November brings a fresh lineup of ways to get out and explore Shores & Islands Ohio before the holiday hustle and bustle begins! From scenic fall hikes and creative workshops to live entertainment, delicious local flavors, and special events honoring our nation's history and heroes, there's plenty to experience as autumn winds down. Whether you're planning a family outing, a unique date night, or simply looking for a reason to enjoy the crisp fall air, you'll find plenty of ways to make the most of the season. Here are 21 events to enjoy around the region leading up to Thanksgiving!
Glass Fusion Ornament Class
Nov 1, 2026
Milan Museum, Milan
Create Something Beautiful at The Milan Museum and Celebrate America’s 250 and Veterans Day! Join for a Glass Fusion Class with talented glass artist Sheree Ferrato in the beautiful Galleries at The Milan Museum.nChoose your design and create a one-of-a-kind piece of glass—a lovely star ornament or poppy just in time to honor Veterans. Whether you’re new to glass fusion or a seasoned artist, Sheree will guide you through the process as you design and craft your own beautiful piece of glass art.
Turkey Tuesdays!
Nov 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026
Osborn MetroPark, Huron
Join at the nature center every Tuesday in November to learn about Ohio’s native turkeys and do a themed craft! All ages welcome, no registration required.
Women Who Roam
Nov 4, 2026
Wyandot MetroPark, Huron
Join Erie MetroParks for 'Women Who Roam,' a welcoming space for women of all ages to explore the outdoors together. These hikes offer a safe and supportive environment, perfect for meaningful conversations as we journey through nature. Connect, unwind, and discover the beauty of the natural world alongside a community of fellow adventurers. Ages 18+, no registration required.
Rotary Club of Port Clinton Youth Art Exhibition
Nov 5, 2026
Shores & Islands Ohio West Welcome Center, Port Clinton
Join Shores & Islands, Port Clinton Rotary, and Greater Port Clinton Area Arts Council for a youth art exhibition showcasing student artwork completed through the GPCAAC. All are welcome to attend! Free refreshments and live music.
Autumn Adventures
Nov 7, 14, 21, 2026
Osborn MetroPark, Huron
Visit the nature center every Saturday in November to explore Osborn MetroPark and complete a fall scavenger hunt! There will also be an Autumn-themed craft in the nature center. All ages welcome, no registration required.
Election of 1876 Sesquicentennial Formal Celebration
Nov 7, 2026
RB Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Fremont
Spend an exclusive formal evening in the historic Hayes Home and museum enjoying live campaign music from 1876 and hearing the true story behind President Rutherford B. Hayes’ election. Celebrate the sesquicentennial – 150th anniversary – of President Hayes’ Election of 1876 with this special event. A range of hors d’ oeuvres and drinks will be served. The attire is 21st-century formal, though guests are welcome to dress in period clothing. Space is limited, tickets are $75, and reservations are required.
Fall Market at Breje Inn
Nov 7, 2026
Breje Inn, Vermilion
Plan a day-trip to Vermilion and enjoy some quality time! Join in for the Fall Market, featuring a curated selection of vendors to explore and shop from. The market leads right into Main Street Vermilion’s Lantern Parade— the perfect way to continue your autumn day together. 🍂🤎☕️
Lantern Parade - Vermilion
Nov 7, 2026
Historic Downtown Vermilion
This free, family-friendly event invites the community to come together for an evening of creativity and connection. Participants are encouraged to bring their own handmade LED lanterns and walk in a glowing parade from Main Street Beach through historic downtown and back to the Vermilion Lighthouse, beginning at 4:30 PM. Music and the soft light of lanterns will guide the way through downtown as we celebrate the season together. Prefer to watch? Gather along the route at Exchange Park, the Fulper Lot lawn, or Friendship Park to enjoy the experience. Please note: LED lanterns only. No open flames, lantern releases, or pets within the parade. Presented in partnership with Public Art Vermilion, Vermilion in Bloom, Arts Guild of Vermilion, and Shores & Islands Ohio.
6th Annual Best of the Bay
Nov 11, 2026
Cedar Point Sports Center, Sandusky
A food competition like no other! Join Cedar Point Sports Center’s 6th Annual Best of the Bay food competition! Sample menu items from various restaurants in the area and vote for your favorites in 12 categories, such as “best appetizer,” “best burger,” and “best breakfast,” to be named “Best of the Bay!” $35 tickets include 20 food samples and 1 drink.
Call to Duty Salute Ceremony-East
Nov 11, 2026
Sackett Cemetery, Marblehead
America has been in a number of military conflicts throughout its 250-year history, though not all conflicts were declared wars. Through a grant from the America-250 Ohio Commission, the Ottawa County-America 250 Committee created a trail of markers at 34 cemeteries in the County. The trail honors the final resting places of those who answered the Call to Duty by serving in the armed services. The ceremony will showcase the trail, pay tribute to all veterans, and provide information.
