Good morning, Medina County! 👋

The Halloween decorations are coming down, the Christmas decorations are going up, and apparently we're skipping Thanksgiving altogether. 🎄🦃

But before you start untangling those Christmas lights, there's plenty happening around the county this weekend.

We're talking a huge nature-inspired art festival, a new spot for your four-legged friends, a little downtown cocktail discovery, and some local holiday shopping to get you in the spirit.

We found the good stuff so you don't have to.

🎨 Nature Art Fest returns to Wadsworth this weekend

🐾 A new pet store opens its doors in Medina

🍸 A hidden cocktail gem in downtown Medina

🏨 Could Medina Square become your next weekend getaway?

🎄 Holiday markets, handmade gifts & family fun

You might have driven past this house a hundred times without realizing the incredible history hiding behind its walls.

At 314 E. Washington Street in Medina sits the historic H.G. Blake House, a home that once served as a stop on the Underground Railroad.

During the 1800s, Harrison Gray Blake and his wife, Elizabeth, secretly sheltered people escaping slavery, providing food, clothing, and a safe place to rest before continuing their journeys toward freedom.

And they weren't just risking their reputations. Helping freedom seekers was illegal under federal law, and the consequences could be severe.

But here's another fascinating piece of Medina history: Blake also helped rebuild downtown after the devastating fire of 1870 destroyed much of Public Square. His efforts helped shape the beautiful downtown we know today.

The house has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982, preserving its place in Medina's remarkable history.

Pretty amazing to think that a house along an ordinary Medina street played a role in something so extraordinary.

📍 314 E. Washington St., Medina

👉 Discover more about Medina's Underground Railroad history

Looking for a date night spot that's a little more sophisticated than your usual neighborhood bar? You might want to head underground.

Tucked away at 236 S. Court Street in downtown Medina, Hemingway's Underground brings a 1920s speakeasy-inspired atmosphere to the Square, complete with exposed brick, moody lighting, cozy seating, and some seriously creative cocktails.

And it's not just about the drinks.

Their Mediterranean-inspired kitchen serves up a rotating menu of small plates and entrees, while the bartenders mix everything from timeless classics to unique seasonal creations. I love me a good Old Fashioned!

Here's a fun little detail: The lounge is actually named after Hemingway, a beloved Corgi belonging to one of the people who helped bring the concept to life. 🐶

Whether you're planning a date night, celebrating something special, or just looking for somewhere new to unwind, this is one Medina spot worth discovering.

A few things to know before you go:

📍 236 S. Court St., Medina

🕓 Wednesday–Thursday: 4–10 PM | Friday–Saturday: 4–11 PM

🍸 Ages 21+ | Reservations recommended

👉 Check out Hemingway's Underground

Looking for something fun to do with the family this weekend that won't put a dent in your wallet? We've got you covered!

The 25th Annual Nature Art Fest is happening this Saturday and Sunday at Oenslager Nature Center in Sharon Township, and admission is completely FREE!

You'll find beautiful nature-inspired artwork from professional artists, including paintings, pottery, stained glass, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind handmade gifts. It's a great opportunity to get a head start on Christmas shopping while supporting talented artists.

But here's our favorite part: You can turn it into a whole family outing without spending a dime!

After browsing the artwork, explore the surrounding wildlife sanctuary, where you'll find peaceful wooded trails, a beautiful pine forest, and a boardwalk winding through the wetlands. The kids can even check out Dragonfly Knoll, a nature-inspired outdoor play area.

And if you leave without buying anything? No judgment here. That's what we call a successful budget-friendly weekend! 😉

📍 Oenslager Nature Center – 6100 Ridge Rd., Sharon Township (Wadsworth mailing address)

📅 Saturday, Nov. 14: 10 AM–5 PM

📅 Sunday, Nov. 15: Noon–4 PM

💰 Cost: FREE! No registration required.

👉 Get the Nature Art Fest Details

If you're ready to get into the Christmas spirit, we've found a pretty spectacular way to do it. And the best part? It's completely FREE!

The 45th Annual Akron Children's Holiday Tree Festival kicks off this Saturday at the John S. Knight Center in downtown Akron, and it's basically a Christmas wonderland under one roof.

We're talking 154 beautifully decorated Christmas trees, 84 wreaths, and 179 holiday gifts, all created by local businesses, organizations, and volunteers.

And these aren't your ordinary Christmas trees. You'll find everything from classic holiday themes to trees inspired by Harry Potter, Star Wars, Dolly Parton, Charlie Brown, and the Grinch!

There will also be live holiday music, visits from Santa, and plenty of opportunities to snap some festive family photos.

But here's what makes this event extra special: The decorated trees and holiday items are available for purchase, with proceeds supporting Akron Children's Hospital. Since the festival began, it's raised more than $7.9 million for pediatric care and research. Amazing - That has to hit you right in the Christmas feels!

So whether you're looking for a fun family outing, a little holiday inspiration, or just an excuse to get out of the house, this one's worth the short road trip!

📍 John S. Knight Center – 77 E. Mill St., Akron

📅 Saturday, Nov. 14: 10 AM–8 PM

📅 Sunday, Nov. 15: 11 AM–6 PM

🎟️ Admission: FREE!

🎄 Festival continues through November 22.

