The leaves are gone, the air is frigid, the ground has been lightly kissed by snow and lights are twinkling everywhere.
I think we can all agree that the holidays are a magical time, filled with wonderful sights and smells, there is just something even more special about the holidays in Amish Country.
The Amish actually celebrate Christmas twice; once on the standard "English" holiday of December 25th and again on January 6th, which is commonly known as Old Christmas. In other religions, this date is referred to as Epiphany. While the Amish do not adorn their homes with Christmas trees or decorations, they do burn candles in honor of the day. The Amish do give gifts, but they tend to be more simple.
There are many things to do in Amish Country year-round, but we've pulled together a list of reasons why you should spend some time this holiday season in Ohio's Amish Country.
Many come to Amish Country to shop and this holiday season is a great way to give back by shopping local. There are so many unique gifts that you just won't find anywhere else. For example, Lehman's Hardware, located in Kidron, OH, has hundreds of local vendors, including Amish families. In addition to the amazing store and unique products, Lehman's also hosts events almost weekly!
December 17th at Lehman's is Procrastinators Paradise for all the last-minute shoppers who haven't found the perfect gift yet. There will also be self-serve gift wrapping available so you can take care of everything in just one stop! How convenient!
If you're feeling like a Grinch, we suggest you head to Coblentz Chocolate Company. Snowy Chocolate trees, Peppermint Snowflakes, Chocolate Rudolph, and boxes of beautifully wrapped decadent chocolates are sure to restore your Christmas spirit!
You can also buy tickets online now for the annual Gingerbread Workshop on December 17th; tickets are $5 each and there are still open slots available from 11:30 am-4 pm. Click the link below for more information:
You can find it all at Walnut Creek Amish Flea Market in Sugarcreek, OH. With dozens of vendors and a restaurant on site, you can spend the entire day finishing up the last of your Christmas shopping under one roof! The flea market closes for the season on December 17th so you only have one week left to shop! Stop by to shop and see Santa on December 10th and 17th; all kids will be given a treat!
Many local businesses are open throughout the holiday season in Ohio's Amish Country. Millersburg, the heart of Ohio's Amish Country, and Berlin feature many local shops and restaurants well worth making the chill trek. In Berlin is Ohio's largest year-round Christmas Store, 'Tis the Season, which boasts 20,000 square feet of Christmas magic!
If shopping isn't your cup of tea, then come for the food! Amish Country is not only sweet but also savory! Heini's Cheese Chalet has everything you need for your holiday charcuterie board, from artisan to various meats, jams & jellies and even fudge! Stop by "Where the cheese is made" to pick up all your holiday snacking needs!
And if you're looking for more than just a snack, Amish Door has you covered. The restaurant features broasted chicken, the best mashed potatoes & gravy you'll ever eat, Amish-made noodles and so much more. There is even a bakery just off the restaurant where you can load up on your favorite breads, pastries, doughnuts, and pies...we recommend the Brown Bag Apple pie.
Be sure to head to Amish Door for the Christmas Eve Breakfast Buffet from 7 am-to noon!
We look forward to seeing you as you make your way down to Ohio's Amish Country this holiday season for good shopping, great food, and festive events. Be sure to like and follow Best of Ohio's Amish Country on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates!
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!