Snow Bunny is here!

Rumor has it that Sasquatch has moved on, allowing “Snow Bunny” to move into the Seneca Parks. Will you be able to spot him? Snow Bunny will be moving through various county parks. Locate Snow Bunny and keep track of the letters he is holding. At the end of the challenge, unscramble the letters and submit your answer to Linda Rose at Lrose@senecacountyparks.com. The first 30 people to submit their correctly unscrambled letters will receive a special winter surprise.

LOCATION CLUES:
JANUARY 16 – 31: This nature preserve has five ponds and is home to the nature-based preschool.
FEBRUARY 2 – 14: A “sweet creek” runs through this county park, having an upper and lower entrance – use the upper entrance.
FEBRUARY 16 – 29: A mile loop and three bridges keep your feet dry in this nature preserve.
MARCH 2 – 14: This nature preserve connects to a city park and parallels the Sandusky River.
MARCH 16 – 28: Wetlands, woods and trails, this is the most western nature preserve.

*** Do not remove the letters or touch snow bunny ***

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: April 15th, 2024

As seen on People, Yahoo Life, and Martha Stewart Weddings, Elope at the Eclipse in Seneca County is shining bright on the nation-wide stage! Check out the awesome articles covering this one in a lifetime event and opportunity…

People Article: https://ow.ly/v36b50QvtoS

Yahoo! Life Article: https://ow.ly/Pxsa50Qvtqv

Martha Stewart Article: https://ow.ly/z8uK50Qvtsq

We already have 15 couples signed up to tie the knot or renew their vows and enjoy their first dance with music by No Eileen, generously provided by Downtown Tiffin! Get signed up and learn more at 2024Elope.com

Destination Seneca County has announced their major events planned for the Total Solar Eclipse Weekend that will take place starting Friday, April 5, 2024. The weekend will consists of a Solar Eclipse of the Heart Bingo contest, Out of the Dark Glow 5K & Fun Run sponsored by Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, and Elope at the Eclipse, along with other community activities.

Solar Eclipse of the Heart Bingo will begin on Friday, April 5 and will last through Tuesday, April 9. The bingo game will allow community members and visitors to support local businesses listed in the 2024 Seneca County Community Guide. Bingo cards can be found on the SenecaCountySolarEclipse.com website and are available to download and print or can be picked up at the Destination Seneca County Welcome Center, located at 96 South Washington Street in downtown Tiffin. Once they have completed their bingo cards, they will submit a picture of their completed card to www.DestinationSenecaCounty.org/EclipseBingo.

The Out of the Dark Glow 5K & Fun Run sponsored by Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, will take place on Saturday, April 6, at 7:30 PM. Participants will embark on a journey through scenic routes as they run or walk, symbolizing emerging from darkness into the light. As dusk descends, participants will be adorned with vibrant glow accessories, transforming the night into a luminous spectacle.

Runners can sign up online at www.5KEclipse.com through March 25 for $30. Check-in will begin the night of the race at 6 PM and will last until 7:15 PM at the Tiffin Community YMCA, 180 Summit Street. Every walker and runner will receive a collectible medal, solar eclipse glasses, a glow stick, and after race snack. All proceeds from the race will support the Tiffin Community YMCA’s backpack food program that supports students in the Tiffin community.

The Elope at the Eclipse event will take place at the Frost Kalnow Amphitheater, 155 East Market Street in Tiffin, on Monday, April 8, 2024.

This unique event offers couples an opportunity to celebrate their love in a magical setting with the beauty of the Eclipse as a backdrop. Destination Seneca County will provide an unforgettable experience, taking care of essential elements to make the day truly special. Seneca County Common Pleas Court Judge Damon Alt will officiate the wedding, No Eileen will provide live music for the first dance from the support of Downtown Tiffin, and Destination Seneca County will provide the beverages for the first toast, a photographer to capture the day, and a personalized wedding cake.

The event is free for couples and guests. Couples must bring a valid marriage license to the event. Couples that are looking to reaffirm their commitment can also register and do not have to bring any documentation.

Jenny Harris and Bart Lombardy of Seneca County are the first couple to sign up for the Elope at the Eclipse event. “When I heard that Destination Seneca County was in the planning phase of this once in a lifetime event, we knew that we wanted to be a part of the experience. We have family flying in from out of state that look forward to loving their time in totality.”, said Jenny Harris.

For additional information about Elope at the Eclipse, how to register, and to understand how to obtain a marriage license for the ceremony, visit www.2024Elope.com.

For all information pertaining to the 2024 Solar Eclipse in Seneca County, visit www.SenecaCountySolarEclipse.com.

2023 was a year to remember for Destination Seneca County and we can’t thank everyone who made it a success enough for their support!

See what we’ve been up to and check out the Destination Seneca County Year In Review.

Cheers to an even bigger and better 2024!

See the full report here!

Downtown Tiffin is gearing up for its final 3rd Thursday event of 2023. On December 21st, the community is invited to join the “Last Call Holiday Shopping” event, encouraging last-minute shoppers to explore local retail shops that will be keeping their doors open later for the occasion.

To enhance the 3rd Thursday experience, the Downtown Marketing Committee has crafted a special “Last Call Holiday Shopping” BINGO game. Participants can pick up their BINGO cards at local shops or at the Downtown Tiffin lobby located at 96 S. Washington Street. The BINGO cards are designed to guide shoppers through various participating locations, encouraging shopping, dining, and exploring the downtown area. Completed BINGO cards should be returned to the Downtown Tiffin lobby on the same evening. As an extra incentive, all completed cards will be entered into a drawing, and one lucky winner will be awarded $50 in Chamber Cash.

“We wanted to create a memorable and engaging experience for our community, especially during this festive season. ‘Last Call Holiday Shopping’ is a great way to support local businesses, enjoy a delicious meal or beverage, and have some fun with the BINGO game,” said Vickie Wilkins, vice-chair of the Downtown Development Committee.

