Tag: Mayor Kathy Bailey

  • Loveland’s 2nd Oktoberfest is Right Around the Corner!

    Loveland’s 2nd Oktoberfest is Right Around the Corner!

    Loveland, Ohio – Downtown Loveland is ready to welcome the Fall season with open arms as the Little Miami River Chamber Alliance will be holding its second Oktoberfest!

    On Friday, September 23rd from 4 PM-10 PM, and Saturday, September 24th from noon until 10 PM, Downtown Loveland will become “Liebesland” (Loveland in German) for Oktoberfest 2022. The festival will include a plethora of traditional German activities, competitions, food, drinks, and of course some spectacular German attire!

  • Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend Kicks-Off This Friday!

    Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend Kicks-Off This Friday!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – The month of love has finally arrived meaning Loveland is finalizing details for its first-ever Hearts Afire Weekend! As the word gets out across the city as to what’s in store for the heart-filled weekend, more local businesses and vendors are getting involved in the festivities. Luckily we have collected all the latest details for Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend so you can be prepared for what’s predicted to be one of the best events Loveland has ever seen!

    Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend will take place February 11th-13th with the majority of the “lovely” activities occurring on Saturday, February 12th. Most of the businesses in Downtown Loveland and on the outskirts of the city will be participating in the Valentine’s Day Weekend festivities!

    Hearts Afire Weekend is set to have a plethora of heart-filled activities including pristine ice sculptures, outdoor Valentine’s Day decorations, live entertainment, a charity date auction, food trucks, speed dating, pet adoptions, love spell workshops, psychics, fire performers, and much more! Here are the latest details on what you can expect from Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend:

    Friday, February 11th

    • Loveland General Store & Eads FenceValentine Photo Contest: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • “Take your most creative valentine photo and check in on Facebook with your photo! The most liked photo will win a 1-night stay at Loveland Farm Airbnb & Event Venue!”
    • Oasis Golf & Conference Center – Annual Valentine Breakfast: 8:30-10:30 a.m.
      • “The Little Miami River Chamber Alliance will honor the 2022 Valentine Lady and announce winners of the annual poetry and art contests.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Hometown Café – Kids Valentine Craft Party: 5-7 p.m.
      • “Create and celebrate Valentine’s Day with a cute craft. This is perfect for kids ages 6-12, and siblings are $5 off. The ticket includes all your supplies, step-by-step instructions, and a snack from Hometown Café.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Downtown Loveland – Galentine Night: 5-8 p.m.
      • “Visit downtown’s shops for chocolate treats, a gift basket giveaway, and shopping specials. The Old School Pix vintage truck will be parked outside Trailside Provisions and decorated for Valentine’s Day pictures!”
      • The following shops will be participating in this event: Alley Boutique, Blume, Busy Bee Boutique, Haven Grey, Lemons & Limes, Loveland Sweet Shoppe, Trailside Provisions, and Welling & Co. Jewelers.
    • Art House II – Art Open House Sale + Raffle: 5-8 p.m.
      • Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”
    • Art House II – Thru the Eyes of Your Beloved: 6 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.
      • “This workshop is an artistic celebration of couples, love, and fun. Start with an optional sip of wine; then sit across from each other at your own easel. Everyone has their own acrylic paints, sets of brushes, and an 11×14 stretched canvas. Paint your beloved as you see them. Neither sees the other’s painting until the end of the work time (35-45 minutes). This is NOT a class, although an Art House II resident will be near if needed. Painters can go for reality or can capture the “spirit” of their beloved. Anything goes! Paintings can be taken with you, picked up later, or picked up the next day so that painters can move on to other activities around the city.) Art House II can accommodate up to four couples per session. Come with friends for even more fun! Allow an hour for a glass of wine, basic use of materials, painting, unveiling of the masterworks, and clean up. Click here to download flier. Inclusive cost is $40 per couple.”
      • “Please call (513) 313-2450 to reserve your spot.”
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits – Cappy’s Charity Date Auction: 6-10 p.m.
      • “Cappy’s will kick off the night with live music on the patio. Eligible dates (store employees, beer/wine reps, and some familiar faces) will walk the red carpet, while those in attendance place their highest bids at the Band’s set break for a night out in Loveland!”
      • The minimum bid will be $50. All proceeds will go towards Furgotten Dog Rescue. Bid on a date on Sat., Feb. 12th or Sun., Feb. 13th.”
      • The date will feature a champagne toast at Cappy’s, chocolate-covered strawberries from Cocoa Bites, a mini-shopping spree at Lemons & Limes, and a small plate from Rodi.”
      • “Fireworks will be set off on Saturday night.”
    • “The Building,” a flexible multi-use space along the Loveland Bike Trail – Couples Painting Class: 6:30-8:30 p.m.
      • “Bring your sweetheart to create a lasting memory together! Two canvases match together to form one cute picture together.”
      • “The design will be Dolphin Love.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Hometown Café – Pick Your Project/DIY Craft Night: 7:30-9:30 p.m.
      • Pick from several different sign-making options, or learn how to etch your own set of glasses.
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets

