Author: Donna Gross

Downtown Tiffin to Host Christmas in July Third Thursday Event on July 16

Written by Donna Gross on July 13, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – July 13, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin will host its Third Thursday Christmas in July event on Thursday, July 16, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The event will feature activities, entertainment, and promotions throughout Downtown for residents and visitors of all ages.

The RTA Lot will host Santa’s Heroic Heroes Touch-a-Truck, the North Pole Obstacle Course inflatable, provided by Tiffin Inflatables, face painting, holiday activities, local organizations, and “summer” Santa Claus will also be available for children.

Participating Downtown Tiffin businesses will offer Christmas in July themed promotions throughout the day, including special discounts, featured merchandise, and a Naughty or Nice scratch-off game with opportunities to win instant prizes.

Downtown Tiffin’s Third Thursday events are supported by Reineke Family Dealerships and UIS Insurance and Investments.

For additional information and event updates, visit the event page on Facebook or www.DowntownTiffinEvents.com.

###

About Downtown Tiffin
The revitalization of Downtown Tiffin began in 2011 with the formation of Tiffin Tomorrow, a grassroots initiative led by community members dedicated to promoting economic development and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the downtown district. In 2014, the City of Tiffin partnered with local organizations to serve as the official downtown development entity. Tiffin Tomorrow was incorporated into this effort, which now operates under the Seneca County Collaborative as the Downtown Development Board, the governing body for downtown revitalization efforts.

Since 2015, Downtown Tiffin has proudly participated in Heritage Ohio’s Main Street Program, further strengthening its commitment to historic preservation, economic vitality, and community engagement. Downtown Tiffin is also recognized as a nationally accredited Main Street America Program. Learn more at www.DowntownTiffin.org.

About the Seneca County Collaborative
The Seneca County Collaborative brings together the Seneca Regional Chamber & Development, Downtown Tiffin, and Destination Seneca County under one unified structure to better serve the businesses, communities, and residents of Seneca County. This integrated approach aligns economic development, tourism, downtown revitalization, and business services to create greater impact, improve access to resources, and drive long-term success across the county. Learn more at www.OneSeneca.org.

Tiffin Academy of Hair Design Announces New Ownership

Written by Donna Gross on June 17, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – June 17, 2026 – Tiffin Academy of Hair Design announced that Allison Tschanen has acquired the cosmetology school located at 104 East Market Street in downtown Tiffin. As part of the transition, Tracie Tyree has been named School Director and will oversee the school’s day-to-day operations.

Tschanen purchased both the business and the building following a transition process that began in 2025. The academy will continue operating under the Tiffin Academy of Hair Design name, and current programs, services, and operating hours will remain unchanged.

A Mohawk High School and Ohio State graduate, entrepreneur, and licensed cosmetologist, Tschanen currently owns a salon in Upper Sandusky and works in the animal health industry. She said the opportunity to acquire the academy aligned with her long-term plans and interest in supporting cosmetology education.

“The academy has a long history in the community, and I look forward to working with the staff and students as we begin this transition,” said Tschanen. “Our initial focus will be on learning the business, supporting the team, and maintaining continuity for students.”

Tyree will serve as School Director and will oversee educational programming, faculty support, and student development. The leadership team plans to focus on operations during the first year of ownership while evaluating future opportunities for facility improvements and technology upgrades.

Tiffin Academy of Hair Design provides cosmetology education and training for students pursuing careers in the beauty industry. The school serves students from throughout the region and offers hands-on instruction in cosmetology and related disciplines.

For more information about Tiffin Academy of Hair Design, visit www.tiffinacademy.com or call (419) 447-3117.

###

Downtown Tiffin to Host “Chill Out in Downtown Tiffin” Third Thursday Event

Written by Donna Gross on June 4, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – June 4, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin will host its newly themed Third Thursday event, “Chill Out in Downtown Tiffin,” on Thursday, June 18 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The evening will feature family-friendly activities, food vendors, and specials from downtown businesses.

The event will include water activities in the RTA parking lot, providing opportunities for families and children to cool off during the summer evening. Visitors are also encouraged to enjoy the splash pad at National Corner while exploring downtown.

Throughout the evening, downtown businesses will offer special promotions, sales, and grab-and-go food features. Court Street will host local businesses, community organizations, and food trucks.

“We are thrilled to kick off the summer season with Chill Out in Downtown Tiffin,” said Marketing Committee Chair Cheyane Thacker. “Our Third Thursday events are all about bringing the community together, and this month is the perfect opportunity for families to beat the heat, support our fantastic local businesses, and enjoy an evening of music and fun. Whether you’re splashing around in the RTA lot or grabbing dinner from one of our local restaurants before the concert, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy downtown.”

