This story originally appeared in the Dec. 9 edition of the LINK Reader. To get these stories first, subscribe here.
It’s that time of year: Families and friends get together to share holiday traditions like watching movies, cooking, baking, or wrapping gifts. Whether it’s baking, catching a show, or doing something crafty, here are some local ways for y’all to enjoy the season without sacrificing your budget.
Local Theatre
If you’ve always wanted to take your kids to the famous Playhouse in the Park, A Christmas Carol, but thought that your kid may not be ready or old enough to sit still for that long, I’ve got a suggestion for you. Local high schools and colleges are the perfect place to test it out, while still giving the littles a memorable experience.
Northern Kentucky University is presenting “Peter and the Starcatcher” from Dec. 2 to Dec. 11. The mystical story will keep even the most restless of kids entertained while captivating older audience members, too. The show takes place in NKU’s Corbett Theatre and tickets can be purchased online.
For a getaway from the kids, Thomas More University is performing the comedy “12 Dates of Christmas.” This show is a hilarious rendition of the struggles and reality of the holiday season as an adult. Thomas More’s tickets can be purchased the day of the show at the box office with cash. The show runs Dec. 9 to Dec. 11 and Dec. 16 to Dec. 18.
Light Show
For those uninterested in plays and unafraid of the cold, the Florence Y’alls are presenting Deck the Y’alls.
The inside of the Florence Y’alls stadium was converted into a seasonal light show, withice skating, food, shopping, and nightly appearances from Santa himself.
Free parking is available. General admission tickets vary by day, and typically cost $20 or less.
Deck the Y’alls opened at the end of November and runs nearly every night through the first of January.
Santa’s Workshop
For individuals and groups who enjoy working with their hands, Creative House of Art and Design, also known as CHAD, in Covington is hosting a variety of workshops for homemade gifts this holiday season.
Guests can book classes with friends to unwind and catch up, all while celebrating the holidays. CHAD in Covington offers a variety of classes and services for all ages. Weekly classes for children are being offered through Christmas, where children can make gifts and receive pizza and drinks.
For an adult getaway, the Creative House offers painting sessions for groups. Alcohol can be purchased from the bar during these classes, too.
For the most up to date information on available classes, visit CHAD’S website, creativehousead.com, and shop their one-of-a-kind merchandise.