Independence Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

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...

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...

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 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 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 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 an unforgettable holiday season at the Ark Encounter with dazzling lights, live music, and festive dining. This annual event transforms the life-size Noah's Ark into a winter wonderland, offering a magical experience for the whole family. Enjoy free admission to the brilliant lights display, a captivating laser show, and...

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.

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.

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...

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...

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...

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.

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 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...

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...