The 3rd Thursday events have become a monthly tradition in Downtown Tiffin, which will continue in 2024 during the whole calendar year. We can’t wait to see everyone in downtown for this fun and interactive December Third Thursday! Take the panic out of gift buying and let the merchants of downtown Tiffin and beyond take care of you this holiday season. 

The Ritz Theatre is helping you get in the holiday spirit with some fantastic movie titles! Check out the details below!

Press release provided by The Ritz Theatre.

Elf

Raised as an oversized elf, Buddy travels from the North Pole to New York City to meet his biological father, Walter Hobbs, who doesn’t know he exists and is in desperate need of some Christmas spirit. (IMDb)

Sunday, December 17 – 2 PM

Starring – Will Ferrell, James Caan, Zooey Deschanel

Year Released – 2003

Genres – Adventure, Comedy

Run Time – 1hr 37m

Admission – FREE

Special Guest – Santa will make an appearance at The Ritz starting at 12 PM to hear everyone’s Christmas wishes.

Sponsored by Tiffin Seneca Economic Partnership, Destination Seneca County, and the Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce

The Bells of St. Mary’s – The Ritz Theatre Monday Night at The Movies (Monthly Series)

At a big city Catholic school, Father O’Malley and Sister Benedict indulge in friendly rivalry, and succeed in extending the school through the gift of a building. (IMDb)

Monday, December 18 – 7 PM

Starring – Ingrid Bergman, Bing Crosby

Year Released – 1945

Genres – Drama

Run Time – 2hr 6m

Admission – $5

Sponsored by Impact Credit Union

It’s a Wonderful Life

An angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed. (IMDb)

Tuesday, December 19 – 7 PM

Starring – James Stewart, Donna Reed

Year Released – 1946

Genres – Drama, Romance

Run Time – 2hr 10m

Admission – FREE

Brought to you by S. Claus

Take a little time to slip away from the hustle & bustle of the world and peer through the window of the past at the Seneca County Museum. Browse through the Museum Gift Shop to see various unique items available from local artists and authors. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas as former generations of Seneca County residents might have celebrated it. Period Christmas décor, along with seasonal music, will make your visit a memorable one. 

During the holidays, the museum is open Wednesday through Saturday, 12 – 5 PM. They are located at 28 Clay Street in Tiffin and can be reached by phone at 419-447-5955 and by email at museum@senecacountyohio.gov.

 The vision of the Seneca County Museum is to inspire a sense of place and history for Seneca County by collecting, studying, interpreting, and preserving the region’s cultural and natural heritage. The Museum is a resource for scholars, historians, and educators, as well as history buffs. They preserve and catalog important objects and documents and use those items to provide educational and cultural programs for the public.

It’s time to deck the halls and trim those trees, because the holiday season is upon us in Seneca County!  There is lots to do — cheer to be spread, carols to be sung, gifts to be bought, and memories to be shared. We don’t want you to miss out on any of it! 

Check out these awesome holiday events throughout Seneca County!  Are we missing something?  Help us check our list twice! To add your event, contact us!

See a full list of events happening in Seneca County on the Community Calendar! 

CHECK OUT THE COMMUNITY CALENDAR!

The Fostoria Community Arts Council presents a Trans-Siberian Orchestra Tribute by “Siberian Solstice” on Sunday, December 10, at 3:30 PM at the Fostoria High School Auditorium.

Siberian Solstice is a musical group from northwest Ohio providing an exciting contemporary set of Christmas music originally performed by the nationally acclaimed group Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO). The music format of traditional Christmas music and other classical pieces with electronic keyboards, drums, and guitars can be enjoyed by all age groups. Siberian Solstice has ten members on stage to reproduce the TSO style accurately.

Comments like “This is a do not miss!” and “I would love to see it again” are common among audience members once they have seen the polished production by Siberian Solstice. The light show and video presentation augment the vocal and musical performance that brings many to return more than once a season and year after year. The show’s narrated story “The Angel’s Gift” generates comments like “The message you express through your music is inspiring!”.

Siberian Solstice has become one of the most enduring TSO tributes in the country through growth and hard work over the past 16 years. They perform in theaters and larger churches in northern Ohio, northern Indiana, and southern Michigan.

You will enjoy the story of Christmas presented with the music of TSO!

Destination Seneca County is excited to announce its submission of the Seneca County Family Fair Lights as one of featured displays on the Ohio Holiday Lights Trail.

“There is so much to see and do in Ohio during the holidays, and the light displays across the state make the Christmas season even more magical,” said Governor DeWine. “The Ohio Holiday Lights Trail is truly unique, and the stops are great destinations to spend time with family and experience the heart of Ohio’s communities.”

This year’s display features more than 120 different light displays put together from local businesses, groups, organizations, and community members. Residents and guests can enjoy the bright lights, holiday cheer, and fun times all while staying warm in the car. This will be the second annual Family Fair Lights at the Seneca County Fairgrounds and all of the funds raised will go to the Seneca County Junior Fair Board to help with the building of their new barn. The experience is $5 per car and other donations are accepted.

“The holidays are about coming together to celebrate, and it’s great that we get to do that in a way with destinations from all across the state coming together for the trail to celebrate the holidays,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development which oversees TourismOhio. “We have destinations that have been on the trail since it started, and others are featured for the first time this year. It’s a wonderful tradition to be a part of.”

Along with the dazzling new stops featured on the trail, there are many destinations that have made themselves holiday traditions in the hearts of Ohioans. This is the first time the display has been a part of the Ohio Holiday Lights Trail. With 70 stops along the self-guided trail, this season’s Holiday Lights Trail is the largest yet.

The Seneca County Family Fair Lights is open November 17^th through December 23^rd, Fridays from 6 pm to 9pm, Saturdays from 6pm to 9pm, and Sundays from 6pm to 8pm. As long as cars are in line by the ‘closing time’, they will be able to drive through the experience.

