Holidays


This insider Guest Post comes to us from Katie Ronske, Communications Assistant at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

Since Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium was named one of the American Bus Association’s Top 100 Events in North America, we knew we had to go bigger and brighter than ever before … and that’s exactly what we did!

 This year, we’re spreading Wildlights cheer to the whole world, literally! In addition to millions of LED lights decking the halls, trees and bushes, guests will find a 24-foot in diameter, 8,200 lb. globe in the center of Conservation Lake that serves as the centerpiece for Global Celebrations, a brand new animated music and light show. The 8-minute light extravaganza features new songs and new designs and runs every thirty minutes from 5:45 p.m. to close.

In addition to Global Celebrations, Polar Pete’s Holiday Wishes Tree will help light up the chilly winter nights this year. This 28-foot-tall artificial sequoia tree shines bright with 15,500 LED lights. Here, guests can stop and say “happy holidays” to Rodney Reindeer and Wally Walrus before having their photos taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Of course, we had to stay true to Wildlights tradition. Guests can still see Santa in his holiday home at the Battelle Ice Bear Outpost, visit his reindeer at Polar Frontier, take a ride on the Polar Bear Express or the Mini Kiddie Sleigh Ride, hear sounds of the season at the Animals on Safari stage and more.

Celebrate the season at Wildlights now thru January 1, 2012. Festivities take place from 5-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information please visit www.columbuszoo.org
__________

Give your family the gift of fun! Treat them to a Columbus Zoo Wildlights Getaway package–featuring an overnight stay at a choice of 6 Dublin hotels, plus complimentary kids tickets to Wildlights and free Kids Meal coupons. Packages start at just $99 and are available through 12.31.11. Visit www.IrishisanAttitude.com or call the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau 800/245-8387 to learn more.

*Wildlights is efficiently powered by gridSMART from AEP Ohio.

Here at the Dublin CVB we are fully aware that it’s mid-November, but with our Kids Go Free/Columbus Zoo Wildlights Package available online we can’t help but be excited for the holidays. So before you cut that Thanksgiving turkey, go out and explore the charming Historic District in Dublin this Thursday, Nov. 17th from 1 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Historic Dublin is located at the intersection of Bridge St. & High St.

The District Open House features specials from 10 different shops that are sure to help you get in the spirit and get some of that necessary shopping done. So hop on one of the Trolley Rides (available 4-7 p.m.) or stroll through the Luminary Walk, compliments of the American Cancer Society, and increase your holiday joy before the snow even falls.

 

1. Ha’penny Bridge Imports of Ireland: Belleek & Galway Open House (1pm- 6pm)
Gifts personalize by Belleek Painter, Collette Green, from Belleek, Co. Fermanagh, Ireland. Enjoy light refreshments and Enter to Win 10 Gifts on your Ha’Penny Christmas Wish List. 17% discount on any one item priced at $50 or higher and purchase of a Belleek event piece.

2. The Sister’s Sweet Shoppe: Enjoy fruitcake tastings and try samples of the gourmet chocolates. There will be fun activities for you to view like their chocolate dipping and peanut butter harvest movie.

3. Z Bearla’s Gifts: Try some tasty treats like holiday cheese balls and champagne.

4. Blankets & Booties: Receive a 25% discount on your purchase of full-priced merchandise and enjoy refreshments and free Christmas gift wrapping.

5. Dean Insurance Group: Enjoy wine and food sampling along with a jewelry party.

6. Clover Boutique: Holiday treats and 20% off entire store and 30% off jewelry.

7. Our CupCakery: Holiday cake pop tasting and demonstrations. Enter to Win a free box of Holiday Cake Pops.

8. Boho 72 Boutique: 20% off handmade jewelry, scarves and handbags at this chic boutique.

9. What’s the Point: Delicious holiday cookies are available as you peruse a variety of needlepoint items.

10. Woodhouse Spa: Appetizers and seasonal beer tasting courtesy of Mezzo’s Italian Restaurant. The Diamond Cellar will be showcasing several of extraordinary pieces. You can also register to win tickets to the last big Ohio State football game. Purchase $100 gift card and you will receive an additional $20 gift card to pamper yourself or a friend.

