Discover the magic of the holiday season in Columbus, OH, with a variety of festive events that cater to everyone. Wander through the enchanting Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo, where over 3 million LED lights bring wildlife scenes to life. Enjoy the dazzling Holiday Lights at the Scioto Mile, where synchronized light shows and interactive installations illuminate the riverfront.
Immerse yourself in cultural traditions at the Ohio Chinese Lantern Festival, featuring intricate lanterns that tell timeless stories. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Columbus offers a welcoming and vibrant holiday experience for all.
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The Top Christmas Events in Columbus
- Wildlights
- Holiday Lights at the Scioto Mile
- Ohio Chinese Lantern Festival
- BalletMet's The Nutcracker
- Columbus Symphony's Holiday Pops
- Grand Illumination
- German Village Lights
- WinterFest
Columbus Holiday Light Displays
Wildlights
What to Expect:
Animal-themed light displays and conservation education
Description:
Wildlights transforms the Columbus Zoo into a glowing menagerie of illuminated animal sculptures. Visitors can stroll through themed zones, each showcasing different ecosystems and their inhabitants. The event began in 1988 as a way to attract winter visitors and has since become a cherished tradition. You'll encounter over 3 million LED lights artfully arranged to depict wildlife scenes. Learn about endangered species and conservation efforts while enjoying the dazzling displays. The zoo's commitment to education shines through, offering a unique blend of holiday cheer and wildlife awareness.
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Holiday Lights at the Scioto Mile
What to Expect:
Riverside promenade with synchronized light and music shows
Description:
The Scioto Mile bursts into a symphony of light and sound during the holiday season. This urban riverfront promenade dazzles with synchronized light shows set to festive tunes. Stroll along the illuminated walkways and witness the city skyline reflected in the shimmering waters. The event highlights Columbus's ongoing efforts to revitalize its downtown waterfront, which began in the early 2000s. Visitors can pause at interactive light installations, creating their own colorful displays. The Scioto Mile's transformation offers a contemporary twist on traditional holiday lighting, blending urban sophistication with seasonal joy.
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Holiday Lights at the Scioto Mile
Grand Illumination
What to Expect:
Ceremonial lighting of a giant Christmas tree with fireworks
Description:
The Grand Illumination kicks off the holiday season in Columbus with a spectacular tree-lighting ceremony. A massive evergreen, carefully selected from Ohio's forests, takes center stage in the heart of downtown. The event harkens back to the city's first public Christmas tree display in 1913. Witness the moment when thousands of lights burst into brilliance, accompanied by a dazzling fireworks display. Visitors can explore the surrounding holiday village, featuring local artisans and food vendors. The Grand Illumination serves as a unifying moment for the community, bringing together residents and visitors to share in the joy of the season.
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German Village Lights
What to Expect:
Historic district illumination with traditional German elements
Description:
German Village Lights bathes this historic neighborhood in a warm glow, highlighting its unique 19th-century architecture. The event pays homage to the area's German heritage, incorporating traditional elements like glühwein stands and lebkuchen cookies. Stroll along brick-paved streets lined with twinkling lights and garlands, admiring the meticulously preserved homes and shops. The tradition began in the 1960s as part of the neighborhood's revitalization efforts. Visitors can participate in a lantern-making workshop, creating their own light to carry through the charming streets. German Village Lights offers an intimate, Old World atmosphere that transports you to a quaint European town.
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Columbus Holiday Shows and Entertainment
BalletMet's The Nutcracker
What to Expect:
Locally-inspired production with Columbus-specific elements
Description:
BalletMet's rendition of The Nutcracker infuses the classic tale with local Columbus flair. The production incorporates subtle nods to the city's landmarks and history, creating a unique experience for audiences. Graceful dancers bring Tchaikovsky's iconic score to life on stage, their movements precisely synchronized with the live orchestra. This adaptation has been a Columbus tradition since 1974, evolving over the years to reflect the city's growth. Visitors can spot references to local attractions like the Ohio Statehouse and Franklin Park Conservatory woven into the set design. The performance captures the essence of Columbus while honoring the timeless holiday story.
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Columbus Symphony's Holiday Pops
What to Expect:
Collaboration with local choirs and surprise guest performers
Description:
The Columbus Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Pops concert elevates seasonal music to new heights. This annual performance features unexpected collaborations with local choirs and surprise guest artists, ensuring a fresh experience each year. The symphony's rich history dates back to 1951, making it a cornerstone of Columbus's cultural scene. Listen as the orchestra breathes new life into classic holiday tunes and introduces contemporary arrangements. Audience members can join in a festive sing-along, becoming part of the performance. The Holiday Pops concert showcases the diversity of Columbus's musical talent while celebrating the universal language of holiday melodies.
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Columbus Symphony's Holiday Pops
Columbus Other Holiday Activities
Ohio Chinese Lantern Festival
What to Expect:
Handcrafted Chinese lantern displays and cultural performances
Description:
The Ohio Chinese Lantern Festival illuminates the night with intricate, handcrafted lanterns that tell stories of Chinese culture and mythology. Artisans from Zigong, Sichuan Province – renowned for their lantern-making skills since the Tang Dynasty – create these stunning works of art. Wander through vibrant displays depicting dragons, flowers, and scenes from ancient legends. The air fills with the aroma of authentic Chinese cuisine available at food stalls. Visitors can try their hand at traditional Chinese crafts like paper cutting. This festival not only celebrates the holiday season but also fosters cultural exchange and understanding.
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WinterFest
What to Expect:
Multi-day festival combining winter sports, art installations, and local cuisine
Description:
Winterfest embraces the cold season with a dynamic celebration of winter activities and arts. This multi-day event transforms downtown Columbus into a hub of frosty fun, featuring ice skating, snow sculpture competitions, and interactive art installations. The festival originated in 2015 as a way to encourage outdoor engagement during the colder months. Taste your way through a curated selection of seasonal dishes from local restaurants, showcasing Columbus's diverse culinary scene. Visitors can try their hand at curling or watch professional ice carvers create intricate sculptures. Winterfest highlights the city's creativity and resilience, turning the challenges of winter into opportunities for community connection and outdoor enjoyment.
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Nearby Events
Fantasy of Lights (Delaware)
What to Expect:
Drive-through light display benefiting local charities
Description:
Fantasy of Lights transforms Alum Creek State Park into a twinkling wonderland, all for a good cause. This drive-through experience allows visitors to enjoy elaborate light displays from the comfort of their vehicles. The event originated as a fundraiser for local charities in 1997 and has grown into a beloved holiday tradition. Marvel at towering light sculptures and animated scenes that stretch for miles along the park's winding roads. Tune your car radio to a special station broadcasting holiday music synchronized with the displays. Fantasy of Lights exemplifies the spirit of giving, combining visual splendor with community support.
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Holiday Train Rides (Worthington)
What to Expect:
Vintage train excursions with onboard entertainment
Description:
Step back in time with Holiday Train Rides aboard meticulously restored vintage railcars. These excursions offer a nostalgic journey through the Ohio countryside, complete with onboard entertainment and seasonal treats. The trains run on historic routes, some dating back to the 19th century when rail was the primary mode of long-distance travel. Passengers can admire the frost-covered landscape rolling by as storytellers share tales of holidays past. Children delight in visits from costumed characters, while adults savor warm beverages in the dining car. These train rides provide a unique perspective on Ohio's winter beauty and railroad heritage.