The 2023 Ohio Holiday Lights Trail is available for print or download online at Ohio, The Heart of it All’s Holidays in Ohio landing page.

 Press release courtesy of the Fostoria Community Arts Council.

The Fostoria Community Arts Council is excited to bring back the bus rides to view the “The Light Up Fostoria” entrants! Make your plans now for Dec 3, from 5 – 8 PM. The SCAT bus will be making trips departing from the FRPS Depot on W North St around town so everyone can view the beautiful lights & outdoor decorations of the entrants! If you would like to enter the contest with $100 first place, $50 second place, and $25 third place prizes…contact us on our Facebook page or by calling 419-436-2787 with your name and phone number for more information about entering the contest. For Fostoria residents only!

We will have refreshments inside while you admire the beautifully decorated trees by FRPS.

Bring the family and enjoy the evening!

Santa and Mrs Claus will be there to visit with all the boys & girls! We will be doing letters from Santa again this year. Those forms will be there to fill out. All letters will go out the week before Christmas or sooner.

We will have a collection box set up for unopened, unwrapped new toys for the Toys for Tots, Christmas for Every Child program, Every toy collected will stay here in Fostoria!

There is no charge for the bus rides or the visit with Santa.

Bring the family and enjoy this evening of Christmas Fun!

December 9 from 10:00 until noon, FCAC will again hold our free Children’s Holiday workshop at our offices at 125 S Main St. For kids 1-5 grade, ornaments or gifts will be made to take home that day! Under the direction of Ms. Cheryl Graves, contact her at 419-435-7474 to register. This free event is provided through grants from the Henry Geary Family Foundation and the Fostoria United Way.

Sun Dec 10, starting at 3:30 pm at Fostoria High School’s Wainwright Performing Arts Center, Siberian Solstice (Trans Siberian Orchestra tribute band) complete with laser light show, will perform their amazing holiday concert This concert is free but a free-will offering will be taken! Watch our Facebook page for updates and more info!

The 2023 Tiffin Historic Trust Holiday House Tour on Sunday, December 3, from 1 to 5 PM, features the beauty of older historic homes and churches, modern residences, and commercial architecture. Eight buildings are included in the tour. Tour goers can admire both the architecture and the holiday decorations of the beautifully maintained buildings.

The Holiday House Tour ticket includes a map showing the locations of the sites. Several home owners are offering holiday refreshments to their guests.

Tickets for Tiffin’s Holiday House Tour are available at Great Lakes Ace Hardware, 1550 W. Market Street, Tiffin. On the Sunday of the tour, December 3, the tickets will only be available at the Grammes-Brown House, 172 Jefferson Street, Tiffin. The ticket donation is $20 per person.

Grammes-Brown House

172 Jefferson Street –  In 1988 Rosina Brown, granddaughter of confectioner Peter Grammes and the home’s builder, donated the 1884 family residence to the Tiffin Historic Trust, with the mandate that the Trust maintain and preserve the historic and architectural significance of the building. The home now serves as the lovingly restored headquarters of Tiffin’s historic preservation organization. Tour the main floor and admire the ornate wallpapers, beautiful woodwork, and numerous collectibles typical of Victorian interiors, and when outside, notice the slate-sided mansard roof representative of Second Empire style architecture.

Second United Church

156 Jefferson Street – Constructed in 1888, the Second Reformed Church in Tiffin stands as an exemplary piece of Gothic Revival architecture, embodying the German heritage of its founders. Established in 1850 by Swiss and Bavarian immigrants, the church initially held services in a frame Lutheran structure before erecting its first brick church in 1858. The original plain brick building featured separate entrances for men and women, a choir balcony, and a hand-pumped organ. Notable pastors, including Herman Rust, a professor at Heidelberg College, oversaw the congregation.

In 1888, the present Gothic Revival church emerged, showcasing a gable slate roof, brick and stone buttresses, and gothic-arched stained glass windows with tracery. The three-story tower, adorned with label lintels and round stone arches, adds to the architectural allure. A recessed main door behind a gothic stone arch and fluted Corinthian columns leads to the sanctuary, marked by stained glass windows with stone gothic arches. The building’s charm extends to details like corbelling along the gable and a cornerstone inscribed in both English and German, underscoring its historical and architectural significance. The Second Reformed Church, now part of the United Church of Christ, stands as a testament to Tiffin’s German heritage and remains a distinguished monument to Gothic Revival church architecture.

Old Trinity Episcopal Church

125 East Market Street – Old Trinity Episcopal Church boasts a captivating history intricately woven into its remarkable architecture. Established in 1855, the church commenced its journey with the election of a vestry and the appointment of Fr. Cooper as its priest. A wooden church, showcasing elegant Gothic architecture emerged, featuring native black walnut interiors, and a choir gallery. Despite challenges, including a bell’s unfortunate demise due to its weight and sound quality (the bell was said to have sounded like a cow bell), the church persevered. Assistant Bishop Gregory T. Bedell rallied the community, saving the church from sale. Rev. James H.W. Blake’s vision propelled the construction of the current Richardson Romanesque-style building in 1887, characterized by robust towers, arched stone window surrounds, and polychrome stone walls. Through renovations led by figures like Rev. Charles D. Hering and The Rev. Frederick C. Lambert, the church’s grandeur was preserved and enhanced. Rev. Aaron Gerlach consulted with the Tiffin Historic Trust in planning the latest addition to the church.  In keeping with historic preservation guidelines, the Tiffin Community Kitchen will integrate modern design with the historic architecture.  Groundbreaking took place in October, 2023 and the addition is expected to open in November 2024.