The City of Tiffin’s Parks and Recreation will host the first Thursday Night Tunes concert of the season at the East Green Amphitheater with live music by Paul Grover at 7:00 p.m.. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy an evening of music in downtown Tiffin.

Third Thursday events are sponsored by Reineke Family Dealerships and UIS Insurance and Investments.

###

Downtown Tiffin to Celebrate New Love Lock Structure with Ribbon Cutting

Written by Donna Gross on June 2, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – June 2, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin will host a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. to celebrate the installation of a new Love Lock structure at the East Green at National Corner adjacent to the Splash Pad. The event is open to the public.

The Love Lock structure was created through the efforts of the Downtown Tiffin Design Committee as part of Downtown Tiffin’s ongoing beautification initiatives. The committee leads Downtown Clean Ups, provides design assistance for projects such as the Court Street Arch and streetscaping efforts, and oversees the Best Foot Forward Program and Golden Broom Award.

Inspired by the Pont des Arts bridge in Paris, France, as well as similar installations found in Main Street communities across the country, the Downtown Tiffin Love Lock structure gives couples an opportunity to symbolize their love by attaching a lock to the structure and placing the key in the attached key box.

“We wanted to create something that people could connect with and enjoy for years to come,” said Donna Gross, Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager. “The East Green has become such a special gathering place in our community, and this Love Lock structure gives couples, families, and visitors a fun and meaningful way to make memories together in Downtown Tiffin.”

The structure was generously donated by Price Manufacturing and will serve as a unique new attraction and photo opportunity in Downtown Tiffin, featuring the East Tower as a scenic backdrop. Located near the amphitheater, the East Green has become a gathering place for concerts, community events, and celebrations. The location also holds significance as the site where nearly 150 couples were married during the 2024 Total Eclipse celebration.

Community members are encouraged to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony and celebrate this new addition to Downtown Tiffin.

[pictured: Brandon Price, Price Manufacturing]

###

Downtown Tiffin to Host Third Thursday Barking Lot Party on May 21

Written by Donna Gross on April 29, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – April 29, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin will host its annual Barking Lot Party on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. as part of the Third Thursday event series.

The free, pet-friendly event will take place in City Parking Lot 7 on South Washington Street and throughout the downtown district. Community members are invited to attend with their dogs and participate in a variety of activities while visiting local businesses.

Event activities will include a dog obstacle course, games, paw-manicures, themed photo opportunities, and pup-cup treats. Downtown retailers will offer sidewalk specials and giveaways. Grab-and-go food options will be offered by downtown restaurants and food trucks located along Court Street.

City Parking Lot 7 will serve as the central event location, featuring community vendors and live music by Paul Grover. The lot will be closed to vehicle parking during the event. All other city parking lots will remain open, with the exception of City Lot 4.

For safety purposes, all dogs must be kept on a leash. Attendees are asked not to bring dogs that are aggressive toward other animals, children, or unfamiliar individuals.

“Events like this not only create memorable experiences for the whole family, but also support our local businesses and showcase the energy and creativity happening throughout our downtown. I encourage everyone to come out, enjoy the evening, and be part of the fun,” said Tiffin Mayor Lee Wilkinson.

Downtown Tiffin’s Third Thursday events are supported by Reineke Family Dealerships and UIS Insurance & Investments.

For more information, visit www.DowntownTiffinEvents.com or the event’s Facebook page.

***Calling all businesses and organizations, this is your cue to unleash the fun.***

Downtown Tiffin’s Barking Lot Party is happening on Third Thursday, May 21, and we’re inviting you to be part of the action. Set up in City Lot 7 and connect with the community by offering a FREE dog themed promotional giveaway or interactive activity.

Spots are limited, so don’t miss your chance. Sign up today: https://forms.gle/yoYjv7ULDiHxnfXDA

###

Downtown Tiffin Announces “Arts, Beats, and Eats” as April Third Thursday Theme

Written by Donna Gross on March 30, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – March 30, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin will launch the 2026 Third Thursday event season with “Arts, Beats, and Eats” on April 16 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. throughout the downtown district.

The event will feature live musicians and artists at multiple locations throughout downtown. Attendees will have the opportunity to view and purchase a variety of artwork, including glassware, marbles, jewelry, acrylic and mixed media paintings, watercolor cards and bookmarks, decorative garden poles, original artwork, prints, photography, oil paintings, colored pencil and graphite pieces, crochet items, folded book art, and miniature recycled book dioramas. Live musical performances will include a range of styles such as multi-genre, rock, country, and bluegrass.