👉 Get the Holiday Tree Festival Details

Sometimes the best stories aren't about big businesses or exciting new attractions. They're about ordinary people doing extraordinary things for their neighbors.

That's exactly what's happening with Bucky Cares, a nonprofit helping families in need throughout Medina and Wayne counties.

The organization recently secured a space in Lodi to distribute essential supplies, including food and personal hygiene products. They're also working to make the holiday season a little brighter for local families who could use a helping hand.

And here's where the story gets even better.

At its October meeting, 100+ Women Who Care Medina County selected Bucky Cares as the recipient of its quarterly charitable donations!

The local giving circle brings women together to support nonprofits making a difference right here in our community. Each member contributes toward a charity selected by the group, turning individual donations into something much bigger.

For Bucky Cares, that means more resources to help neighbors facing difficult times, especially as the holidays approach.

A small-town organization, a community that cares, and neighbors showing up for one another. That's the kind of good news we love sharing. ❤️

📍 Lodi, Ohio

👉 Learn More About 100+ Women Who Care Medina County

The best things happening around Medina County this weekend.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Friendly • 💰 FREE • ❤️ Date Night • 🎟️ Book Ahead

FRIDAY

🏠 Gingerbread House Contest Viewing

📍 John Smart House — 206 N. Elmwood Ave., Medina

🕚 11 AM–2 PM | Admission by donation

Get a little holiday inspiration while admiring creative gingerbread houses at the Medina County Historical Society. Vote for your favorite and consider bringing a nonperishable food donation to help local food pantries. Details.

🎭 Medina High School Presents She Kills Monsters

📍 Medina High School, Middle Stage Auditorium — 777 E. Union St., Medina

🕖 7 PM | Tickets required

Dragons, adventure, and plenty of laughs! Medina High School's Drama Club brings this fantasy-themed theatrical production to the stage. Can't make Friday? There are performances Saturday and Sunday, too! Details.

SATURDAY

🎨 25th Annual Nature Art Fest

📍 Oenslager Nature Center — 6100 Ridge Rd., Sharon Township

🕙 10 AM–5 PM | FREE

Discover beautiful nature-inspired artwork, handmade jewelry, pottery, stained glass, and unique holiday gifts. A great way to support talented artists and enjoy one of Medina County's prettiest parks! Details.

🎄 St. Ambrose Christmas Boutique

📍 St. Ambrose Catholic Church, Hilkert Hall — 929 Pearl Rd., Brunswick

🕘 9 AM–6 PM

Christmas shopping without the crowded mall? Yes, please! Browse handmade crafts, homemade treats, candy, and holiday gifts from local artists. Santa and Mrs. Claus are also expected to make an appearance! Details.

Open House Honoring Veterans

📍 Veterans Hall — 620 N. Broadway St., Medina

🕙 10 AM–5 PM | FREE

Take a walk through Medina's military history, explore exhibits, and meet local veterans. A meaningful way to recognize those who served our country. Refreshments will be available. Details.

🛍️ Seasonal Market at Weymouth Country Club

📍 Weymouth Country Club — 3946 Weymouth Rd., Medina

🕚 11 AM–4 PM | FREE

Shop local boutiques, artisans, specialty vendors, and small businesses at this festive market. Enjoy live music, holiday shopping, and a cash bar. Open to the public! Details.

SUNDAY

🎨 Nature Art Fest — Day Two

📍 Oenslager Nature Center — 6100 Ridge Rd., Sharon Township

🕛 Noon–4 PM | FREE

Missed Saturday? You've got another chance to browse the artwork, discover handmade gifts, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

🦎 Cleveland Reptile Show

📍 Medina County Community Center — 735 Lafayette Rd., Medina

🕘 9 AM | $7 admission, free parking

Snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, tarantulas, and more! Explore a large indoor reptile show with animals, supplies, and vendors. A fun option for families with animal-loving kids. Details.

🎭 She Kills Monsters — Final Performance

📍 Medina High School, Middle Stage Auditorium — 777 E. Union St., Medina

🕑 2 PM | Tickets required

Your last chance this weekend to catch Medina High School's fantasy adventure on stage!

Veterans Hall Open House — Day Two

📍 Veterans Hall — 620 N. Broadway St., Medina

🕙 10 AM–5 PM | FREE

One more opportunity to explore local military history and honor Medina County veterans.

🎄 Medina's Candlelight Walk Is Almost Here! - One of Medina's biggest holiday traditions returns November 20–22! Three days of holiday shopping, thousands of lights, Santa sightings, a parade, and fireworks around historic Medina Square. Mark your calendars!

🕯️ Wadsworth Is Lighting Up, Too! - Downtown Wadsworth's Candlelight Walk happens Friday, November 20, from 5:30–9 PM. Enjoy holiday shopping, carriage rides, carolers, and a Christmas tree lighting. Admission is FREE!

🛍️ Shop Small This Holiday Season - Wadsworth's Home for the Holidays Shop Local campaign runs through December 12. A great excuse to skip the big-box stores and discover something special from a local business.

🚧 Heads Up, Medina Drivers! - Road paving along US 42/Court Street may cause delays. The city is advising motorists to consider alternate routes while work is underway.

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Thanks for hanging out with us. We’ll be back next Thursday with more of what’s good around Medina County.

Have a great weekend,

Ryan
Medina County Scoop