November 2nd is National Ohio Day! National Ohio Day celebrates the 17th state to join the United States. Did you know that Ohio was the first state to enter the country from the Northwest Territories? National Ohio Day is a day to recognize all of the contributions Ohio has made to our nation’s history. From being the birthplace to many historical figures to many pop culture references, Ohio has many great reasons to celebrate. While you could travel to some of these great destinations, you can also celebrate National Ohio Day in your backyard of Bowling Green, Ohio! Here are some great things to do in BG to help you celebrate living in the great state of O-H-I-O.
- Make Buckeyes
It’s no secret that buckeyes are an (if not the most) iconic dessert in Ohio. One of the tastiest ways you can celebrate is by making this delicious peanut butter and chocolate treat. Pick up a pack of chocolate wafers from Ben’s and you’re on your way to making the best buckeyes. Click here for an easy recipe for these confectionary delights!
- Visit the Wood County Historical Center and Museum
Bowling Green has no shortage of museums. The Wood County Historical Center and Museum hones in on Wood County’s history in a unique atmosphere. Housed on the site of what used to be the Wood County Poor Farm, the museum hosts self-guided tours, exhibits, and public events. Its current exhibit “For Comfort & Convenience: Public Charity by Way of the Poor Farm” examines institutional life in Ohio characterized by the Ohio State Board of Charities and the people who worked to uphold comfort and convenience for public charity. Historical documentation shared from many counties are displayed, along with 120 modern-day photographs of each county taken by local photographer Jeffrey Hall.
- Drink Ohio Beer
In April of 2019, Ohio had close to 300 craft breweries and was ranked 4th in craft beer production. Here in BG, we have 2 great breweries (about to be 3, keep an eye out for Arlyn’s Good Beer) where you can wet your whistle. Whether you’re having a Full Pull at the storage unit turned bar, Brewing Green, or sipping a Huntsmasters Ale while playing a boardgame at Aistear Brewing, you’re in for a unique experience. After you’ve had some Bowling Green beer, stop out to BG Beverage Center. Their Ohio Wine and Craft Beer sections have Ohio staples like Great Lakes Brewing, Rhinegeist, Sam Adams, and much more!
- Get a Wendy’s Frosty
This one isn’t as niche to BG as some of our other options, but that’s the beauty of it! The popular (and sassy) fast food giant started in Columbus, Ohio in November of 1969. Make sure you get an order a fries with your frosty, because whether or not you choose to dip them it’s definitely one of the best combos you can get at Wendy’s while you’re celebrating Ohio (and Wendy’s’ birthday).
- Enjoy the Scenery in the Parks
“We put the GREEN in Bowling Green.” Our parks are green for miles and provide so much beauty to our city. They also provide some ample opportunities to see some of our state symbols. Stroll through Simpson Garden Park while looking for cardinals, spot white tailed deers and large white trilliums at Wintergarden Nature Preserve, or just enjoy the beautiful scenery!
- Go Ice Skating at Slater Family Ice Arena
Ohio is home to many Olympians including Bowling Green’s own Scott Hamilton. This gold medal Olympian got his start at what was formerly the BGSU Ice Arena. Now named Slater Family Ice Arena, this was also home to Amber and Alissa Czisny and is now home to the BGSU Hockey team. They have many public skating event options, click here to view the schedule.
- Get Ohio Merchandise
Located in historic Downtown Bowling Green, For Keeps has a variety of items to satisfy every gift giver. The reason why they’re on this list? They have a wonderful array of Ohio (and Bowling Green) themed merchandise. From shirts and kitchen towels to signs and mugs, there’s something for the Ohio lover in your life!
You can also celebrate by getting a can of Tony Packo’s Hot Dog sauce or Pickles and Peppers, a pint of Graeter’s or Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream, some Guggisberg cheese, or a can of Skyline Chili. These items can be found at many of our local grocery stores. There are so many ways to celebrate National Ohio Day! Whatever you decide to do to celebrate, make sure to use the hashtag #NationalOhioDay. If you’re in BG celebrating don’t forget to use #ThinkBGOH!