Winter 2018 has arrived in Lorain County! It’s hard to believe how quickly the year has flown by, but there’s still a lot to do in Lorain County before Christmas and New Year’s. Whether it’s a family outing or just fun with friends, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy.

Here are a few great events and activities to check out this December in Lorain, Ohio!

Santa Train

Lorain County’s cities are home to many of Ohio’s most active railways and stations, and this year, Santa’s leaving his sled in the garage and taking the train! On December 7th and 8th, special holiday-themed train rides will run between 6:00 - 8:00 PM on Friday and 1:00 - 8:00 PM on Saturday, featuring holiday decorated passenger cars, free hot cocoa, and a chance to meet Santa. Head to the LSRA Railway Station to catch your Santa train.

Shoreline Treasures

Christmas is right around the corner, and there’s nothing better than one-of-a-kind gifts under the tree. Lorain County is full of local businesses and shops that sell all sorts of stocking stuffers from quirky socks to vintage tea sets. To help you find the perfect gifts, Shoreline Treasurers is a self-guided tour that explores all the local stores, antique shops, and small businesses in the area. It’s a great way to connect and invest in the local community right before the holiday.

Whet Your Palette: Christmas Events

Paper Moon Vineyards has some great outdoor tours during the warmer months, but wine is meant to be enjoyed year-round! Whet Your Palette is a fun wine-tasting event for drinking and art-making — just try not to get any wine stains on your canvas. There are chances to make some wine-inspired, wintery pieces throughout December. For example, on December 13th, artists will be painting their version of “Charlie Brown’s Christmas Tree,” or you can decorate your own wine glass on December 7th.

New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball

If you’re looking for an elegant and mysterious way to bring in the New Year with your friends, the Masquerade Ball in Avon may be the perfect event. There’s live music, hors-d'oeuvres and cocktails, great food, a midnight balloon drop and toast, and of course, strange people in mysterious masks.