    Saturday, February 12th

    • Loveland General Store & Eads FenceValentine Photo Contest: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • Take your most creative valentine’s photo at Eads Fence Showroom and check in on Facebook with your photo! The most liked photo will win a 1-night stay at Loveland Farm Airbnb & Event Venue!”
    • Hometown Café – Story Time with the Valentine Ladies: 10 a.m.
      • “Loveland’s Valentine Ladies will read a special children’s story.”
    • Downtown Loveland – Food Trucks: Starting at 10 a.m.
      • Mile 42 Coffee – Dolph’s Dogs – 3-6 p.m.
      • The parking lot of Loveland Regional Animal Hospital (300 W. Loveland Ave.) – The Chili Hut – 4-8 p.m.
      • The parking lot of Loveland Regional Animal Hospital (300 W. Loveland Ave.) – SEA Cuisine – 4-10 p.m.
    • Loveland Branch Library – Valentine Scavenger Hunt: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
    • Fraternal Order of Eagles – Cupid’s Kisses: 11 a.m.
      • “The Eagles will open to the public for drink specials including fireball shots.”
    • Loveland Branch Library – Make Your Own Valentine: 11 a.m. – Noon
    • Loveland Art Studios on Main – Artists’ Love Stories: The Power of Creative Partnerships: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 
      • “Select studio residents will hold an Open House to celebrate ‘Artists’ Love Stories: The Power of Creative Partnerships.’ Community painting participation will be offered. Guests can help create large-scale pieces in artists’ styles, such as the iconic couple Jackson Pollock and Lee Kranz. We’ll have large trash bags to protect your clothing and disposable gloves available for free! We’ll also offer canvases and supplies for creating individual masterpieces for a fee as long as supplies last.”
    • Eads’ Fencing Outdoor Area – Puppy Love” Pet Adoptions: 12-5 p.m.
      • “Meet a new furry friend from Furgotten Dog Rescue. Furgotten Dog Rescue’s mission is to rescue, educate, and advocate for the ‘unlovable’ shelter dogs that are left behind because of their breed, age, appearance, and special needs.”
    • Loveland Station Apartments “Community Room” (110 S. Second St) – Love and Attraction Spell Workshop: 1-4:30 p.m.
      • “Francine Haydon will host 2 45-minute “Love and Attraction Spell” workshops at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.”
      • “In this 45-minute workshop, will learn the do’s and don’ts of spell work and will make your own magickal essential oil for LOVE to take home.”
      • “Workshops will cost $20 per person.”
      • “Tarot Card Readings will cost $20 per person.”
      • “Will accept Cash, Venmo, or Credit Card at the door.”
      • Sign up for the workshops here!
    • Loveland Branch Library – Valentine Button Making: 1-2 p.m.
    • “The Building,” a flexible multi-use space along the Loveland Bike TrailMommy & Me/Daddy & Me Painting Class: 1-3 p.m.
      • Paint a sweet llama portrait together with a parent! Perfect for kids ages 6-10. This class will be taught by Elizabeth Mason of Painting with the Psalms. There will be two llama designs to choose from.
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Heart Painting: 1-4 p.m.
      • February 12th is the International Day of Clay! Celebrate with free hearts to paint. (Pick-up will be two weeks later.)
    • The lobby of Loveland Stage Company – Kitty Kissing Booth: 1-5 p.m.
    • Loveland Station Apartments “Community Room” – Tarot Card Readings: 2-4 p.m.
      • “Sit down with professional tarot and palm reader Francine Haydon for a 10-minute mini ‘Love and Life’ intuitive card reading. Walk-in — first come, first served. The cost is $20 per person, payable at the door by cash, credit, or Venmo. Readings will be held in the Community Room of Loveland Station Apartments (110 S. Second St.).”
      • “Francine Haydon is a professional tarot and palm reader; energy worker; Free Soul counselor and instructor; and ordained minister who has been practicing and teaching metaphysical and spiritual subjects for more than 20 years.  She works out of her home in Union Township and Enchanted Moments in Milford.”
    • Loveland Branch Library – Makerspace & Take: Valentine Wine Bags: 2:30-4 p.m.
    • Graeter’s Ice Cream – Caricature Artist: 3-6 p.m.
      • “Have your portrait drawn! Caricature artist Sarah Stevens will visit Graeter’s from 3-6 p.m. on Saturday. (There will be a small fee, payable to the artist.)” 
    • Art House II – Art Open House Sale + Raffle: 3-8 p.m.
      • Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”
    • Fountain Greene (In front of Fleet Feet/JackRabbit) – L.O.V.E. Dance Party: 4 p.m.
    • Art House II – Thru the Eyes of Your Beloved: 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., or 7 p.m.
      • “This workshop is an artistic celebration of couples, love, and fun. Start with an optional sip of wine; then sit across from each other at your own easel. Everyone has their own acrylic paints, sets of brushes, and an 11×14 stretched canvas. Paint your beloved as you see them. Neither sees the other’s painting until the end of the work time (35-45 minutes). This is NOT a class, although an Art House II resident will be near if needed. Painters can go for reality or can capture the “spirit” of their beloved. Anything goes! Paintings can be taken with you, picked up later, or picked up the next day so that painters can move on to other activities around the city.) Art House II can accommodate up to four couples per session. Come with friends for even more fun! Allow an hour for a glass of wine, basic use of materials, painting, unveiling of the masterworks, and clean up. Click here to download flier. Inclusive cost is $40 per couple.”
      • “Please call (513) 313-2450 to reserve your spot.”
    • Hometown Café – Warm Up Your Heart Hot Chocolate Bar:: 4-8 p.m.
      • “Hometown will have a hot chocolate bar and loaded sweet potato chips (pulled pork bbq and other toppings) on the patio!”
      • “The cafe will be open serving up coffee, espresso, and snacks!”
    • Loveland City Hall – Heartland Market: 4-9 p.m.
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Oda Mae Brown Community Bonfire: 5-8 p.m.
      • Visit for a community bonfire. (Will not occur if raining)
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Ghost Photo Op: 5-8 p.m.
      • “Reenact the iconic scene from the movie Ghost with Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore.”
    • Lemons and Limes Boutique – Psychic Readings: 5-10 p.m.
      • “Stop by Lemons and Limes to see what your future holds!”
      • “Two psychics will be available for walk-in readings.”
    • Mile 42 Coffee – Cupid’s Couple Challenge: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
      • “How well do you know your significant other? In Loveland’s spin on The Newlywed Game, couples will answer questions to reveal how well they know each other.”
    • Downtown Loveland – Ice Sculpture Walking Tour: 6 p.m.
      • Enjoy a self-guided walking tour exploring unique ice sculptures! There will be more than 20 sculptures on display throughout the downtown area. Take a ‘sculpture selfie’ and share it on social media using the official event hashtag #LovelandHeartsAfire. View the map!”
      • Explore the city – find Mickey Mouse, Cincinnati Bengals, Olaf from Frozen, and other unique single-block sculptures:
    Presented BySculpture Location
    Bishop’s Quarter212 W. Loveland Ave.
    Bond Furniture and Design113 Karl Brown Way
    Cappy’s Wine and Spirits (2 at this location)309 W. Loveland Ave.
    Cindy’s Friendly Tavern125 Karl Brown Way
    City Hall120 W. Loveland Ave.
    Hometown Cafe111 Railroad Ave.
    Lemons and Limes Boutique301 W Loveland Ave.
    Loveland Pediatric DentistrySweetheart Lane: Along Bike Trail near Trailside Provisions
    Loveland-Symmes Community Firefighters AssociationBrown’s Crossing: Front of the building near Haven Grey and Blume
    Loveland Sweet Shoppe124 W. Loveland Ave.
    Mile 42 Coffee133 Broadway St.
    Paxton’s Grill126 W. Loveland Ave.
    Premier Tumbling & DanceSweetheart Lane: Along Bike Trail near Trailside Provisions
    Railway Barber Shop106 Railroad Ave.
    Ramsey’s Trailside200 W. Loveland Ave.
    RP Diamond Printing & EmbroideryClock Tower: Along Bike Trail near Ramsey’s Trailside
    Tano Bistro204 W. Loveland Ave.
    The Landing Event Center119 Karl Brown Way
    The Loveland Lofts119 Karl Brown Way (Placed at The Landing Event Center)
    The Works Pizza20 Grear Millitzer Place
    Trailside Provisions120 Karl Brown Way (Sweetheart Lane along Bike Trail)
    Upper Cut Hair Design600 W. Loveland Ave.
    • Loveland City Hall Lawn & Loveland Symmes Fire Station 63 – Ice Carving Demonstration: 6-9 p.m.
      • “See professional ice sculptors carve art right before your eyes! The night will feature two demonstrations. The first will consist of four blocks of ice, stacked to make one large sculpture standing approximately 6 ft. tall. The second demonstration ­will be a fire and ice tower with real flames illuminating from the ice!”
    • Fountain Greene (In front of JackRabbit/Fleet Feet) – “Eskimo Kisses Village”: 6 p.m.
      • “Play a round of skeeball on ice! There will be photo opportunities in this area too.”
      • “The Shamrocker will be featured as music entertainment!
    • Loveland City Hall Lawn and around Downtown Loveland – Fire Performers: 6-9 p.m.
      • “These fire twirlers will warm up the night. You won’t want to miss their tricks!”
    • “The Building,” a flexible multi-use space along the Loveland Bike TrailCouples Painting Class: 6-8 p.m.
      • “Bring your sweetheart to create a lasting memory together! No prior art experience is necessary. Two 16″x 20″ canvases create one cute picture together.” 
      • “The design will be Winter Birch Trees.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • “Mask”erade Ball & After PartyBall: The Landing Event Center
      After Party: Bishop’s Quarter
      : 6:30-11 p.m.
      • “Dinner, open bar, valet parking, live music by the Nasty Nati Brass Band! This event benefits the Candice M. Cook Scholarship Foundation for Excellence in Paramedic & Firefighter Education. The band will lead the 2nd Line Parade to Bishop’s Quarter.”
      • “Read all about the ‘Mask’erade Ball here!”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Historic Downtown Loveland – (Truck) Loads of Love: 7-9 p.m.
      • “Have your photo taken (for free) in Old School Pix’s vintage truck. The truck will be decked out for Valentine’s Day.”
    • The Works Pizza – “Single in the City” Speed Dating: 7-9 p.m.
      • “The Works historical train care will host Speed Dating for those that are 21 and over!”
      • “Sessions will be at 7, 7:30, 8, and 8:30 p.m.”
      • “Online registration will be required in advance via Sign Up Genius. Sign up here!”
    • The 1859 Historic Loveland Chapel – Vow Renewals – I Do, I Do, Take Two: 7-9 p.m.
      • Enjoy an interactive vow renewal group ceremony with your loved one!
      • Ceremonies will take place every 30 minutes on the chapel stairs beginning at 7 p.m..
      • Vow renewal ceremonies are not intended to be second weddings. There is no fee.
        • There is no need to pre-register.
        • Couples will not receive any certificate and/or ‘proof’ of renewal.
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits – Vow Renewals – Burning Love: 10 p.m.
      • Enjoy an interactive vow renewal group ceremony at the “Little White Cappy Chapel” performed by Elvis A.K.A. Mayor Kathy Bailey!”
      • Vow renewal ceremonies are not intended to be second weddings. There is no fee.
        • There is no need to pre-register.
        • Couples will not receive any certificate and/or ‘proof’ of renewal.
    • Ignite the Night Fireworks Show: 10:30 p.m.

    Sunday, February 13th

    • Loveland Bike Trail – Chasing Cupid 5K: 9 a.m.
      • “Fleet Feet (formerly JackRabbit) will host the first Chasing Cupid 5K! This will be a fun run/walk taking place along the trail.”
      • “Meet at Fleet Feet; then the group will begin the course. There is no registration fee or advanced registration required.”
    •  Loveland Art Studios on Main – Artists’ Love Stories The Power of Creative Partnerships: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • “The finished pieces of artwork will be exhibited and raffles will take place! Proceeds will support the new Art League of Loveland. Membership opportunities will be available.”
    • Art House II – Art Open House + Raffle: 12:30-5 p.m.
      • Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”
    • Art House II – Thru the Eyes of Your Beloved: 1 p.m. or 2:30 p.m.
      • “This workshop is an artistic celebration of couples, love, and fun. Start with an optional sip of wine; then sit across from each other at your own easel. Everyone has their own acrylic paints, sets of brushes, and an 11×14 stretched canvas. Paint your beloved as you see them. Neither sees the other’s painting until the end of the work time (35-45 minutes). This is NOT a class, although an Art House II resident will be near if needed. Painters can go for reality or can capture the “spirit” of their beloved. Anything goes! Paintings can be taken with you, picked up later, or picked up the next day so that painters can move on to other activities around the city.) Art House II can accommodate up to four couples per session. Come with friends for even more fun! Allow an hour for a glass of wine, basic use of materials, painting, unveiling of the masterworks, and clean up. Click here to download flier. Inclusive cost is $40 per couple.”
      • “Please call (513) 313-2450 to reserve your spot.”

    The following local business will be hosting specials and activities ALL WEEKEND long for Loveland’s Hearts Afire:

    • Alley Boutique – Will be having chocolate samples and a “Full Heart” Sale.
    • Busy Bee Boutique: Heartstrings Game – Customers will pull a heartstring to reveal great discounts and prizes!
    • Brown’s Crossing: Diaper Drop – Collecting diapers for charity. Any size, any brand.
    • Brittney Frietch RE/MAX Preferred Group: What do you love about Loveland? Visit an interactive outdoor display, where you can leave your message.
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits: $1 off every pint (Friday and Saturday). Cappy’s is donating $1 per pint and glass of wine sold on Friday and Saturday to the Furgotten Dog Rescue.
    • Haven Grey: Giveaway with purchase.
    • Hometown Café: Selling cookie decorating kits by Lovebug Cookies. Customers may pre-order kits in advance.
    • Loveland Sweet Shoppe: Stop by and enter the raffle for your chance to win romantic prizes including a wine and chocolate tasting, dinner for two at Tano Bistro, and private dance lessons!
    • Mile 42 Coffee: Valentine drinks all weekend!
    • Plaid Room Records: Anniversary sale.
    • Railway Barber Shop: Weekend specials.
    • Ramsey’s Trailside: Enjoy valentine specials and a package deal featuring 2 entrees, dessert & wine!
    • Loveland TAHONA Kitchen+Bar: Love on the rocks (or frozen)…enjoy the featured cocktail, a Strawberry Margarita, for the weekend.
    • Trailside Provisions: Craft a sweet vale­ntine card for residents at Loveland Healthcare. Also enjoy samples, including bloody mary’s, through the weekend!
    • The Works Pizza: Serving Valen-tinis (martinis) for Valentine’s weekend.

