For all of your holiday 2023 needs—markets, wondrous local fun, performances, magic, twinkling lights, gift-buying, and more—check out the list below of the many fun goings on over the next several weeks. All events are linked to a site with more information regarding admission costs, dates and times, and location.
Information is not yet available for several attractions and events. This list will be updated as that information becomes available. Have a fun, safe holiday season, y’all!
Categories below include:
- Small Business Saturday
- Lights and Displays
- Events and Markets
- Performing Arts
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY
On November 25 and always, be sure to shop small to give a boost to our local communities. Shopping locally ensures that more than 60 cents on every dollar remains in the local economy. When you shop small, you help to build a better local economy, reduce environmental impact, put your taxes to good use, create jobs, get better customer service, keep the community unique, and you encourage local prosperity.
Click here for a comprehensive Local Gift Guide with more than 100 gift ideas!
LIGHTS AND DISPLAYS
Christmas Nights of Lights at Coney Island
November 10 (open daily at dusk through 10p)
2.5-mile drive through light show synchronized to both traditional and rocking holiday music through your car radio.
$30 per carload (busload admission also available)
Holiday Junction Featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains at Union Terminal
November 10–January 8
The beloved Duke Energy Holiday Trains are back for their 77th season.
Add Holiday Junction to any museum experience for just $5! (Free for members)
Golden Days of Yule at Krohn Conservatory
November 11–January 7 (open Tuesday–Sunday 10a–8p and Monday 3–8p)
Colorful poinsettias, charming garden railways, and beautiful replicas of Cincinnati landmarks created out of “Botanical Architecture” by local artisans, where holiday traditions take place in the warmth of the tropics.
$10 for adults, $7 for youths (5–17), and children (4 and under) free
Holly Jolly Days at Behringer-Crawford Museum
November 11–January 7
Includes the 32nd Annual Holiday Toy Trains, Window Through Time, and Winter Wonderland exhibits.
10a–5p Tuesday–Saturday; 1–5p Sunday; closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
Admission included with museum admission (free for members, $9 for adults, $8 for seniors 60+ and $5 for children ages 3–12)
Pyramid Hill Lights at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park
November 17–December 31 (Tuesday–Thursday, 6–9p and Friday–Sunday, 6–10p)
One million lights, scenic displays, and installations by local artists, all experienced from the comfort of your car. Admission is $25 per carload ($15 per carload for members)
PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo
November 17–January 7 (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas)
Open Sunday–Thursday until 9p; Friday and Saturday until 10p
Come early for the animals; stay for the lights as the zoo is transformed into a “Wild Wonderland” for the 41st annual Festival of Lights, featuring 4 million LED lights, five Fiona Fairies in Fairyland, blacklight puppet show, the spectacular Wild Lights show on Swan Lake, and snacks at one of two S’mores-n-More stands.
Included with zoo admission
Christmas at the Junction (EnterTrainment Junction)
November 18–January 2
Fun Christmas Displays, as well as virtual Santa and some days with in-person Santa. Check their website Calendar page and choose the Santa experience with which you are most comfortable.
Admission included with Do-It-All ticket
2023 Winter Nights & River Lights
November 18–January 7
Purple Purple Bridge
Christmas lights and holiday decorations spread across the bridge, with events happening throughout the installation.
The Christmas Ranch
Open daily November 19–December 23 (closed Thanksgiving)
Walk-through experience with lights, shops, bonfires, and train and wagon rides.
$37 per car load, $47 per oversized van (10+ visitors), no buses or RVs, free parking; save $5 when you make reservations online
Great Parks Holidays on the Farm
November 24–December 31
Parky’s Farm
A world of festive wonder with hayrides, pony rides, carolers, farm animals, Santa, reindeer, holiday beer garden, and more.
Kings Island WinterFest
November 24–December 31 (select nights)
Step into a world of holiday magic featuring experiences and activities and festive food.
Admission starting at $29.99
Deck the Y’alls at Thomas More Stadium
November 24–January 1
The stadium is transformed into a winter wonderland full of two million lights choreographed to music, 50-foot animated tree, interactive experiences, entertainment, and food and drinks available for purchase.
Shillito’s Elves
November 24–January 2
The Foundry (across from Fountain Square)
One of Cincinnati’s most beloved traditions returns for another year of holiday magic. The Elves made their debut in the 1950s in the windows at Shillito’s, Cincinnati’s first department store.