Local restaurants and bars will offer grab-and-go food options and DORA drink specials during the event. Attendees are encouraged to visit participating establishments and explore downtown while enjoying food, live music, and local art.

Third Thursday events are held regularly to encourage activity within the downtown district and provide additional opportunities for businesses to engage with residents and visitors.

“This is a great way to kick off the Third Thursday season in Tiffin. ‘Arts, Beats, and Eats’ brings together everything that makes Tiffin special—local artists, live music, and great food—all in one place. It’s an opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the creativity and energy of our community while supporting the small businesses that help Tiffin thrive,” said Tiffin Mayor Lee Wilkinson.

Downtown Tiffin acknowledges the support of Third Thursday sponsors, Reineke Family Dealerships and UIS Insurance & Investments.

###

Downtown Tiffin to Host Heritage Ohio Revitalization Series Workshop: Design That Drives Downtown Success

Written by Donna Gross on March 23, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – March 23, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin will host the Heritage Ohio Revitalization Series Workshop, Design That Drives Downtown Success, on May 20, 2026, at the Chandelier Community Event Center. The full-day workshop will bring together downtown merchants, property owners, and community leaders from throughout the state to explore strategies that enhance storefront appeal and support economic vitality.

The morning session will feature Magnetic Main Streets: Designing Storefronts That Invite, Engage, and Increase Cash Flow, led by Tiersa Wodash, founder of Brick and Mortar. Wodash, a licensed architect in Minnesota and Wisconsin, specializes in revitalizing existing buildings and helping small businesses transform underutilized spaces into vibrant, high-performing destinations.

Participants will learn about key factors that influence storefront design and performance. Topics will include lighting basics, design cohesion, and interior and exterior improvements that can affect customer engagement and foot traffic. The session will provide practical tools and considerations that attendees can apply to their own spaces.

“This workshop is a great opportunity for business owners, downtown leaders, and community stakeholders from across Ohio to learn practical strategies they can use in any downtown setting,” said Donna Gross, Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager. “By sharing practical design ideas and real-world insights, we hope to help communities of all sizes strengthen their business districts and create more inviting spaces.”

The afternoon sessions will include an overview of the Downtown Tiffin Façade Program and its impact on the downtown commercial district. The Gossman Group will present on the importance of a comprehensive downtown plan, followed by guided walking tours highlighting recent projects and investments in Downtown Tiffin.

Registration for the workshop is available online through Eventbrite.

Heritage Ohio promotes economic growth through the preservation and revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods across Ohio. Heritage Ohio is the coordinating agency for the Ohio Main Street Program and is the designated statewide Ohio preservation partner with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Through saving the places that matter we can all build a community and live better. Learn more about how to become involved by visiting www.heritageohio.org.

[Pictured: Tiersa Wodash, founder of Brick and Mortar]

###

Downtown Tiffin Announces 2026 Community Clean-Up Dates

Written by Donna Gross on March 19, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – March 19, 2026 – The Downtown Tiffin Design Committee has announced its 2026 schedule for community clean-up events, inviting residents, businesses, and organizations to take part in maintaining and enhancing the appearance of Downtown Tiffin.

The clean-up events will take place on the following Saturdays: April 25, June 27, September 12, and November 21, with a special focus on leaf collection during seasonal transitions. Each event will run from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m., with volunteers meeting behind the Seneca County Collaborative office at 96 South Washington Street.

Downtown Tiffin will provide all necessary supplies, including trash bags, gloves, brooms, dustpans, and rakes.

In addition to individual volunteers, the Design Committee is encouraging groups to join the “Litter League,” a team-based community effort dedicated to promoting litter cleanup and beautification throughout Downtown Tiffin. Teams can include businesses, neighborhood groups, faith-based organizations, schools, civic groups, sports teams, and individuals alike.

Students from local schools and universities are encouraged to participate, as the clean-up events provide an opportunity to engage with the community. Participation may also count toward volunteer or service hour requirements, allowing students to fulfill academic or organizational commitments.

Community members interested in participating can find more information at www.downtowntiffinevents.com and can sign up for volunteer opportunities through SignUpGenius.

###

Outbound Cycles to Rebrand Local Bike Shop in Downtown Tiffin

Written by Donna Gross on March 4, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – March 4, 2026 – Local cyclist and Tiffin native Mitch Stearns has announced the upcoming rebrand of the bike shop located at 70 E. Market Street in Tiffin. The business will soon operate under the new name Outbound Cycles, with the rebrand expected to take place within the next two months.

Outbound Cycles will continue providing bike sales and service for the community, including both traditional pedal bikes and electric bikes (e-bikes). In addition to in-shop repairs, the business will also offer home service calls and bike pick-up and drop-off services for a fee.