Chart Room Winter Wonderland Pop Up Holiday Bar
Nov 13, 2026-Jan 3, 2027
Chart Room, Vermilion
Chart Room is serving the warmest winter vibes! The Chart Room has transformed into a Winder Wonderland Pop-Up Bar - where twinkling lights, cozy cocktails, and festive cheer make every night feel magical. Come sip, sparkle, and stay awhile!
"Viva Las Firelands" - An Evening with Elvis
Nov 14, 2026
Mesenburg Plaza Place, Huron|
"Elvis" is swinging by Mesenburg Plaza Place in Huron to provide an entertaining fundraising dinner concert! Portraying "The King" is Firelands-native Walt Sanders. Joining him is the Cadillac Band, also made up of several musicians from the Firelands region! Admission includes dinner and raffles – proceeds benefit Firelands Historical Society expansion project.
Holiday Open House
Nov 14, 2026
Lake Erie Gifts & Décor, Sandusky
Kick off the Christmas season with a festive shopping event featuring antique, vintage, and contemporary Christmas décor from the shop’s dealers. Enjoy refreshments, hourly door prize drawings, and special discounts offered by participating dealers.
Curious Naturalist
Nov 19, 2026
Edison Woods MetroPark, Berlin Heights
Join Naturalist Katie, the "Curious Naturalist" for a guided hike, where every step unveils new wonders of the natural world. All ages, no registration required.
Songs of Thanksgiving
Nov 20 and 22, 2026
Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Sandusky
The Firelands Symphony Chorale presents their popular annual Songs of Thanksgiving concerts bringing a heartfelt program celebrating gratitude, reflection, and community. Through inspiring choral works and meaningful narratives, the concert explores the themes of charity and love found in the beauty of shared human experiences. This year’s program features a special look at the composers’ journeys of Handel and Beethoven’s despair and discovery through musical scenes where joy and gratitude, and family and friendship, are found during this special time of year. Join us for an evening that nourishes the spirit and celebrates the many blessings that unite us to begin the holiday season.
Christmas Expo
Nov 21-22, 2026
Cedar Point Sports Center, Sandusky
The Christmas Expo is brought to you by Judy's Craft & Vendor Shows! 300+ Vendors SANTA HOURS 12:00-3:00pm - FREE Santa GIFTS & FREE PHOTO OPS Fabulous homemade items, Holiday décor, furniture, wood creations, ceramics & pottery, boutique clothing and accessories, pet items, toys, body care, natural products, baked goods, and more!
Cookie Make & Exchange Workshop
Nov 21, 2026
Cherry City Honey, Bellevue
Cookie Make & Exchange Workshop 🍪 Get ready for a sweet and festive morning of baking, making, and sharing at Cherry City Honey’s Cookie Make & Exchange Workshop! Join in the cozy Honeycomb Classroom for a hands-on workshop where we’ll make a delicious variety of classic holiday treats. You’ll have the opportunity to make several different goodies, then package and exchange treats with fellow participants—so you’ll leave with a wonderful assortment to enjoy at home or share with family and friends. Whether you love traditional Christmas cookies, chocolatey treats, or easy no-bake favorites, there will be something for everyone! Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!
Holiday Craft Show at Historic Lyme Village
Nov 21, 2026
Historic Lyme Village, Bellevue
Craft vendors will be on hand in the Schaeffer-Wolfe Barn at Historic Lyme Village to help with your holiday shopping. $1 entry fee, hourly door prizes.
Salute & Savor: an America 250 Honor Day
Nov 22, 2026
Milan Fire Stations #1 and #2, Milan
Join in for a special America 250 event honoring our local heroes across two locations in Milan, Ohio: Milan Fire Station #2 (12707 SR 13): Enjoy a Firefighter Chili Cook-Off (vote for your favorite) along with a guided Fire Safety Tours. Milan Fire Station #1 (1 N. Center St.): Experience living history with Veteran Re-enactors and historic collection displays. Both locations offer interactive family fun celebrating Ohio's veterans, first responders, and frontline heroes. This event is free and open to the public!
Full Moon Hike
Nov 24, 2026
Osborn MetroPark, Huron
Join Erie MetroParks for an enchanting evening hike beneath November's full moon as we explore the trails after dark. Discover how the forest transforms at night while enjoying the crisp autumn air and the beauty of the moonlit landscape. All ages, no registration required. Meet in front of the nature center.
Time Traveler History Talks: Answering the Call: Erie County’s Service & Sacrifice
Nov 24, 2026
Shores & Islands Welcome Center – East, Sandusky
Continuing our America 250 celebration with a journey back to the sacrifices our local military personal made for our country! Join Jeremy Angstadt, with the Sandusky History Museum at the Follett House, as he highlights their service, sacrifice, and the lasting impact on our local communities. Light refreshments will be served. No registration required—just bring your curiosity and love of history.
And the fun doesn't stop when November comes to a close! With the holiday season just around the corner, Shores & Islands Ohio will soon be filled with festive celebrations, seasonal traditions, and plenty of holiday cheer. For even more ways to enjoy the region, visit our events calendar at SHORESandISLANDS.com and start planning your next adventure!