 

River’s Edge

1348 North Township Road 73 – River’s Edge began as a gristmill on North River Road on the rivers’ edge of the Sandusky.  In 19^th century Seneca County, the Keller name was synonymous with milling as family members operated four grist and four sawmills on the river.  John Keller built a frame mill at River and Center Roads in 1826 and added a brick flour mill in 1847.  Shortly after John died in 1859, the frame mill burned and his son Joel replaced it with the present brick mill that he operated until 1881.  In 1943, Guy and Doris Abbot converted Joel’s mill into a residence.  The Vadalabenes purchased the home in 2000.  They refurbished the entire 6,600 square foot residence, including the basement that has an unusual feature in that a spring runs through it.  The home is six bricks thick and includes over a million bricks in the building.  The Vadalabenes added a central staircase, and a veranda with French doors and sidelights, that overlooks the river.  The property includes 2.5 acres along the Sandusky River and is deeded the rights to half of the river, along which you can watch eagles and blue heron.  In 2002, the Vadalabenes built a playhouse with leaded glass windows on the grounds, and laid a flagstone driveway.

 

The Wenner-Machamer Home

119 East Perry Street – The building at 119 E. Perry Street, once the office and residence of Dr. H. L. Wenner, serves as a poignant symbol of his enduring legacy and is fondly hailed as “Our best physician” in Seneca County. Dr. Wenner, born in Tiffin in 1861, was a pivotal figure deeply connected to the community through his unwavering commitment to the Junior Home. Graduating from Western Reserve Medical College in 1882, he practiced in various locations before settling in Tiffin in 1884. As a respected surgeon, Wenner, who married Emma Huss in 1886, actively participated in numerous societies, including the Masonic lodge and Knights of Pythias. His instrumental role in fundraising for the Junior Home left a lasting impact. Tragically, his life was cut short in a 1933 automobile accident after attending a Cleveland Indians game, marking the end of a life dedicated to both medicine and community service. Following in his father-in-law’s footsteps, Roswell F. Machamer also became a physician and practiced medicine in the home in the 1940s.

 

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church

46 Madison Street – Tiffin St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, founded in 1824, stands as a symbol of both technological progress and unwavering faith. Under Pastor George Collier in 1875, the congregation erected a pioneering one-story building for $50,000, named Fellowship Hall, becoming the first public structure in the US with electricity, gifted with a chandelier from Tiffin Electric Light and Thomas A. Edison. The church expanded in 1883, adding a second story and adorning the sanctuary with stained glass windows and a splendid pipe organ, all community contributions. Through transformative changes, such as a church school annex in 1929, the church has preserved its heritage while embracing modern renovations.

 

186 South Monroe Street

186 South Monroe Street – The 1906 Greek Revival style home at 186 South Monroe Street differs from other Victorian-era styles in that it includes exterior pillars and fewer but larger rooms. The land the home sits on was sold for $1.00 in 1898 by Charles and Rosa Miller to Henry and John Miller. After the death of John’s wife, Mary, he sold the home to Katherine Miller for $1.00; she owned the home for the remainder of her life. Rob and Deb Bish bought the home in 1997.They then sold the home to its current owners, Ben and Shirley Williams, in 1999. The home won a Tiffin Historic Trust preservation award in 2016.

 

 

Queen Anne

25 Adams Street – Back by Popular Demand! The two and a half story quintessential Queen Anne style single family residence was built in 1895 by John King. In the 1980s Lenore and Charles Livingston remodeled the house into a bed & breakfast, although after the business closed, it became a rental property. In 2017 the property was purchased by Andrew H. Kalnow, who had already been active in restoring a number of historic houses in the Fort Ball/Frost Parkway area. Renovation of 25 Adams began in 2020. All bathrooms and the kitchen were totally renovated, while the remaining period piece interior was carefully restored and decorated with contemporary boutique furniture. Notable elements of the Queen Anne style include cross gabled roof, decorative shingles in the gables, decorative brickwork in chimneys, slate roofs with finial ornaments at the peak, bay windows, multi paned leaded windows, and a three-story round tower with a conical roof.

Downtown Tiffin is thrilled to announce a new 3rd Thursday event, taking place on November 16th from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The event will feature an exciting new addition known as “Sip & Shop.” Residents and visitors alike are invited to stroll through downtown, exploring the unique retail shops, enjoying DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) beverages, and witnessing spectacular holiday window “reveals.”

The schedule for the evening’s holiday window “reveals” is as follows:

• 5:00 PM: Reclaim It 127
• 5:30 PM: SOUL Boutique
• 6:00 PM: Washington Street Outfitters
• 6:30 PM: Tom Rodgers Flower Shop
• 7:00 PM: Pan Yan Bookstore
• 7:30 PM: Simply Susan’s

Local businesses participating in 3^rd Thursday will offer special promotions, discounts, and extended hours while customers will have an opportunity to get a head start on holiday shopping and enjoy the festive atmosphere of Downtown Tiffin.

In addition to the “Sip & Shop”, the new Downtown Tiffin Holiday lights will make their grand debut, illuminating the downtown streets with a warm and welcoming holiday glow.

We can’t wait to see the holiday spirit revealed during this exciting new 3rd Thursday! See you there! 

 The true spirit of the holiday season is coming to life on November 18, 2023 during Attica’s Hometown Christmas! Stroll the streets of the beautiful and charming village of Attica to enjoy activities for all ages, local vendors, and experiences set up to make lasting memories with your friends and family! The Attica Community Events Committee, which aims to enhance the social experience for residents and visitors of Attica, has been hard at work to put on a traditional hometown Christmas to remember! 

Train rides, petting zoos, contests, the big man himself, and more await you! See below for a full schedule of this magical day and learn more about how you can make the most of your hometown Christmas by following them on social here. See you on the 18th for a heartwarming and cheerful day of fun! 

Press release courtesy of the Seneca County Museum.

Raymond Schindler, a 95-year-old native of New Riegel, will be at the Seneca County Museum on Sunday, Nov. 5th at 2 p.m. to sign his latest book, “Growing Up in New Riegel, My Hometown 1928-1949.” Books may be purchased at the museum for $15.

