17 + Cincinnati Holiday Traditions & Events To Do in 2025 – Family Guide

The holiday season in Cincinnati is a magical time for families, filled with twinkling lights, festive markets, classic performances, and seasonal activities that create lifelong memories. From ice skating downtown to the dazzling Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo, this guide covers 17+ must-do holiday events and traditions in 2025 — perfect for locals and visitors alike.

Updated November 2025 for the 2025 holiday season.

Catch The Festivities at Fountain Square

Ever since I was a little girl, we have made an annual pilgrimage downtown during the holiday season. Our first stop would often be the old Shillitos to see the elves, followed by ice skating on Fountain Square. Today, the decades-old Cincinnati tradition formerly housed at Fountain Square, the UC Health Ice Rink, will officially relocate to Elm Street Plaza for the 2025-2026 rink season.

New to Fountain Square in 2025 is the Winterhaus. Winterhaus is a cozy, heated, glass-enclosed tented retreat located right on the plaza of the Square. This new festive hotspot will have daily programming, a full bar, and be available for private events.

Check out all the holiday events happening at Fountain Square.

Tree Lighting Ceremony At Fountain Square

Kick off the 2025 Cincinnati holiday season at one of the city’s most beloved traditions — Duke Energy’s Light Up the Square, returning Friday, November 28, 2025. This year’s event promises to be bigger and brighter than ever, featuring dazzling live performances, festive music, a stunning fireworks display, and the grand lighting of the Duke Energy Holiday Tree.

Stretching across 5th Street to Elm Street Plaza, the celebration now includes even more holiday activities and marks the opening of the UC Health Ice Rink presented by Fifth Third Bank. After the official tree lighting, stay downtown to enjoy ice skating under the city lights, sip hot chocolate, and soak in the festive energy that makes Fountain Square one of the best holiday destinations in Cincinnati.

UC Health Ice Rink

Glide into the holiday spirit at the UC Health Ice Rink presented by Fifth Third Bank, one of the most iconic winter attractions in downtown Cincinnati. Located on Elm Street Plaza, the rink offers a magical setting surrounded by sparkling city lights, festive music, and the glow of the Duke Energy Holiday Tree.

The rink is open seven days a week from November 4, 2025, through February 17, 2026, making it the perfect spot for a family outing, date night, or a fun holiday activity with friends. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or lacing up for the first time, the Fountain Square ice rink captures the charm of the season and is a must-visit on any Cincinnati winter itinerary.

Helpful Tips:

• Admission to the rink is $12 per person and includes skate rental. Payment is accepted by credit/debit card (Visa/MasterCard/AmEx) or mobile payment.
• Children ages five and under are free with a paid adult admission and must be accompanied by an adult on the ice at all times.
• The rink is open on holidays.
• Skate Aids are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Where to Stay Overnight In Downtown Cincinnati

Splurge for a festive overnight overlooking the square at the Westin Hotel or the Hilton Netherland Plaza. Grab a seasonal cocktail at the Bar at Palm Court, then cross the street for fabulous tapas at Mita’s or grab a juicy steak at the iconic Jeff Ruby’s before heading to the Ice Skating Rink.

Experience the magic of the season with a festive stay at Lytle Place Hotel, where timeless elegance meets holiday charm in the heart of Cincinnati. Enhance your stay by reserving one of their elegant rooftop igloos for dinner or cocktails.

PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo

The Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo has been a holiday staple for decades, four to be precise. While the animals may have gone in for the evening, the zoo comes alive with twinkling lights, gorgeous lantern animals, and classic holiday characters like Santa and Frosty.

Hop aboard the North Polar Express, a train ride that takes you through the lights and around Swan Lake. While the train may be the best seat to watch the synchronized light show over Swan Lake, be sure to catch the show near the entrance of Gibbon Island.

Be sure to come dressed for the weather. The Cincinnati Zoo is hilly, so strollers are recommended for younger children. The zoo does sell hot chocolate, s’mores, and roasted nuts for a wintery treat.

