Whether you are a newly transplanted Cleveland resident or have been here all your life, you know the winters can be cold and snowy. It is true that winter in Cleveland can be tough, but that is no reason to hibernate now that the holiday season is over.
In fact, January is one of the best months for festivals and special events throughout the Cleveland area. Here are just a few of the best Cleveland has to offer in January 2016.
Get Ready for Valentine's Day
January is here, and that can mean only one thing - Valentine's Day is just around the corner. If this annual celebration of love and devotion always seems to take you by surprise, you can get a head start on your preparations this January.
The Valentine re-mailing program takes place from January 1 through Valentine's Day 2016, and the fun gets underway in Loveland. Just bring your favorite love notes for a special postmark from the town whose very name conjures up images of Valentine's Day.
Enjoy the Best of Alaska in the Heart of Ohio
If you have always wanted to see a sled dog race but do not relish the idea of a trip to Alaska, just head to nearby Newbury for The Great Sled Dog Race Classic of Northeast Ohio.
Taking place in early to mid-January depending on the vagaries of the weather, this annual sled dog race brings together mushers from throughout the region. It might not be Alaska, but it is one of the most exciting races of its kind.
Check Out Some Great Boats
If you long to get out on the water and enjoy the great outdoors this spring, you can get a jump start on things at the Mid-America Boat Show. Taking place from January 14-18, 2016 at the I-X Center in Cleveland, this is one of the most hotly anticipated events of the winter season.
When you go, you can browse acres of boats, boat accessories and other fun items. Whether you own your own boat or just hope to someday, you should not miss out on this celebration of all things nautical.
Walk Off Your Winter Weight
Lots of people overindulge during the holiday season, with its abundant pumpkin pie, turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings. If you ate a few too many Christmas cookies this holiday season, you can get a head start on your weight loss resolution at the Winter Hike at Hocking Hills.
The fun gets underway on January 16, 2016 and runs from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. with continuous starts. There is no need to wait - just lace up your favorite hiking shoes and get ready for some vigorous exercise in the great outdoors.
Grab Your Favorite Vintage
Winter in Cleveland is a great time to curl up by the fire with a great glass of wine, but first you have to find the perfect vintage. You can do just that at the Chocolate is for Lovers Wine Trail the last two weekends in January 2016.
This famous wine trail extends from Cleveland to Conneaut and stops at some of the best wineries along the way. You can sample your favorite vintages, enjoy a great glass or just take a bottle home to enjoy later. The wine trail runs through the beginning of February, but why wait?