    Parking
    There are several free public parking lots in Historic Downtown Loveland. Click here to view the public parking map.

    Some downtown businesses also operate private, paid lots.

    ShuttleSaturday, Feb. 12th
    Parking shuttles will be transporting eventgoers continuously to the downtown area beginning at 5 p.m. The city has arranged a park-and-ride location located at Shopper’s Haven (597 Loveland-Madeira Road). The drop-off location will be at Schutte Dry Cleaning (401 W. Loveland Ave.). Please note eventgoers will need to walk to the festivities from the drop-off location. 

    We are so excited about this historical moment for the city of Loveland! We hope to see all of you love birds at Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend!

    For the latest 411 on local events stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

  • Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend Kicks-Off This Friday!

    Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend Kicks-Off This Friday!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – The month of love has finally arrived meaning Loveland is finalizing details for its first-ever Hearts Afire Weekend! As the word gets out across the city as to what’s in store for the heart-filled weekend, more local businesses and vendors are getting involved in the festivities. Luckily we have collected all the latest details for Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend so you can be prepared for what’s predicted to be one of the best events Loveland has ever seen!

    Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend will take place February 11th-13th with the majority of the “lovely” activities occurring on Saturday, February 12th. Most of the businesses in Downtown Loveland and on the outskirts of the city will be participating in the Valentine’s Day Weekend festivities!

    Hearts Afire Weekend is set to have a plethora of heart-filled activities including pristine ice sculptures, outdoor Valentine’s Day decorations, live entertainment, a charity date auction, food trucks, speed dating, pet adoptions, love spell workshops, psychics, fire performers, and much more! Here are the latest details on what you can expect from Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend:

    Friday, February 11th

    • Loveland General Store & Eads FenceValentine Photo Contest: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • “Take your most creative valentine photo and check in on Facebook with your photo! The most liked photo will win a 1-night stay at Loveland Farm Airbnb & Event Venue!”
    • Oasis Golf & Conference Center – Annual Valentine Breakfast: 8:30-10:30 a.m.
      • “The Little Miami River Chamber Alliance will honor the 2022 Valentine Lady and announce winners of the annual poetry and art contests.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Hometown Café – Kids Valentine Craft Party: 5-7 p.m.
      • “Create and celebrate Valentine’s Day with a cute craft. This is perfect for kids ages 6-12, and siblings are $5 off. The ticket includes all your supplies, step-by-step instructions, and a snack from Hometown Café.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Downtown Loveland – Galentine Night: 5-8 p.m.
      • “Visit downtown’s shops for chocolate treats, a gift basket giveaway, and shopping specials. The Old School Pix vintage truck will be parked outside Trailside Provisions and decorated for Valentine’s Day pictures!”
      • The following shops will be participating in this event: Alley Boutique, Blume, Busy Bee Boutique, Haven Grey, Lemons & Limes, Loveland Sweet Shoppe, Trailside Provisions, and Welling & Co. Jewelers.
    • Art House II – Art Open House Sale + Raffle: 5-8 p.m.
      • Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”
    • Art House II – Thru the Eyes of Your Beloved: 6 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.
      • “This workshop is an artistic celebration of couples, love, and fun. Start with an optional sip of wine; then sit across from each other at your own easel. Everyone has their own acrylic paints, sets of brushes, and an 11×14 stretched canvas. Paint your beloved as you see them. Neither sees the other’s painting until the end of the work time (35-45 minutes). This is NOT a class, although an Art House II resident will be near if needed. Painters can go for reality or can capture the “spirit” of their beloved. Anything goes! Paintings can be taken with you, picked up later, or picked up the next day so that painters can move on to other activities around the city.) Art House II can accommodate up to four couples per session. Come with friends for even more fun! Allow an hour for a glass of wine, basic use of materials, painting, unveiling of the masterworks, and clean up. Click here to download flier. Inclusive cost is $40 per couple.”
      • “Please call (513) 313-2450 to reserve your spot.”
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits – Cappy’s Charity Date Auction: 6-10 p.m.
      • “Cappy’s will kick off the night with live music on the patio. Eligible dates (store employees, beer/wine reps, and some familiar faces) will walk the red carpet, while those in attendance place their highest bids at the Band’s set break for a night out in Loveland!”
      • The minimum bid will be $50. All proceeds will go towards Furgotten Dog Rescue. Bid on a date on Sat., Feb. 12th or Sun., Feb. 13th.”
      • The date will feature a champagne toast at Cappy’s, chocolate-covered strawberries from Cocoa Bites, a mini-shopping spree at Lemons & Limes, and a small plate from Rodi.”
      • “Fireworks will be set off on Saturday night.”
    • “The Building,” a flexible multi-use space along the Loveland Bike Trail – Couples Painting Class: 6:30-8:30 p.m.
      • “Bring your sweetheart to create a lasting memory together! Two canvases match together to form one cute picture together.”
      • “The design will be Dolphin Love.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Hometown Café – Pick Your Project/DIY Craft Night: 7:30-9:30 p.m.
      • Pick from several different sign-making options, or learn how to etch your own set of glasses.
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets

