Celebrate the Holidays in Columbus

The holidays are more cheerful in Columbus? Yes! From being one of the top-ranked cities for holiday light displays to being named a Top 10 Best Big City in the U.S., there are so many reasons to say, "yes" to a trip to Columbus this season.

Learn how to have a Hallmark-inspired holiday in Columbus, see dazzling light displays and mark your calendar for can't-miss events and shows. As you embark on your holiday adventures in Columbus, you will wonder, “Can all of this exist in one place?” Yes, Columbus!

Holiday Events, Festive Lights and Pop-Ups

There are endless ways to get out and enjoy the season in Columbus.

Can't-Miss Holiday Events

Holiday Lights - 2025 - Wander Lights - Commons

Holiday Lights Displays

A woman pouring a drink at the Miracle Pop-Up Bar at The Citizens Trust

Visit Holiday Pop-Up Bars & Restaurants

2025 Columbus Holiday Gift Guide presented by Santa 95

Featuring great local gifts for everyone on your list! The Columbus Gift Guide delivers the best in local retail, attractions, dining and more.

2025 Holiday Gift Guide - Ohio State Bundle

The 2025 Columbus Holiday Gift Guide is Here!

2025 Columbus Holiday Gift Guide

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Things to Do This Holiday Season in Columbus

Whether you’re hosting family or exploring with friends, the holidays in Columbus are full of memorable experiences just waiting to be explored.

How to Have a Hallmark Holiday in Columbus

Holiday Performances at Columbus Theaters

Winter Date Night Ideas in Columbus

Best Places to Shop in Columbus

Show Us How You Celebrate

Is Experience Columbus your holiday season influencer? Yes! Follow and engage with us on social and download the CBUS Rewards App to be rewarded for exploring! Use #yesColumbus to share your holiday memories with us.

Hanukkah and Kwanzaa Events and Celebrations in Columbus

Because Columbus has events and experiences to explore this season for all.

Celebrate Hanukkah in Columbus

Celebrate Kwanzaa in Columbus

New Year's Eve Celebrations in Columbus

It's been decided: 2026 will be your year, but before that, let's celebrate New Year's Eve in style in Columbus!

Mother and two child smiling in front of Happy New Year screen

Where to Celebrate NYE 2025

Attraction Passes and Trails

Get to know Columbus with our free experiential trails (like the Columbus Coffee Trail or the Columbus Booklovers Trail) or purchase admission tickets to some of your favorite Columbus attractions.

View of pond covered with snow and ice with thousands of colorful LED lights in trees during Columbus Zoo's Wildlights holiday event

3-Day Attractions Pass

This pass offers the same access to some of Columbus' most popular attractions and cultural institutions, only you'll have even longer explore as many of the included stops as you'd like.

Exterior shot of Franklin Park Conservatory in the winter

1-Day Columbus Attractions Pass

Take advantage of unbeatable general admission rates for the family (and other perks!) and get 24 hours to some of Columbus' most popular attractions and cultural institutions, including the Columbus Zoo, Franklin Park Conservatory and more!

Columbus Booklovers Trail

Embark on a literary journey through Columbus.

Columbus Buckeye Treat Trail

Buckeyes are a staple in Columbus—both on the roster and on the dessert menu. Keep the Ohio State spirit going by indulging in the sweetest chocolate and peanut butter journey in the city. Plus, earn a prize for completing the route!

Columbus Coffee Trail

Explore Columbus' coffee scene on this self-guided trail, and earn prizes along the way.

Columbus Distillery Trail

Raise a glass at local distilleries and earn impressive prizes to commemorate your journey.

Stay Engaged with Columbus

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