Family events in Bluffton, OH

Youtheatre presents a grades 6 to 12 production of Disney's The Little Mermaid, sponsored by Pack Rats Pawn Shop. Ariel, the youngest daughter of King Triton, dreams of life on land and makes a deal with the sea witch Ursula to trade her tail for legs so she can pursue Prince Eric. The agreement is not what it seems, and Ariel relies on her friends Flounder, Scuttle, and Sebastian to help bring balance back under the sea. The stage version features favorite songs such as "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl," and "Part of Your World." The creative team includes director Samantha Henry, assistant director Heather Schneemann, music director Zachary Thomas, and choreographer Jordan Gottschalk. Disney's The Little Mermaid is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International, with authorized performance materials provided by MTI.

Set out on a two-hour river cruise aboard the Sandpiper to savor the colors of fall along the Maumee River. Glide past maples, golden willows, and oaks reflected on calm water, with fresh scenes of crimson and gold unfolding around each bend. A narrated program shares the river’s rich past, touching on Toledo’s evolution as the Glass City, its industrial story, and the importance of the waterway to Native American communities, early settlers, and the riverboat era. Warm up with fresh-pressed hot apple cider and donuts from Haas Bakery. You may bring your own beverages, including red wine, Oktoberfest beer, or a favorite bourbon, and small coolers are welcome. With comfortable seating, open-air views, and an easygoing pace, it suits couples, families, friends, and solo explorers seeking a seasonal outing. These cruises are popular and tend to sell out quickly.

Head out on Lake Erie aboard The Glass City Pearl for an eight hour yellow perch charter that combines a scenic cruise to productive waters with up to five hours of fishing. This family friendly outing welcomes kids, newcomers, and seasoned anglers, offering frequent bites and perch known for their mild, sweet flavor. Bring sunglasses, non spray sunscreen, bottled water, and a hat, plus a cooler with your favorite drinks, snacks, and lunch. Bait is supplied, a First Mate will be on hand to assist, and the crew will clean and vacuum seal your catch so it is ready to take home. Rods and reels are not included, but rental rods are available, and lures can be purchased on board. Families can inquire about bundle pricing that includes children. Everyone in your group must obtain a local fishing license before boarding.

Gather at Ottawa Metro Park for a family-friendly drum circle that welcomes everyone. Held on the first Sunday from May through October, this community gathering invites participants to bring a drum or any instrument and make music together, with shared rhythm instruments available for those who need one. The focus is on open creative expression in a warm, supportive setting. An optional table will be available for shared snacks, food, and non-alcoholic drinks. For comfort, consider bringing chairs, yoga mats, blankets, or rugs. The only essential thing to bring is yourself. The group gathers at the amphitheater’s Peace Grove beneath the pine trees, with signs to guide the way.

Equality Toledo Youth Group creates an affirming space for LGBTQ+ youth and allies ages 12 to 19 to be themselves, connect with peers, and have fun. Based at the Equality Toledo office in Toledo, Ohio, the group offers a changing mix of activities each month. Participants might swap favorite songs and build playlists, make art through painting, drawing, and crafting, enjoy board and video games with friendly team challenges and prizes, take the stage for karaoke, or experiment with makeup and fashion as expressions of style. Special themed gatherings can include Drag Queen Story Hour along with storytelling and creative celebrations. Monthly schedules are posted so there is always something new to anticipate. The environment is welcoming and inclusive, encouraging laughter, creativity, and community without pressure.

At the Toledo Game Room Play! Pokémon League, a casual community gathers to enjoy TCG, VG, GO, Pocket, and more. Activities include GO raids, unique format tournaments, competitive events such as League Challenge and League Cup, along with TCG raids and holiday parties. Players get a Prize Pack for league play and event participation.

Family Night at Urban Air Toledo offers an evening filled with high-energy fun for all ages. The event features unlimited access to attractions along with extra activities and games suitable for everyone. The Platinum Family Night Package is priced at $74.99 and provides a convenient way to bundle value and make the most of the experience. Expect a lively, upbeat atmosphere that encourages laughter and creates lasting family memories.

Experience a free evening of live music at Promenade Park in Toledo as part of the Levitt Bloc Toledo Music Series. This concert is open to everyone. Blankets and lawn chairs are welcome, and local food trucks Wanna Make 'Er Loaded and Koral Hamburg will have food available for purchase throughout the event. The music kicks off with Toledo singer songwriter Dan Greunke, a local mainstay who has performed with Sangsara, Fairly Handsome Band, Glide, and The Sprags, and who collaborated with the late Mark Hutchins of Vandolah. The Antivillains take the stage as the main act with a dreamy blend of Americana and indie pop. Their songs lean into vivid, evocative storytelling, spacious arrangements, and clear, compelling vocals, reflecting roots in Toledo and the Great Lakes. Critics have highlighted the project’s intimate, pastoral instrumentation and a luminous voice that rises through chiming guitars and steady rhythms.

Enjoy a welcoming painting class open to all ages and skill levels. An instructor will guide participants through each stage of the project so both experienced artists and first-time painters can create with confidence. The cost is $15 per person and includes a canvas panel, all necessary art supplies, and instruction.