It’s the time of year that while we’re still busy working, we’re even busier with family and friends. Whether it’s spending time with your kids, or family that’s coming in from out of town, or just trying to get together with friends, there is so much to do in Columbus! We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite activities and events and others that we’d love to do. Please check all websites for complete details. Let the holiday fun begin!
Lights on Lights!
Who doesn’t love admiring the light displays this time of year? Whether you like to bundle up and walk around outside or see them from the warmth of your car, there are plenty of options!
Columbus Zoo Wildlights
If you’ve never visited the zoo for the lights, you’re missing out! Most people we know go back year after year to revel in the festivities and stunning light displays at the zoo. Millions of lights, an animated light show, Santa, ice-skating, and of course, the animals!
Dates: Thursday, November 16 – January 1, 2019. Not open on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve or Christmas day.
Read more here: Columbus Zoo Wildlights
Conservatory Aglow at the Franklin Park Conservatory
Heading to Franklin Park Conservatory to see all of the flora is a much-loved experience. But add lights, the annual gingerbread competition, hand-blown glass ornament trees and poinsettias as far as you can see, and it becomes even better. This is one that is perfect to go to several times, both during the day and at night!
Dates: Beginning November 17, open from 10am-5pm. From December 1- January 2, it’s open 10am – 9pm (closed Dec. 24th & 25th).
Read more here: Conservatory Aglow
Ohio Chinese Lantern Festival/Dragon Lights
This festival/light display has quickly become a favorite here in Columbus! This year the show has new larger-than-life light sculptures and displays crafted by Chinese artisans, exciting nightly performances, handicrafts, and food. This is an incredible event and is not to be missed!
Dates: November 23, 2018–January 6, 2019. Closed Mondays except for Dec.24 and Dec.31.
Read more here: Dragon Light Columbus
Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights
Prefer to stay in your warm car and see the dazzling lights? The Fantasy of Lights features a drive-thru show with 140+ light displays while listening to holiday music on 88.3. Located at the Alum Creek State Park Campgrounds at 3311 S. Old State Rd., Delaware OH, 43015. Stop at the Santa House for hot chocolate when you’re finished.
Dates: November 16, 2018-January 1, 2019.
Read more here: Butch Bundo’s Fantasy of Lights
Easton Town Center
Take time to get to Easton for an evening, taking in the illuminated streets, the outdoor train, the 50 foot Christmas tree, and more!
Dates: The tree lighting was November 16th, but the lights will be on for the rest of the season.
Read more here: Easton Lights
Activities Around Town
There is so much to do around town this time of the year. Why not try something different this year and create a new holiday tradition in your family?
Kids Christmas at the Market at Lynd Fruit Farm on Dec 1 and Dec. 8. Meet Santa; create a craft in the workshop, and shop!
Winter Fest at Scioto Mile on Dec. 1 at Bicentennial Park. Musical acts, beers from local breweries, and food trucks. All this and see the lights on the Scioto Mile!
Dublin Holly Days in Dublin on Dec.1 in Dublin. Santa, carolers, holiday treats, lights, and shopping.
Granville Candlelight Walking Tour in Granville on Dec. 1 with activities, events, lights, food, and candles.
Ohio Statehouse Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting on Dec. 6. Santa, historical characters, model trains, and more.
5th Annual Ice Sculpture Tour in Westerville Dec 21-23 (weather permitting). Illuminated ice sculptures outside of Uptown Westerville merchants.
Easton Town Center Trolley. Instead of walking around Easton, ride the trolley!
The State Auto’s Christmas Corner is a tradition for many. Take a trip downtown to view the life-sized Nativity scene.
The Ohio Village leads you back to Dickens and holidays past with Dickens of a Christmas at Ohio Village. This event is open on Dec 8-9 and Dec. 15-16.
Cut Down that Tree
Is this a tradition in your family or something you want to try this year? Make a new memory this year by taking the family out to a tree farm, trek through the farm, and find that perfect tree!
Here is a list of tree farms around Columbus. Some of these tree farms offer holiday events.
Timbuk Farms in Granville
Cackler Family Farms in Delaware
Mr. Tree Farm in Blacklick
Dale Tree Farm in Sunbury
Heimbush Christmas Tree Farm in Marysville
Country Cabin Tree Farm in Sunbury
Photos with Santa
Many of us love standing in lines to get that precious photo with Santa. Here are a few places offering photos.
The Shoppes at Worthington Place
No matter how you celebrate, all of us at Burgie MediaFusion wish you the happiest of holidays. Spend time with your family, stop and just enjoy the season, and find time to do some new activities or revel in your tried and true ones. What do you love to do over the holidays?