For more information about the District Open House and future “Holly Days in Historic Dublin” please visit www.HistoricDublin.org

-Post by Allison

Is there a little girl in your life who is dressing up like a witch for Halloween? My daughter can’t decide if she wants to be a scary witch or a good witch. She also thinks there is a third type – the diva witch which features a combination of a princess dress, rock star sequined gloves and a witch’s hat!

Her favorite witch story is the Broadway musical Wicked with the beautiful music by Stephen Schwartz. On Sunday, October 30, at 3 p.m., the Imaginating Dramatics Company of Grandview will present The Tale of the Wicked, an adaptation of the Broadway musical Wicked created especially for children. With a tale appropriate for ages 4 and older, audience members will learn the story of friendship and what happened before Dorothy skipped down the yellow brick road.

Light refreshments will be served and the Kelton House will be open for tours. (A real “Treat” all by itself–as this grand Victorian home was once a stop on the Underground Railroad.)  

Reservations are required and seating is limited,  so please call 614/464-2022 or visit www.keltonhouse.com  so you can reserve a spot. I know my little witch can’t wait to see this!

~Post by Katie

The weather is turning and the leaves are in full color. It’s a great season to be in Dublin, Ohio! In addition to fantastic family events like Boo at the (Columbus) Zoo and COSI’s Festival of Physics, visitors will find an entire cauldron (otherwise known as a pot o’ gold in Dublin) full of local activities!  

I love the cool mornings and warmer afternoons – and so do Ohio Apples. There are lots of great orchards within easy driving distance from Dublin. Pick your own at Cherry Hawk Farms  for delicious Gala, Jonafree and Delicious varieties. It’s a real working farm so wear your hiking boots and be sure to look at their pheasant cage while you are there!

Another family friendly place to visit in the fall is Jacquemin Farms. The strawberries are resting ‘til next year but the pumpkins are ready to pick! Each weekend the farm is busy with hay rides, kid-friendly play areas and my families favorite – fresh pumpkin donuts with apple cider. It’s one of those food treats you only have once a year. Don’t miss these!

Is it a rainy Wednesday morning? Go to the Abbey Theatre at the Dublin Recreation Center. For $2 (on select Wednesdays in October and November), you can enjoy live music performed by Marlene Metz Hartzler. This interactive fun experience is specially designed for 2 – 5 year olds, so be sure to bring your camera!

A Dublin Halloween tradition is to visit the Dublin Library (75 N. High St. Dublin, OH) to hear Dublin ghost stories. From 7-8 p.m. Wednesday, October 19, storytellers will amaze guests with real tales from the Dublin area. The first half of the program is family friendly followed by spookier stories creeping into the second half of the evening! (Look for our favorite local “Fruitcake Sisters” — the owners of Sisters Sweet Shoppe–to be performing as “Two Wicked Witches” in a spirited rendition of The 12 Days of Halloween!)

The city celebrates Halloween with the community Spooktacular event held at the Dublin Community Recreation Center from 3:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, October 27.  Enjoy a “Trunk” or treat trail with timed tickets for easy access, a hay maze, hay rides, pumpkin carving, COSI science spot, the Bug Man and lots of great family fun. Dublin Dance Center will be performing, and Dublin Police and Washington Township Firefighters will be on hand for the activities.

Don’t forget that the Dublin CVB’s awesome Fall Getaway packages offer discounted tickets to the Columbus Zoo and COSI Columbus, plus special hotel rates and a location just minutes away from all of these fun activities.

Embrace some fall fun and be sure to stop by the Dublin Visitor Center in Historic Dublin (9 S. High St. Dublin, OH)  if you need more suggestions!