Stearns said his interest in launching a bike-focused business grew out of a need he saw in the community.

“When the opportunity came up to purchase the shop and rebrand it as my own, I couldn’t pass it up,” Stearns said.

Stearns has experience in cycling and bike service spanning more than two decades. He worked at GT Cycling and Fitness during high school and has spent much of his life riding road, mountain, and BMX bikes. He also worked with Spoke Life Cycles from 2023 to 2025, repairing and selling bikes prior to launching Outbound Cycles.

“This is a personal passion turned professional,” Stearns said. “Here at Outbound we love the idea of getting people moving and being outside. With over 20 years of riding hundreds of different bikes, we have a wide range of knowledge of what is out there and what is a quality ride that can deliver what you need to have a great time on two wheels.”

While the rebrand will include changes to some product lines, Outbound Cycles will continue offering access to a wide variety of bike brands and products.

Outbound Cycles will operate in downtown Tiffin at 70 E. Market Street. More information contact outboundcyclesllc@gmail.com.

###

Final Week to Register for Downtown Tiffin St. Paddy’s Day 5K and Guarantee a Race Shirt

Written by Donna Gross on February 24, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – February 24, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin is reminding runners and walkers that there is less than one week left to register for the 11th Annual Downtown Tiffin St. Paddy’s Day 5K Run/Walk and guarantee a commemorative race T-shirt. Participants must register by March 1 to secure a shirt as part of their $30 registration.

The annual event will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, beginning at Calvert Catholic Schools, 152 Madison Street. Participant check-in opens at 8:30 a.m., with the race starting at 10:00 a.m. Children ages 10 and under may participate at no cost, with the option to purchase a youth-sized T-shirt. Official race timing will be provided by Dave’s Running.

Proceeds from the event directly support Downtown Tiffin’s ongoing revitalization efforts, including beautification projects, business support initiatives, and community programming that enhance the vitality of the downtown district.

Awards will be presented to the top male and female finishers in youth, adult, and senior divisions. A best-dressed participant award will also recognize the most festive St. Patrick’s Day-themed attire. Following the race, participants and visitors are encouraged to explore Downtown Tiffin’s shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Registration and additional event details are available at LuckyTiffin5k.com. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for $150 at DowntownTiffin.org/5k.

###

Downtown Tiffin Announces Taste in Downtown Tiffin – Winter Edition

Written by Donna Gross on January 29, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – January 29, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin will host the Taste in Downtown Tiffin – Winter Edition on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at The Chandelier Community Event Center, located at 151 S. Washington Street.

The event will feature 14 local restaurants and eateries, each offering a selection of menu samples. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience a variety of local flavors in one location while supporting area food establishments.

Tickets may be purchased in advance at Pan Yan Bookstore or Simply Susan’s, or with cash at the door on the night of the event. Ticket packs are available in two options: 5 tickets for $5 or 20 tickets for $20. Most food samples will cost one to three tickets, allowing attendees to sample multiple offerings without purchasing full meals.

“Taste in Tiffin has become a true downtown tradition at the Chandelier, and this Winter edition is the perfect reason to get out of the house and shake off the winter blues,” said Mayor Wilkinson.

The Taste in Downtown Tiffin – Winter Edition is sponsored by Reineke Family Dealerships and the Seneca News Daily.

For more information, follow Downtown Tiffin on social media or visit downtowntiffin.org.

###

Downtown Tiffin Announces 11th Annual St. Paddy’s Day 5K Run/Walk

Written by Donna Gross on January 12, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – January 12, 2026 – The 11th annual Downtown Tiffin St. Paddy’s Day 5K Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The event supports downtown revitalization programs.

The race will begin at Calvert Catholic Schools, 152 Madison Street. Participant check-in opens at 8:30 a.m., and the race will start at 10:00 a.m. Registration costs $30 and includes a commemorative race T-shirt for participants who register by March 1. Children ages 10 and under may participate at no cost, with an option to purchase a youth-sized T-shirt.

Awards will be presented to the top male and female finishers in youth, adult, and senior divisions. A best-dressed participant award will also be presented, recognizing St. Patrick’s Day-themed attire. Official race timing will be provided by Dave’s Running.

Event proceeds will support downtown revitalization efforts. Following the race, participants and visitors are encouraged to visit downtown businesses, restaurants, and attractions.

Registration details and additional information are available at LuckyTiffin5k.com.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for $150 at DowntownTiffin.org/5k. For more information, contact Donna Gross, Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager, at dgross@oneseneca.org or 419-447-4141.

###