    Saturday, February 12th

    • Loveland General Store & Eads FenceValentine Photo Contest: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • Take your most creative valentine’s photo at Eads Fence Showroom and check in on Facebook with your photo! The most liked photo will win a 1-night stay at Loveland Farm Airbnb & Event Venue!”
    • Hometown Café – Story Time with the Valentine Ladies: 10 a.m.
      • “Loveland’s Valentine Ladies will read a special children’s story.”
    • Downtown Loveland – Food Trucks: Starting at 10 a.m.
      • Mile 42 Coffee – Dolph’s Dogs – 3-6 p.m.
      • The parking lot of Loveland Regional Animal Hospital (300 W. Loveland Ave.) – The Chili Hut – 4-8 p.m.
      • The parking lot of Loveland Regional Animal Hospital (300 W. Loveland Ave.) – SEA Cuisine – 4-10 p.m.
    • Loveland Branch Library – Valentine Scavenger Hunt: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
    • Fraternal Order of Eagles – Cupid’s Kisses: 11 a.m.
      • “The Eagles will open to the public for drink specials including fireball shots.”
    • Loveland Branch Library – Make Your Own Valentine: 11 a.m. – Noon
    • Loveland Art Studios on Main – Artists’ Love Stories: The Power of Creative Partnerships: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 
      • “Select studio residents will hold an Open House to celebrate ‘Artists’ Love Stories: The Power of Creative Partnerships.’ Community painting participation will be offered. Guests can help create large-scale pieces in artists’ styles, such as the iconic couple Jackson Pollock and Lee Kranz. We’ll have large trash bags to protect your clothing and disposable gloves available for free! We’ll also offer canvases and supplies for creating individual masterpieces for a fee as long as supplies last.”
    • Eads’ Fencing Outdoor Area – Puppy Love” Pet Adoptions: 12-5 p.m.
      • “Meet a new furry friend from Furgotten Dog Rescue. Furgotten Dog Rescue’s mission is to rescue, educate, and advocate for the ‘unlovable’ shelter dogs that are left behind because of their breed, age, appearance, and special needs.”
    • Loveland Station Apartments “Community Room” (110 S. Second St) – Love and Attraction Spell Workshop: 1-4:30 p.m.
      • “Francine Haydon will host 2 45-minute “Love and Attraction Spell” workshops at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.”
      • “In this 45-minute workshop, will learn the do’s and don’ts of spell work and will make your own magickal essential oil for LOVE to take home.”
      • “Workshops will cost $20 per person.”
      • “Tarot Card Readings will cost $20 per person.”
      • “Will accept Cash, Venmo, or Credit Card at the door.”
      • Sign up for the workshops here!
    • Loveland Branch Library – Valentine Button Making: 1-2 p.m.
    • “The Building,” a flexible multi-use space along the Loveland Bike TrailMommy & Me/Daddy & Me Painting Class: 1-3 p.m.
      • Paint a sweet llama portrait together with a parent! Perfect for kids ages 6-10. This class will be taught by Elizabeth Mason of Painting with the Psalms. There will be two llama designs to choose from.
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Heart Painting: 1-4 p.m.
      • February 12th is the International Day of Clay! Celebrate with free hearts to paint. (Pick-up will be two weeks later.)
    • The lobby of Loveland Stage Company – Kitty Kissing Booth: 1-5 p.m.
    • Loveland Station Apartments “Community Room” – Tarot Card Readings: 2-4 p.m.
      • “Sit down with professional tarot and palm reader Francine Haydon for a 10-minute mini ‘Love and Life’ intuitive card reading. Walk-in — first come, first served. The cost is $20 per person, payable at the door by cash, credit, or Venmo. Readings will be held in the Community Room of Loveland Station Apartments (110 S. Second St.).”
      • “Francine Haydon is a professional tarot and palm reader; energy worker; Free Soul counselor and instructor; and ordained minister who has been practicing and teaching metaphysical and spiritual subjects for more than 20 years.  She works out of her home in Union Township and Enchanted Moments in Milford.”
    • Loveland Branch Library – Makerspace & Take: Valentine Wine Bags: 2:30-4 p.m.
    • Graeter’s Ice Cream – Caricature Artist: 3-6 p.m.
      • “Have your portrait drawn! Caricature artist Sarah Stevens will visit Graeter’s from 3-6 p.m. on Saturday. (There will be a small fee, payable to the artist.)” 
    • Art House II – Art Open House Sale + Raffle: 3-8 p.m.
      • Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”
    • Fountain Greene (In front of Fleet Feet/JackRabbit) – L.O.V.E. Dance Party: 4 p.m.
    • Art House II – Thru the Eyes of Your Beloved: 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., or 7 p.m.
      • “This workshop is an artistic celebration of couples, love, and fun. Start with an optional sip of wine; then sit across from each other at your own easel. Everyone has their own acrylic paints, sets of brushes, and an 11×14 stretched canvas. Paint your beloved as you see them. Neither sees the other’s painting until the end of the work time (35-45 minutes). This is NOT a class, although an Art House II resident will be near if needed. Painters can go for reality or can capture the “spirit” of their beloved. Anything goes! Paintings can be taken with you, picked up later, or picked up the next day so that painters can move on to other activities around the city.) Art House II can accommodate up to four couples per session. Come with friends for even more fun! Allow an hour for a glass of wine, basic use of materials, painting, unveiling of the masterworks, and clean up. Click here to download flier. Inclusive cost is $40 per couple.”
      • “Please call (513) 313-2450 to reserve your spot.”
    • Hometown Café – Warm Up Your Heart Hot Chocolate Bar:: 4-8 p.m.
      • “Hometown will have a hot chocolate bar and loaded sweet potato chips (pulled pork bbq and other toppings) on the patio!”
      • “The cafe will be open serving up coffee, espresso, and snacks!”
    • Loveland City Hall – Heartland Market: 4-9 p.m.
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Oda Mae Brown Community Bonfire: 5-8 p.m.
      • Visit for a community bonfire. (Will not occur if raining)
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Ghost Photo Op: 5-8 p.m.
      • “Reenact the iconic scene from the movie Ghost with Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore.”
    • Lemons and Limes Boutique – Psychic Readings: 5-10 p.m.
      • “Stop by Lemons and Limes to see what your future holds!”
      • “Two psychics will be available for walk-in readings.”
    • Mile 42 Coffee – Cupid’s Couple Challenge: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
      • “How well do you know your significant other? In Loveland’s spin on The Newlywed Game, couples will answer questions to reveal how well they know each other.”
    • Downtown Loveland – Ice Sculpture Walking Tour: 6 p.m.
      • Enjoy a self-guided walking tour exploring unique ice sculptures! There will be more than 20 sculptures on display throughout the downtown area. Take a ‘sculpture selfie’ and share it on social media using the official event hashtag #LovelandHeartsAfire. View the map!”
      • Explore the city – find Mickey Mouse, Cincinnati Bengals, Olaf from Frozen, and other unique single-block sculptures:
    Presented BySculpture Location
    Bishop’s Quarter212 W. Loveland Ave.
    Bond Furniture and Design113 Karl Brown Way
    Cappy’s Wine and Spirits (2 at this location)309 W. Loveland Ave.
    Cindy’s Friendly Tavern125 Karl Brown Way
    City Hall120 W. Loveland Ave.
    Hometown Cafe111 Railroad Ave.
    Lemons and Limes Boutique301 W Loveland Ave.
    Loveland Pediatric DentistrySweetheart Lane: Along Bike Trail near Trailside Provisions
    Loveland-Symmes Community Firefighters AssociationBrown’s Crossing: Front of the building near Haven Grey and Blume
    Loveland Sweet Shoppe124 W. Loveland Ave.
    Mile 42 Coffee133 Broadway St.
    Paxton’s Grill126 W. Loveland Ave.
    Premier Tumbling & DanceSweetheart Lane: Along Bike Trail near Trailside Provisions
    Railway Barber Shop106 Railroad Ave.
    Ramsey’s Trailside200 W. Loveland Ave.
    RP Diamond Printing & EmbroideryClock Tower: Along Bike Trail near Ramsey’s Trailside
    Tano Bistro204 W. Loveland Ave.
    The Landing Event Center119 Karl Brown Way
    The Loveland Lofts119 Karl Brown Way (Placed at The Landing Event Center)
    The Works Pizza20 Grear Millitzer Place
    Trailside Provisions120 Karl Brown Way (Sweetheart Lane along Bike Trail)
    Upper Cut Hair Design600 W. Loveland Ave.
    • Loveland City Hall Lawn & Loveland Symmes Fire Station 63 – Ice Carving Demonstration: 6-9 p.m.
      • “See professional ice sculptors carve art right before your eyes! The night will feature two demonstrations. The first will consist of four blocks of ice, stacked to make one large sculpture standing approximately 6 ft. tall. The second demonstration ­will be a fire and ice tower with real flames illuminating from the ice!”
    • Fountain Greene (In front of JackRabbit/Fleet Feet) – “Eskimo Kisses Village”: 6 p.m.
      • “Play a round of skeeball on ice! There will be photo opportunities in this area too.”
      • “The Shamrocker will be featured as music entertainment!
    • Loveland City Hall Lawn and around Downtown Loveland – Fire Performers: 6-9 p.m.
      • “These fire twirlers will warm up the night. You won’t want to miss their tricks!”
    • “The Building,” a flexible multi-use space along the Loveland Bike TrailCouples Painting Class: 6-8 p.m.
      • “Bring your sweetheart to create a lasting memory together! No prior art experience is necessary. Two 16″x 20″ canvases create one cute picture together.” 
      • “The design will be Winter Birch Trees.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • “Mask”erade Ball & After PartyBall: The Landing Event Center
      After Party: Bishop’s Quarter
      : 6:30-11 p.m.
      • “Dinner, open bar, valet parking, live music by the Nasty Nati Brass Band! This event benefits the Candice M. Cook Scholarship Foundation for Excellence in Paramedic & Firefighter Education. The band will lead the 2nd Line Parade to Bishop’s Quarter.”
      • “Read all about the ‘Mask’erade Ball here!”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Historic Downtown Loveland – (Truck) Loads of Love: 7-9 p.m.
      • “Have your photo taken (for free) in Old School Pix’s vintage truck. The truck will be decked out for Valentine’s Day.”
    • The Works Pizza – “Single in the City” Speed Dating: 7-9 p.m.
      • “The Works historical train care will host Speed Dating for those that are 21 and over!”
      • “Sessions will be at 7, 7:30, 8, and 8:30 p.m.”
      • “Online registration will be required in advance via Sign Up Genius. Sign up here!”
    • The 1859 Historic Loveland Chapel – Vow Renewals – I Do, I Do, Take Two: 7-9 p.m.
      • Enjoy an interactive vow renewal group ceremony with your loved one!
      • Ceremonies will take place every 30 minutes on the chapel stairs beginning at 7 p.m..
      • Vow renewal ceremonies are not intended to be second weddings. There is no fee.
        • There is no need to pre-register.
        • Couples will not receive any certificate and/or ‘proof’ of renewal.
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits – Vow Renewals – Burning Love: 10 p.m.
      • Enjoy an interactive vow renewal group ceremony at the “Little White Cappy Chapel” performed by Elvis A.K.A. Mayor Kathy Bailey!”
      • Vow renewal ceremonies are not intended to be second weddings. There is no fee.
        • There is no need to pre-register.
        • Couples will not receive any certificate and/or ‘proof’ of renewal.
    • Ignite the Night Fireworks Show: 10:30 p.m.

    Sunday, February 13th

    • Loveland Bike Trail – Chasing Cupid 5K: 9 a.m.
      • “Fleet Feet (formerly JackRabbit) will host the first Chasing Cupid 5K! This will be a fun run/walk taking place along the trail.”
      • “Meet at Fleet Feet; then the group will begin the course. There is no registration fee or advanced registration required.”
    •  Loveland Art Studios on Main – Artists’ Love Stories The Power of Creative Partnerships: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • “The finished pieces of artwork will be exhibited and raffles will take place! Proceeds will support the new Art League of Loveland. Membership opportunities will be available.”
    • Art House II – Art Open House + Raffle: 12:30-5 p.m.
      • Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”
    • Art House II – Thru the Eyes of Your Beloved: 1 p.m. or 2:30 p.m.
      • “This workshop is an artistic celebration of couples, love, and fun. Start with an optional sip of wine; then sit across from each other at your own easel. Everyone has their own acrylic paints, sets of brushes, and an 11×14 stretched canvas. Paint your beloved as you see them. Neither sees the other’s painting until the end of the work time (35-45 minutes). This is NOT a class, although an Art House II resident will be near if needed. Painters can go for reality or can capture the “spirit” of their beloved. Anything goes! Paintings can be taken with you, picked up later, or picked up the next day so that painters can move on to other activities around the city.) Art House II can accommodate up to four couples per session. Come with friends for even more fun! Allow an hour for a glass of wine, basic use of materials, painting, unveiling of the masterworks, and clean up. Click here to download flier. Inclusive cost is $40 per couple.”
      • “Please call (513) 313-2450 to reserve your spot.”