~Post by Katie

The Dublin Convention and Visitors Bureau encourages you to celebrate Half-Way to St. Patrick’s Day on September 17, 2011. This holiday is not nationally recognized, but we love St. Patrick’s Day so much that we just have to share the news.

In fact, according to US News & World Report, Dublin was chosen in the Top 10 Best St. Patrick’s Day Celebration and Parade in America, right along with New York, Chicago and Boston.

That’s a lot of Irish Attitude. And we can’t wait till March 2012!

The Shamrock Club of Columbus hosts a Half-Way to St. Patrick's Day Celebration

 St. Patrick’s Day Fun Fact: 
St. Patrick himself used the shamrock to explain the Trinity, and that is why the shamrock has been associated with him and the Irish since that time. The Dublin CVB proudly dots our “I” with a shamrock in our logo and Central Ohio is proud to have a great Shamrock Club.

 The Shamrock Club of Columbus knows how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day – twice a year.  On Saturday, September 17, 2011, they will be celebrating Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day at their Columbus location.  Performances include Regan-Rankin Academy of Irish Dance, Cyril Scott Pipe Band, Capital City Pipe & Drums, Shamrock Club Pipe & Drums, and “The Hooligans” throughout the evening.

SCHEDULE:

When: Saturday, September 17, 2011 — Doors Open at 5:00PM
Where: The Shamrock Club- 60 West Castle Rd. Columbus, OH 43207
5:30p.m. Regan-Rankin Academy of Irish Dance (on the outdoor stage)
6:30p.m. Cyril Scott Pipe Band, Capital City Pipe & Drums, Shamrock Club Pipe & Drums
7:30p.m.  “The Hooligans” An Irish-American Band

ADMISSION: General Public $8.00, $5.00 for Shamrock Club members.
(12 and under admitted free of charge)

CONTACT:

www.shamrockclubofcolumbus.org 614-491-4449 email: shamrockclub1936@shamrockclub.com

-Post by Allison

 

 

 

Dublin has a whole lot of fun planned for the Fourth of July.

Join your neighbors at Sunday’s at Scioto on Sunday, July 3rd for an evening of free music courtesy of the Dublin Arts Council. Starting at 7 p.m. in Scioto Park, the entertainment will be “Swing’s the Thing” a 16 piece big-band group that features classic sounds as well as current hits. Be sure to bring your lawn chairs and blankets for a great night outdoors.

The fun doesn’t stop on Monday, July 4th! The day begins with the Sherm Sheldon Fishing Derby at 8 a.m. in front of the Dublin Recreation Center in the pond. Cast away and win prizes for the largest fish and enjoy spending time with your family! Parking is free and easy in the lot adjacent.

The Independence Day Parade steps off at 11 a.m. from Metro Center Business Park (Corner of Frantz Road and 161) and continues down 161, turning right onto South High Street into the Historic District. Parking is plentiful – but arrive early for the easiest spots. Try parking in the Kroger Dublin Plaza, beside Sells Middle School, behind the Dublin Library/Indian Run Elementary or across the river at Scioto Plaza. High School Marching bands, neighborhood floats, children’s bike brigade, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and great American fun celebrating our Nation’s Independence. The parade usually takes an hour and a half, but most of the businesses in the Historic District stay open later so you can stroll around and shop!

After the parade our family goes home for a rest so we can stay up late that night to see the fireworks!

Come over to the Dublin Coffman High School for the rest of the festivities (corner of Coffman Road and Emerald Parkway). Gates open at 4:30 and it is free admission to the stadium.  The SkyHoundz Hyperflite Canine Frisbee Competition will take place at 5 p.m. Local bands will play from 5-8 and Smokey Robinson will headline the evening starting at 8:15. He’ll play until 9:45 then the fireworks will go off at 9:50. Handicapped parking is available in the High School lot, general parking can be found in Coffman Park, the Dublin Recreation Center, Verizon Wireless and Cardinal Health. Classic American fare can be purchased at the concession stands.

Have a safe and fun 4th of July!

