Hometown Holidays: Lakewood 2026
A little festive cheer, some food for the body and soul, and the opportunity to secure the finest art from Northeast Ohio creators. It’s here at home, in Lakewood.
This season, our Hometown Holidays feature celebrates the small businesses that bring warmth and wonder to our community. When you shop local, you’re investing in more than gifts—you’re investing in friendships, creativity, and the heart of Lakewood itself. Let’s keep our holidays close to home.
Beck Center for the Arts
When choosing a family-friendly production for the holiday season, Beck Center for the Arts Artistic Director Scott Spence wanted something a little different. He found it in How to Dance in Ohio, a joyous musical making its regional premiere here Friday, December 4, through Sunday, January 3.
“This is the first time this show will be seen off Broadway,” he says, noting that as soon as the rights became available, he hoped to bring it to Cleveland. The show follows seven young adults on the autism spectrum as they prepare for their version of a spring dance that pushes them beyond their comfort zones and challenges ideas of friendship, independence and first love.
“When I consider shows, one of the things I look for are ones that will stay with you long after you’ve left the theater,” says Scott, who is also directing the production. “How to Dance in Ohio is absolutely one of those shows.”
Based on a 2015 documentary of the same name, the story holds special significance because of its Ohio roots. Even more meaningful, all seven actors portraying characters with autism are themselves on the autism spectrum.
The story centers on Dr. Emilio Amiga, a counselor helping these students navigate everyday challenges.
“In true theatrical fashion, everything falls apart before it comes back together beautifully,” Scott says. “This musical offers the opportunity to celebrate differences while recognizing everything people share. The New York Times hailed it as ‘groundbreaking,’ and I couldn’t agree more.”
Beck Center for the Arts is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3)organization located at 17801 Detroit Avenue in Lakewood. It offers professional theater productions, arts education programming in dance, music, theater, visual arts, early childhood and creative arts therapies for individuals with disabilities, gallery exhibits and community education programming. Call 216-521-2540 or visit BeckCenter.org for tickets and more information.
Centering Space
All the shopping, parties, planning and being overly busy this time of year can take a toll. If you’re looking for more meaning over the holidays, a place to slow down and simply be, Centering Space may be the answer.
Within a charming century home, the retreat center was founded as a peaceful haven for people of all faiths to find reflection and renewal.
Director Betsy Nero says her staff has planned a slate of events to help people center themselves.
For those dealing with loss, the Managing Grief During the Holidays program on Saturday, November 21, from 10 a.m. to noon, provides tips for rising above tough times.
“Our Advent Prayer Series provides a meditative journey guided by Robert Morneau’s book, Fathoming Bethlehem,” she says. Using poetry, readings, a quiet time of reflection and opportunities for sharing, the series explores the themes of Advent to deepen your spiritual experience. Offered virtually and in-person, it kicks off Monday, November 30, and continues through to Mondays, December 7, 14 and 21, from 6-7:30 p.m.
The Taizé program includes meditation, songs, prayerful silence and short readings around a fire, from 7-8 p.m., at Lakewood Catholic Academy chapel. The one on Sunday, December 6, is Advent-themed and the Christmas Vigil Taizé is Monday, December 21 at Christopher’s in Rocky River at 7 p.m.
If you wish to pause and explore your inner feelings this year, the virtual event—Journaling the Winter Holiday Season—takes place on Mondays, from 7-8:30 p.m., November 30 through January 4.
And to properly ring in winter, don’t miss the Solstice Sound Bath on Friday, December 18, from 6-7:30 p.m.
All year long, Centering Space offers programming to serve the community, from grief support groups to dementia support groups, Tai Chi, reflective prayer, drum circles, poetry nights and more.
Centering Space is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit ministry and is located at 14812 Lake Avenue, Lakewood. For more information call
216-228-7451 or visit
CenteringSpace.org.
Within a century home nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, Centering Space was founded in 2003 as a peaceful place for people of all faiths to find their center.
When Jo Rawley and daughter Beth Keenan get together, there’s bound to be a little creative mischief—and a lot of laughter. This mother-daughter duo of artists, who are self-described “partners in crime,” are the artistic forces behind FunktiniLand Shop in Lakewood, which opened in 2022. This is a place where shopping local feels like wandering through the merriest art show imaginable.
“We’ve grown over the years and now feature about 105 Ohio artists,” says Beth. “We keep having to rearrange the store to squeeze more in. We group artists whose colors and styles complement each other, so there’s something wonderful to discover in every little corner.”
