Cincinnati Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Experience the magic of Downtown Dazzle, a spectacular holiday light display transforming Cincinnati's urban core into a festive wonderland. Wander through streets adorned with dazzling illuminations, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere for all to enjoy during the holiday season.

Immerse yourself in a magical holiday experience at Washington Park's Winter Wonderland. This enchanting installation, a collaboration by Cincinnati Ballet and local partners, features a captivating Nutcracker-inspired story walk with six scenes created by Art Academy of Cincinnati students. Dazzling holiday lights will adorn the park, creating a festive atmosphere...

Dive into Scuba Santa's Water Wonderland at Newport Aquarium, where playful penguins, festive music, and dazzling holiday lights create a magical underwater holiday experience. While Scuba Santa may be resting, the wonderland continues, offering a unique way to celebrate the season surrounded by thousands of aquatic creatures. It's a perfect...

Join the celebration at Newport on the Levee for 'Light Up The Levee,' an enchanting holiday kickoff event. This festive evening features live music from The Groove Crew and Hi-Fi Honey, a spectacular 50-foot Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and a breathtaking Rozzi fireworks show. Families can meet Santa Claus, enjoy...

Step into a winter wonderland at Holiday Junction, featuring the beloved Duke Energy Holiday Trains. This signature holiday experience brings generations together with its dazzling displays, including over 300 rail cars and 50 locomotives. Explore the enchanting Northern Lights display, a perfect spot for family photos, and discover the history...

Step into a winter wonderland at Holiday Junction, featuring the beloved Duke Energy Holiday Trains. This signature holiday experience brings generations together with its dazzling display of over 300 rail cars and 50 locomotives. Explore the enchanting Northern Lights, embark on a fun scavenger hunt, and marvel at a LEGO...

Step into a world of botanical wonder at Krohn Conservatory's 'Festival of Ferns.' This enchanting holiday show features a stunning botanical model of Cincinnati, complete with miniature landmarks and charming trains. Wander through diverse fern collections and vibrant poinsettias, creating a magical blend of nature and tradition perfect for all...

Step into a winter wonderland at the Cincinnati Zoo's 43rd annual PNC Festival of Lights! Be dazzled by over 5 million LED lights, explore whimsical fairy statues, and discover 65 larger-than-life animal lanterns. Enjoy festive treats, seasonal concessions, and the spectacular Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake. Don't miss the...

Step into a dazzling winter wonderland at Deck the Y'alls Lightfest, transforming Thomas More Stadium with over 2.5 million brilliant lights and eight immersive themed displays. This spectacular event offers a magical walk-through light show, an on-field ice rink for skating, and festive food and drink options, creating an unforgettable...

Step into a magical holiday season at the Creation Museum's annual Christmas event. Stroll through the dazzling Garden of Lights, adorned with illuminated dinosaur sculptures and vibrant displays. Experience the true meaning of the season with a live nativity and reflective indoor dramas. Enjoy festive treats and explore unique gift...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Fairfield Festival of Trees. This enchanting event features an indoor forest of uniquely decorated trees, sponsored and created by local businesses and organizations. Stroll through the festive displays, cast your vote for the most creative tree, and enjoy the start of...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Pyramid Hill Lights, a breathtaking drive-through event featuring over one million lights. Local artists have transformed the park's unique landscape and monumental sculptures into a dazzling spectacle. It's a perfect, enchanting outing for the entire family to enjoy.

Kings Island transforms into a magical holiday wonderland for WinterFest, Cincinnati's premier holiday event. With over seven million lights, ice skating on the Royal Fountain, dazzling entertainment, and a spectacular WinterFest Wonderland Parade, the park offers a truly enchanting experience. Don't miss the Eiffel Tower lit up as a magnificent...

Step into a magical winter wonderland at The Christmas Ranch, featuring over a million dancing Christmas lights synchronized to holiday music. This old-fashioned family experience offers train and wagon rides, seven themed Christmas shops, and visits with Santa Claus. Enjoy festive treats from Santa's Bakery & Cafe and warm up...

Get ready to kick off the holiday season at the 36th Annual Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade & Festival! This beloved event features two magical parades: a daylight procession at 1:00 PM and a captivating candlelight parade at 7:00 PM. Enjoy festive fun with a petting zoo, photos with Santa and...

Light Up Middletown transforms Smith Park into a breathtaking drive-through fantasy light display. Open nightly from Thanksgiving through New Year's Eve, this beloved event features over a million lights. A special highlight is the 'Balloon GLOW,' where hot air balloons light up the night sky, creating a magical experience for...

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt, a German-American holiday festival. Located next to the Moerlein Lager House in Smale Riverfront Park, this event offers a magical European-themed experience with a Cincinnati twist. Discover unique gifts, savor delicious food and drinks, and enjoy live entertainment.

Discover the Findlay Holiday Market, a festive celebration of local artisans and seasonal delights. Browse unique handcrafted gifts, savor delicious holiday treats, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this beloved market. It's the perfect destination for finding special presents and experiencing the joy of the holiday season.

