Santa Claus is coming to town a little early this year. SantaCon kicks off at noon Saturday, when Santas of all sorts will gather on Fountain Square, then disperse around the city, singing, passing out candy and bringing holiday cheer to area bars and restaurants. To participate, email [email protected] and follow @CincySantacon on Twitter to find them around town.—-
Let's face it - if you don't have a kid to embarrass in red crushed velvet this holiday, you probably dress up your dog. That's OK. Pimp out your pup in holiday gear then head to Mount Adams for the annual Reindog Parade. To participate, meet at The Monastery at 12:45 p.m. to register (it's free). If you just want to watch, the parade will pass along Gregory Street beginning at 2 p.m.
The City Flea had a great inaugural year. From steamy summer shopping at the Cincinnatus mural to the brisk indoor market at the American Can Loft space, The City Flea has been a unique way to access local crafters, businesses, food vendors and more. Celebrate the "wrapping up" of this open market gem 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday at the corner 12th and Vine in OTR and shop local this holiday!
Northside Second Saturdays is another new-in-2011 event that has been a blast. As usual, all are encouraged to peruse the neighborhood's bars, restaurants, galleries and businesses for extended hours, later happy hours, art openings and sales. During this month's event, be sure to swing by quirky-fabulous vintage boutique Chicken Lays An Egg for its second anniversary party. Food, cocktails, mystery grab bags, music by DJ WhoCares? and a photo booth await! They're open for regular shopping hours from 12-6 p.m. and the party runs 6-11 p.m. (I say, go early to get some Saturday night swag, then return later for the shin-dig!) Check out Chris Glass' awesomely convenient Northside map to plan your route.
Did you fall in love with the colorful, cozy yarn bombs that appeared across Cincinnati this year? The elusive Cincinnati BombShells are at it again! Saturday the knit-tastic ladies will bomb the Fountain Square ice rink, and people of all crafting levels are welcome to participate. Join the BombShells at Arnold's for brunch at 11 a.m., then follow them down to the Square for knitting, crafting, skating, karaoke and more. Go here to read our interview with the crew and get details about Saturday.
There are also tons of art shows, theater productions, book signings and more happening this weekend. Find all our recommended picks here.
