
Few things can conjure up the joy and wonderment of the season like the dazzling holiday light displays that transform some of your favorite Columbus destinations into magical, enchanted places. These events feature fun for all ages, with many light displays offering exciting extras like ice skating, photos with Santa, great shopping, delicious treats, and a wide variety of fun activities geared toward the youngest members of the family. Start planning with our guide to eight amazing places to enjoy the holiday lights around Columbus.
160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Looking for a fun, free light show you can enjoy during a holiday night out around Columbus? Then be sure to stop at the Columbus Commons Holiday Light Show featuring more than 400,000 LED lights spread around the 6-acre park with a prime location near some of the city's best dining and shopping destinations. On Festive Friday nights in December, you can enjoy extras like carousel rides, holiday refreshments, and live music. The display is open every evening from November 18, 2022, to January 1, 2023, starting at dusk and ending at 11 p.m.
4850 Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065
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An annual favorite for families around the Columbus area, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Wildlights display regularly ranks as one of the most impressive in all of Ohio. With an incredible 3 million lights on display, this beloved family attraction is truly transformed for the holiday season. And that's just the start! There are tons of other activities for the kids to enjoy, including photos with Santa, ice skating, carousel rides, stations for making delicious s'mores, and even camel rides. This event can be enjoyed most evenings from November 18, 2022, through January 1, 2023.
3311 S. Old State Rd., Delaware, OH 43015
A locally owned and operated holiday light show that also raises money for a variety of local non-profits, Butch Bando's Fantasy of Lights has been delighting families in the Columbus area for nearly 25 years. The display is a short drive from downtown Columbus at Alum Creek State Park Campground and is more than worth the trip. Start by exploring the dazzling drive-through light display taking you through the whole campground, then be sure to leave time to visit Santa's house at the end for photos, gifts, and holiday treats. Purchase your tickets online, then enjoy the show any evening between November 18, 2022, and January 2023.
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
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Do you prefer your holiday lights with a side of horticulture? The Conservatory Aglow at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens event offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and holiday cheer. Your favorite gardens will be bathed in lights, with special displays for seasonal plants like poinsettias and evergreens. There will be live entertainment on select evenings, and you'll also get a sneak peek at some of the best entries from the Gingerbread Competition. Reserve your tickets online for this event, which takes place nightly between November 19, 2022, and January 8, 2023.
160 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219
Easton Town Center is an excellent place to check items off your holiday shopping list, enjoy a delicious meal, and see some seasonal sights along the way. The shopping center will be lit with more than 2 million lights, including on the towering 50-foot Christmas tree in the town square. There will also be exciting extras like holiday carriage rides and photos with Santa. The lights can be enjoyed every night through January 2, 2023.
233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215
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With eight riverfront parks spread over 175 connected acres, the Scioto Mile is one of the most scenic places in the city at any time of year. It's especially beautiful during the Lights at the Scioto Mile display, which can be enjoyed for free every night between November 23, 2022, and January 2, 2023. The Scioto Mile is located around the corner from the Columbus Commons, making it easy to enjoy both displays in one night.
German Village Neighborhood, Columbus, OH 43206
Sure, parks, shopping centers, and drive-through displays all offer fantastic ways to see the lights, but what about when you want to see a whole neighborhood decorated for the holidays? All you have to do is head for the German Village neighborhood in Columbus, where countless homes, businesses, and public places get in on the holiday fun. Starting on December 4, 2022, with the annual Village Lights kickoff event, you can see the whole neighborhood decorated in holiday lights and festive décor before you head to the Christmas Market for some shopping. After the kickoff event, the lights and decorations will be on display for the rest of the holiday season.
14028 Fairgrounds Rd., Hartford, OH 43013
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While visiting Wonderlights Christmas in Ohio will require about a 30-minute drive from Columbus, it's more than worth the trip. This drive-through light display features more than a million holiday lights, all synchronized to some of your favorite classic and contemporary holiday tunes. This is one of the most popular displays in Central Ohio, so reservations are strongly recommended. You can enjoy the display on evenings from November 11, 2022, through January 1, 2023.
Where will you and your family find your own holiday magic this year?

Christmas is coming, and what better way to get yourself in the holiday spirit than to visit a Christmas shop or two? Ohio has dozens of these stores dotted across the state, including some worth going out of your way to see. To help you gear up for the holidays, let's take a closer look at eight of the most impressive Christmas shops around Cincinnati, Columbus, and Northeast Ohio.
