Nov./Dec. 2026

November December 2026 cover of Ohio Magazine (photo by Megann Galehouse, food styling by Aubrey Johansen, set styling by Magan McLaughlin)

Travel

10 Ways to Embrace the Holidays in Columbus

Beloved traditions and new attractions offer plenty of ways to celebrate the season across our capital city and in nearby communities.  

6 Holiday Happenings at The Junto Hotel in Columbus

From a holiday pop-up bar to rooftop escapes and a tree lighting, Columbus’ The Junto hotel is kicking off the holidays Nov. 6 with a festive lineup of experiences.

6 Ohio Turkey Trots and Walks for Thanksgiving Weekend

From a Glass City turkey-day tradition to a 10,000-step, day-after challenge in Newark, these calorie-burning runs and walks promise a lively start to the holiday season. 

Celebrate at 11 Holiday Events in Ohio

Whether you’re seeking twinkling lights, Christmas characters or hometown holiday charm, unwrap these traditions this season.

Food + Drink

5 Soup and Stew Recipes for Autumn’s End

From a vegetarian comfort food to Cleveland’s answer to seafood chowders, here are soups from chefs across the state to help carry you through winter.

Catawba Island’s Christmas Coop Set to Open Nov. 6

This seasonal pop-up bar at The Orchard promises fun cocktails and plenty of holiday spirit. Its season runs through Jan. 3. 

Inaugural Christmas Cookie Festival Set For Dec. 6

More than 100 Ohio bakers are set to gather in Lewis Center on Dec. 6 for a holiday market filled with seasonal sweets. 

Italian Family Tradition Fuels Maddalena’s in Kent

This restaurant in the city’s Mill District draws diners with its spirited setting and menu of comfort food favorites that span pizza, pasta and house-made gelato.

These Four Ohio Distilleries Serve Spirits With a Sense of Place

Historic buildings, local farms and regional botanicals shape the bottles and cocktails at these four spots across the Buckeye State. 

Arts

2027 Cincinnati May Festival Announces Schedule

The oldest choral festival in the Western Hemisphere continues with a lineup of six performances directed by conductor Marin Alsop. Opening night is May 21, 2027, and tickets are on sale now.

Explore Contemporary Art Quilts at ‘Bloom’ in Columbus

On view Nov. 21 through Dec. 27, Chaos Contemporary Craft’s exhibition showcases colorful textile works by 10 artists from the Art Quilt Alliance.

See ‘Good Book: Bible Stories from the Collection’ at the Dayton Art Institute

Explore works depicting Biblical scenes during this exhibition of works from the museum’s collection running Nov. 14 through Feb. 14.

See Original Costumes from ‘White Christmas’ at the Arms Family Museum

Original screen-worn wardrobe and memorabilia from the 1954 holiday classic movie goes on display at the Arms Family Museum in Youngstown from Nov. 14 through Dec. 31. 

Home + Garden

This Columbus Hot Shop Turns Molten Glass Into Holiday Gifts

Jesse Luketic and his team craft art from 2,100-degree glass at this studio located at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

Ohio Life

Backstory: The Hunter and the Hunted

The age-old war between sport and survival goes on.

Best Hometowns 2026: Loveland

Riverfront recreation, a thriving downtown district and cherished local traditions create an inviting place to call home in suburban Cincinnati.

Best Hometowns 2026: Marietta

The first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory honors its groundbreaking past while embracing new energy along its historic streets and riverfront.

Best Hometowns 2026: Marion

Downtown investment and redevelopment, industrial strength and presidential history are helping this community build on its proud heritage.

Best Hometowns 2026: Massillon

Deep football roots, industrial ingenuity and historic streets define a proud community shaped by its past and focused on the future.

Best Hometowns 2026: Tiffin

A revitalized downtown, two universities and rich history give this Seneca County city a distinctive energy and a strong sense of community.

Ohio Magazine’s Best Hometowns 2026-27

Each fall, we celebrate communities that embody what makes life across our state great. This year, we honor Loveland, Marietta, Marion, Massillon and Tiffin.