Ray will be sharing stories and answering questions about his days growing up in New Riegel. This is a delightful opportunity to visit with Ray and reminisce about those memorable bygone days.

The Seneca County Museum is located at 28 Clay Street in Tiffin. Please contact the museum at 419-447-5955 for further information.

JAM’s Monthly Markets in partnership with Tiffin Women in Action has announced The Holiday Extravaganza event will take place on Saturday, November 11, 2023, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Vendors will be set up inside of JAM’s Market, located at 145 Madison Street, and across the street inside Calvert Catholic High School, 152 Madison Street. Brand new this year, additional vendors will also be set up inside of Saint Joseph’s Activity Center located at 56 Melmore Street, Tiffin, OH. At the Activity Center, attendees can enjoy live musical entertainment from the Local 419 Community Big Band and singing from Hopewell Loudon’s High School Choir.

Tiffin Women in Action, previously known as Y-Wives, had been hosting a holiday market for nearly 50 years and this will be the second year that the two groups have joined forces to feature new locations, partners, and beneficiaries in this holiday shopping event. The event will feature a variety of vendors from homemade crafts, baked goods, non-profits, and more. There will also be 50/50 tickets for sale, a Christmas tree raffle, opportunities for photos with Santa for a suggested donation, and food trucks.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to Calvert Catholic Schools and Tiffin Women in Action “Women and Children’s Fund” of the Tiffin Community Foundation. Jami Fadley, owner of JAM’s Monthly Markets, states, “I was absolutely blown away by the support we had last year and am looking forward to seeing this event blossom into a whole shopping experience that is sure to be remembered! Stop in to kickstart your holiday shopping and give back while doing so!”

Save the date and stop out to experience great holiday shopping, Christmas cheer, and fun for all ages! 

Press release courtesy of Mad River & NKP Railroad Museum.

Purchase Tickets Here

Celebrate the Christmas season with the Mad River & NKP Railroad Museum at the Annual Holiday Train. This event is perfect for young children and family fun. For only $6 per rider, you can take a short ride on one of our restored cabooses. These cabooses are heated, comfortable, and fully operational. You’ll be able to experience the same ride as railroaders of a bygone era did when cabooses were on every freight train across America. The ride lasts about 10 minutes, then your family is invited to the dining car. Sit down and enjoy hot cocoa and cookies (included with your ticket price) in our 1927 Nickel Plate Road Diner. Experience what it was like when passenger train travel was more commonplace and eating in the diner was a luxury of the journey. After you’ve enjoyed the diner, Santa Claus will be waiting to meet you in the Monument Station at the museum. Also in the Monument Station, our gift shop will be open for Holiday shopping. We have many railroad related items to choose from including books, DVDs, apparel, toys, memorabilia, collectables, and much more.

This year ALL TICKETS ARE PRE-SOLD, NO TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE DURING THE EVENT. Trains will depart on a set schedule and passengers have the option when purchasing tickets to determine what time their party would like to attend. This will eliminate wait times at the boarding site and provide a more enjoyable experience for passengers.

The Mad River & NKP Railroad Museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The museum operates with an all-volunteer staff and is funded by donations, admissions, and fund-raising events such as the Holiday Train. All proceeds from this event go directly to support the museum. Due to the historical nature of the equipment used for this event, cabooses and dining car are not handicap accessible. Ticket holders are expected to be at the boarding site before departure time. If you miss your scheduled time, we will attempt to provide space on the train for your party at a later departure time, but space is not guaranteed. Tickets are only valid for the day purchased. Tickets will not be accepted on the wrong day. MR&NKP will not validate tickets sold by a third party, only tickets sold by MR&NKP are authentic. Refunds will be considered until November 15, 2023, then all sales are final. All riders regardless of age (even infants) must have a ticket to ride.

When:

November 25th & 26th, 12 PM to 5 PM

December 2nd & 4th, 12 PM to 5 PM

December 9th & 10th, 12 PM to 5 PM

Where:

Mad River & NKP Railroad Museum

253 Southwest St.

Bellevue, OH 44811

Cost:

Tickets $6

All riders regardless of age (even infants) must have a ticket to ride.

Purchase Tickets Here

Destination Seneca County received statewide recognition in five different categories at the Ohio Travel Association’s RUBY Awards presentation, held October 5, 2023, at Shisler Conference Center in Wooster, Ohio.

Destination Seneca County received three RUBY Awards for the categories of: Spirit of Community for the Sights of Seneca Official Chip Contest, Innovation in Travel Marketing for the Destination Seneca County Coloring Book, and for their blog, which featured stories on The UrbanWoody Brewery & The HoneyBee Winery, Mohawk Golf & Country Club, and Hawkes Crystal. They also received second place finishes, a Citation of Excellence, for the categories of Targeted Marketing Campaign with the launch of the Slice of Seneca County Pizza & Geocaching Trail and Event Campaign with the Be a Tourist in Your Own Town event.

Bryce Riggs and Marisa Stephens with Destination Seneca County accepted the award on behalf of the organization. This is the second time in Destination Seneca County’s organizational history to be recognized on a state level for their efforts, as they received a RUBY Award last year for the Seneca County Geo Trail.

The Ohio Travel Association’s RUBY Awards recognize excellence in Ohio’s hospitality and tourism industry for efforts in advertising, marketing, and public relations. In this year’s competition, the Recognizing Uncommon Brilliance Yearly (RUBY) Awards had a record high of 236 entries. The awards, sponsored by Ohio Magazine, were presented during the Ohio Conference on Travel, the state’s largest conference for tourism industry professionals.

Press release courtesy of the Attica Events Committee.