10725 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, Ohio 45241
Also known as SBK Gifts, Story Book Kids Gifts is a treasure trove of Christmas goodies for people in the Cincinnati area. This year-round Christmas shop is piled high with enough ornaments, throw pillows, figurines, cookie jars, decorative candles, and other housewares to satisfy even the most passionate fans of the holiday. Many of their items can be personalized, too, making them even more meaningful. Frequent shoppers will also love their Kringle Rewards program. You'll earn loyalty points for each purchase, but you'll also get a bonus of 15 points every time you post a product review.
3205 S. Waynesville Rd., Morrow, OH 45152
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The Christmas Ranch is the ultimate destination for Christmas aficionados in Ohio. In addition to train and wagon rides, a working carousel, a themed photo space where you can take pictures with Santa, and miles of elaborate light displays, this ranch is also a prime holiday shopping destination. The property boasts six Christmas-themed shops and a holiday bakery with fresh cookies, cakes, and other treats available every day. Each one is lavishly decorated for the holidays and staffed by a friendly group of "elves" who love Christmas just as much as you do. Plan to spend at least a few hours there when you visit—you'll need that time to see everything on display!
7405 E. Pike, Norwich, OH 43767
As soon as you pull up to the White Pillars Christmas House, you know you're in for a treat. This stately columned period home dates back to 1882 and immediately evokes the warmth and nostalgia of an old-fashioned Christmas. Inside, you'll find all kinds of unique Christmas ornaments and figurines, as well as artisan candies, cookies, and other goodies. They also sell a few artificial Christmas trees to help you deck the halls in your own home. One of their most prized collections is their assortment of Heritage Lace products. These delicate doilies, tablecloths, table runners, and other linens are the perfect complement to any Christmas display and can be difficult to find at other retailers.
2264 Miamisburg Centerville Rd., Dayton, OH 45459
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Christmas Tree Shops is the go-to retailer for all your synthetic holiday tree needs in and around Columbus. This shop contains many sections devoted to trees and décor that fit into specific aesthetics, including Rustic Country, Gilded Holiday, and Forest Fantasy. Their cheery displays are the perfect way to get a feel for what the trees look like in a home setting, and they're also great for scoping out new decorations and accessories that compliment each tree's theming. On top of that, the store hosts visits from Santa every Saturday during the holiday season. Your child will love getting a chance to meet the jolly old man himself as part of your shopping trip!
508 Main St., Dresden, OH 43821
Once known as Smore Christmas, Smore Baskets may have changed their name, but they haven't left the holiday spirit behind. They still devote most of their display space to Christmas-themed items in the weeks leading up to the big day. You'll feel like you've stepped into Santa's workshop when you see all of the holiday-themed boxes, tins, and (of course) baskets on display in this charming little shop. They also carry a wide selection of rustic wreaths and other decor items to help you bring your holiday vision to life.
4363 State Route 39, Millersburg, OH 44654
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Northeast Ohio's premier Christmas shop Tis the Season offers three full floors of Christmas cheer for you to enjoy. The store's main entrance is a spectacular log cabin made of real logs and equipped with a working fireplace for a cozy atmosphere. From there, you'll be able to explore the top two floors of the store section by section, browsing their massive stock of vintage holiday items and modern favorites. Look out for the section nestled in an old chapel lined with stained glass windows and fitted with restored wooden pews—its stunning beauty deserves special attention and maybe even a few snapshots.
The store's lower level is filled with hundreds of beautiful Christmas trees and over 75 different types of lights. Trees range in size from 2 to 12 feet tall and come in every shape, style, and color imaginable. Whether you're in the market for a new tree or want to enjoy walking through this incredible synthetic forest, you're sure to have a great time.
3166 W. 11th St., Cleveland, OH 44109
Everyone loves the classic Christmas movie A Christmas Story, but did you know that the house featured in the movie is still standing right here in Cleveland? Today, it operates as a combined gift shop and museum. You can find all sorts of A Christmas Story merchandise here as well as a wide selection of items related to other iconic Christmas properties, including The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Grinch, and Home Alone. Remember to save some time to visit the museum section of the business and see the inside of Ralphie's home for yourself.
910 E. Main St., Geneva, OH 44041
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The same family has run Catherine's Christmas for nearly 30 years. Located in a gorgeous old century home, this year-round Christmas shop was named after the family matriarch Catherine and her love of Christmas. Today, the cozy shop is stuffed with Christmas ornaments, nativity scenes, gift items, and decor—including some made by talented local craftspeople. Each room in the house is devoted to a particular kind of merchandise, making it easy to find whatever you're looking for. These displays change yearly, so be sure to visit during each holiday season to see what they have in store.