Planning to treat Mom to a spectacular Brunch this Sunday?   Consider these Dublin, OH restaurants for unique menus, lovely settings and great memories. (Note: Call ahead for reservations and to confirm pricing.)

  • Crowne Plaza Hotel in Metro Place. Prime Rib of Beef, Omelet Station, Breakfast and Dinner Entrees, Salads, Kids Buffet and a scrumptious dessert bar. 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. 600 Metro Place North. 614/760-7939. www.cpdublinoh.com  
  • Marriott Columbus Northwest at Tuttle Crossing  The beautiful full-service Marriott Northwest puts out an amazing buffet spread to rival any other. Be sure to make your reservation early–as this one books quickly. 5605 Blazer Pkwy. 614/791-1000 ext. 4762 www.columbusmarriottnorthwest.com
  • Digger & Finch.  Enjoy live music by Steve Ward, along with your buffet. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Reservations required. $24.95 adults; $10.95 kids.  6720 Riverside Dr. 614/889-8585 www.diggerandfinchpub.com
  • Salvi’s Bistro – Prime Rib of Beef, Baked Ham, Pork Roast, Fried Chicken, and a variety of pastas and side dishes, salads and desserts. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Adults $24.99, Children (5-11) $12.99, Children 4 and under are free. 5000 Upper Metro Place. 614/874-0466. www.salvisbistro.com
  • Golf Club of Dublin. Seatings at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Adults $21.95, Children (6-12) $9.95, Children 5 and under are free. 5805 Eitherman Rd.  614/792-3825. www.golfclubofdublin.com
  • Hoggy’s. Mom can enjoy all of Hoggy’s signature comfort foods from the buffet, or try one of the featured new menu items. Buffet 11 a.m.-9 p.m.  Adults $15.95, Children $8.95.  7509 Sawmill Rd. www.hoggys.com 614/791-8661
  • Hyde Park Steakhouse. Enjoy an elegant brunch including salad, choice of entree and dessert from 12-3 pm. $27.95 per person.  6360 Frantz Road 614/717-2828 www.hydeparkrestaurants.com
  • J. Liu’s.  Treat mom to J. Liu’s unforgettable brunch comprised of their signature classics. 50 W. Bridge St. in Historic Dublin  614/718-1818 www.jliurestaurant.com
  • La Scala Italian Bistro One of Dublin’s longstanding local establishments offers their famous Italian specialties. 4199 W. Dublin-Granville Rd.  614/889-9431
  • Montgomery Inn (at the Shoppes at River Ridge) What mom doesn’t love amazing barbeque (especially when it’s prepared by someone else)? Add the lovely vistas overlooking the Scioto River and you can’t miss!  4565 W. Dublin-Granville Rd. www.montgomeryinn.com 614/791-7427

If you are looking for great gift ideas for Mom, try our local garden centers. From potted plants for the front porch to patio tomato pots, these stores also carry a great gift section as well:

-Baker’s Village Garden Center in Shawnee Hills www.bakersvillagegardencenter.com 614/889-9407
-Cedarbrook Nursery in Shawnee Hills 614/766-2100
-Oakland Nursery (Dublin-Granville Rd.) www.oaklandnursery.com 614/874-2400
-Strader’s Garden Center in Shawnee Hills www.straders.net 614/792-1970

Bunnies, Baskets and Bonnets – oh my! It’s that time of year again when we like to go out to a fancy brunch with our whole family.   Here is a list of the Easter Brunches that will be available in Dublin, Ohio on Sunday, April 24 (2011)! Please call ahead for reservations as restaurants will fill quickly.