With the holidays approaching, FunktiniLand is brimming with clever hostess gifts. Think hand-burned wooden utensils ($10-$18), handmade charcuterie boards ($20-$45), whimsical butter dishes, salt and pepper shakers to add a dash of color to any table and festive wine bags.
Wondering what to get the Cleveland sports fan on your list? Don’t miss local designer Anne Cate’s stylish clear stadium bags in team colors.
“We carry so many kinds of art, from fused glass to metal sculptures, jewelry, upcycled vintage treasures, locally authored books, painted glassware and functional art that makes everyday living more beautiful,” she adds.
FunktiniLand is located at 15613 Detroit Avenue, Suite B, in Lakewood. Call 216-280-1394 or visit FunktiniLand.com for more information. It was voted Best Gift Shop in 2025 and 2026 by Cleveland Scene Magazine.
Lakewood Holiday Passport:
From now through Sunday, December 20, stop in any participating independent shop, including FunktiniLand Shop, make a purchase and get your passport stamped. Once you’ve collected your stamps, hand in your passport at any of the shops for a chance to win gift cards and a gift basket. For details, check out
FunktiniLand.com.
Just in time for making your home guest-ready and gearing up for gatherings with the cutest hostess gifts ever, the darling boutique/gift shop/gallery/artists’ collective FunktiniLand has stocked its space with holiday treasures representing more than 60 Ohio artists.
Home for the Holidays: A Pop-Up Boutique
With twice the space at its new location and an eclectic mix of returning favorites and new makers, this year’s Home for the Holidays pop-up boutique brings a festive, personal touch to holiday gift shopping.
Founder Maureen Koopman, a creative herself, has curated a collection of artists, makers and small-batch foodies from Cleveland and beyond. The shop changes locations each season, with this year’s home at 13383 Madison Avenue in Lakewood.
Thoughtful displays offer inspiration from mantel to table to tree—and gifts for everyone on your list. Something for yourself? No judgment.
The Pop-Up Pantry features cake and cookie mixes, marinades, rubs, olive oils, coffees, hot sauces and other treats for food lovers.
Among this year’s new additions:
• 863 Beverly creates colorful holiday wreaths, garlands and centerpieces that make a statement.
• Weave-n-Wonder offers screen-free STEAM weaving kits that explore math, patterns and creativity for kids (and kids at heart.)
• Low Tide Shell transforms oyster and clam shells into trinket trays, ornaments and gifts featuring bees, butterflies, mahjong tiles and coastal designs.
“The response this season has been incredible,” says Maureen. “People are taking their time, discovering new makers and finding gifts that make them say, ‘This is so them.’ That’s what we’re here for—a fun, personal shopping experience where every purchase supports a small business.”
Home for the Holidays A Pop-Up Boutique is located at 13383 Madison Avenue, in Lakewood. Hours are Sunday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Closed Monday; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Tuesday, December 22, 2026. Find them on facebook and instagram at HomeForTheHolidaysLakewood for more information. Meet the maker demonstrations take place on
Saturdays and some Sundays.
Small Business Saturday Soiree
Celebrate Saturday, November 28, at Home for the Holidays A Pop-Up Boutique. Enjoy naughty and nice cider, refreshments and a raffle giveaway. The Ohio State-Michigan football game will be showing.
There’s something special about stepping into Home for the Holidays—the scent, the conversations and laughter and the excitement of hundreds of handcrafted gifts waiting to be discovered.
Leona's Custom Hats
At Leona’s Custom Hats in Lakewood, owners Brad and Shay Fishbaugh have turned custom creations into a celebration of individuality, connection and fun.
“Our overarching philosophy is all about the experience,” says Brad. “We love making memories with people and helping them bring their ideas to life to create something that feels unique. No two of our hats are ever the same.”
The magic begins at the interactive hat bar, where guests choose from luxurious wool and fur felt hats, then personalize their selections with colorful bands, feathers, charms and distinctive adornments. A true craftsman, Brad measures and handshapes each hat to fit the person. The branding is done onsite, with more than 200 branding symbols. Initials to mountains, flowers and even Sasquatch can become part of a one-of-a-kind design.
And the fun doesn’t stop with hats. Leona’s has become a destination for bridal showers and bachelor and bachelorette parties, where bridal parties can create permanent bracelets with birthstones, wedding-color charms or playful accents.
Groups can reserve private experiences, too, and the Leona’s team has earned a reputation for taking its creativity to events at wineries, homes and corporate gatherings.
Beyond hats and expertly welded jewelry, the boutique offers personalized leather goods, luggage tags, trucker hats with custom patches, engraved cutting boards and custom gifts. Shoppers can also bring in their own cowboy boots or jackets for branding.