    The following local business will be hosting specials and activities ALL WEEKEND long for Loveland’s Hearts Afire:

    • Alley Boutique – Will be having chocolate samples and a “Full Heart” Sale.
    • Busy Bee Boutique: Heartstrings Game – Customers will pull a heartstring to reveal great discounts and prizes!
    • Brown’s Crossing: Diaper Drop – Collecting diapers for charity. Any size, any brand.
    • Brittney Frietch RE/MAX Preferred Group: What do you love about Loveland? Visit an interactive outdoor display, where you can leave your message.
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits: $1 off every pint (Friday and Saturday). Cappy’s is donating $1 per pint and glass of wine sold on Friday and Saturday to the Furgotten Dog Rescue.
    • Haven Grey: Giveaway with purchase.
    • Hometown Café: Selling cookie decorating kits by Lovebug Cookies. Customers may pre-order kits in advance.
    • Loveland Sweet Shoppe: Stop by and enter the raffle for your chance to win romantic prizes including a wine and chocolate tasting, dinner for two at Tano Bistro, and private dance lessons!
    • Mile 42 Coffee: Valentine drinks all weekend!
    • Plaid Room Records: Anniversary sale.
    • Railway Barber Shop: Weekend specials.
    • Ramsey’s Trailside: Enjoy valentine specials and a package deal featuring 2 entrees, dessert & wine!
    • Loveland TAHONA Kitchen+Bar: Love on the rocks (or frozen)…enjoy the featured cocktail, a Strawberry Margarita, for the weekend.
    • Trailside Provisions: Craft a sweet vale­ntine card for residents at Loveland Healthcare. Also enjoy samples, including bloody mary’s, through the weekend!
    • The Works Pizza: Serving Valen-tinis (martinis) for Valentine’s weekend.

    Parking
    There are several free public parking lots in Historic Downtown Loveland. Click here to view the public parking map.

    Some downtown businesses also operate private, paid lots.

    ShuttleSaturday, Feb. 12th
    Parking shuttles will be transporting eventgoers continuously to the downtown area beginning at 5 p.m. The city has arranged a park-and-ride location located at Shopper’s Haven (597 Loveland-Madeira Road). The drop-off location will be at Schutte Dry Cleaning (401 W. Loveland Ave.). Please note eventgoers will need to walk to the festivities from the drop-off location. 

    We are so excited about this historical moment for the city of Loveland! We hope to see all of you love birds at Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend!

    For the latest 411 on local events stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

  • February is Nearly Here; Will we be Seeing you at Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend?

    February is Nearly Here; Will we be Seeing you at Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend?

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – Love is in the air in the city of Loveland as February is almost here! Loveland is getting prepared for Valentine’s Day the “Sweetheart of Ohio” way and of course what is a better way to celebrate than attending Loveland’s 1st Hearts Afire Weekend!

    The Hearts Afire Weekend will take place February 11th-13th with the majority of the “lovely” activities occurring on Saturday, February 12th. Most of the businesses in Downtown Loveland and on the outskirts of the city will be participating in the Valentine’s Day Weekend festivities!

    “Many say that Loveland feels like a Hallmark movie in February because of our name,” said Loveland’s Mayor, Kathy Bailey. “Since our town is nicknamed the ‘Sweetheart of Ohio,’ we officially want to hold an event to celebrate and invite everyone to visit us!”

    The Hearts Afire Weekend is set to have a plethora of heart-filled activities including carriage rides, pristine ice sculptures, outdoor Valentine’s Day decorations, live entertainment, and fire performers. Here are the latest details on what you can expect from Hearts Afire Weekend:

    Friday, February 11th

    • Loveland General Store & Eads FenceValentine Photo Contest: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • “Take your most creative valentine photo and check in on Facebook with your photo! The most liked photo will win a 1-night stay at Loveland Farm Airbnb & Event Venue!”
    • Oasis Golf & Conference Center – Annual Valentine Breakfast: 8:30-10:30 a.m.
      • “The Little Miami River Chamber Alliance will honor the 2022 Valentine Lady and announce winners of the annual poetry and art contests.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Hometown Café – Kids Valentine Craft Party: 5-7 p.m.
      • “Create and celebrate Valentine’s Day with a cute craft. This is perfect for kids ages 6-12, and siblings are $5 off. The ticket includes all your supplies, step-by-step instructions, and a snack from Hometown Café.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Downtown Loveland – Galentine Night: 5-8 p.m.
      • “Visit downtown’s shops for chocolate treats, a gift basket giveaway, and shopping specials. The Old School Pix vintage truck will be parked outside Trailside Provisions and decorated for Valentine’s Day pictures!”
      • The following shops will be participating in this event: Alley Boutique, Blume, Busy Bee Boutique, Haven Grey, Lemons & Limes, Loveland Sweet Shoppe, Trailside Provisions, and Welling & Co. Jewelers.
    • Art House II – Art Open House Sale + Raffle: 5-9 p.m.
      • Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”
    • Art House II – Thru the Eyes of Your Beloved: 6 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.
      • “This workshop is an artistic celebration of couples, love, and fun. Start with an optional sip of wine; then sit across from each other at your own easel. Everyone has their own acrylic paints, sets of brushes, and an 11×14 stretched canvas. Paint your beloved as you see them. Neither sees the other’s painting until the end of the work time (35-45 minutes). This is NOT a class, although an Art House II resident will be near if needed. Painters can go for reality or can capture the “spirit” of their beloved. Anything goes! Paintings can be taken with you, picked up later, or picked up the next day so that painters can move on to other activities around the city.) Art House II can accommodate up to four couples per session. Come with friends for even more fun! Allow an hour for a glass of wine, basic use of materials, painting, unveiling of the masterworks, and clean up. Click here to download flier. Inclusive cost is $40 per couple.”
      • “Please call (513) 313-2450 to reserve your spot.”
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits – Cappy’s Charity Date Auction: 6-10 p.m.
      • “Cappy’s will kick off the night with live music on the patio. Eligible dates (store employees, beer/wine reps, and some familiar faces) will walk the red carpet, while those in attendance place their highest bids at the Band’s set break for a night out in Loveland!”
      • The minimum bid will be $50. All proceeds will go towards Furgotten Dog Rescue. Bid on a date on Sat., Feb. 12th or Sun., Feb. 13th.”
      • The date will feature a champagne toast at Cappy’s, chocolate-covered strawberries from Cocoa Bites, a mini-shopping spree at Lemons & Limes, and a small plate from Rodi.”
      • “Fireworks will be set of on Saturday night.”
    • “The Building,” a flexible mult-use space along the Loveland Bike Trail – Couples Painting Class: 6:30-8:30 p.m.
      • “Bring your sweetheart to create a lasting memory together! Two canvases match together to form one cute picture together.”
      • “The design will be Dolphin Love.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Hometown Café – Pick Your Project/DIY Craft Night: 7:30-9:30 p.m.
      • Pick from several different sign-making options, or learn how to etch your own set of glasses.
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets

    Saturday, February 12th

    • Loveland General Store & Eads FenceValentine Photo Contest: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • Take your most creative valentine photo and check in on Facebook with your photo! The most liked photo will win a 1-night stay at Loveland Farm Airbnb & Event Venue!”
    • Hometown Café – Story Time with the Valentine Ladies: 10 a.m.
      • “Loveland’s Valentine Ladies will read a special children’s story.”
    • Downtown Loveland – Food Trucks: Starting at 10 a.m.
      • Mile 42 Coffee – Dolph’s Dogs – 3-6 p.m.
      • Parking lot of Loveland Regional Animal Hospital (300 W. Loveland Ave.) – The Chili Hut – 4-8 p.m.
      • Parking lot of Loveland Regional Animal Hospital (300 W. Loveland Ave.) – SEA Cuisine – 4-10 p.m.
    • Loveland Branch Library – Valentine Scavenger Hunt: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
    • Fraternal Order of Eagles – Cupid’s Kisses: 11 a.m.
      • “The Eagles will open to the public for drink specials including fireball shots.”
    • Loveland Branch Library – Make Your Own Valentine: 11 a.m. – Noon
    • Loveland Art Studios on Main – Artists’ Love Stories: The Power of Creative Partnerships: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 
      • “Select studio residents will hold an Open House to celebrate ‘Artists’ Love Stories: The Power of Creative Partnerships.’ Community painting participation will be offered. Guests can help create large-scale pieces in artists’ styles, such as the iconic couple Jackson Pollock and Lee Kranz. We’ll have large trash bags to protect your clothing and disposable gloves available for free! We’ll also offer canvases and supplies for creating individual masterpieces for a fee as long as supplies last.”
    • Eads’ Fencing Outdoor Area – Puppy Love” Pet Adoptions: 12-5 p.m.
      • “Meet a new furry friend from Furgotten Dog Rescue. Furgotten Dog Rescue’s mission is to rescue, educate, and advocate for the ‘unlovable’ shelter dogs that are left behind because of their breed, age, appearance, and special needs.”
    • Loveland Branch Library – Valentine Button Making: 1-2 p.m.
    • “The Building,” a flexible mult-use space along the Loveland Bike TrailMommy & Me/Daddy & Me Painting Class: 1-3 p.m.
      • Paint a sweet llama portrait together with a parent! Perfect for kids ages 6-10. This class will be taught by Elizabeth Mason of Painting with the Psalms. There will be two llama designs to choose from.
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Heart Painting: 1-4 p.m.
      • February 12th is the International Day of Clay! Celebrate with free hearts to paint. (Pick-up will be two weeks later.)
    • Loveland Station Apartments “Community Room” – Love and Attraction Spell Workshop: 1-4:30 p.m.
      • “Francine Haydon will host 2 45-minute “Love and Attraction Spell” workshops at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.”
      • “Workshops will cost $20 per person.”
      • “From 2-4 p.m. Francine will host 10-minute mini ‘Love and Life’ intuitive Tarot Card Readings.”
      • “Tarot Card Readings will cost $20 per person.”
      • “Will accept Cash, Venmo, or Credit Card.”
      • Sign up for the workshops here!
    • Lobby of Loveland Stage Company – Kitty Kissing Booth: 1-5 p.m.
    • Loveland Station Apartments “Community Room” – Tarot Card Readings: 2-4 p.m.
      • “Is love in your future? What do the cards say? Sit down with professional tarot and palm reader Francine Haydon for a 10-minute mini “Love and Life” intuitive card reading. Walk-in — first come, first served. Cost is $20 per person, payable at the door by cash, credit, or Venmo. Readings will be held in the Community Room of Loveland Station Apartments (110 S. Second St.).”
      • “Francine Haydon is a professional tarot and palm reader; energy worker; Free Soul counselor and instructor; and ordained minister who has been practicing and teaching metaphysical and spiritual subjects for more than 20 years.  She works out of her home in Union Township and Enchanted Moments in Milford.”
    • Loveland Branch Library – Makerspace & Take: Valentine Wine Bags: 2:30-4 p.m.
    • Art House II – Art Open House Sale + Raffle: 3-9 p.m.
      • Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”
    • Fountain Greene (In front of Fleet Feet/JackRabbit) – L.O.V.E. Dance Party: 4 p.m.
    • Downtown Loveland – King & Queen of Hearts: 4-6 p.m.
      • “Loveland’s King and Queen of Hearts will be spreading love to each and every person throughout the Downtown area!”
    • Hometown Café – Warm Up Your Heart Hot Chocolate Bar:: 4-8 p.m.
      • “Hometown will have a hot chocolate bar and loaded sweet potato chips (pulled pork bbq and other toppings) on the patio!”
      • “The cafe will be open serving up coffee, espresso, and snacks!”
    • Art House II – Thru the Eyes of Your Beloved: 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., or 7 p.m.
      • “This workshop is an artistic celebration of couples, love, and fun. Start with an optional sip of wine; then sit across from each other at your own easel. Everyone has their own acrylic paints, sets of brushes, and an 11×14 stretched canvas. Paint your beloved as you see them. Neither sees the other’s painting until the end of the work time (35-45 minutes). This is NOT a class, although an Art House II resident will be near if needed. Painters can go for reality or can capture the “spirit” of their beloved. Anything goes! Paintings can be taken with you, picked up later, or picked up the next day so that painters can move on to other activities around the city.) Art House II can accommodate up to four couples per session. Come with friends for even more fun! Allow an hour for a glass of wine, basic use of materials, painting, unveiling of the masterworks, and clean up. Click here to download flier. Inclusive cost is $40 per couple.”
      • “Please call (513) 313-2450 to reserve your spot.”
    • Loveland City Hall – Heartland Market: 4-9 p.m.
      • “Stop by City Hall to pick out the perfect Valentine’s Day gift at the local ‘Vendor Market!”
      • “Vendor details will be coming soon!”
    • The Works Pizza – “Single in the City” Speed Dating: 7-9 p.m.
      • “The Works historical train care will host Speed Dating for those that are 21 and over!”
      • “Sessions will be at 7, 7:30, 8 and 8:30 p.m.”
      • “Online registration will be required in advance via Sign Up Genius. Sign up here!”
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Oda Mae Brown Community Bonfire: 5-8 p.m.
      • Visit for a community bonfire. (Will not occur if raining)
    • Whistle Stop Clay Works – Ghost Photo Op: 5-8 p.m.
      • “Reenact the iconic scene from the movie Ghost with Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore.”
    • Lemons and Limes Boutique – Psychic Readings: 5-10 p.m.
      • “Stop by Lemons and Limes to see what your future holds!”
    • Mile 42 Coffee – Cupid’s Couple Challenge: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
      • “How well do you know your significant other? In Loveland’s spin on The Newlywed Game, couples will answer questions to reveal how well they know each other.”
    • Downtown Loveland – Ice Sculpture Walking Tour: 6 p.m.
      • Enjoy a self-guided walking tour exploring unique ice sculptures! There will be more than 20 sculptures on display throughout the downtown area. Take a ‘sculpture selfie’ and share on social media using the official event hashtag #LovelandHeartsAfire.” 
      • Stay tuned for a full listing of sculpture locations, participating businesses, and a digital map.
    • Loveland City Hall Lawn & Loveland Symmes Fire Station 63 – Ice Carving Demonstration: 6-9 p.m.
      • “See professional ice sculptors carve art right before your eyes! The night will feature two demonstrations. The first will consist of four blocks of ice, stacked to make one large sculpture standing approximately 6 ft. tall. The second demonstration ­will be a fire and ice tower with real flames illuminating from the ice!”
    • Fountain Greene (In front of JackRabbit/Fleet Feet) – “Eskimo Kisses Village”: 6 p.m.
      • “Play a round of skeeball on ice! There will be photo opportunities in this area too.”
      • “The Shamrocker will be featured as music entertainment!
    • Loveland City Hall Lawn and around Downtown Loveland – Fire Performers: 6-9 p.m.
      • “These fire twirlers will warm up the night. You won’t want to miss their tricks!”
    • “The Building,” a flexible mult-use space along the Loveland Bike TrailCouples Painting Class: 6-8 p.m.
      • “Bring your sweetheart to create a lasting memory together! No prior art experience necessary. Two 16″x 20″ canvases create one cute picture together.” 
      • “The design will be Winter Birch Trees.”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • “Mask”erade Ball & After PartyBall: The Landing Event Center
      After Party: Bishop’s Quarter
      : 6:30-11 p.m.
      • “Dinner, open bar, valet parking, live music by the Nasty Nati Brass Band! This event benefits the Candice M. Cook Scholarship Foundation for Excellence in Paramedic & Firefighter Education. The band will lead the 2nd Line Parade to Bishop’s Quarter.”
      • “Read all about the ‘Mask’erade Ball here!”
      • ?️ Purchase Tickets
    • The 1859 Historic Loveland Chapel – Vow Renewals – Traditional: 7-9 p.m.
      • Enjoy an interactive vow renewal group ceremony with your loved one!
      • Ceremonies will take place every 30 minutes on the chapel stairs beginning at 7 p.m..
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits – Vow Renewals – Viva Las Elvis: 10 p.m.
      • Enjoy an interactive vow renewal group ceremony at the “Little White Cappy Chapel” performed by Elvis A.K.A. Mayor Kathy Bailey!”
    • Fireworks: 10:30 p.m.

    Sunday, February 13th

    • Loveland Bike Trail – Chasing Cupid 5K: 9 a.m.
      • “Fleet Feet (formerly JackRabbit) will host the first Chasing Cupid 5K! This will be a fun run/walk taking place along the trail.”
      • “Meet at Fleet Feet; then the group will begin the course. There is no registration fee or advanced registration required.”
    •  Loveland Art Studios on Main – Artists’ Love Stories The Power of Creative Partnerships: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
      • “The finished pieces of art work will be exhibited and raffles will take place! Proceeds will support the new Art League of Loveland. Membership opportunities will be available.”
    • Art House II – Art Open House + Raffle: 12:30-5 p.m.
      • Art House II is hosting an Open House through the weekend, featuring a sale and raffle. Galleries of original Loveland art will be 15% off. Every visitor will be entered in a raffle to win a Giclee Print on stretched canvas depicting the Tano block on W. Loveland Ave. before the fire. The drawing will be Sunday at 4 p.m. (do not need to be present to win).”

    The following local business will be hosting specials and activities ALL WEEKEND long for Loveland’s Hearts Afire:

    • Alley Boutique – Will be having chocolate samples and a “Full Heart” Sale.
    • Busy Bee Boutique: Heartstrings Game – Customers will pull a heartstring to reveal great discounts and prizes!
    • Brown’s Crossing: Diaper Drop – Collecting diapers for charity. Any size, any brand.
    • Brittney Frietch RE/MAX Preferred Group: What do you love about Loveland? Visit an interactive outdoor display, where you can leave your message.
    • Cappy’s Wine and Spirits: $1 off every pint (Friday and Saturday). Cappy’s is donating $1 per every pint and glass of wine sold on Friday and Saturday to the Furgotten Dog Rescue.
    • Haven Grey: Giveaway with purchase.
    • Hometown Café: Selling cookie decorating kits by Lovebug Cookies. Customers may pre-order kits in advance.
    • Loveland Station Apartments: Check out residents’ sweet balcony decorations!
    • Loveland Sweet Shoppe: Stop by and enter the raffle for your chance to win romantic prizes including a wine and chocolate tasting, dinner for two at Tano Bistro, and private dance lessons!
    • Mile 42 Coffee: Valentine drinks all weekend!
    • Plaid Room Records: Anniversary sale.
    • Railway Barber Shop: Weekend specials.
    • Ramsey’s Trailside: Enjoy valentine specials and a package deal featuring 2 entrees, dessert & wine!
    • Loveland TAHONA Kitchen+Bar: Love on the rocks (or frozen)…enjoy the featured cocktail, a Strawberry Margarita, for the weekend.
    • Trailside Provisions: Craft a sweet vale­ntine card for residents at Loveland Healthcare. Also enjoy samples, including bloody mary’s, through the weekend!

    We are so excited about this historical moment for the city of Loveland! We hope to see all of you love birds at Hearts Afire Weekend!