  • Salvi’s Italian Bistro – The Grand Buffet at Salvi’s starts at 10 a.m. and continues until 8 p.m. The day begins with Scrambled Eggs, bacon, sausage and all your breakfast favorites and transitions to Roast Lamb, Roast Prime Rib of Beef, Baked Ham and Baked fresh Fish. Side items include fresh fruit, cheese platters, green beans, chilled shrimp, bowtie pasta and don’t forget the Pasta Salvi! Adults $24.99, Children ages 5-11 $12.99 and children 4 and under are free. www.salvisbistro.com 5000 Upper Metro Place, Dublin. 614/874-0466.
  • J. Liu’s – Known for their great combination of American and Asian favorites, J. Liu’s Easter Brunch will include Prime Rib of Beef, Baked Ham and Baked Cod–in addition to Spring Rolls, Lo Mein, Fried Rice and a large assortment of other wonderful sides and specialty desserts. Their buffet begins at 10 a.m. and will end at 4 p.m. Adults $25.99, Seniors $22.99, Children ages 4 – 11 $12.99 and children 3 and under are free. www.jliurestaurant.com  50 West Bridge Street, Dublin. 614/718-1818.
  • Whole Foods of Dublin is serving an organic fresh All-You-Can-Eat Easter Brunch from 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. in their store. Enjoy Herbed Leg of Lamb, Fresh Carved Ham, Made to Order Omelets, French toast and Pancakes, Pasta Salads, Fresh Fruit and Veggie Salads, Desserts made to order and much more. Adults $20, Children under 12 $10, Children under 5 are free. www.wholefoodsmarket.com 3670 W. Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus. 614/760-5556.
  • Crowne Plaza Dublin Hotel – The Dublin Metro Bar & Grill (at the Crowne Plaza Dublin)  is offering a great Easter brunch from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. that includes a chef’s carving station, omelet and crepe stations, breakfast and dinner items, children’s buffet, ice sculptures and live piano music. Reservations required. $24.95 adults, $18.95 seniors, kids ages 6-11, $14.95. Children under 6 free.  600 Metro Pl. N, Dublin 614/764-2200 www.crowneplaza.com/dublinoh
  • Columbus Marriott Northwest will be hosting an upscale buffet from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Roasted Leg of Lamb with Mint Jelly, Prime Rib of Beef, Roasted Turkey Breast will be a few of the hot items available along with traditional sides. Chilled Shrimp, smoked scallops, crab claws and poached salmon will also be featured, as well as breakfast items like made-to-order omelettes and waffles, bacon, sausage and fresh fruit. Fresh baked Danish, muffins and croissants will be available in addition to a bountiful array of pastries and chocolate. Adults $30.95, Seniors $23.95, Children 6-12 are $12.95 and children 5 and under are free. www.columbusmarriottnorthwest.com   5605 Blazer Parkway, Dublin. 614/791-1000.
  • Digger and Finch Scottish Pub and Grille is is known for their Sunday Brunch. A bountiful display of breakfast favorites along with freshly roasted meats will be available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Adults $14.95 and Children are $6.95. www.diggerandfinchpub.com 6720 Riverside Drive, Dublin. 614/889-8585

For other dining options in Dublin, Ohio, visit www.IrishisanAttitude.com or call the Dublin OH Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800/245-8387.

~Post by Katie

I couldn’t let this week slip by without taking a quick look back at the City of Dublin’s 2011 St. Patrick’s Day parade … simply because it was worth a second look for several reasons.

  • The acclaim.  Just a week or so before the big event this year, U.S. News and World Report named Dublin’s parade one of  America’s Best St. Patrick’s Day Parades. That’s a big deal, especially when there are only nine other cities on the list and you are keeping company with destinations including New York, Chicago, Boston and San Francisco.  The article notes that, although one might expect at least one city named Dublin to appear on the list, “…this is the one that embraces its Irish legacy with the most fervor.”  Then there was the mention of Dublin, Ohio on the Today Show (on Thursday, March 17).  There’s something about your city being recognized nationally that makes one just a wee bit prouder.  

 

  • The weather. Anyone who attended both the 2010 and the 2011 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin will likely tell you that 2011 was MUCH better.  The sunshine and mild temperatures this year almost made us completely forget about the rain and cold temperatures we braved (in our plastic rain coats and boots) on parade day last year. But beyond that, this year’s parade included more balloons, volunteers and energy. (My favorite entry was a pot o’ gold balloon that the handlers had to tip sideways to wrangle under the street light.  I found myself wishing that baby was real.)

