Dayton Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Dayton and surrounding areas
Dayton shines for Christmas 2025 as Holiday lights and festive events spread warmth across the Oregon District and downtown. Enjoy Deck the Diamond Winter Spectacular, Elf in Concert, or A Carillon Christmas near Courthouse Square while taking in ice skating and seasonal concerts. Local holiday activities include craft markets and family-friendly performances that pair lights and music with community spirit, offering plenty of festive attractions and things to do for friends and families this season.
Find the best Dayton Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Lights
30 eventsTwo horse-drawn carriage parades, one by day and one by candlelight.
Christmas Markets
27 eventsEuropean-style German-American Christmas market with a Cincinnati twist.
Christmas Shows
9 eventsLive performance of Tchaikovsky's score by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.
Christmas Parties
6 eventsDual firework countdowns and ice skating on New Year's Eve.
Other Christmas Activities
16 eventsMayor's Tree Lighting with Santa Paws
Editor's Picks (6)
-
PNC Festival of Lights
(Cincinnati)
Millions of lights and animal lanterns at a renowned zoo.
-
Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt
(Cincinnati)
European-style German-American Christmas market with a Cincinnati twist.
-
Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade & Festival
(Lebanon)
Two horse-drawn carriage parades, one by day and one by candlelight.
-
Deck the Diamond Winter Spectacular
Over 1.1 million dazzling lights at a ballpark.
-
New Year's Eve Blast
(Cincinnati)
Dual firework countdowns and ice skating on New Year's Eve.
-
Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains
(Cincinnati)
79th season of Duke Energy Holiday Trains
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Dayton
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Dayton.
The Giving Tree
Community gift drive for local children.
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about events and activities in Dayton
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Dayton
Discover thousands of christmas events across the country
Also Near Dayton
Huber Heights
- Vandalia Tree Lighting Ceremony & Holiday Market
- Huber Heights Holiday Craft Fair
- St. Peter Christmas Bazaar
Miamisburg
See all in Miamisburg βDayton Christmas FAQ
Some of the biggest events include Deck the Diamond at Day Air Ballpark, Woodland Lights in Washington Township, and A Carillon Christmas at Carillon Historical Park. These events feature extensive light displays, holiday activities, and community celebrations.
Daytonβs unique traditions include the Tree of Light at Carillon Historical Park, which transforms the Deeds Carillon into a towering holiday beacon, and the Deck the Diamond light show that turns the baseball stadium into a festive winter wonderland.
Washington Township is well-known for its Woodland Lights display, and several neighborhoods near Dayton host beloved neighborhood displays that offer charming and festive walking trails to enjoy holiday lights up close.
Local makers and Christmas markets can be found at neighborhood markets, community centers, and downtown venues near Dayton. These markets often feature artisan vendors, craft fairs, and seasonal food & drink options.
Viewing the Tree of Light at Carillon Historical Park is free, as are many neighborhood light displays. Walking trails and some community markets also offer no-cost or low-cost ways to enjoy the holiday season without spending much.
Family-friendly options include Deck the Diamond with its Santa visits and activities, Woodland Lights with train rides and pet nights, and A Carillon Christmas featuring model trains and holiday concerts, all designed to engage children and adults alike.