Columbus Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Columbus and surrounding areas
Columbus welcomes the holiday season with bright Christmas lights and a variety of things to do centered on cultural landmarks and community parks. The Festival of Lights Viewing at The Commons creates a festive backdrop for family activities, seasonal performances, and holiday attractions. Discover winter festivals, caroling events, and festive gatherings that make the season a local favorite.
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Christmas Lights
19 eventsCentral Indiana's most beloved holiday festival
Christmas Markets
14 eventsDowntown winter market and courthouse lighting ceremony
Christmas Shows
9 eventsClassic holiday ballet performance
Christmas Activities
7 eventsInteractive winter science experiments and indoor snow play
Editor's Picks (6)
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A Merry Prairie Holiday
(Fishers)
Central Indiana's most beloved holiday festival
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Christmas Gift + Hobby Show
(Indianapolis)
One-stop holiday shopping with over 375 vendors.
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Indiana Ballet Conservatory's The Nutcracker
(Carmel)
Classic holiday ballet performance
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Franklin Holiday Lighting and Winter Market
(Franklin)
Downtown winter market and courthouse lighting ceremony
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Canopy of Lights Celebration
(Bloomington)
Over 25 miles of lights creating a downtown canopy
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Winterlights at Newfields
(Indianapolis)
Nearly two million lights in a garden setting
Events Happening Soon (3)
Christmas Parties Near Columbus
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Columbus.
11th Annual Santa Stumble Bar Crawl
Get ready for a night of festive fun at the 11th Annual Santa...
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Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Columbus
- Hope Celebrates Christmas of Yesteryear Published: Sun, Dec 7, 2025
- Bikers Bring Christmas Cheer to Children Published: Sun, Dec 7, 2025
Columbus Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Columbus
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Columbus!
Columbus Christmas FAQ
Some of the biggest annual Christmas events in Columbus include large-scale light displays like the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's Wildlights and various holiday markets such as the Columbus Winter Market. Many community tree lighting ceremonies also draw large crowds.
While many traditions are shared nationwide, Columbus embraces its local charm through events like the festive decorations in historic German Village and the unique artisan offerings at its various holiday markets. The city's strong community spirit shines through its numerous local giving initiatives.
German Village is consistently a top choice for charming Christmas lights, with its historic homes and brick streets creating a magical atmosphere. Other neighborhoods also put on impressive displays, so exploring different areas can reveal delightful light installations.
You can find Christmas markets and local makers throughout Columbus, with popular options including the Columbus Winter Market and numerous craft fairs hosted by local organizations. The Short North Arts District also often features pop-up vendor stalls during the holiday season.
Free and budget-friendly activities in Columbus include admiring the Christmas lights in neighborhoods like German Village, attending community tree lighting ceremonies, and enjoying the festive window displays downtown. Many parks also offer free holiday-themed events.
Families with kids in Columbus will love the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's Wildlights, visits with Santa at various locations, and family-friendly holiday shows at venues like the Columbus Children's Theatre. Exploring festive markets and neighborhoods also offers fun for all ages.