The PNC Festival of Lights is one of many stops along the Ohio Holiday Lights Trail, which features 55 dazzling stops throughout the state, including all 5 Ohio zoos.  Check out the complete guide to Ohio Zoo Lights.

When: The Festival of Lights runs till January 4, 2026.

Local Tip For Visiting: Come for the animals; stay for the lights. Arrive at the zoo between 3–4:00 pm. Arriving early allows you to see some zoo animals before the zoo transforms into a magical wonderland. It is easier to find parking as well.

Budget Tip: The Festival of Lights is included with zoo admission and, for members, with your zoo pass. The Cincinnati Zoo offers a 50% discount on admission if you have a membership for a reciprocal zoo.

The Cincinnati Zoo is also part of the Cincinnati Pogo Pass, which gives access to multiple activities throughout the city.

Shop Local This Holiday Season

One of my most cherished holiday traditions is shopping local and supporting the small businesses that make our city incredible. Small businesses often have unique finds, the tastiest goodies, and the sweetest owners. There is no better way to show love this holiday season than by shopping locally and supporting families in our hometown.

These local shops are a fantastic choice for your holiday shopping.

• King Arthur’s Court-The top spot to get toys in Cincinnati
• Camargo Trading Company– Upscale gifts and host/hostess gifts
• Frond– Find the perfect plant!
• OTR Cincinnati– Multiple boutiques with fantastic clothing, home decor, and more.
• Downtown Historic Milford– Stroll Main Street to find excellent boutiques, antiques, and more.

Go Shopping at the Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market

One of my favorite holiday traditions is going to the Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market with my mom. The Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market is at the Duke Energy Convention Center, the first weekend of November. Over 300 vendors bring booths full of holiday decor, crafts, gifts, treats, and more. Grab a photo with Santa, enjoy free gift wrapping, chances to win merry money, and the wine and appetizer lounge.

The Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market is just one of many holiday markets in Cincinnati. Other favorites are the Chriskindlmarkt at Germania and the Holiday OFF Market.

Scuba Santa At Newport Aquarium

Make a splash this holiday season with a visit to Scuba Santa at Newport Aquarium, one of the most unique holiday traditions in Greater Cincinnati. This beloved event brings Santa underwater, where he greets guests while swimming among sharks, stingrays, and colorful tropical fish.

The aquarium is beautifully decorated for the season, offering plenty of photo opportunities and hands-on experiences throughout the exhibits.

When: November 28th- Dec 24th

Address: 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 41071

Local Tip: Scuba Santa is included for Aquarium Members. If you plan on visiting the aquarium more than once a year, consider getting a membership.

Go Shopping in Downtown Milford

Take a stroll through the town, taking in its beautifully decorated window displays. Swing into the Mercantile Mall for over 20 antique dealers, browse the curiosities at Enchanted Moments, then conclude your visit with homemade chocolate from Tickled Sweet.

Downtown Old Milford is evolving into a dynamic hot spot, full of trendy eateries, Little Miami Brewing, charming boutiques, and popular housing developments, all situated along the Little Miami River.

Christmas Glow at the Land of Illusion

As southwest Ohio’s largest Christmas Light Drive-Thru event, Christmas Glow at the Land of Illusion is quickly becoming a yearly tradition for many families. Guests will love the 3.8 million colorful holiday lights at the 2-mile-long Christmas Around the World drive-thru experience, along with the dazzling displays. 

What makes the Christmas Glow an extraordinary experience is that it is more than lights; guests can visit Santa at the Christmas Village Santa Workshop or take in the majestic lights of the 45-foot Christmas Tree as you and yours warm by the gas fire pits.

Address: 8762 Thomas Road Middletown, OH 45042

When: November 20th- Dec 24th, Closed Christmas, Drive-Thru open only December 26- 30th.

Planning Tip: Visit during the week to avoid crowds, and purchase tickets online to save time.

