Columbus Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Columbus and surrounding areas
Columbus lights up the Christmas season with Holiday lights and plenty of things to do across the Short North and along the Scioto Mile, creating a festive downtown atmosphere. Music lovers can enjoy Columbus Symphony Holiday Pops and Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings as seasonal markets and The Nutcracker bring classic holiday entertainment. Between winter festivals, festive events, and bright neighborhood displays, Columbus offers visitors a warm mix of activities and holiday attractions for all ages.
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Christmas Markets
23 eventsAnnual holiday bazaar benefiting children's hospital with handcrafted items.
Christmas Lights
16 eventsMillions of dazzling LED lights and animated musical shows.
Christmas Shows
10 eventsClassic holiday ballet with enchanting music and choreography.
Other Christmas Activities
14 eventsEditor's Picks (6)
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Columbus Zoo Wildlights
(Powell)
Millions of dazzling LED lights and animated musical shows.
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TWIG Bazaar Benefiting Nationwide Children's Hospital
(Powell)
Annual holiday bazaar benefiting children's hospital with handcrafted items.
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Christmas at Kingwood
(Mansfield)
Illuminated gardens and decorated Kingwood Hall
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The Nutcracker
Classic holiday ballet with enchanting music and choreography.
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Columbus Symphony Holiday Pops
Holiday Pops concert with symphony, chorus, and children's choir.
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A Charlie Brown Christmas – Live On Stage
(Springfield)
Live stage musical adaptation of the 60th anniversary of "A Charlie Brown Christmas."
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Some of the biggest events include Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, WonderLight's Christmas drive-through show, and the Wanderlights walking display downtown. These events draw large crowds and offer festive experiences for all ages.
Columbus celebrates with unique traditions like the Wildlights zoo display featuring animal-themed light shows and the historic Nativity at Cathedral Square, which offers a meaningful seasonal experience downtown.
Neighborhoods such as German Village and areas near Creekside Park are known for their charming and festive Christmas light displays, perfect for walking or driving tours.
Local makers and Christmas markets can be found at the German Village Holiday Market, Easton Holiday Market, and various artisan markets held throughout the city during the holiday season.
Free activities include exploring the Wanderlights path downtown, visiting neighborhood light displays, and attending free holiday markets with vendor stalls and seasonal entertainment.
Family-friendly options include Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo, WonderLight's Christmas drive-through, and holiday markets offering crafts and visits with Santa, providing fun for all ages.