Which of these festive stores will you check out in the coming weeks?

Is heading to the Christmas tree farm or lot with the family to pick a perfect tree one of your favorite holiday traditions? Ohio offers so many great Christmas tree farms to choose from, whether you're from Columbus, live in Cincinnati, or are celebrating the holidays in Northeast Ohio. Start your search for the perfect tree with our guide to nine Christmas tree farms around Ohio and Northern Kentucky.
4338 Shreve Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
One of Ohio's oldest and largest Christmas tree farms, The Farms at Pine Tree Barn is an excellent place to shop if you want to maximize your selection. There are more than 75,000 Christmas trees to choose from on this 150-acre farm, along with wreaths, boughs, roping, and swags. After you pick out your tree, be sure to check out the other activities, like rides on the Pine Tree Express, family holiday photo sessions, horse-drawn carriage rides, sledding, and dining at the Village Cafe.
9500 Mulberry Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026
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With both cut-your-own and pre-cut Christmas trees available, Sugar Pines Farm makes it easy to fit tree shopping into your busy schedule. Of course, you might want to leave some time to enjoy the other activities available during the holidays on this 100-acre farm. Take a ride around the scenic farm on the hay wagon, or settle in by the warm comfort of the fire with kettle corn, hot chocolate, and all sorts of other holiday treats. Santa will also be making appearances at Sugar Pines Farm on December 3 and 10 from 1 p.m. through 4 p.m.
11762 Coal Bank Rd., Doylestown, OH 44230
Whether you want a pre-cut tree, a cut-your-own-tree experience, or even wholesale-cut Christmas trees, the team at Galehouse Tree Farm has you covered. They're open every day from November 1 through December 23, with tons of ready-cut trees to browse at the Tree House Gift Shop for a convenient shopping experience. The Tree House is more than just a place to find your next tree. It's a shop filled with little holiday wonders to decorate your home, from ornaments to lights, figurines, and lovely, rustic country décor.
4971 Cackler Rd., Delaware, OH 43015
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Since 1989, Cackler Family Farms has been helping families in the Cincinnati area celebrate their favorite holiday traditions. The combination of an extensive selection, friendly, personalized service, and reasonable prices keeps many families coming back here year after year. If you're planning to shop here, be aware that reservations are required for the 2022 holiday season, and you can easily make your reservation on the Cackler Family Farms website.
2340 W. Dublin Granville Rd., Linworth, OH 43235
In addition to choosing from a wide selection of Fraser Fir, Scotch Pine, and Douglas Fir trees of all sizes, shopping at the HTH Christmas Tree Lot is also a way to support a good cause during the holiday season. The non-profit Hope Thru Housing organization operates this lot, and all proceeds are donated to the cause. While you're there, be sure to check out the selection of wreaths, garland, tree stands, and other items to help decorate your home.
2030 Timbuk Rd., Granville, OH 43023
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For a full family tree shopping experience, it's tough to top what you'll find at the Timbuk Farms Christmas Tree Farm. Shop from a huge selection of locally grown trees, then check out fun holiday activities like Santas Sleigh, the photo fun park, an antique car collection, and a giant haystack for the kids to climb. Stop by the Timbuk Lodge to warm up by a crackling fire, shop for holiday gifts, and enjoy some delicious seasonal refreshments on the weekends.
3215 Hamilton New London Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
For stress-free, professional service while Christmas tree shopping, the team at John T. Nieman Nursery & Landscaping has you covered. They've been in business for over 75 years, with over 60,000 trees currently growing on the 125-acre farm. Head to the fields to pick the perfect tree, then the team will help you cut, shake, haul, and secure your tree to your vehicle. The Christmas Barn is where you can shop for all of your other holiday decorating needs while enjoying complimentary hot chocolate and cookies.
1651 Bolender Rd., Hamersville, OH 45130
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A convenient, hassle-free experience is what you can expect when you visit Corsi Tree Farm, where every tree, no matter the size, is priced at $75. Stop by on a chilly fall day to cut your own tree, then head to the Broken Stone lodge to warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and a bowl of authentic Italian chili. There's also a free petting zoo for the kids and live music on the weekends.
