Christmas Things To Do In Columbus Ohio

Columbus doesn’t just survive winter—it sparkles. From the zoo to the Statehouse, the city wraps itself in twinkling lights, warm spices, and a healthy dose of holiday cheer.

Whether you’re a lifelong local or just passing through, there’s a festive activity for every mood. Here’s your easy-going guide to making the most of Christmas in the capital city.

Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo

If you only do one holiday thing in Columbus, make it Wildlights. The zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland with more than three million LED lights shaped like animals, snowflakes, and Santa’s workshop.

It’s a walk-through experience, so bundle up and take your time. The lights are synchronized to music, and the hot chocolate stands are strategically placed for maximum coziness.

Pro tip: Buy tickets online for a specific entry time. Weeknights are far less crowded than weekends.

Fun fact: The Columbus Zoo’s light display started small in the 1980s and grew under the guidance of Jack Hanna. Today, it’s one of the largest in the Midwest.

Santa’s Village is a sweet bonus, where kids can share their wish lists and meet reindeer. It’s included with admission, so don’t skip it.

Franklin Park Conservatory

For a holiday experience that feels like stepping into a storybook, head to Franklin Park Conservatory. Their Season of Lights features thousands of poinsettias, a golden orchid tree, and intricate gingerbread houses.

The conservatory’s glass biome stays warm, so you can shed a layer and wander without shivering. Check their calendar for adult-only evenings with live music and cocktails.

Kids will love the train display and the chance to spot hidden gnomes among the plants. Go early in the day if you want quieter photos.

The Glasshouse is a perfect spot for holiday portraits, with twinkling lights overhead. Don’t miss the miniature train winding through fairy gardens—it’s a tiny world of wonder.

German Village & Schiller Park

German Village does Christmas with old-world charm. The brick streets glow with lanterns, and Schiller Park hosts a Christmas Walk with carolers, roasted chestnuts, and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Stop by Schmidt’s Sausage Haus for a cream puff the size of your fist. Then duck into The Book Loft—a 32-room bookstore that’s a maze of holiday gift ideas.

Local secret: The village’s holiday lights stay up through early January, so you can enjoy them without the December crush.

The annual Christmas Walk usually happens the first weekend of December. Local shops sell hand-blown glass ornaments and fresh wreaths—perfect for a last-minute gift.

New Years Eve Columbus Ohio

Downtown & The Scioto Mile

The Ohio Statehouse grounds sparkle with a towering Christmas tree and thousands of string lights. Nearby, Columbus Commons hosts WinterFest with ice skating, carnival rides, and a holiday market.

Rent skates on-site, then warm up with a cup of cocoa from a local vendor. The rink is open daily, weather permitting.

For a quieter stroll, walk the Scioto Mile at dusk. The bridges are lit, and the river reflects the city’s festive glow.

The Statehouse offers free guided tours during the holidays. WinterFest also features a carousel and a giant snow globe for selfies—cheesy, but undeniably fun.

The Arts Scene: Nutcracker & Holiday Pops

BalletMet’s Nutcracker is a Columbus institution. The production features stunning sets, a live orchestra, and enough sugarplum magic to make even Scrooge smile.

The Columbus Symphony’s Holiday Pops concert is another crowd-pleaser, mixing carols with movie scores and a visit from Santa. Check for rush tickets if you’re on a budget.

Fun fact: BalletMet has performed The Nutcracker for over 40 years, making it one of the longest-running traditions in the city.

The historic Ohio Theatre hosts many of these performances, and its ornate interior is worth the ticket alone. Dress up or go casual—the vibe is welcoming either way.

Easton Town Center

Easton goes all out with a 50-foot Christmas tree, hourly light shows, and carriage rides through the streets. It’s a shopper’s paradise, but also a great place to people-watch.

Park once and walk—the lights and window displays are worth the stroll. Avoid weekends if you’re not a fan of crowds.

Insider tip: The light shows run every hour on the half-hour, starting at 5 p.m. Grab a peppermint mocha and claim a bench early.

The tree lighting ceremony in mid-November draws thousands. You can also catch free horse-drawn carriage rides on select evenings—check the Easton website for dates.

Holiday Events in Columbus | Shows, Tree Lightings & Markets

Holiday Train at the Ohio History Center

For a nostalgia hit, visit the Ohio History Center’s Holiday Train display. A massive model train chugs through miniature landscapes, tiny towns, and snowy mountains.

It’s a tradition that’s been delighting families for decades. The exhibit is included with museum admission, and kids can often control parts of the display.

Practical note: The museum is usually open Wednesday through Sunday. Check their schedule around Christmas week, as hours can vary.

Practical Tips for a Merry Columbus Christmas

Dress in layers, because you’ll be going from heated buildings to chilly streets. Book tickets online for popular events like Wildlights and the Nutcracker—they sell out fast.

Use COTA or a rideshare if you’re heading downtown; parking can be a headache. Many holiday attractions offer free admission, like the Statehouse tree and German Village lights.

Check hours before you go. Some museums and gardens close early on Christmas Eve and all day on Christmas.

Bring cash for small vendors and donation buckets. A little generosity goes a long way during the holidays.

Many attractions offer discounted tickets for Ohio residents. If you’re driving, consider parking at a COTA park-and-ride and taking the bus. Check social media for pop-up holiday markets and flash sales.

A Little Holiday Warmth

Christmas in Columbus isn’t about checking off a list. It’s about pausing under a canopy of lights, sharing a cream puff with a friend, or hearing a choir sing “Silent Night” in a centuries-old square.

These moments remind us that joy doesn’t require a grand gesture. Sometimes it’s just a cold walk made warm by the people beside you.

It’s a gentle reminder that magic isn’t found in grand gestures, but in the quiet spaces between to-do lists. So take a breath, look up at the lights, and let yourself be a kid again.

So bundle up, take your time, and let the season unfold. The city is ready to sparkle—and so are you.