Independence Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Independence and surrounding areas
Independence welcomes the festive season with Holiday lights across local neighborhoods and community centers, and nearby attractions like the Ark Encounter offer spectacular seasonal displays during Christmas at the Ark Encounter. Local parks and plazas host concerts and family gatherings. Find festive events and things to do including winter festivals and seasonal activities that bring neighbors together for parades, markets, and holiday cheer throughout the season.
Find the best Independence Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Lights
32 eventsMillions of lights and animal lanterns at a renowned zoo.
Christmas Markets
19 eventsEuropean-style German-American Christmas market with a Cincinnati twist.
Christmas Shows
7 eventsLive performance of Tchaikovsky's score by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.
Christmas Parties
5 eventsDual firework countdowns and ice skating on New Year's Eve.
Christmas Activities
15 eventsA Storybook Christmas theme with prize money for charities.
Editor's Picks (6)
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PNC Festival of Lights
(Cincinnati)
Millions of lights and animal lanterns at a renowned zoo.
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Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt
(Cincinnati)
European-style German-American Christmas market with a Cincinnati twist.
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Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade & Festival
(Lebanon)
Two horse-drawn carriage parades, one by day and one by candlelight.
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Deck the Diamond Winter Spectacular
(Dayton)
Over 1.1 million dazzling lights at a ballpark.
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New Year's Eve Blast
(Cincinnati)
Dual firework countdowns and ice skating on New Year's Eve.
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Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains
(Cincinnati)
79th season of Duke Energy Holiday Trains
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Independence
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Independence.
The Giving Tree
This heartwarming initiative partners with the Salvation Army to ensure local children have...
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Latest News & Updates
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Also Near Independence
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Independence!
Independence Christmas FAQ
The biggest events include the Independence Square Lighting ceremony and Santa's Village, along with the Glow Holiday Light Display and Living Windows performances in the Historic Independence Square.
Independence features unique traditions like the Living Windows event, where shop windows come to life with holiday scenes and performances, and community-wide light displays that engage local neighborhoods.
Neighborhoods such as the area around Crysler Avenue and Apache Drive are known for their impressive light displays, including musical shows and interactive elements like letters to Santa.
Local markets and makers can be found in the Historic Independence Square and Uptown Market areas, where vendor stalls offer artisan crafts, holiday gifts, and seasonal food and drink.
Free activities include visiting the Glow Holiday Light Display, attending the Square Lighting event, and exploring neighborhood light displays. Many markets also offer free entry and affordable shopping options.
Families can enjoy visiting Santa's Village, participating in craft activities at markets, attending Living Windows performances, and exploring walkable light displays like Glow Holiday Lights for a festive experience.