COLUMBUS WINTER EVENTS GUIDE 2025
Experience the warmth, creativity, and togetherness that make our city shine this winter.
NOVEMBER
Nov 12 – Champions of Magic: Holiday Spectacular Palace Theatre (CAPA)
International illusionists bring mind-blowing holiday magic to the stage.
Nov 28–30 – A Christmas Carol Ohio Theatre (CAPA)
A timeless holiday classic brought to life with stunning sets and performances.
DECEMBER
Dec 5 – Ohio Statehouse Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting Ohio Statehouse
A festive family event with carolers, historical tours, and the official tree lighting.
Dec 5–7 – Columbus Symphony Holiday Pops Ohio Theatre (CAPA)
An uplifting concert of seasonal favorites performed by the Columbus Symphony and Chorus.
Dec 5–7 – Columbus Winter Fair 2025 Ohio Expo Center & State Fair
One of the Midwest’s premier fine art and craft shows featuring hundreds of artists and makers.
Dec 6 – Holiday Hop 2025 Short North Arts District
A beloved Columbus tradition featuring local artists, galleries, and street performers.
Dec 6 – WinterFest Columbus Bicentennial Park
Enjoy live music, craft beer, and seasonal food at this downtown outdoor celebration.
Dec 7 – Home for the Holidays – Jazz Arts Group Lincoln Theatre (CAPA Partner)
A cozy night of jazz standards and seasonal tunes by Columbus’ own Jazz Arts Group.
Dec 11–14 – Vaud-Villities: Christmastime in Columbus Palace Theatre (CAPA)
A lively, family-friendly musical revue celebrating the spirit of the holidays.
Dec 11–28 – The Nutcracker – BalletMet Ohio Theatre (CAPA)
A breathtaking production of the holiday ballet classic.
Dec 12–14 – New Albany Children’s Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker
McCoy Center (CAPA Ticketed)
A delightful youth-led production full of charm and holiday cheer.
Dec 15 – Chanukah Menorah Lighting – Easton Easton Town Square
Family event with menorah lighting, dreidels, donuts, and live music.
Dec 20 – Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl Downtown Columbus
Grab your tackiest sweater and join the city’s largest holiday-themed bar crawl.
Dec 20–21 – New Albany Symphony Holiday Spectacular McCoy Center (CAPA Ticketed)
An annual symphonic celebration featuring local musicians and guest choirs.
Dec 21 – Chanukah Menorah Lighting – Polaris Polaris Fashion Place
A public menorah lighting hosted by Chabad Columbus with community gathering and music.
Dec 29–30 – Kwanzaa 614 Ohio History Connection
A two-day celebration of African heritage with drumming, dance, storytelling, and crafts.
JANUARY
Jan 4–5 – Brick Fest Live Ohio Expo Center
A massive LEGO fan experience featuring exhibits, building zones, and interactive fun.
Jan 11–12 – Great Train Show Ohio Expo Center
Model train layouts, vendors, and collectibles—perfect for hobbyists and families alike.
Jan 16–20 – Winter Ice Festival
Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Celebrate winter artistry with live ice carving, light displays, and warm drinks.
ONGOING
Through Feb 2026 – Wanderlights at Bicentennial Park Scioto Mile / Columbus Commons
A mesmerizing light display along the riverfront—perfect for an evening stroll or family photo op.
Nov 21 – Jan 4 – Columbus Zoo & Aquarium Winter Lights Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
A spectacular nighttime light display featuring millions of LED lights, festive wildlife encounters, and seasonal sweet treats for the whole family.