Experience the magic of the Westside Market Holiday Edition, a vibrant celebration of local small businesses. This beloved pop-up market, now in its 8th season, brings together talented artisans and entrepreneurs offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to unique gifts. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting local...

Experience the heartwarming Festival of Trees, a cherished holiday tradition hosted by the Bon Secours Mercy Health Foundation. This event showcases beautifully decorated trees, creating a festive atmosphere that embodies the spirit of giving. It's a wonderful opportunity to support vital community health initiatives and embrace the joy of the...

Discover a premier holiday shopping event featuring unique décor, apparel, toys, and treats from over 100 artisan vendors. This annual tradition offers a festive atmosphere for finding perfect gifts and enjoying special events like 'Girls Night Out' and opportunities to win 'Merry Money'. Meet Santa and support a good cause...

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Covington Christkindlmarkt, Cincinnati's most authentic German Christmas market. Discover unique imported German gifts and local crafts, savor traditional wursts and pastries, and enjoy the warmth of Glühwein. Families will delight in visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, carriage rides, and a petting...

Discover a wide array of unique handmade treasures at the Sycamore Band and Orchestra Boosters Arts & Crafts Show. Browse over 100 artisan vendors offering everything from holiday ornaments to unique gifts. Enjoy live student musical performances and indulge in delicious treats from the popular bake sale. It's the perfect...

Experience the charm of the Winter Mustard Seed Market, a vibrant seasonal event hosted by Rustic Grains. Discover over 100 local artisans and small businesses offering unique handmade crafts, vintage treasures, and delicious seasonal treats. Enjoy live music and a diverse selection of food trucks in a festive community atmosphere.

Discover unique, handmade treasures at the Lakota East Holiday Arts & Crafts Show. Featuring over 225 artisan booths, this premier event offers a fantastic selection of local goods and gifts perfect for everyone on your holiday list. Enjoy affordable admission, free parking, and delicious food truck options while supporting the...

Discover a vibrant community event at the Little Miami High School PTO Arts & Craft Show. This popular gathering features over 100 crafter booths, all offering unique, handmade items perfect for finding special gifts or treats. Attendees can also savor delicious homemade food, expertly prepared by the Band Boosters, making...

Step into a world of wonder with Cincinnati Ballet's "The Nutcracker." Follow Clara's enchanting adventure as her dreams unfold in the magical Land of Sweets, all set to Tchaikovsky's beloved score performed live by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. This spectacular production promises a dazzling display of choreography, costumes, and festive...

Get ready for the 4th Annual Yuletide Celebration: Home for the Holidays! This enchanting evening features beloved holiday classics performed by iTones, That’s It!, Cincy Noteables, and the award-winning Cincinnati Sound Chorus. Experience the rich barbershop harmony of this acclaimed a cappella ensemble and kick off your festive season in...

Step into an evening of glamour and laughter with Countess Luann de Lesseps' 'A Very Countess Christmas Cabaret Show.' This dazzling performance blends iconic songs, comedy, and cheeky storytelling, promising an unforgettable night of music and fun.

Join the ultimate New Year's Eve celebration at Fountain Square's New Year's Eve Blast! This downtown event features a live DJ, exciting firework displays for both kids and midnight countdowns, and the opportunity to ice skate. Enjoy festive food and drink specials from the Fountain Bar.

This heartwarming initiative partners with the Salvation Army to ensure local children have a merry Christmas. Visitors can select a tag from the Giving Tree, located in the Fairfield Community Arts Center lobby, and fulfill a child's wish with a new coat, sneakers, toys, or other needed items.

Step into a festive wonderland at the Behringer-Crawford Museum's Holly Jolly Days. This beloved annual event transforms the museum into a magical holiday destination, offering enchanting displays and seasonal cheer for the whole family. Explore captivating exhibits and enjoy activities that celebrate the joy of the season.

Step back in time and embrace the holiday spirit at Christmas at the Mansion. This free event transforms the historic Elisha Morgan Mansion into a Victorian wonderland. Visitors can admire the festive decor, explore engaging historical displays, and enjoy complimentary refreshments. It's a perfect, family-friendly way to experience the holidays...

All aboard the North Pole Express for a magical holiday journey! This popular event offers a festive 1 hour and 15-minute train ride through Warren County, where passengers can meet Santa and his elves. The train cars are beautifully decorated with holiday lights and cheer, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere....

Experience the magic of the holiday season with a charming horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown Middletown. These free, family-friendly rides offer a peaceful way to enjoy the festive atmosphere and create lasting holiday memories. It's the perfect addition to a date night or a delightful outing for the whole family.

Step into a magical holiday wonderland at Very Merry Middletown! This festive celebration transforms historic downtown with dazzling lights, ice skating, and charming activities. Experience the spectacular 96-acre Light Up Middletown drive-thru display, enjoy cozy igloo rentals, and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Don't miss themed nights, character skates, and...