    For the latest 411 on Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

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  • Hearts Will be “Afire” for Loveland’s First Valentine’s Day City-Wide Celebration!

    Hearts Will be “Afire” for Loveland’s First Valentine’s Day City-Wide Celebration!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – A new year has sprung which means Loveland is getting prepared for one of the most celebrated holidays in the city; Valentine’s Day! Typically the city of Loveland celebrates Valentine’s Day with a few fun activities including the announcement of Loveland’s Valentine Lady, but this year the Sweetheart of Ohio decided to fill the city with even more love by throwing the first EVER “Hearts Afire Weekend!”

    The Hearts Afire Weekend will take place February 11th-13th with the majority of the “lovely” activities occurring on Saturday, February 12th. Most of the businesses in Downtown Loveland and on the outskirts of the city will be participating in the Valentine’s Day Weekend festivities!

    “Many say that Loveland feels like a Hallmark movie in February because of our name,” said Loveland’s Mayor, Kathy Bailey. “Since our town is nicknamed the ‘Sweetheart of Ohio,’ we officially want to hold an event to celebrate and invite everyone to visit us!”

    The Hearts Afire Weekend is set to have a plethora of heart-filled activities including carriage rides, pristine ice sculptures, outdoor Valentine’s Day decorations, live entertainment, and fire performers. Local businesses will be featuring shopping and dining specials as well as:

    • Ice Carving Demonstrations
    • Galentine Activities
    • Speed Dating 
    • “Mask”erade Ball hosted by the Loveland-Symmes Firefighters Association (Tickets on sale now!)
    • Chasing Cupid 5K
    • Love & Attraction Spell Workshops

    The City of Loveland and its local businesses are working hard to fine-tune details for the Hearts Afire Weekend! Here at Loveland Magazine, we will be sure to inform you the readers with the latest Hearts Afire Weekend details as they roll in!

    If your business is interested in participating, please contact Misty Brents at Loveland City Hall at (513) 707-1437 or visit https://lovinlifeloveland.com/events/hearts-afire-weekend/.

    For the latest 411 on Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

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  • To the Mayor and City Council: 
Why Can’t We Vote?

    To the Mayor and City Council: 
Why Can’t We Vote?

    The proposed parking garage for Historic Downtown as envisioned by City Hall.

    “A man without a vote is a man without protection.”

    Lyndon B. Johnson

    by Lauren Enda

    I retired here from the National Security Agency after 30 years of playing my part to protect the United States. I did not expect to continue that role in retirement, but in my opinion, democratic principles in Loveland are in trouble, especially with the proposed parking garage in Historic Downtown. The Mayor is on record denying residents the right to vote on whether to build the garage. I will not stay silent when this and other examples of abuse of power in my own city are happening. Below, I outline examples.

    In recent weeks, we have heard evidence about the mayor’s record of stifling free speech – both of ordinary citizens and of council members. Also, a Loveland resident captured a photo of a campaigner for the Mayor’s “endorsed block” who was removing campaign signs of their opponent on Election Day. Removing campaign signs subverts open, free and fair elections. Who authorized this tactic? Every Loveland resident should be concerned that this type of anti-democratic behavior is happening here. This behavior does not uphold democratic principles. These are two examples of democracy in trouble, but I will focus now on the garage. 

    Building a multi-story level parking garage in Loveland is very controversial. Many Loveland residents do not want it. The only official feedback we have about the garage is the recent election. Only one council member indicated he was opposed to the garage. And he won the most votes. The message is clear. Loveland voted against the garage. If the Mayor and the newly appointed Council go forward with the garage, they do so against the will of the people. 

    But does the will of the people matter in Loveland? Mayor Bailey clearly does not think so. During a council meeting on 11 February 2020, the mayor said, “Residents will not be voting on the garage.” When asked WHY residents were not allowed to vote, the mayor responded, “You vote on your elected officials and those are the decisions we have been elected to make.” The Mayor would like for residents to become mute after an election, however, an election does not provide the winning party free rein with taxpayer money. An election does not give the winning party carte blanche to permanently disfigure a town without the clear support of the people. An election does not give anyone a green light to plan a large, controversial project in virtual secrecy. 

    Below is video of resident Karen Hawkins asking the Council, and specifically, Mayor Kathy Bailey, about the inevitably of the parking garage being built in Historic Downtown Loveland and if the public will be allowed to vote on its construction.:

    Elected officials should uphold the will of the people. They should give citizens a voice, not deny their voice. Residents are not mute once they leave the polling booth. Quite the contrary. Loveland citizens should retain a voice in what is decided here – especially on the largest capital expenditure in the history of Loveland.

    The proposed parking garage for Historic Downtown as envisioned by City Hall.

    Protection from abuse of power at the federal level is enshrined in the Constitution by checks and balances between the executive, legislative and judicial branches. What safeguards against abuse of power does Loveland have?  Where are our checks and balances? How does Loveland’s electorate ensure our voices are heard? 

    Luckily, there is precedence that the council could use to uphold democratic principles – Council could determine the will of the people by submitting the garage to a vote. In 2007, Loveland was faced with a similar decision – whether or not to build a YMCA. Since it was an expensive project with strong opposing views, the council wanted citizen input and put in on a referendum. The voters went to the polls and voted the project down. Other municipalities have put similar proposals to a vote. This is how democracy can work when a Council respects the electorate and allows them a vote. Why is our Council not providing us the same opportunity?

    My recommendation to the new Council who support the garage is to let Loveland vote on it. The recent election suggests the public doesn’t want the garage. The burden lies with Council to convince the public that this project is in the best interests of the city and the taxpayers. Once appropriate data is gathered and shared with the public on why it is necessary and how much it will cost, then let us vote. Ignoring voter input from the recent election and restricting voter input for the next election is certainly not democratic. 

    It is not too late for the Council to make this right. Loveland goes to the polls again on May 3rd. To the new Council, this is your chance to show that you are listening to us, not developers or outside interests. Your responsibility to listen to the voters does not end once the election is over. That is when your responsibility begins. Let us vote.

  • [Video] Sharon Scovanner on Mayor Baily limiting speech at council meetings and using Chief of Police to intimidate Press

    [Video] Sharon Scovanner on Mayor Baily limiting speech at council meetings and using Chief of Police to intimidate Press

    by David Miller

    Loveland, Ohio – Resident Sharon Scovanner went to the council meeting on Tuesday, November 23, and addressed concerns about how Mayor Kathy Bailey represents an exchange between the Mayor and resident Dave Stanton and about the Mayor’s use of discretion limiting free speech at council meetings. Scovanner also said that the Mayor has used the Chief of Police to intimidate the press during meetings.

    Scovanner urged new leadership at City Hall.

     

  • [Video] Sharon Scovanner on right to speak at council meetings and freedom of the press

    [Video] Sharon Scovanner on right to speak at council meetings and freedom of the press

    by David Miller

    Loveland, Ohio – Resident Sharon Scovanner went to the council meeting on Tuesday, November 9, and addressed concerns about the 1st Amendment and how Loveland Mayor Kathy Bailey runs Council meetings. Presented, are excerpts of Scovanner’s speech.

    (This story was updated 11/13/2921 at 7 AM.)

  • The Best of Loveland’s 1st Oktoberfest!

    The Best of Loveland’s 1st Oktoberfest!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – Did you attend Loveland’s First Oktoberfest? If not well do we have an early Halloween treat for you! 

    I of course went to both days of Loveland’s Oktoberfest on September 24th and 25th and wow was it an absolute showstopper! Not only did all of the Downtown Loveland area transform into a place filled with German food, drinks, and activities, Nisbet Park located right off the Loveland Bike Trail successfully turned into a traditional Biergarten!

    A Look Around Nisbet Park’s Oktoberfest Biergarten

    The Nisbet Biergarten was home to the Warsteiner Beer Emporium, the Stein Slide, live entertainment, the Wiener Dog Race, local vendors like Kona Ice, Dolph’s Dog’s, Epic Picnics, Right Stuff Grill, and Cincy Shirts (sold custom Loveland Oktoberfest T-shirts), the Stein Hoisting finals, the Tapping of the Keg, and beautifully decorated picnic tables surrounded by lights for families and friends to sit down and take in the atmosphere! Those that attended were able to grab beer tickets or buy a Loveland Oktoberfest keepsake mug to fill with traditional Oktoberfest Warsteiner Beer.

    A Stein Slide Challenge

    The local Downtown Loveland restaurants also participated in the Oktoberfest magic by providing traditional German food specials and hosting the prelims of the Stein Hoisting a.k.a “The Masskrugen Challenge!” 

    The streets of Loveland were filled with people wearing their finest German Lederhosen’s or Dirndl’s, in which Bishop’s Quarter’s held a costume competition for those wanting to show off their attire!

    The Wiener Dog Race was the star of the festival as 15 Wiener Dogs competed for a Tara’s Pet Boutique Gift Card in front of a sea of people. Although the race itself was tight, my very own Dorkie (Dachshund Yorkie Mix) Dean took the first place finish! I decided to donate the gift card to the 2nd place Wiener Dog who was also a very impressive competitor! 

    A Look Around The Wiener Dog Race

    One of the most traditional Oktoberfest moments was the Keg Procession that then led into the Tapping of the Keg! I was proud to be a part of the Keg Procession that included many cherished Loveland community members including LMRCA President Cee Cee Collins, LMRCA Board President Doug Portman, and Mayor Kathy Bailey. Once we arrived at the Main Stage located in the Biergarten both Mayor Bailey and Portman tapped the keg which led to an explosion of cheers and beer chugging from the crowd. What a wonderful moment of celebration it was for the city of Loveland!