Light in the Forest
December 1–30
Cincinnati Nature Center
Celestial walk through the illuminated woods, featuring light displays and interactive activities, as well as music, food trucks, drinks, and holiday shopping.
Member adult $12; member child $8; nonmember adult $15; nonmember child $10
EVENTS AND MARKETS
November 3–5
Germania Society Christkindlmarkt
Sip on a cold German bier, or enjoy a cup of Glühwein (hot mulled wine) while shopping for unique gifts from Germany and from local crafters. Based on traditional Christmas markets that are popular throughout Germany—mostly under our covered pavilion and heated tents, with some booths and attractions outdoors.
$5 per person, credit/debit ONLY. FREE admission for 12-under and active or retired military with current ID.
November 4–February 19
UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank
Fountain Square
An outdoor ice arena that takes over FSQ, featuring full-service concessions tent, ice skating, bumper cars, and so much more.
November 8–January 7
A Taft Holiday Tradition
In the museum’s dining room, you will find a few must-haves for the occasion, including tea and coffee services and a variety of serving dishes waiting to be filled with sweet treats.
November 9–12
Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market at Duke Energy Convention Center
Support local businesses this holiday season for holiday decor, apparel, food and wine, jewelry, toys, and more.
General admission starting at $12. More ticketing info and save $2 by purchasing online here.
November 11
Christmas Open House
Painted Tree Boutiques, 10a–8p
Celebrate the start of the holiday season with aisles of gifts, decor, fashion, and more, as well festive treats, live music, and wine.
November 17–19
Holiday Shopping Expo at the Lawrenceburg Event Center
Weekend of shopping from a selection of boutiques, crafters, upcycled and repurposed goods, specialty stores, local business, and more. Local group performances, wine tasting, and door prizes.
November 17–19, 25–26, December 1–3, 7–10, 12–23
North Pole Express by LM&M Railroad
Experience the wonder of the holiday season by journeying down the train tracks of Warren County, Ohio. Passengers spend time with Santa and his elves on the one hour and 15 minute festive train ride.
Coach Class seats starting at $30
November 18
The OFF Market Holiday at Summit Park 10a–4p
Shopping, ice skating, and beer.
November 18
Holiday Market
Cincinnati Art Museum, 11a–5p
Local artists and artisans in one convenient shopping experience, as well as 10% off unique art-inspired gifts from the Gift Shop (members receive 20% off). Complimentary gift wrap is included.
November 18
Light Up the Levee
Newport on the Levee, 3–7p
A full lineup of festive fun, including live music, fireworks, and a visit from Santa Claus, as well as the lighting of their 50-foot tree.
November 18
Lights Up at Liberty Center 4p
Holiday parade followed by lighting of the tree in The Park.
November 18–19
Holiday Bazaar at Queen City Clay
Handmade ceramics and gifts.
November 18–19
Holiday Open House at Rookwood Pottery
Complimentary behind-the-scenes tours to experience the magic behind the creation of some of your favorite Rookwood pieces.
November 19
Red Dog’s 3rd Annual Holiday Mutt Market
The Summit Hotel, 1–4p
Support 20+ local pet businesses and meet adorable dogs from Cincinnati Animal CARE. Bring supplies for the adoptable pets and place them under the Giving Tree. There will be a cash bar with hot cocoa and light bites. Event is for dogs and dog people.
November 22–December 31
2nd Annual Servatii Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt at The Banks
Wednesday through Sunday every week the Schmidlapp Event Lawn will host a market, including a four-lane innertube ice slide, themed character days, Family Fun Wednesdays (kids 12 and under can dine for free with the purchase of a slide ticket), and half-price featured wine and bourbon every Thursday to toast the season. When the Bengals play at home, the market will open three hours early. Private, heated rental igloos will also be available. Closed on Christmas.
November 24
Prolink’s Light Up the Square
Fountain Square, 6–9p
Kick off the holiday season with Fountain Square’s annual tree lighting celebration. Festivities begin at 5p with live music, followed by a special appearance by Santa Claus, then a dazzling fireworks display.
November 24–26
Telford Tannenbaums
Alive & Well
Holiday tree sale in an old-time, classic tree lot, featuring both apartment-sized (4′) and full size (7–8′) trees. There will also be a new menu launch and Christmas carols.