 

  • The community.  Being raised in Dublin (okay, a LONG time ago), I’ve seen it grow and change over the years. One of my favorite parts of my job at the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau is getting out among the people attending our events, talking to them and photographing them.  It gives you a real sense of who “we” are—and how much people love Dublin, Ohio. Coincidentally this past week, I attended a focus group in northern Ohio and listened to a group of residents of that area share their thoughts about Dublin.  At one point, the facilitator asked them what words described Dublin, Ohio.  “Friendly,” one woman said. And then everyone agreed. Every single person in that group.  There’s something about your city being recognized statewide that makes one just a wee bit prouder.  

Check out our photos from the 2011 Dublin, Ohio St. Patrick’s Day Parade. I think you’ll see what I’m talking about. As well as being a great place to live and visit, Dublin is good people.

-Post by Mary

There is an Irish saying that goes, “You can give without loving, but you can’t love without giving.” So, in the interest of helping you gift from the heart this Valentine’s Day—we’ve scouted out some great deals and unique finds in Dublin, Ohio. Here’s the crème de la crème of our treasure hunt:

Getaways:

  • Columbus Marriott Northwest Romance Package includes an overnight stay in this award-winning hotel, chocolate covered strawberries, Champagne and breakfast for two in the RiverCity Grille—all for $199. In addition, the hotel is offering an amazing Valentine’s Dinner for two for $65.
  • Crowne Plaza Dublin Heart2Heart Romance Package. Includes an overnight stay in an executive room, a romantic candlelight dinner for two and a dessert at the Dublin Metro Grill, plus a complimentary bottle of the House Wine or Champagne and breakfast for two, all for $174.95.  Call 614/764-2200 for more info.
  • Embassy Suites Dublin Suite Romance Package offers the perfect opportunity to rekindle the flame. Package includes luxury accommodations in a two-room suite, a complimentary bottle of wine*, chocolate covered strawberries and cooked-to-order breakfast buffet starting at $114/per night.  

Tasty Indulgences: 

  •  J Liu Restaurant & Bar in Historic Dublin will feature a special menu for Valentine’s Day weekend.
  • MJs Candy Bar offers unique finds like the Earl Grey candy bar (my personal fav) and the “Firecracker”—a concoction of specialty dark chocolate made with chipotle, salt and popping candy … perfect if you are “Popping” the question!
  • Our Cupcakery will bundle a “4 Pack for Lovers” of  gourmet filled cupcakes in a pretty Valentine box wrapped with ribbon for $15. Woo your sweetie with flavors like Red Velvet, Raspberry Truffle, German Caramel or the decadent Triple Chocolate. 
  •  Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt is featuring a Rose flavored yogurt for Valentine’s Day and kids Valentine crafts at various times over the weekend. Call for details: 614/339-5656
  • Pair one of Graeter’s amazing French pot ice creams with their handcrafted chocolate covered marshmallow hearts for happy Valentine tummies of any age. (You can even send some Graeter’s love long distance through their website.)
  • Visit Sisters Sweet Shoppe for hand-dipped chocolate covered strawberries, chocolate covered Peeps and heart-shaped frosted sugar cookies that can be personalized.
  • Whole Foods  creative gift solutions include 20 stems of Whole Trade™ Roses for $20; 3-4oz. cold water lobster tails for $5.99 each (available Friday 2/11 ONLY); White Chocolate Raspberry Desire Cake for two $12.99 and fully catered dinners for two starting at $30  (www.wholefoods.com/shop)
  • Kogens (Asian Fare with Flair!) has prepped a great Valentine’s weekend menu that is simply inspired— all for just $25 per person. Call for details (or reservations): 614/792-8882.

Need more ideas? Visit the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau website for an extensive list of local restaurants, shopping and attractions!

-Post by Mary

« Previous PageNext Page »

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 2,030 other followers