Photo: German Village Business Community

This post is part two in a four part series about the holiday season in Columbus. Check out part one here , about craft shows and shopping fairs. And stay tuned for more in the coming week - we’ll cover where to catch a great performance, and we’ll also investigate what’s happening for the holidays at some of Columbus’ favorite attractions.

Sure, holiday music has been on the radio for weeks and peppermint mochas are popping up everywhere, but nothing says the holidays are here more than lights going up around the city. And when it comes to lights, bigger is better. With larger-than-life holiday light shows combining hundreds of lights, catchy jingles and seasonal treats—how can you go wrong? See for yourself at one of these Central Ohio light displays…

Guernsey County Courthouse Holiday Light Show
The courthouse comes alive nightly with thousands of pulsating lights synchronized to holiday music. Four different light shows, each 8-12 minutes long, are performed each night.

Where: Guernsey County Courthouse Lawn
When: Nov. 1-Jan. 8; 5:30-9 p.m. every night
How much: FREE; donations are encouraged

More information is available here .  (more…)

Photo: Easton Town Center

Many of us are looking for inventive ways to keep ourselves in the holiday spirit, while still keeping money in our pockets. Here, I have just a few picks for free, family-friendly holiday things to do during the next three weekends in Columbus.

Eleventh Annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony
Easton Town Center
November 20

Start off the holiday season tomorrow by bringing the family over to Easton Town Center for their Eleventh Annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony. The whole center comes alive and starts off the shopping season with the lighting of their huge 50 foot tree, complete with an appearance by Santa. Carolers will be strolling around the sparkling streets of the center and the stores will be abuzz with sales.

Grandview Holiday Hop
Grandview Avenue, between 1st and 5th
November 28

Grandview Avenue comes alive with holiday spirit the Saturday after Thanksgiving. You can start by seeing a live reindeer exhibit at Arlington Bank and end by getting a free picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Tri-Village Studios. There are free horse-drawn sleigh rides for all ages up and down the Avenue throughout the night. Smell the holiday scents at The Candle Lab and check out other holiday crafts and treats along the way.

Village Lights
German Village
December 6

Experience the holiday charm of German Village during the holidays. The village is truly beautiful, with luminaries lit throughout the streets and park, and local businesses come out in full force this night with samples, holiday treats and specials. There is also an appearance by Santa, live entertainment and music to get you in the holiday spirit.

These events are sure to get you excited for the season, and you can search for even more here . Enjoy!