625 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071
Serving Newport, KY, and the greater Cincinnati area for more than 50 years, Tom Mitts Christmas Trees offers an outstanding selection of trees from its convenient location in the heart of Newport. The shop is open every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. while supplies last, with trees ranging in size from 3 feet to over 14 feet. You can also pick up handy supplies like tree stands, nets, garland, and wreaths, along with free candy canes for the kids.
With so many great farms to choose from, where will you pick your own tree this year?

People around the world love going out to see a performance of The Nutcracker at Christmastime. Whether it's a yearly tradition for your family or something you've always wanted to experience, you don't have to go far from home to see a performance of this classic ballet.
From high-production traditional versions to newer interpretations, there are so many places around Ohio where you can see a live performance of The Nutcracker this Christmas. Let's look at a few of the most popular in greater detail below.
39 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Every year around Christmas, the Ohio Theater hosts the talented artists of Ohio's BalletMet for a series of performances of The Nutcracker. This year, shows will run from December 8 all the way up to Christmas Eve. This production is extremely well-crafted, boasting gorgeous sets and visual effects as well as world-class dancing from the BalletMet's company dancers and students. With more than two weeks' worth of performances in Columbus' premier theater, you're sure to be able to fit one into your busy holiday schedule.
39 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215
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Yes, you read that right: The Ohio Theater offers an additional performance of The Nutcracker. This time, it's a special performance called My First Nutcracker, taking place on December 22 at 11 a.m. This show is a slightly abridged version of the full BalletMet version designed to make the experience better for families with young children and people with disabilities like autism. The shorter 1-hour performance time, smaller crowds, dimmed house lights, and quieter music all help make this version much easier for kids to sit through. If your kids do get antsy, audience members are invited to get up and move around during the performance or even leave the theatre if they need to.
182 South Main Street, Akron, OH 44308
Looking for a laugh or two this Christmas? On December 2 at 7 p.m., the Akron Civic Theatre will be hosting a performance of The Nutty Nutcracker, a parody version of the classic show. This production is an adults-only campy comedy that still showcases plenty of excellent ballet dancing. It turns the elegant timelessness of the original on its head in a way that veteran Nutcracker fans are sure to appreciate, and if nothing else, it's great for a fun, lighthearted night out during a hectic holiday season.
198 Hill Street, Akron, OH 44325
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The University of Akron's Dance Institute is partnering with the Verb Ballet's company dancers for a repeat performance of last year's hit new show, The Akron Nutcracker. This adapted version of the original aims to tell the classic story within a recreation of the Akron of the 1930s, complete with iconic local landmarks like Polsky's Department Store and the Stan Hywet estate. This limited-run Northeast Ohio show is being performed Dec. 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. each evening, so it's a great family activity to help you build up to the big day.
500 Lakeside Avenue East, Cleveland, OH 44114
If you want to see a world-class production of The Nutcracker right here in Ohio, check out this year's performance of Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet on Saturday, December 10 at the Cleveland Public Auditorium Music Hall. This year marks the 30th anniversary of this adaptation of the classic ballet, and its goals of spreading world peace and harmony are more important now than ever. Come see the artistry of some of Ukraine's top ballet dancers as they bring this dazzling show to life – it's an experience you'll never forget.
1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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A yearly staple at the Cincinnati Music Hall, The Nutcracker is arguably the most popular show performed by the Cincinnati Ballet. It's a great excuse to watch some of Ohio's most talented dancers practice their craft. And because it's so popular, you can expect high production values that will make the experience even more worthwhile. This year's performances run from December 15 all the way up to Christmas Eve, so find a free day on your calendar and book your tickets!
650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telling a familiar story from a new perspective is a great way to make it feel fresh and current again. On December 9 and 10, the Aronoff Center for the Arts will be hosting Nutcracker Hot Chocolate, a modernized version of The Nutcracker that has been adapted to showcase African American performers and culture. Acclaimed dance icon Debbie Allen created the show in 2008 to help inspire young dancers of color to keep pursuing their dreams. It's won a bevy of awards since then and continues to be a favorite of families everywhere.
317 East 5th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The Nutcracker may be traditionally staged as a ballet, but who says it has to be? The Hip Hop Nutcracker reimagines this classic show as a thrilling hip-hop dance exhibition that is sure to make you think about Tchaikovsky's music in a whole new way. This touring performance will be stopping in Cincinnati for a show at the Taft Theatre on December 1 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. The tour features rapper Kurtis Blow as the show's MC, as well as a full troupe of talented artists dancing on a set that recreates modern-day New York City with gorgeous graffiti lighting effects.