November 24–26, December 2–3, 9–10, 16–17
Winter Market at Washington Park
The Winter Marketwill feature regional artisans and crafters in cozily designed huts, with local organizations to curate each weekend.
November 24–December 16
Yuletide Village
Renaissance Park
Holiday lights, festive shows, and a Yuletide Market full of gifts, as well as hot food and drinks available for purchase.
November 24–December 24
Scuba Santa’s Water Wonderland
Newport Aquarium
Playful penguins, colorful holiday lights, and a flurry of magical bubbles. Meet cheerful elves straight from the North Pole and join in the fun as Scuba Santa fills the Theater with bubbles.
Included with admission and membership
November 24–January 8
Snowland
Great Wolf Lodge
Annual holiday celebration complete with an immersive winter wonderland filled with seasonal events, winter activities, crafts, visits with Santa, and more.
November 25
Crafty Supermarket Holiday Show at Music Hall Ballroom 11a–5p
100+ makers in one space for a holiday shopping extravaganza.
November 25
WestSide Holiday Market
Westwood Town Hall, 12–5p
Small business pop-up market showcasing over 100 local vendors, food trucks, and family friendly activities.
November 25
Norwood Light the Season
Factory 52, 4–9p
Kick off the holiday season with music, food, and fireworks.
November 25 and December 2, 9, 16
Downtown Dazzle on Fountain Square
See Santa rappel from a Cincinnati skyrise and watch a fireworks display. Music and festivities start at 6:30p and the Downtown Dazzle show begins at 7. Enjoy a drink or hot cocoa at Fountain Square’s Bar or have fun at the ice rink.
November 26
Holiday Family Dinner Cruise
BB Riverboats, 6:30–8:30p
Dinner buffet, a two-hour river cruise, and special entertainment.
November 27
Holiday Dinner Cruise
BB Riverboats, 7:30–9:30p
Sightseeing and holiday meal.
November 28
Holiday Lunch Cruise
BB Riverboats, 12–2p
Two-hour cruise featuring games, entertainment, and lunch buffet.
December 1–2
Essex Studios Art Walk
Essex Studios
December 1–30
Light in the Forest
Cincinnati Nature Center, 5:30–9p (select dates)
Celestial walk through the illuminated woods, featuring light displays and interactive activities, as well as music, food trucks, drinks, and holiday shopping. Purchase your timed entry tickets here.
December 2
12th Annual Holiday One Stop Shop
Wyoming Civic Center, 10a–3p
The Civic Center is transformed into a Holiday Bazaar where you can support local vendors while shopping for jewelry, personalized stationery, monogramming, spirit wear, and more. Food will be available.
December 2
Junior League of Cincinnati Tour of Kitchens
Anderson Township, 11a–3p
Self-guided tour of festive holiday kitchens and homes in Anderson Township, including a “Toast to the Tour” at Coldstream Country Club from 10a to 2p featuring light bites, drinks, holiday market, and more.
December 2
2023 Norwood Christmas Town
Norwood Middle School and blocks around Elm and Station Avenues, 11a–6p
Free activities for the whole family, including a carousel, carriage rides, petting zoo, nativity scene, craft vendors, food trucks, and more.
December 2
&Sundries and Friends Present Joyful and Jolly
East Walnut Hills
Kick off the holiday season by shopping small in East Walnut Hills. Visit four participating businesses and collect four punches on the passport to enter to win more than $1500 in prizes.
December 2
Winter Market
Wandering Monsters, 4–7p
Shopping event featuring local vendors, specialty drinks, and giveaways.
December 2
Market Bleu Winter Quarter Market
Contemporary Arts Center, 6–10p
Quarterly event at the CAC where you can enjoy a drink while shopping unique handmade goods from regional artisans and artists.
Free admission
December 2–3
Holiday Market at Findlay Market
Farmers and outdoor vendors + dozens of full-time merchants selling holiday gifts, food and decor. Bundle up, grab your friends, and support local this holiday season.
December 3
ArtisanFest513 Holiday Market
Memorial Hall, 10a–4p
Featuring adoptable pets, music, family games, and small business vendors from across the Tristate.
December 3
Market on Main: Holiday Edition
Woodward Theater, 11a–3p
Support small businesses this holiday season with more than 30 unique vendors, food trucks, specialty cocktails, build-your-own bouquet bar, photo booth, and more.
