The holidays are the perfect time for festive outings and memory-making with family and friends. To help you celebrate, we've rounded up some of the can't-miss holiday events in Columbus this season.
If you're looking for information on all our fantastic light displays, find our list here. Or if holiday performances are what you seek, find that list here.
Easton's holiday lights. Source: Steiner + Associates.
Easton's Grand Illumination
When: Friday, Nov. 14
Where: Easton
What: Kick off the holiday season at the top retail destination in the country with Easton's Grand Illumination. If there's one destination that goes all out for the holidays, it's Easton. Festivities will begin at 6 p.m. around the center and continue throughout the evening with live music, fun for the family, costumed characters and more, bringing all the holiday cheer! No matter where you are, take your eyes to the sky at 7 p.m. and watch as over two million lights simultaneously illuminate Easton for the season. Learn more.
Conservatory Aglow at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Conservatory Aglow
When: Nov. 22 - Jan. 4
Where: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
What: Marvel at the thousands of twinkling lights at Franklin Park Conservatory this season in Columbus. Walk through the iconic rainbow tunnel, take in the magic of the decorated halls and listen to roaming music. Get tickets.
Season of Celebrations
When: Nov. 22 - Jan. 4
Where: COSI
What: This seasonal celebration will transform the museum into a winter wonderland featuring a grand 40-foot tree and 60+ other trees decorated by the Columbus community for visitors to enjoy. New this year is a cozy Winter Chill Speakeasy featuring seasonal food and themed drinks, expanded photo opportunities and exhibit-inspired trees. Season of Celebrations is included with COSI's general admission. Get tickets.
Columbus Winterfair at the Ohio Expo Center. Source: Experience Columbus.
Columbus Winterfair
When: Dec. 5-7
Where: Ohio Expo Center
What: A marquee arts event in Columbus, Winterfair has been showcasing artists since 1963. Experience artful shopping and meet the people behind the beautiful works this season in Columbus. Purchase tickets.
The Ohio Statehouse during the holidays. Source: Andy Spessard for Experience Columbus.
Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting at Ohio Statehouse
When: Thursday, Dec. 4
Where: Ohio Statehouse
What: 'Tis the season at the Ohio Statehouse, as the annual Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting are here to kick off the holidays. Historical characters and modern dignitaries will be present to spread the holiday cheer, including Santa Claus. Guests will enjoy complimentary cookies, music, activity tables, dance performances and demonstrations. Even get your photo taken in front of the Ohio Statehouse holiday tree with the jolly man himself. Learn more.
Enjoy free carousel rides at Columbus Commons during Festive Fridays.
Wander Nights
When: Fridays and Saturdays in December.
Where: Bicentennial Park, Columbus Commons, Town Street
What: On the first three Fridays and Saturdays in December, cozy up by the fire, enjoy free hot chocolate and movies at Wander Nights. New this year, Wander Nights are a great way to get into the festive spirit with friends and family ahead of the holidays. Learn more.
Winterfest in Downtown Columbus. Source: Columbus Recreation and Parks
WinterFest
When: Saturday, Dec. 6
Where: Bicentennial Park
What: Head downtown for some winter fun! This free, family-friendly event features live music, a diverse offering of food trucks, seasonal sips and plenty of photo opportunities. Learn more about WinterFest here.
Short North Arts District Holiday Hop
When: Saturday, Dec. 6
Where: Short North Arts District
What: Visit the Short North Pole for a day of free holiday fun for everyone at Holiday Hop! Create new holiday memories together as High Street is transformed into a pedestrian-only winter wonderland. Discover countless creative opportunities to celebrate, shop and share in the fun with a market of 100+ artisan vendors, specials and discounts at your favorite Short North businesses, live performances, hands-on arts experiences and more! Learn more.
Village Lights in German Village
Village Lights
When: Sunday, Dec. 7
Where: German Village
What: Head to German Village for the return of Village Lights. Stroll through the luminary-lined streets to kick off your holiday shopping in the most scenic surroundings. Explore the traditional StrietzelMarkt, shop with local vendors and find holiday magic around every corner. Learn more.
Holiday Drone Show
When: Thursday, Dec. 11
Where: Easton, The Yard
What: Watch the sky light up in a whole new way this year at Easton. The evening will include festive treats, music, and fun for all ages, concluding with a holiday-themed drone show.. Stay tuned for more details.
Source: Steiner + Associates
Menorah Lighting at Easton
When: Monday, Dec. 15
Where: Easton
What: Kick off Hanukkah at Easton with their annual Menorah Lighting. Watch as a massive menorah is lit in celebration of the second night of Hanukkah.
Get out there and enjoy the season this year in Columbus. Find more holiday inspiration here and share your memories with us using #yesColumbus.
