The Division of Travel and Tourism complies news releases on a regular basis, including monthly events releases, releases on a theme and Ohio tourism trends.
Indulge and Celebrate in Ohio this February
Black History Month, Valentine's Day and President's Day give Ohio visitors a reason to rejoice
1/14/2009
CONTACT:
Marty McDonald at (614) 383-1621
Tamara Brown at (614) 466-8591
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Jan. 14, 2009) - With a slew of fantastic events throughout February, excitement is surely in the air! Destinations throughout Ohio will be celebrating Black History Month, indulging in the sweetness of Valentine's Day, participating in snowy, memorable outdoor festivals and commemorating the history of our past presidents. During this history- and love-filled month, come see why Ohio is too much fun for just one day! Following is just a sampling of February events available to those looking for fun and exciting travel ideas close to home. For additional events, visit www.DiscoverOhio.com or call 1-800-BUCKEYE.
Family Fun
Hearts, Heroes & Heritage Concert, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Feb. 7
This free concert by the U.S. Air Force Band of Flight is the perfect culmination of Valentine's Day, Black History Month and President's Day. Come celebrate heroes past and present at this family-friendly performance.
For the Love of Chocolate Festival, Medina County Community Center, Feb. 7
Calling all chocolate lovers! This year's festival features sweet goodies from more than 30 chocolatiers in Medina. Highlights include chocolate samplings, a Children's Candyland area with games and amusements, a Smucker's Booth with hot fudge sundaes items for sale that make perfect gifts for the sweetheart in your life.
An Ice-A-Fair to Remember, Downtown/Victory Park, Vermilion, Feb. 21
This year, Vermilion is home to one of the "coolest" displays of artistry anywhere. The Ice-A-Fair features enchanted galleries of illuminated ice art, including the elegant creations of World Champion Ice Sculptor Aaron Costic.
Arts and Culture
66th Annual Home and Garden Show, IX Center, Cleveland, Feb. 7 - 15
Take a stroll through high-end exhibits romantically themed "The Romance of France" at this year's Home and Garden Show. Highlights include 20 indoor blooming gardens, professionally decorated model homes, home improvement trends, green living tips and gardening seminars in this 20-acre dreamland.
To Live Forever: Egyptian Treasures from the Brooklyn Museum, Columbus Museum of Art, Feb. 13 - June 2
Ancient Egypt is calling with an amazing exhibit of objects including a mummy, statuary, coffins, jewelry and vessels. Learn about the mummification process, funeral procession and rituals, contents of the tomb, the final judgment and the idealized afterlife in this must-see exhibit.
Cabin Fever Arts Festival, Appalachian Gateway Center, Fincastle, Feb. 28
Need a reason to come out from hibernation? The Cabin Fever Arts Festival features the presentation and sale of fine arts and crafts from members of the Appalachian Artisans Guild and juried guest artists. Peruse the stained glass, wood furniture and quilted goods while enjoying traditional Appalachian music played by local artists.
Sports and Recreation
Longhorn World Championship Rodeo, Hara Arena, Dayton, Feb. 6 - 8
This famous rodeo that hails from Tennessee returns to southwest Ohio for an all-encompassing weekend of bareback bronco riding, saddle bronco riding, steer wrestling, bull riding, calf roping and cowgirl barrel racing. Gather your inner cowboy or girl for an exciting weekend of all things rodeo.
Sweethearts Hike at Ash Cave, Hocking Hills State Park, Feb. 14
Grab your Valentine and head to Hocking Hills for the "sweetest" hike ever! The soft glow of dusk on Hocking Hills' breathtaking landscape is the perfect setting for a relaxing hike while holding hands.
48th Annual Winter Carnival at Snow Trails, Snow Trails Winter Resort, Mansfield, Feb. 21 - 22
The Winter Carnival is most memorable for the extreme snow-related sporting events incorporating everything from skis and snowboards skimming across the icy pool of Mt. Dew™-colored water of the Slush Cup, to the Chip & Dale and Bikini racers ignoring the cold and snowy conditions to wow the crowd.
History and Heritage
Black History Month: The Underground Railroad, Historic Fort Steuben, Steubenville, Feb. 2 - 22
February is Black History Month and Historic Fort Steuben is celebrating with a lesson on Ohio's major influence in the Underground Railroad. This family-friendly event displays videos and presentations that highlight the travels and travails of those who worked together on the journey to freedom.
Bicentennial Celebration of Abraham Lincoln's Birth, Ohio Statehouse, Columbus, Feb. 12
You're invited to the birthday party of one of the most famous presidents in United States history. This year marks the 200th birthday of our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. Stop by to hear about Lincoln's connection to Ohio Statehouse history and watch a special presentation highlighting his life and legacy through photographs, stories, artifacts and more.
Lima Mid-Winter Powwow, UAW Hall, Feb. 21 - 22
This historic gathering features Native American Indians in full ceremonial dress. This must-see performance brings Native American educators, scholars, tribal members and dancers from all over the United States and Canada into the local community to provide a hands-on experience with the native customs and culture.
Looking for additional February events? Visit
www.DiscoverOhio.com. The Ohio Travel Planner and Ohio Calendar of Events are both viewable online at
www.DiscoverOhio.com. To pre-order your free copy of the 2009 Ohio Travel Planner, click on the Free Publications icon or call 1-800-BUCKEYE. For additional information, trained travel counselors are available at 1-800-BUCKEYE to assist callers weekdays from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
About the Ohio Tourism Division
The Ohio Tourism Division is the premier source of information for travelers and media about Ohio's vibrant tourism experiences, attractions, and economy. Division marketing programs contributed to an estimated $38 billion in visitor sales in 2007 and 454,000 jobs sustained by visitors to the state. A part of the Ohio Department of Development, the Division's mission is to promote and celebrate Ohio's unique travel opportunities and market the state's outstanding quality of life.
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