Free admission
December 3
Holiday Brunch Cruise
BB Riverboats, 12–2p
Holiday Brunch, sightseeing, and Dixieland Jazz Band.
December 3
Winter Market
Sam Adams Cincinnati Taproom, 12–4p
Craft vendors, pints of Winter Lager, and seasonal food specials.
December 3
Holiday Art Market
Hi-Wire Brewing, 12–5p
Discover unique, locally-made gifts, including art, jewelry, pottery, and more. Curated by Paper Acorn.
December 3, 10, 17
Holiday Family Funday
Taft Museum of Art, 10a–4p
Free music, art-making, and gallery experiences.
December 3: German Christmas
December 10: Bluegrass Holiday
December 17: Jazzy Holiday
Registration not required but encouraged
December 9
Mt. Adams Reindog Parade at the Monastery Event Center, 2–3p
Dogs (and owners) dress in their Holiday Best, and prizes are awarded in a variety of categories. The parade follows a circuit around central Mt Adams streets. Registration is from 1–1:45p.
December 9
Holiday Celebration with Light Up Wyoming
Village Green and Wyoming Avenue, 6–8p
Visit Santa and a live reindeer display, do some holiday shopping, enjoy holiday music, grab a bite to eat, and experience the tree lighting ceremony.
December 9
Sip & Slay
16 Lots Southern Outpost
Holiday-themed drag brunch and fundraiser.
December 9–10
The City Flea Holiday Market
Factory 52
First weekend of City Flea Holiday Markets, featuring 50+ vendors, as well as the Gatherall Food Hall, Jeni’s Ice Cream, Hi-Wire Brewing, Fretboard Brewing, and Handzy Shop + Studio and Gumdrop.
December 13
Hanukkah at Fountain Square
Fountain Square, 6–7:30p
Outdoor menorah lighting, ice skating, bumper cars, and more with the Cincinnati Jewish Community.
December 14–28
Giving Machines in Cincinnati
Kenwood Towne Center
The Giving Machines are vending machines with cards representing items needed by global and local nonprofit organizations such as meals, bus tickets, shoes, books, childcare, and more. Donation item prices range from $5 to $100+. This initiative invites people to share goodness, spread kindness, and extend love through service during the holiday season. Available during all open hours at the Kenwood Towne Center.
December 15
Inaugural Snow Ball
Metropole, 6–11p
Ticket ($125/person) includes welcome drink, appetizers and reception-style dinner by Metropole, entertainment, and valet parking.
December 16
Merry Swiftmas
Factory 52, 3–8p
Taylor Swift themed holiday part with dancing and friendship bracelet making.
December 16–17
The City Flea Holiday Market
Washington Park
Weekend Two of City Flea Holiday Markets featuring their annual event at Washington Park: under the lights on Saturday from 3p until 8p for a night market and new vendors to shop on Sunday from 11a to 5p.
December 23
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree
Factory 52, 6–10p
Holiday singalong on the green with Naked Karate Girls and holiday drinks.
PERFORMING ARTS
November 24–December 30
A Christmas Carol at Playhouse in the Park (Mt. Adams)
November 27–28
The Phil DeGreg Trio Plays “A Charlie Brown Christmas” at Memorial Hall
$6–8
November 29–December 29
Fiona: The Musical at Ensemble Theatre
Based on the true story of the hippo that store the world’s heart.
December 4
Queen City Cabaret Performs Rosemary Clooney’s “White Christmas” at Memorial Hall
$6–8
December 7–30
Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some!) at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
Fresh and fun annual tradition that sends up everything from Dickens to Dr. Seuss for 90+ minutes of high octane jollity and frivolity.
December 8–10
Holiday Pops at Music Hall
Cincinnati’s beloved holiday tradition returns with music, warmth, laughter, and seasonal inspiration for the entire family. Share unforgettable memories in the grandeur of a Music Hall.
Tickets starting at $26
December 14–24
The Nutcracker at Music Hall
Cincinnati’s favorite holiday tradition.
December 15–17
An Acoustic Christmas with Over the Rhine
presented by Nederlander Entertainment and Memorial Hall
$44–74
December 29
Trans-Siberian Orchestra at Heritage Bank Center
The Ghosts of Christmas Eve and more.
[Updated 12/6/23]
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