French Crust Cafe or Goose & Elder.
Get a little cheesy with a “Treat Yo’Elf” cheese board from The Rhined. Order one of two board options — just cheese or cheese and charcuterie — online ahead of time and pick them up at Leader Furniture.
If you’re feeling like a drink, grab an Olde Duke (rye whisky infused with rock candy, star anise and cinnamon) or an Espresso Noir (cocoa nib infused vodka, chocolate liquor, espresso, creme de menthe and candy cane). Find the full Elves on Elder drink menu here.
You are also able to see the Shillito's Elves on display in the window of the old Leader Furniture store at any time Tuesday through Friday during market hours and 8 a.m-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sunday. The dolls will only be animated and moving on the weekends.
The family-friendly events run 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, and the pop-up cocktail bar is open 5-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 31.
Findlay Market is located at 1801 Race St., Over-the-Rhine, find more information at findlaymarket.org.
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