Which of these exciting performances of The Nutcracker will you be seeing this holiday season?

Holidays usually mean a table full of food finished with a few scrumptious pies. Whether your favorite is apple, pecan, buckeye, or a cream pie like banana or coconut, pies help create delicious holiday memories that can be handed down from generation to generation. But with all the baking and other hustle and bustle associated with the holidays, why not leave the pie baking to the experts? You'll have many varieties to choose from and will surely enjoy the fresh, local ingredients used in many of them. Many bakeries also often put a twist on traditional favorites, such as a Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie.
Check out the following Columbus and Central Ohio bakeries, look over their menus or stop by and place your holiday pie orders.
4061 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus, OH 43227
Generations of Columbus area residents have stopped by Resch's Bakery throughout its over 100 years of serving up treats like cakes, donuts, and pies. The bakery is dedicated to using the best ingredients to make tasty treats from scratch and to providing the highest level of customer service. Pies include pecan, cinnamon apple, Dutch apple, Dutch cherry, and sweet potato, and throughout the holidays, you'll find them on many local tables.
3335 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
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Dough Mama started as a home kitchen business for classically trained pastry chef Perrie Wilkof, who supplied pies to many notable Columbus-area restaurants, and has since grown into a successful cafe and bakery. Everything is made from scratch using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Popular seasonal holiday pies include the Brown Butter Pumpkin Pie, a spiced pumpkin and roasted sweet potato blend custard, giving it a rich texture and flavor. The Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie is also a favorite choice, with a bottom layer of rich dark chocolate loaded with pecans. It's also made with Kentucky Bourbon and organic maple syrup.
901 High St., Worthington, OH 43085
Mrs. Goodman's Baking Co. was originally known as Mrs. Goodman's Pie Co., and they're still known for baking pies with flaky, buttery crusts and filling made from the best ingredients. Many pies are available, including apple, cherry, peach, pecan, and pumpkin. In addition to the traditional pecan pie, the bakery also puts a twist on it to create chocolate pecan and white chocolate pecan pies. If you prefer cream pies, you'll also have plenty of options, including banana, coconut, and chocolate peanut butter.
Columbus Area
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Ohio Pies is a licensed home bakery, so it doesn't have a storefront, but don't let that stop you from ordering their mouthwatering pies. The bakery's mission is to source seasonal, local ingredients and, in the process, feed your soul and nourish the community. That's why, for example, all the eggs for Ohio Pies come from the free-range hens at Harrison Farm, and all the butter comes from Minerva Dairy. Blueberries are sourced from Blueberried Alive's organic crops, and all milk and cream come from Snowville Creamery. Order favorite holiday pies like apple, blackberry, buckeye, s'mores, sweet potato, and pumpkin, made with local pumpkins. Hand pies are also available by the half-dozen in apple, blackberry, caramelized pear, and cherry.
2116 Tremont Center, Upper Arlington, OH 43221
The Original Goodie Shop is a family-owned bakery that's served sweet treats to satisfied customers for 67 years. They've earned a generational following over the years and have customers who buy goodies for their children after growing up ordering the same thing from the bakery. Everything is hand-made from scratch, including donuts, cakes, cookies, and, of course, pies. Pies are available in small and large sizes in flavors such as apple, cherry, mince, pecan, and pumpkin.
3341 Winchester Pike, Columbus, OH 43232
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With The Witten Farm Market at Smith Farm, you get the best of both worlds: The chance to buy produce and fresh foods for your holiday needs from the farm market as well as tasty baked goods like pies from Smith Farm Bakery. Made fresh daily, pies are available in many different flavors, including Dutch apple, apple, caramel apple nut, cherry, pumpkin, pecan, sweet potato, rhubarb, mincemeat, blackberry, and blueberry. Cream pie options include banana, chocolate, coconut, buckeye, lemon meringue, and key lime. All are baked fresh daily.
39 S. Yearling Rd., Whitehall, OH 43212
Matt's Bakery is kosher, and all its items are parve. All baked goods are milk and dairy-free, with eggs used in the baking, and they're also nut-free (except for the pecan pie, which is baked separately). Before the holidays, pre-order pies such as apple crumb, blueberry, cherry, double-crust apple, peach, and strawberry. And while you're at it, order some challah, the signature bread item that the bakery's best known for.
What's your go-to holiday pie (or pies!), and where are you planning to order them from?