Snowland At Great Wolf Lodge

Once a year, Great Wolf Lodge transforms into Snowland, a magical winter wonderland full of snow showers, dance parties, and many holiday festivities. With daily visits from Santa, beautiful holiday decorations, and an indoor water park always at 84 degrees, Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge will quickly become a new holiday tradition.

Before you pack your swimsuit and book your room, check out these helpful tips for attending Snowland to help you prepare for a memorable weekend getaway.

Catch A Performance at The Children’s Theatre’s

The Cincinnati Children’s Theatre’s Holiday Show is a magnificent display of artistic talent and sheer enchantment. From the moment the curtains rise, the stage comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colors, vibrant sets, and beautifully designed costumes.

Each year, the Cincinnati Children’s Theatre picks an entertaining holiday show that the family will love. In 2025, the cast will perform Elf Jr. This holiday show is a cherished tradition for families and individuals alike, creating lasting memories and spreading holiday cheer to all who attend.

Address: Emery Theater, 1112 Walnut St, Cincinnati, OH 45202

When: Elf Jr will run Dec 5th -21st. Tickets are available on their website.

Planning Tip: Shows are at the new Emery Theater in OTR. Make a day of the show by exploring fun holiday favorites downtown before or after the show.

Kings Island’s Winterfest

The Midwest’s largest amusement park embraces an old-fashioned winter with an ice skating rink right in front of an illuminated Eiffel Tower and spectacular holiday decorations, all to the tune of carolers who make their way through the park. Kings Island transforms into a winter wonderland complete with a holiday market offering everything from glistening ornaments to freshly baked gingerbread.

Take advantage of the spectacular Winterfest Wonderland Parade, which happens at night. The parade route starts by the Zephyr, so I recommend grabbing a spot along the Coney Mall route and then taking advantage of shorter lines after the parade passes.

There are quite a few extras that you can add to enhance your WinterFest experience. Ice skating is extra, in addition to cookie decorating.

Address: 6300 Kings Island Drive, Kings Island, OH 45034

When: King’s Island’s Winterfest runs on select evenings through December 31. 

Planning Tip: I do not recommend ice skating here for first-time ice skaters. The rink is very crowded. For first-time ice skaters, check out the rinks at 50 West Brewing or Summit Park in Blue Ash. 

Budget Tip: WinterFest is included for guests with a Kings Island Gold Pass. Gold Pass holders can also purchase discounted admission tickets for guests at $19.99. Another deal to take advantage of is the refillable Hot Chocolate Cup with $1.00 refills. This cup is good for multiple visits as well.

Where to Stay: If you are visiting from out of town or looking for a fun staycation option, consider staying overnight at Camp Cedar. They offer a variety of cabins and offer a FREE shuttle to Kings Island.

Don’t Miss The Holiday Train Displays

Holiday Junction at the Cincinnati Museum Center

The beloved Duke Energy Holiday trains are a holiday treat for the whole family. The Cincinnati Museum Center, Cincinnati’s iconic train station, Union Terminal, offers a dynamite train display.

The trains featured at Holiday Junction hold a special place in the hearts of Cincinnatians as they are the famous Duke Energy Holiday Trains, formerly displayed downtown. The Duke Energy Holiday Trains have been a Cincinnati holiday staple since 1946, delighting generations since they first debuted downtown in 1946. 

Holiday Junction’s riding train is popular with kids, while the whole family will enjoy Brickopolis. Brickopolis, a blizzard of LEGO bricks crafted into fantastical scenes from the magical worlds of Disney, Marvel, DC Comics, and Harry Potter.  The stunning LEGO Metropolis is always a crowd favorite.

Address: Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203

When: Holiday Junction runs from November 14 to January 5.

Pricing: Museum Members can get into Holiday Junction for free. Check the website for admission cost as it is often cheaper to visiting during the week than the weekend.

Local Tip: Catch Pancakes with Santa happening on Dec 6th. Advanced Tickets are required.