If you don’t have plans for Saturday, September 30th, The Attica Event Committee invites you to attend the FIRST Attica Autumn Day from 10 am – 4 pm. In late July, a few of us decided that we wanted to make Attica the hometown we can all be proud of, and to bring the feeling of community back to the village, we created Attica Autumn Day. Working with the Attica Sons of the Legion, who will be hosting their Second Annual Car and Truck Show at the Attica Fairgrounds, there will surely be something for everyone.

The Vendor Fair, located in downtown Attica, will have several vendors with a variety of items that we are sure will be perfect no matter what you’re looking for. The Seneca East Public Library will host kids’ games and crafts and sell fresh baked bread and books. Food trucks will be set up throughout the event to get something tasty to eat, as well as Smitty’s Pizza.

The Sons of the Legion will be providing shuttles to and from the Fairgrounds to downtown Attica from 12 – 4 pm so that everyone can take part in the Car and Truck Show and visit Attica’s Veterans Memorial as well as the Vendor Fair. There will also be additional food trucks at the Fairgrounds to ensure no one goes home hungry.

As the event closes, we are excited to provide an opportunity for everyone to come together for the First Community Square Dance from 3 – 6 pm. The event will be held Downtown by the Village Offices. During the square dance, there will be fellowship, music, laughs, and maybe even some great and unexpected dance moves.

The Attica Community Church is sponsoring Smitty’s Ice Cream Cart for FREE ice cream for those who attend.

We are excited about our first event and are thrilled that our community is coming together to do great things.

So please join us on this fabulous fall day, take in the fall decorations, do some shopping, stop at our photo area for the perfect fall photo, cruise through the car and truck show, spend some time at the Veterans Memorial, and admire the amazing work honoring those we have lost fighting for our freedom, and end the night with squaring dancing and ice cream.

It will for sure be the PERFECT Autumn Day!

Please feel free to visit our Facebook Page, Attica Events Committee, to get more information about our Vendors and what they will have to offer. We hope to see you there!

Downtown Tiffin is gearing up to host its annual Downtown Trick or Treat – Third Thursday on October 19th starting at 4:30 pm. Participating Downtown merchants will be passing out candy and treats to young trick-or-treaters. Costumes are not only welcomed but encouraged.

One exciting addition to this year’s celebration is “The Great Pumpkin Drop,” which will be conducted by the Tiffin Fire/Rescue Division at 6:30 pm in City Lot 6. Fire Chief Chappell expresses his enthusiasm, saying, “The Tiffin Fire/Rescue Division is excited to be a part of the first-ever Pumpkin Drop Downtown Tiffin event! Watching the annual Downtown Trick or Treat grow each year, we wanted to do something to make it even better. Dropping pumpkins from up to 100 feet above the ground seemed like an exciting way to conclude the afternoon’s events. We look forward to seeing a great turnout!”

Students from Vanguard-Sentinel Career and Technology Centers-Sentinel campus will pre-decorate 12 pumpkins to be dropped. During the 3rd Thursday event, the pumpkins will be on display in City Lot 6 where the community will have an opportunity to donate/sponsor each pumpkin. The funds generated will help support the SkillsUSA program for the students.

In addition to the Trick-or-Treat and Pumpkin Drop, the annual Downtown merchant Halloween window decorating contest will take place on October 19th. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the fun by casting their votes via QR code at each participating location.

We can’t wait to see the streets of downtown packed with people, costumes, candy, and fun for all! See you there!

Calling all lovers of magical things to Tiffin on October 21st and October 22nd! Introducing the first ever, Tiffin’s Wizard Weekend! This special October weekend in Tiffin offers the Seneca County Halloween Parade, JAM’s Market of Spells, special offerings and events, and more that all make up the greatness of a unique Wizard’s Weekend. 

Many businesses throughout the community have come together to cultivate a magical weekend unlike any other. Enjoy themed offerings and events inspired after the fan favorite story of The Boy Who Lived.  All magic enthusiasts from any world or dimension are welcome to partake in the fun! Check out some of what awaits you during a magical memory making weekend! For more information follow Tiffin’s Wizard Weekend on Facebook and Instagram or visit here. 

If you are looking for a farmer to supply you with a down home good time, then set the date and head over to Riehm’s acres of Barnyard Fun at 7244 North State Route 53 right outside of Tiffin! September 24, 2023 and running on Saturdays and Sundays until October 29, 2023, there is something for everyone to enjoy during Barnyard Fun Weekends. Enjoy fall favorite activities on Saturdays from 12 to 7pm and Sundays 12 to 6pm. Barnyard Fun Tickets are $12 and children ages 0 to 2 years old are free. Click here to save some time and purchase your tickets ahead of arriving.

Come on down to the farm and enjoy the day exploring, racing, sliding, jumping, and making memories with over 20 fun activities for all ages. If you haven’t already, it’s time to make coming to the farm your new favorite fall tradition! Take part in barrel train rides, pedal carts, corn barn, pig races, hayride & pumpkin cannon, goat walk, veggie launcher, corn maze, giant slide, And so much more.

During Barnyard Fun weekends enjoy farm fresh and finger-licking good food! Farm raised beef & brat burgers, johnny fries – their farm grown potatoes with all the fixn’s, hot dogs, kettle corn, apple cider and fall treats.

If you are looking for a farmer to supply you with a down home good time, then set the date and head over to Riehm’s acres of Barnyard Fun at 7244 North State Route 53 right outside of Tiffin! September 24, 2023 and running on Saturdays and Sundays until October 29, 2023, there is something for everyone to enjoy during Barnyard Fun Weekends. Enjoy fall favorite activities on Saturdays from 12 to 7pm and Sundays 12 to 6pm. Barnyard Fun Tickets are $12 and children ages 0 to 2 years old are free. Click here to save some time and purchase your tickets ahead of arriving.