There’s a curated collection of western-inspired purses, cozy faux-fur jackets, Cleveland apparel and Bohemian-inspired Natural Life clothing and home decor.
Whether celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself, Leona’s proves the best souvenirs aren’t the things you buy. They’re memories you make.
Leona’s Custom Hats is located at 15210 Madison Avenue in Lakewood. Stop in the store or visit them on Instagram or Facebook to buy gift certificates. Call
440-865-6683 for more information.
The magic begins at the interactive hat bar, where guests choose from luxurious wool and fur felt hats, then personalize their selections with colorful bands, feathers, charms and distinctive adornments.
Mishi Lifestyle
“In a cozy atmosphere, you’ll find furniture, cushy throw blankets, barware, tableware, bespoke candles and luscious body products from local and Ohio makers,” owner Tracy Burnett says.
Floor interest can change any room for the better, and Tracy is thrilled to have introduced the Loloi brand of rug samples, in a rich variety of textures, styles and sizes.
In addition to home décor, they’ve recently added a collection of deliciously soft shawls in cashmere, cotton and bamboo. Made in Thailand, they are imported by a New York City-based company called Rubyzaar and come in 10 shades, with one side lighter for a dimensional effect.
This is also one of the best spots in town for darling hostess gifts. It offers hand-branded cutting boards in walnut and ash, as well as butcher block butter to keep them looking sharp.
And who doesn’t love cookbooks and cocktail books with comical titles like, “Are you There God, it’s me Margarita” or “Tequila Mocking Bird?”
Mishi Lifestyle is located at 15604 Detroit Avenue in Lakewood. Call 216-304-3832 or visit MishiLifestyle.com for more information.
Special Events: Don’t miss the Small Business Saturday fundraiser on November 28 at Mishi Lifestyle. Plenty of cheer and 20% off all Christmas décor, candles, ornaments and more. A portion of proceeds will go to Lakewood Community Services Center. Shop hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Friday, November 20, the fabulous ladies of Mishi will be part of the St. Rita’s Holiday Boutique at Signature of Solon Country Club. Get details at MishiLifestyle.com.
Tracy Burnett opened Mishi Lifestyle four years ago as the embodiment of this playful definition.
Nature’s Oasis Market and Cafe’
In true “it’s the thought that counts” fashion, the crafty elves at Nature’s Oasis Market and Cafe’ in Lakewood have put together a variety of jolly and joyous gift baskets filled with locally made goodies.
“This is our favorite time of year, and it shows,” says owner Jean Presby. “We love curating thoughtful gift baskets for recipients. Is there someone on your list who loves to grill? We can create something amazing. Coffee lover? Baker? We can craft each basket to the person.”
She says they make it easy. Just call them to place your order or pop in the shop and fill out a form. The wooden basket, cellophane wrap and bow are included, and they start at $30, which also makes them perfect hostess gifts.
Jean notes that lots of small business like to treat their employees this year to their famous boxed lunches, which include a choice of homemade wrap, chips, cookie and drink.
Each month the café selects a seasonal theme to celebrate its coffee drinks, fresh smoothies, sandwiches, wraps and salads. For December, it’s Frosty the Snowman. Chill out with a Peppermint Snowball Smoothie, Candy Cane Latte or Frosty’s Cozy Feast of a grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup.
Nature’s Oasis Market & Cafe’ is located at 15613 Detroit Avenue, in Lakewood. Call 216-505-5333 or visit NaturesOasisStores.com for more information.
Mimi Reader Deal: Mention this story and get 10% off any smoothie. Offer good through Thursday, December 31, 2026.
Holiday Happenings: On Thursday, November 19, don’t miss Bingo Night at Nature’s Oasis. From 6-8 p.m., grab your card, fill the squares and be the first to yell out BINGO!
On Thursday, December 17, the shop’s annual Sip and Shop Night happens from 5-9 p.m. and features festive specials, merchandise, music, a raffle and a 20% discount off any items.
Each month the café selects a seasonal theme to celebrate its coffee drinks, fresh smoothies, sandwiches, wraps and salads. For December, it’s Frosty the Snowman. Chill out with a Peppermint Snowball Smoothie, Candy Cane Latte or Frosty’s Cozy Feast of a grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup.
Psalm Services
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” —Colossians 3:23-24
For Michael and Soraia McKittrick, owners of Psalm Services, this biblical passage is more than inspiration. It’s the foundation of a growing cleaning company dedicated to serving others with honesty, integrity and compassion.
