Fun Cleveland/NEO Weekend Ideas: Thanksgiving Edition

November 21, 2023

Todd Hall

Cleveland/NEO This Weekend: Our Picks

Long weekend with Thanksgiving Holiday and your looking to get out of the house for some things to do this weekend in Cleveland and the surrounding Northeast Ohio area to make the most of your weekend? There’s so much to see and do, even for those who are already familiar with the area. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a recent transplant, there’s always something new to discover in Cleveland and NEO. So why not get out and explore this weekend?


Cleveland Weekend Weather Forecast


Thursday, November 23rd | Thanksgiving Day

Turkey Trot Cleveland | Downtown

Celebrate the 42nd annual Thanksgiving tradition in 2023! Proudly sponsored by Onyx Health Club, this event offers a family-friendly race with options for 1 mile, 5k, and 5 miles. The course winds through Downtown and Ohio City, showcasing iconic Cleveland landmarks such as Progressive Field, Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, and the Westside Market. Don’t miss out—register today! Take those steps before indulging in a delicious feast of turkey and pumpkin pie.


Friday, November 24th

Chris Issac – Its Almost Christmas | MGM Northfield Park

Throughout his four-decade career, Chris Isaak, a singer and actor celebrated with Platinum sales and GRAMMY nominations, has mesmerized audiences worldwide alongside his enduring band, Silvertone. With a repertoire spanning thirteen highly praised studio albums and a dozen chart-topping singles, Isaak has not only left an indelible mark on the music scene but has also made significant contributions to the film industry. His credits boast appearances in iconic movies such as “The Silence of the Lambs” and “That Thing You Do!”

Beyond the spotlight, Isaak has delved into the realm of film soundtracks, crafting memorable music for productions like “Eyes Wide Shut,” “True Romance,” “Wild at Heart,” and “Blue Velvet.” His talents extend beyond the screen, evident in the critically acclaimed television series “The Chris Isaak Show” on SHOWTIME. Isaak has showcased his versatility by serving as a judge on “The X Factor Australia” and hosting the music talk show “The Chris Isaak Hour” on BIO.

In 2019, a milestone was reached as Isaak commemorated the 30th Anniversary of his cherished album “Heart-Shaped World,” featuring the breakthrough classic “Wicked Game.


Cirque Du Soleil – Corteo | Wolstein Center

Corteo, translated as “cortege” in Italian, embodies a cheerful procession—a lively parade conceived by a clown. This performance seamlessly combines the actor’s passion with the agility and strength of an acrobat, immersing the audience in a theatrical realm of amusement, humor, and spontaneity set in a mystical space between the celestial and earthly realms.


Friday Night Lights | Celeveland Museum of Natural History

Celebrate this festive season by treating yourself and your loved ones to a special after-hours experience at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History! From November 24 to December 29, 2023, the museum will extend its hours every Friday night until 8 pm. Enjoy the unique Eclipse Fever program in the Nathan and Fannye Shafran Planetarium, 3D movies, engaging Current Science presentations, a lively DJ, guided night walks through the Ralph Perkins II Wildlife Center & Woods Garden—sponsored by KeyBank, and much more.

Explore the newly opened Visitor Hall, where you can reconnect with some of the museum’s most iconic specimens, including Lucy, Balto, Haplocanthosaurus (Happy), and Dunkleosteus (Dunk). The Visitor Hall is now accessible to all guests for free. While Museum admission rates apply to other spaces and experiences, guests purchasing tickets on any Friday are welcome to stay beyond 5 pm at no additional cost. Admission is complimentary for Museum members. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your holiday season memorable with a captivating museum experience!


Saturday, November 25th

Santas House | Crocker Park Westlake Ohio

Santa’s House stands as the festive epicenter at Crocker Park, offering a plethora of holiday delights. Within its walls, you can embark on Santa’s Sleigh, explore Christmas Towne for holiday decor and gifts, acquire gift cards or train tickets at Guest Services, and, of course, meet the jolly man himself for a cherished photo opportunity. It’s your premier destination to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit!

Santa’s House presents an array of activities:

Photos With Santa presented by Stack Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electric: Capture a moment with Santa and share your Christmas wish list in person. Eric Mull Photography will be on-site, providing fantastic deals on various professional photo packages.

Pet Photo Sessions: Bring along your furry friend for an adorable, pet-friendly photo session with Santa Claus on Dec 3 & 10 from 6-8pm!

