From skating to birding, Elyria’s winter has it all

If jetting off to warmer destinations is simply not in your financial cards this winter, there are other entertaining and enjoyable ways to stave off cabin fever in Elyria.

Most of us will, all too soon, be mired in knee-deep snow, complete with whirling, blinding blizzards and the mercury plunging to new depths.

We will be forced to spend free time cooped up at home.

Fortunately, treatment in Elyria is only minutes away.

“They could go take an art class at the Elyria Art Depot, 336 Broad St. There are all types of classes offered by 14 working artists in the depot. It’s a working art gallery,” Elyria Mayor Holly Brinda said.

“They’ve also got classes in pottery, jewelry and glass blowing.”

Elyria is also the only community in the area that has an indoor ice skating rink.

“It’s an enclosed ice skating rink at the North Park Recreation Center (901 Duffy St.),” Brinda said.

At the Elyria Parks and Recreation Department, their winter brochure features any number of activities to get you and your family motivated and out of the house.

Since children are not immune to cabin fever, there are a number of classes to get them active.

“There’s soccer programming. Squeaky Sneakers Soccer for children from kindergarten through the first grade,” Brinda said, regarding city-sponsored activities.

Also, those interested can check out the programs offered at the other Elyria recreation centers — South Recreation Center, 216 16th St.; West Recreation Center, 1200 Foster Ave.; and East Recreation Center, 1101 Prospect St.

Everything from painting classes to archery programs are available from the city’s parks and recreation department, Brinda said.

Then there is the Stocker Center at Lorain County Community College, 1005 N. Abbe Road in Elyria, offering plays and musical performances throughout year’s end and on into the new year.

At the South Park Recreation Center, starting on Jan. 6, watercolor classes will be taught.

And don’t forget the Finwood Estate in Elyria, Brinda said, where holiday lights adorn both the interior and exterior of the lavish home.

At Cascade Park, classes will be offered in birdwatching during the winter months, Brinda said.

For for further information on upcoming events, call the Elyria Parks and Recreation Department at 440-326-1500 or visit www. cityofelyria.org/ParksandRecreation.htm.