Catch The Nutcracker By The Cincinnati Ballet

The magic of the Nutcracker comes alive with an awe-inspiring performance by the Cincinnati Ballet. Follow Clara on her dreamy adventure to the land of sweets with her nutcracker prince. The company at the Cincinnati Ballet does a tremendous job making it family-friendly and attention-grabbing. The ballet is at Cincinnati’s iconic Music Hall across from Washington Park.

Address: Music Hall, 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 

When: Performances run December 18th-28th

Budget Tip: Sign up to be on the mailing list for Cincinnati Ballet. They will often send out discounts and specials for upcoming performances. One of the best times to buy is actually in July!

Cincinnati Nights Of Lights

One of Cincinnati’s favorite Drive-in-the-Lights is the Nights of Lights, held annually at the Clermont County Fairgrounds. Watch snowmen sing along to holiday classics, drive through a tunnel of lights, and if you look out in the distance, you can watch the Grinch try to sneak off with a tree! Tune the radio to the designated station for holiday music to which the lights are synced.

While the entire display is a treat for the eyes, get the kids to notice all the details by having them go on the elf scavenger hunt. Throughout the whole drive, elves are hidden, waiting to be spotted!

When: The show runs from November 21st to January 3rd.

Address: 1000 Locust St, Owensville, OH, 45160 US

Local Tip For Visiting: 

• There are often fewer lines on weekdays before Thanksgiving. After Thanksgiving, to avoid long lines, arrive early and visit on a weekday.
• Bring snacks and have kids use the bathroom before getting in line.

Visit Krohn Conservatory

A long-time Christmas Eve tradition is a visit to Krohn Conservatory followed by lunch at Skyline Chili. One thing that makes Krohn’s holiday train display stand out from the rest is that the display is centered around iconic Cincinnati landmarks created out of “Botanical Architecture.” The bright, colorful flowers and greenery accompany the displays, making them a delight to watch.

Get your photo next to the poinsettia tree, take a stroll through the fern house, walk behind the waterfall, and conclude your visit with a stop at the live nativity.

Address: 1501 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202

When: The Festival of Ferns runs until January 4, 2025.

Local Tip: After your visit, venture to the Eden Park Lookout. It offers a stunning view of the Ohio River. It is a short drive to the top of the hill with plenty of free parking at the park.

Watch A Christmas Carol By Playhouse In The Park

For many, the holidays are not complete without a trip to the theater to catch the beloved classic, “A Christmas Carol.” Playhouse in the Park has perfected this traditional tale with thrilling special effects, elaborate costumes, and told this heartwarming story in a way only the cast at Playhouse in the Park can.

With the return of live performances, seating is limited, and protocols are in place. Learn more about Playhouse in the Park and secure your tickets on their Playhouse website.

Light In The Forest

Experience the peaceful magic of the holidays at Light in the Forest, a breathtaking illuminated trail at the Cincinnati Nature Center. This family-friendly event transforms the woods into a glowing wonderland, with thousands of twinkling lights, lantern installations, and nature-inspired displays guiding guests along a serene outdoor path.

Cozy fire pits, seasonal music, and warm drinks from the visitor center add to the festive atmosphere. It’s a quieter, more reflective alternative to the city’s bustling light shows — perfect for families looking to connect with nature while celebrating the beauty of the 2025 holiday season in Cincinnati. Tickets often sell out early, so plan ahead for this enchanting holiday lights experience just minutes from downtown Cincinnati.

Address: 4949 Tealtown Road Milford, OH 45150

When: December 5th – Dec 28th

Local Tip: The trail is 1-mile long and is stroller-friendly. If you are looking for an alternative holiday activity that is peaceful and doesn’t have all the traditional holiday characters, this is a wonderful fit.

Planning Tip: This is a timed event, so it is best to purchase your tickets online.