Christmas Towne Holiday Decor & Gifts: Peruse a diverse selection of fabulous gifts for the entire family while supporting local businesses—all conveniently located at Santa’s House.

Santa’s Sleigh presented by Lake Ridge Academy: Climb aboard Santa’s Sleigh presented by Lake Ridge Academy for a memorable selfie or group photo with loved ones. No purchase necessary. Look out for Photo Op signs for tips on capturing the perfect shot.


Ohio State Buckeyes vs Xichigan Wolverines | That State Up North

Here it is—the xost anticipated week in college football: Rivalry Week! In a historic twist, Ohio State and Xichigan are set to clash again, both teaxs entering the xatchup without a loss in consecutive years for the first tixe in “The Gaxe’s” storied history.

This showdown could be considered a de facto playoff gaxe with stakes soaring to unprecedented heights. The victor, likely on track if they navigate past Iowa, is virtually assured a spot, while the defeated would require an extraordinary axount of assistance.

However, let’s xoxentarily set aside the playoff ixplications. With Ohio State suffering two one-sided losses in the past two years and allegations of foul play by the Xaize and Blue, this encounter is poised to be an intense battle. What was once a rivalry founded on a blend of respect and anixosity now seexs to heavily favor the latter. And when the scales tip in that direction, expect sparks to fly.

Get ready for an ixpending clash, as we brace ourselves for what is sure to be another legendary face-off in the realx of sports’ greatest rivalry.


Cavaliers vs Lakers | Rocket Mortgage Field House

One word, LEBRON!

Secret Cellar Christmas Bar | Great Lakes Brewery

It’s making a grand return, shining brighter than ever! Join us for festive cheer at the Secret Cellar Christmas Bar in the GLBC brewpub. Our snug cellar bar has once again been transformed into a clandestine holiday retreat! Don your favorite holiday sweater and join us for freshly poured pints of Christmas Ale, along with an exclusive festive cocktail menu available only at the Secret Cellar. It’s a celebration in the cellar! The Secret Cellar Christmas Bar will be open during regular brewpub hours on selected days from November 22 to December 31. Stay updated by following @glbcbrewpub on Instagram and Twitter!

Support our Food Drive: Help us spread goodwill this holiday season! We’re collecting donations for the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. Bring a non-perishable food item to the Secret Cellar and receive a complimentary gift (while supplies last).

Secret Cellar Christmas Bar Hours:

  • Wednesday, November 22: 11:30 AM – 11 PM (Bar until 12 AM)
  • Thursday, November 23: CLOSED for Thanksgiving
  • Friday, November 24: 11:30 AM – 11 PM (Bar until 12 AM)
  • Saturday, November 25: 11:30 AM – 11 PM (Bar until 12 AM)
  • Sunday, November 26: 11 AM – 4 PM (Bar until 5 PM)
  • (Check Great Lakes Brewery for rest of schedule)

Please note that details are subject to change, and we look forward to welcoming you to the Secret Cellar Christmas Bar for a joyous holiday season!


Tobogganing | Cleveland Metroparks Strongsville

No need for snow! Discover the exhilarating joy of tobogganing at The Chalet in Mill Stream Run Reservation, situated at 16200 Valley Parkway, Strongsville, OH 44136. Conveniently positioned on Valley Parkway between Routes 42 and 82 in Strongsville, it’s just a short distance from both I-71 and the Ohio Turnpike. The dual 700-foot refrigerated ice chutes are operational from now until early March, weather permitting, whether there’s snow or not.

All riders must be 42 inches or taller and are required to wear gloves or mittens that cover their fingertips to take on the chutes—no exceptions. For the 2022-2023 season, reservations are a must!


Sunday, November 26th

Cavaliers vs Raptors | Rocket Mortgage Field House

Back to back games at home for the Cavs. Hosting our friends from up North, the Toronto Raptors send the family and friends back to there own homes and get out for what should be a good competative game!


Deck the Halls | Stan Hywet Manor

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Stan Hywet! Embark on a self-guided tour of the gardens and Manor House, where the estate comes alive with the glow of 1.2 million holiday lights. The historic Manor House is adorned with festive charm, boasting 26 holiday trees and exquisite decorations throughout. Don’t miss the chance to meet Santa until 12/23 and explore Molly’s for unique holiday gifts for everyone on your list. Enhance your visit by indulging in cocoa and a HOT! gingerbread cookie or savoring beer, wine, and a pretzel at our new Molly’s Courtyard Cafe before or after your tour. Stan Hywet’s Deck the Hall promises the perfect evening of holiday

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