When opening their cleaning business three years ago, the McKittricks chose their name as a basis for their work ethos of restoring “cleanliness with a touch of godliness.” The Berea-based business provides residential and commercial cleaning throughout Northeast Ohio, with a growing presence in Lakewood, where its clients include both branches of the Lakewood Library.
“Our ministry is an important part of who we are,” says Michael, who, along with his wife, is a minister. “We believe in doing right by people, showing love and making a positive difference in their lives.”
Psalm Services offers customized cleaning, sanitizing and detailing. The couple meticulously screens employees who work in two-person teams, following strict quality-control procedures designed to deliver consistent results. He adds that customers appreciate their old-school preference for cleaning products your grandmother used, like Murphy’s Oil Soap.
Here’s one of the many five-star reviews, from Amy S., “The service was awesome…our house hadn’t had a deep clean in two months. What a joy with the work done! Clean yes, but so far beyond! Surfaces, floors, bathrooms, countertops, hidden dust bunny havens, you name it. All were spotless!”
Psalm Services beautifies homes and businesses all over Northeast Ohio. The company is five-star rated by the Better Business Bureau. The couple is hiring reliable team members. To find out more, visit PsalmServices.com or call 440-623-0444.
Mimi Reader Deal: Mention this story and receive 25% off your first service. Offer good through Saturday, January 23, 2027.
Psalm Services offers customized cleaning, sanitizing and detailing. The couple meticulously screens employees who work in two-person teams, following strict quality-control procedures designed to deliver consistent results.
Events Calendar
Lakewood Chamber Holiday Elf Hunt
Now-December 15 | During participating business hours
Location: Participating businesses throughout Lakewood
Join the holiday fun with a community-wide elf hunt hosted by the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. Visit participating local businesses, search for hidden elves and discover neighborhood shops while supporting Lakewood’s small business community. Visit play.proxi.co and enter code ELF-26 to start your journey.
Small Business Weekend & Jingle Bell Jive
November 24-26 | Jingle Bell Jive: Saturday, December 5
Location: Madison Avenue, from Bunts Road to Birdtown, Lakewood
Celebrate the season while shopping local along Madison Avenue. Participating businesses will offer holiday sales, local vendor pop-ups and raffle tickets for every $25 spent. The festivities also include free photos with Krampus during Jingle Bell Jive.
Small Business Saturday & Luminaria Holiday Market
Saturday, November 28 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: 78th Street Studios, 1300 W. 78th St., Cleveland
Celebrate Small Business Saturday while shopping for unique holiday gifts from regional artists, makers and vendors. This festive holiday market offers an opportunity to support local businesses and discover one-of-a-kind finds. Admission is free.
The Nutcracker
December 4-13 | Performance times vary
Location: Beck Center for the Arts, 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood
Experience the magic of the holiday season with this beloved two-act ballet performed by Beck Center Dance students. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, this family-friendly production brings the classic holiday story to life. Purchase tickets at BeckCenter.org.
Light Up Lakewood
Saturday, December 5 | 4-8 p.m.
Location: Detroit Avenue, between Arthur and Marlowe Avenues, Lakewood
One of Northeast Ohio’s favorite holiday traditions returns to Downtown Lakewood. Presented by LakewoodAlive and sponsored by First Federal Lakewood, this free community celebration welcomes thousands of residents and visitors for an evening of holiday festivities.
Screw Factory Holiday Market
December 11-13 | Friday, 6-10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Location: Screw Factory Artists’ Studios, 13000 Athens Ave., Lakewood
Shop local at the eighth annual Holiday Market featuring resident artists, guest artists and visiting makers. Discover handmade gifts, original artwork and creative treasures while enjoying a festive weekend of holiday shopping. Admission and parking are free.
More information: 216-521-0088 or screwfactoryart@gmail.com.
Reindeer Run 5K, Merry Mile & Dasher Dash
Sunday, Dec. 13 | 9 a.m.
Location: Lakewood Park, Lakewood
Lace up your running shoes and get into the holiday spirit at the annual Reindeer Run.
Featuring a 5K, Merry Mile and Dasher Dash, this festive event o ers opportunities for
runners, walkers and families to celebrate the season together. For more information
and signups: reindeerruncleveland.com.
Home for the Holidays
Now-December 22
Location: 13383 Madison Avenue in Lakewood
Get into the holiday spirit while supporting local businesses. Shop for unique gifts, seasonal décor and special finds while enjoying the festive atmosphere of the holiday shopping season. Hours are Sunday and Tuesday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Closed Monday; Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. -6 p.m. through Tuesday, December 22, 2026. Visit HomeForTheHolidaysLakewood.com for more information.
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