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

CSC’s holiday smash hit Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) is back again for another season of holiday hilarity! What begins as another annual production of A Christmas Carol, soon devolves into a slightly irreverent look at all of our favorite “Beloved Holiday Classics” including pop culture favorites like It’s a Wonderful Life, Rudolph, Charlie Brown, and more! Add in topical references that always keep this annual tradition fresh and fun as we send up everything from Dickens to Dr. Seuss in an evening of high-octane happiness and frivolity.

When: The show runs December 10 – 28, 2025

Address: The Otto M. Budig Theater, 1195 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Planning Tip: This production is not for theatergoers who still believe in Santa.

Rent an Igloo

Many local restaurants and bars have brought back outdoor igloos as colder weather sets in. One of our favorite winter activities in Cincinnati is the rooftop igloos that boast sweeping views of the queen city. It is an excellent option for a fun holiday date night, dinner out, or get-together. Often, igloos will need to be reserved in advance and may have a fee.

The Cincinnati Christkindlmarket at Moerlein is one of our favorite spots to rent an igloo. They offer the 90-Minute Igloo Experience.

That’s plenty of time to sip, savor, and enjoy your igloo while overlooking the Cincinnati riverfront. Best of all your $300 reservation fee is returned as gift cards when you arrive. Gift cards can be used for food, drinks, and gratuity as well as select food vendors on the market (this will be marked by signage at the booth that says they accept Moerlein Lager House gift cards)

Any unused balance never expires and can be used inside the Moerlein Lager House any time.

When: The Cincinnati Christkindlmarket runs from Nov 22-Dec 28th.

Yuletide Village Season of Lights

Yuletide Village Season of Lights is held at Renaissance Park in Warren County every Friday and Saturday, November 24 – December 16, 2023. Guests can enjoy shopping at the Yuletide Market, visiting Santa Claus or Krampus, and strolling the beautifully lit village while carolers serenade guests.

When: November 28th -Dec 20th

Santa’s Workshop- Shillito Elves

Relive a beloved Cincinnati holiday tradition at Santa’s Workshop featuring the Shillito’s Elves, now delighting a new generation of families. Once a downtown department store favorite, these iconic mechanical elves have been lovingly restored and are back to spreading Christmas cheer in their festive workshop setting.

Watch as the elves busily build toys, wrap gifts, and prepare for Santa’s big night — a nostalgic display that brings the magic of the holidays to life. For 2025 the Shilito Elves will return to Santa’s Workshop in Mariemont. The experience is similar to that of the SantaLand that was at the Shilito department store in the 1980’s.

Address: 6940 Madisonville Road Cincinnati, Ohio  45227

Price: Admission $5/person at the door. Parking is free.

When: November 28th to December 28th.

Local Tip: You can see more Shillito elves downtown at the Carew Tower that are on display from Nov 27th to Jan 4th, 2026.

The Christmas Ranch

Step into a holiday wonderland at The Christmas Ranch in Morrow, Ohio, one of the region’s most beloved walk-through Christmas light displays. Featuring over one million synchronized lights, charming village shops, and visits with Santa, The Christmas Ranch has been delighting families for years.

Guests can stroll through twinkling tunnels of lights, enjoy sweet treats like hot cocoa and cookies, and or hop aboard for a wagon or train ride . A portion of proceeds benefits local charities, making it a festive experience that gives back to the community.

When: Open nightly November 21st through December 23rd

Address: 3205 S. Waynesville Road Morrow, OH 45152

Budget Tip: Save $5 when you make reservations online

Cincinnati Christmas Lights

Piling in the car to drive around and look at Christmas lights has been my holiday tradition since I was young. Many houses in the tri-state area go all out to create a magical wonderland. We highlight the best light routes throughout Cincinnati, including a master list of the neighborhood light displays you don’t want to miss.

Local Tip: For a fun twist on looking at neighborhood Christmas Lights, rent a party bus with friends and plug in one of the Christmas Light Routes.

We hope this guide will help you and the entire family get into the holiday spirit and start a new holiday tradition by discovering all that Cincinnati has to offer!

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