Holidays in Columbus Ohio

Celebrate the Holidays in Columbus Ohio 2025

Embrace the holidays in Columbus! From enchanting light displays to heartwarming performances and festive activities, there’s an array of exciting events to make your holiday season truly special. Here’s a curated list of diverse holiday happenings to mark on your calendar:

Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights

From November 21, 2025 to January 4, 2026, experience the magic at Alum Creek State Park Campgrounds. Originally called Fantasy of Lights, this yearly holiday light driving trail spans 1.5 miles, showcasing over 1 million lights and 100 dazzling displays. For further details, visit their website.

A Christmas Carol
November 28-30, 2025
Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State Street, Columbus, OH 43215

The timeless classic, A Christmas Carol returns to the Ohio Theatre this Thanksgiving weekend! Journey with Ebenezer Scrooge as he encounters the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, leading him to realize that true wealth lies not in gold but in kindness and compassion. Since its first telling in 1843, Charles Dickens’ tale has captivated audiences worldwide with its message of redemption, making it a cherished tradition for many.

Holiday Histories
December 13, 2025
Ohio History Center, Columbus, OH 43211

Celebrate the season in Columbus with a unique winter holiday experience at the Ohio History Center! Explore Christmas, Kwanzaa, and other cultural traditions through interactive activities, performances, and more. Discover what winter means for Ohio wildlife, create an 18th-century punch tin lantern, and shop local vendors for last-minute gifts.

Holiday Pops by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra
December 5-7, 2025
Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State Street, Columbus, OH 43215

Looking for a magical holiday experience? Join the Columbus Symphony at the Ohio Theatre this December for an unforgettable evening of festive lights, beautiful music, and seasonal cheer! The Columbus Symphony Chorus, Columbus Children’s Choir, and special guests will fill the theater with timeless holiday songs and carols, making it the perfect way to celebrate the season with loved ones.

Columbus Winterfair 2025
December 5-7, 2025 | Bricker Building
Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH 43211

This annual event showcases the best of local artisans, crafters, and vendors, offering unique handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and holiday décor. With extended hours on Friday and Saturday, and a relaxed Sunday schedule, there’s plenty of time to explore, shop, and get into the holiday spirit!

Ohio Statehouse

December 4, 2025 from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm in the Atrium, enjoy the opening of the season with the annual Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting, with music and activities for kids, and gorgeous holiday lights!

December 8-19, 2025, from Noon to 1:00 pm at the Ohio Statehouse in the Museum Gallery, enjoy a FREE lunchtime Holiday choir performance.

COSI After Dark: Roaring 20s
December 11, 2025 from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
333 W Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215

Step back into the Roaring ’20s at COSI After Dark! Adults 21+ are invited to a glamorous evening of jazz, prohibition-style cocktails, casino games, swing dancing, and hands-on fun like flapper headband crafting. Dress to impress, strike a pose on the red carpet, and experience COSI like never before for a night of glitz, glamour, and 1920s revelry.

BalletMet’s The Nutcracker
December 11-28, 2025 | Ohio Theater
55 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215

Catch BalletMet’s Nutcracker, a delightful family tradition! With stunning costumes, dazzling sets, and Tchaikovsky’s magical score, it’s the perfect holiday treat. This enchanting production has been a hallmark of world-class dance theater since 1978, ensuring a mesmerizing experience for the whole family this Christmas! Check the website for varying times and ticket prices.

Holidays at the Franklin Park Conservatory

Come and enjoy programs such as Breakfast with Santa, Visit from the Grinch, and crafts happening all during December. For prices, events, and more visit their website or go to 1777 E. Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43203.

Celebrate the holidays in Columbus, Ohio! The Columbus Team extends warm wishes to all our friends and neighbors for a joyful and cozy holiday season!

The information provided was accurate at the time of publishing, but weather and unforeseen circumstances can affect scheduled events. For the most current updates, we recommend contacting the venue directly or visiting the provided links before finalizing your plans!

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