    Check out the videos below of The Wiener Dog Race, The Keg Procession, and the Tapping of the Keg!

    Loveland’s 1st Oktoberfest turned out better than anyone could have imagined! We would like to say thank you to all those who came out to celebrate Oktoberfest! Your support for the city of Loveland and its local businesses means the world to us! We would also like to say thank you to Loveland’s Oktoberfest sponsors, The Little Miami River Chamber Alliance, Besl and Baden, Coldwell Banker Realty, The Christy Jones Team, Historic Loveland on the Bike Trail, Synergy, Duke Energy, Ramsey’s Trailside, Paxton’s Grill, Dale Robertson Custom Jewelry, Suzi Cree from Keller Williams Realty, PRMG, and Warsteiner. 

    For those who didn’t attend Loveland’s 1st Oktoberfest, we hope to see you all next year!

    For more Loveland event updates stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!

  • Loveland’s 1st Oktoberfest Kicks-Off Tomorrow!

    Loveland’s 1st Oktoberfest Kicks-Off Tomorrow!

    by Cassie Mattia

    Loveland, Ohio – The excitement all across Loveland is building as the Downtown area kicks off the city’s first Oktoberfest tomorrow at 4 PM brought to you by The Little Miami River Chamber Alliance, Warsteiner, CancerFree Kids, and many more!

    On Friday, September 24th from 4 PM-10 PM, and Saturday, September 25th from 4 PM-11 PM, Downtown Loveland will become “Liebesland” (Loveland in German) for Oktoberfest 2021. The festival will include a plethora of traditional German activities, competitions, food, drinks, and of course some spectacular German attire!

    Warsteiner, an international German beer company that came to conception in Warstein, Germany in 1753 when Antonius Cramer was asked to pay beer tax after his home brewing volumes passed the amount allowed for personal use, will be hosting a Biergarten (beer garden in German) Emporium in Nisbet Park. Traditionally a Biergarten is an open-air space where beer and food are served. This concept dates back to the 19th century in Bavaria in which breweries planted gardens above cellars to keep their lagers cool enough to ferment underground.

    The Warsteiner Biergarten will be serving up their finest beer from the Premium Pilsner, “A refreshing, pale golden pilsener with a clean taste perfectly balanced with hints of barley malt, subtle bottom fermenting yeast tones and mild hoppy bitterness,” to the Premium Dunkel, “a rich dark amber beer with full-flavored, smooth taste nicely accented with satisfying notes of roasted malt and subtle bottom-fermenting yeast tones,” to the Oktoberfest Special Edition, “a well-balanced, mild, and smooth taste with a uniquely soft, hoppy aftertaste and 5.9% alcohol.”

    Beer Tickets will be sold at the Warsteiner Emporium in the Biergarten and can be used to purchase Warsteiner premium beer at the Emporium, The Works Pizza, Ramsey’s Trailside, or Bishop’s Quarter where they will be selling Warsteiner’s Oktoberfest. Domestic beer tickets will be $5 and Craft beer tickets will be $6.

    When purchasing a beer ticket you will have the option to buy an authentic 14 ounce Loveland Oktoberfest keepsake Mug for $8 in which you will be able to get refilled with Warsteiner beer only for $5.

    All of the tips collected from the Biergarten will benefit CancerFree Kids.

    Of course, what goes better with beer than traditional German food! The majority of Loveland’s Downtown restaurants will be adding a few German-inspired food options in celebration of Oktoberfest. The Works Pizza will be featuring Potato Pancakes, Ramsey’s Trailside will have a Specialty Pretzel, Trailside Provisions will be serving Cream Puffs and Frozen Chocolate Bananas on Saturday only, All the Ingredients will have Sauerkraut Balls, Bratwursts, and Herb Potato Skewers, Loveland Sweets will be carrying Black Forest Ice Cream, Tano Bistro will have Schweinbraten (German Pulled Pork) and Apple Strudel, The Wicked Pickle will be serving up German Pulled Pork Sandwiches, and Bishop’s Quarter will have German Pancakes with Sour Cream.

    In addition to Loveland’s local restaurants carrying specialty German food items, new local business Dolph’s Dogs will also be there to satisfy anyone’s sausage, bratwurst, or hotdog cravings! Kona Ice and Right Stuff Grill will also be present at the Oktoberfest festivities. Food vendors will be set up in the Biergarten near Nisbet Park.

    Want to learn more about traditional German food? Read this CNN Travel article that I found that talks all about German cuisine!

    The Landing Event Center will be holding an Oktoberfest event on Friday that will benefit The League for Animal Welfare. This special benefit will include beer tastings, an authentic German appetizer buffet, and live music. The event is free and open to the public.

    The Jackson Street Market will have arts and crafts throughout the Oktoberfest celebration as well.

    The Little Miami Chamber Alliance (LMRCA) has been hard at work for several months planning Loveland’s first Oktoberfest and truly can’t wait to see how all the German activities and competitions play out!

    One of the most exciting and competitive German traditions will be The Stein Hoist competition a.k.a The Masskrugen Challenge, which will begin on Friday at 6:30 PM. The Winners Ceremony will be held on Saturday at 6 PM. The competition will include 6 contestants from each local restaurant participating. The Works Pizza, Ramsey’s Trailside, Cappy’s, Bishop’s Quarter, Cindy’s, Paxton’s Grill, The Landing Event Center and The Wicked Pickle will all be competing for the win! The Masskrugen finals will be emceed by Channel 5’s Randi Rico.

    Stein Hoisting is a traditional Bavarian strength contest in which participants hold a full one-liter beer stein (weighs 5.5 pounds typically) in front of their bodies with a straight arm, parallel to the ground. The person that can hold the pose the longest wins.

    Stop by the Loveland beer booth on Friday and the Biergarten on Saturday to say hi to the Christy Jones Team and hoist a stein!

    The Lederhosen competition (German costume contest) will begin on Friday at Bishop’s Quarter. The winner will be selected at 7:30 PM. Lederhosen’s are leather shorts with H-shaped suspenders that men in the working class from Alpine regions such as Bavaria wore. They wore these while they were working because the leather material made the dust and dirt collected from work easier to clean off. Lederhosen’s also have cultural and social meaning for those within the German culture.

    There is in fact a female version of the Lederhosen called a “Dirndl,” which is a dress that can fall either to the knees or the floor. The dress includes a tight bodice that is meant to compliment a woman’s chest.

    On Friday, at 5 PM at Oktoberfest Cappy’s and the Main Stage (located in Nisbet Park) will host a Stein Slide competition, in which you can buy tickets to compete for $2. Live entertainment will kick-off from the Kyle Hackett Duo at 6 PM at Cappy’s followed by the Counting Skeletons at 7 PM at the Main Stage.

    On Saturday, Oktoberfest entertainment will kick off at 4 PM with Premier Dance and Tumbling, and shortly afterward Nisbet Park will hold the Wiener Dog Race at 4:30 PM (near the Little Miami Conservancy). The winning Wiener Dog will receive a gift card from Tara’s Pet Boutique! At 5:30 PM, live entertainment will continue with the Showboat Cloggers.

    Of course, we can’t forget about one of the most coveted German Oktoberfest traditions, the tapping of the Keg! The tapping of the Keg is one of the oldest traditions in Germany’s Oktoberfest celebrations. The Keg tap is typically done by the Mayor of Munich, which in Loveland’s case will be Mayor Kathy Bailey. The goal of the Keg tapping is for the Mayor to hit the Keg with a hammer the least amount of times possible before yelling “O’zapft is” (keg breached). Once the Mayor yells “O’zapft is” surrounding vendors may officially sell their beer!

    Before the Keg tapping in Germany, there is a “procession” held in which colorful horse carriages and wagons covered with flowers march down to where the Oktoberfest celebration is being held. The procession is traditionally led by the Münchner Kindl (coat of arms of Munich) and is followed by the Mayor’s festival carriage. Behind the Mayor are carts of the landlords and breweries as well as the waitresses who will be serving beer who are typically holding beer mugs in the procession. This part of Loveland’s Oktoberfest will include Mayor Kathy Bailey and the LMRCA Board of Directors President Doug Portmann. The Keg procession will begin at 5:30 PM on Saturday and the Keg tapping will begin shortly afterward. The procession will start at Paxton’s Grill, go down Railroad Ave., and will end at the Main Stage located in Nisbet Park.

    On Saturday from 6-10 PM, the Zinzinnati Bierband will perform and at 6 PM the Masskrugen Winning Ceremony will begin on the Main Stage.

    Cincy Shirts will have a booth set-up near the Biergarten for those who PRE-ORDERED their exclusive Loveland Oktoberfest T-shirt. The Loveland Oktoberfest T-shirts are $20. If you did not get the chance to pre-order your 2021 Loveland Oktoberfest shirt (deadline was Sept. 19th) they will be on sale at the Cincy Shirts booth.

    New local business Epic Picnics will have a beautiful German-themed picnic “photo booth” set up in Nisbet Park on Friday with Oktoberfest props and food that those attending the festival will have the opportunity to get a Loveland Oktoberfest photo taken.

    LMRCA is also in need of volunteers to help with all of the exciting festivities! If you would like to sign up to volunteer for Oktoberfest click here to see what opportunities are available. You may also email LMRCA or call the office at 513-683-1544 to reach out about volunteering.

    For more Loveland event updates stay tuned to the Loveland Salad With ME, Cassie Mattia!