Come on down to the farm and enjoy the day exploring, racing, sliding, jumping, and making memories with over 20 fun activities for all ages. If you haven’t already, it’s time to make coming to the farm your new favorite fall tradition! Take part in barrel train rides, pedal carts, corn barn, pig races, hayride & pumpkin cannon, goat walk, veggie launcher, corn maze, giant slide, And so much more.

During Barnyard Fun weekends enjoy farm fresh and finger-licking good food! Farm raised beef & brat burgers, johnny fries – their farm grown potatoes with all the fixn’s, hot dogs, kettle corn, apple cider and fall treats.

Set to take place in Downtown Tiffin’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), the annual 2023 Downtown Tiffin Pizza Party, chaired by the Seneca County Young Professionals (SCYP), will showcase local restaurants next Thursday, September 21, as part of Downtown Tiffin’s 3rd Thursday Series.

The event will take place from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, on Washington Street and in City Lots 5 & 7. Pre-purchase ticket sales start September 14th at Pan Yan Bookstore, Ralph’s Joy of Living, Simply Susan’s, and The Renaissance of Tiffin during their normal business hours. Tickets will be available for purchase on the evening of the event at the Seneca County Commissioners parking lot adjacent to Reclaim It 127 and volunteers will also be on foot selling tickets up and down the street. All tickets will be sold for $2, and only cash payments will be accepted.

This year’s event will include: Clover Club, Domino’s Pizza Tiffin, The Empire at 138, Fort Ball Pizza Palace, FroZone Tiffin , Heavenly Pizza-Tiffin Ohio, Jac & Do’s Pizza, Marco’s Pizza – Tiffin, OH, Napoli Pizza, Reino’s, Simply Susan’s, and VC Tiffin Cameo.

An aspect that makes this event even more meaningful is the SCYP’s commitment to supporting the community. Fifty percent of the proceeds from each ticket sold will be donated to the local non-profit organization, Transformation Life Center.

Attendees can enjoy live music with No Eileen from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM in City Lot 7 sponsored by Bailiwicks Coffee Company, JT’s Bagel Bar, Happy Days Nutrition of Tiffin, RE/MAX Unlimited Results, and Simply Susan’s. Beth Mattia and Nate McMaster will be playing from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM in City Lot 5 and Thursday Night Tunes, sponsored by Croghan Colonial Bank, featuring The Eric Sowers Band from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Frost-Kalnow Amphitheater at the East Green Amphitheater.

Grab your friends and enjoy an awesome night in downtown Tiffin with LOTS of pizza! 

Shopping, food, and fun on a picturesque farm in Attica, OH. That’s what you’ll find at the 3rd Annual Fall at the Farmhouse event on Saturday, September 23, 2023.

Hosted at the home of the owner of The Farmhouse Collection, Lori Niedermier, Fall at the Farmhouse will feature new and returning vendors. There will be home, outdoor, and seasonal decor, jewelry, clothing, baked goods, snacks, and more! Route 99 Barbecue, Coffee & Crumb Cafe, and Sweet Thangs Kettle Corn will all be returning for lunch, coffee, and goodies. Carle’s Bratwurst will also provide samples.

There are many new products and items to find! Don’t miss it!

For updates follow The Farmhouse Collection and invite your friends to the Facebook event!

A hidden gem that offers more than what meets the eye awaits you, say hello to The Front 9!

The Front 9 provides a restaurant, 9 hole golf course, bar, and event space, all in one! Located at 6730 North Township Road 69 in Kansas, Ohio, The Front 9 is a centrally located spot that you will not want to miss. The Front 9, previously known as Nature Trails, was purchased in 2018 after the space sat empty for a year and a half. They officially opened their doors in 2019 and were forced to close for seven weeks during Covid, but still offered carryout during that time. Brian and Tracie, along with their three children, have made The Front 9 a family-friendly gathering place where everyone is welcome! 

The 9 hole golf course is a beautifully maintained public course that is open everyday at 8am for use. Carts are available, but walking is also accepted if you want to take your time and enjoy the scenery. Course memberships are offered and there are league options as well! If you are on your way to the PGA tour or just learning, you are welcome at The Front 9. With a welcoming environment and staff, picking up your clubs has never been easier to enjoy a round. Looking to play a full 18? Play the course twice!

Maybe you have just finished a round or are just looking for some of the best food you can find in Seneca County and beyond, you can find it at The Front 9! The Front 9 Restaurant offers delicious eats available for dine in or carry out and you can also order online. You can enjoy playing Keno (Multistate Lottery Games), live music, karaoke, trivia and other fun events throughout the week. You can find a list of all upcoming events on their Facebook page, along with lunch and weekly dinner specials like their famous Frog Legs on Thursdays and Perch on Fridays, just to name a few! The bar offers a wide selection of drinks from selections on tap and mixed drinks made special for you. With local selections of wine and beer, along with your classic favorites, and special seasonal drinks, you are sure to find something you like! Looking to just enjoy being outdoors? Get your food and take it to the beautiful patio and enjoy being in the sun while getting your fill! 

Looking to host a shower, birthday celebration, company party, or even a wedding? The Front 9 offers several event spaces to suit your needs. Their indoor event space accommodates up to 150 people. It features a newly renovated open space design with a neutral décor, so you can decorate it to suit your event. Their outdoor shelter space is also available in the summer to accommodate any occasion and features a beautiful view of the golf course. Memories are waiting to be made no matter which space you choose!  

The Front 9 loves their customers and can’t wait to see you walk through the door! You can reach them at 419-558-6463(NINE), keep up to date with their offerings and events on their Facebook page, or visit thefront9.com for more information. The Front 9 is family run and family focused. They treat each of their patrons as more than just customers, but truly as friends. They believe in making you feel welcome and and at home, so pull up a seat or grab a cart. No matter if you’re looking for fairways, food, friendships, or more, you can find it at The Front 9!  

The Tiffin-Seneca Heritage Festival is one of the oldest festivals in the state of Ohio and offers a weekend full of history, fun, and entertainment for all. Brand new this year, admission to both the Living History Village AND the Downtown Festivities (excluding the  amphitheater entertainment) are FREE! A special thank you to all the Festival Sponsors who have made this year’s event special!

Throughout the Festival Weekend, Seneca-Crawford Area Transportation (SCAT) will be providing free shuttles to the different festival areas. Pickup and dropoff locations will be at the corner of S. Washington Street and Frost Parkway and the corner of E. Perry and Jefferson Street. Shuttles will run every 10 minutes. Looking for a bite to eat? Food trucks of all varieties will be located on Court Street and Jefferson Street all weekend long!  

Check out the full schedule and don’t miss out on a moment! For more information, visit TiffinFestival.com.

Downtown Tiffin

(Starting on Madison Street running to Jefferson Street and Includes Court Street)

Heritage Village

(Located at Rotary Park on Frost Parkway)

The Tiffin-Seneca Heritage Festival, in partnership with the Tiffin-Seneca United Way and JAM’s Monthly Markets, has announced the launch of the Heritage Festival Putt-Putt Course Contest to take place during festival weekend on September 16, 2023 from 11 AM – 4 PM and September 17, 2023 from 10 AM – 3 PM. The course will be located in the green space areas surrounding Calvert High School. Money raised from the courses being played will go directly back to the Tiffin-Seneca United Way into the general campaign fund.

The Putt-Putt course existed many years ago during previous Tiffin-Seneca Heritage Festivals and the committee decided it was time to bring it back for the festival and for a good cause. The 9-hole course has been split into three sections, 3 holes per section, that will be given to local student groups to decorate, clean up, and used to recruit players during the festival weekend. Groups participating include the Tiffin Columbian Key Club, Hopewell-Loudon FFA, and New Riegel FFA. The groups will be competing against one another to see who can raise the most money from their course section. Each course will be $2 to play, please cash only, with putters and balls provided by Mohawk Golf and Country Club. Supporters may play more than one course and may also play a course more than once. First, Second, and Third Place prize packs will be given to the participating groups depending on how they finish at the end of the weekend. Prize packs have been graciously sponsored by Rise FM, MC Insurance, the Seneca County Young Professionals, and JAM’s Monthly Markets.

The Putt-Putt Course Contest adds another level of fun as part of the Tiffin-Seneca Heritage Festival while also giving back to the organizations and youth of the community. The Tiffin-Seneca United Way will officially be kicking off the 2024 Campaign Season on Saturday, September 16, 2023. The Course Contest is meant to jumpstart and raise awareness about the campaign.

Jami Fadley, owner of JAM’s Monthly Markets and Tiffin-Seneca Heritage Festival Board of Trustees member, states, “When the putt-putt course was discovered in storage from long ago, it was a no brainer that we could use it to give back to the community. With the campaign kicking off for the United Way that same weekend, we are excited to see the success and support the course contest will receive. Having the youth organizations that are working on the course sections able to raise money for their own specific groups is a huge bonus and has really bought them into the project.” All are welcome to play and thank you for your support in advance.

Press release courtesy of the Tiffin Seneca Farmers’ Market.

Last week at the Farmers Market the market staff and BergServe Students conducted a survey. Results showed that over 2⁄3 of shoppers felt that they saved on their grocery bill when shopping at the farmer market.

We are just over half way through the season and we are still providing fresh food weekly. Every week, the Tiffin Seneca Farmers Market offers locals and visitors the opportunity to experience the very best local Ohio produce. With a variety of products from local vendors, tasty food trucks, and fun activities for kids, there’s something for everyone here.

Thank you to our sponsor Sutton Bank for allowing the market to happen weekly. We would also like to thank our Harvest sponsor Cuadra Pediatric Dentistry; our Crop Sponsor Madison Street Tavern and Nicole Miller State Farm; and our Sprout Sponsors: Ag Credit, Seneca County Farm Bureau, Mercy Health, and the Seneca County Master Gardeners.

Benefits of shopping at your local farmers market include meeting local farmers and artisans and learning about their products and farming practices, receiving produce picked at the peak of ripeness for maximum flavor and nutrition, discovering new and unusual fruits and
vegetables, and eating with the seasons.

This week shoppers will find beef, pork, produce, baked goods, and more! If you enjoy a good coffee while shopping we have that too! Outpour Coffee is here nearly every Saturday ready to serve you.

This week vendors include: Baked by Bells, Bella Cuisine, Clay Hill Organic, Countryside Acres, FELC, Flo’s Homemade Pies, Friends of the Tiffin Seneca Public Library, Good News Grass and Cattle, Hope’s Landing, Outpour Coffee, Riehm Produce Farm, Rose Leaf Flowers, Sacred Soil Farms, Tiffin Lions Club, and Yesteryear Farms.

About Seneca County Common Ground

Created in 2019, Seneca County Common Ground (SCCG) is a new organization whose mission is to strengthen Seneca County’s local food system through collaboration to improve the health and growth of our community, and a vision of a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable local food system in Seneca County that supports the health of residents, businesses, and institutions. The board of the organization includes Reverend Aaron Gerlach of Old Trinity Episcopal Church, local business owner and chair of the Downtown Retailers Committee Dave Spridgeon, local business leader Dale Depew, TSEP Development Coordinator Adam Gillmor, Director of Franciscan Earth Literacy Center Mimi Lange Johnston and local food vendors Kristy Buskirk of Clay Hill Farms and John Riehm of Riehm Produce Farm, owner of JAM’s Monthly Market, Jami Fadley, and Ryan Poignon, of the Poignon Project. SCCG oversees the operations of the Tiffin Seneca Farmers Market and supports other local food initiatives including the Tiffin Community Kitchen Project. Find out more at sccommonground.org or find Seneca County Common Ground on Facebook.

About the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

SNAP provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of needy families so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency. Read more at https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program.