The holidays are quickly approaching, and we are here to help you plan your 2015 season!
Events are ordered according to the date when they begin.
We will be doing our best to keep this list as up to date as possible, so refer back often as we will be adding things as more and more information becomes available!
Looking for something specific?
Use our holiday event key below to help guide you in the right direction.
The Key to Cincinnati Holiday Events
US Bank Ice Rink at Fountain Square
October 30-February 15
See website for hours.
Many Cincinnatians harbor fond memories of ice skating on Fountain Square on a frosty winter day in the midst of downtown’s tallest buildings. Amenities include skate rental, lockers, benches, and concessions options. Nearby restaurants and coffee shops include Panera, Graeter’s, Servatii’s, Starbucks, Chipotle, Potbelly Sandwich Works, Palomino, Via Vite, Ingredients, McCormick & Schmick’s, Morton’s, and Rock Bottom Brewery. $6 admission and $4 skate rental.
A Christmas Story The Musical presented by La Comedia Dinner Theatre
November 4-December 31
See website for showtimes and to purchase tickets.
This new Broadway musical based on the classic 1983 movie, features funny and heartfelt songs and a faithful yet inventive book.
Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains at the Museum Center
November 6-January 3
Monday-Saturday 10a-5p; Sunday 11a-6p
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day; 10a-3p on Christmas Eve
A beloved Cincinnati tradition, the Duke Energy Holiday Trains began in 1946 in partnership with the Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Railroad. Enjoy an expanded raised platform surrounding the display, a kids’ train ride, Pogie and Patter the talking reindeer, and a visit with Santa! (Santa arrives 11/27.)
Duke Energy customers can get FREE vouchers by visiting this site HERE.
Rocky Mountain Express Omnimax Film at the Museum Center
November 6-January 3
See website for showtimes.
Go on a steam train journey through the breathtaking vistas of the Canadian Rockies and experience the adventure of building a nearly impossible transcontinental railway. Recruited to realize this venture—one of the greatest engineering feats of all time—were engineers and laborers from around the world.
Antique Christmas at the Taft Museum of Art
November 6-January 3
Tuesday-Friday 11a-4p; Saturday-Sunday 11a-5p
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day
A holiday favorite returns to the Taft! Be swept into the festive mood by experiencing the wonder of beautiful antique ornaments, toys, and decorations. FREE admission on Sundays!
All other days: $10 adults, $8 seniors (60+), students, and teachers, $4 age 12-17, Free under age 11
Fountain Square Holiday Tree Installation
November 7
6a-1p
Bring the family downtown and start your holiday season off right by seeing the installation of the magnificent tree on Fountain Square.
Fighting Hunger 5K
November 7
8:30a
This 10th annual run benefits locally based humanitarian and disaster relief organization Matthew 25: Ministries. To make the event even more fun, there will be a food drive and an after party complete with a chocolate fountain and face painting.
Talkin’ Turkeys
November 7
3p
Located at Winton Woods, come learn all about the history and habits of the park’s largest bird. This event is recommended for ages 8 and up.
This event is free although a motor vehicle permit is required to enter the park.
The Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market
November 13-15
Friday-Saturday 10a-6p; Sunday 10a-5p
Located at the spacious Duke Energy Convention Center, you will see aisle upon aisle of unique, one-of-a-kind boutiques and specialty stores from around the greater Cincinnati area as well as out of state offering you an unparalleled selection of gourmet food, home décor, specialty clothing, personal accoutrements, and countless other wonderful items for a truly exceptional gift buying experience! For insider details, check out this link HERE.
Olde West Chester Christmas Walk
November 14
4-6:30p
Combine Christmas excitement with the chance to find a furry friend to take home to love forever. Doesn’t get much more festive than that! Sponsored by Animal Friends Humane Society.
Santa’s Frosty Follies presented by the Covedale Center for Performing Arts
November 14
11a
A Holiday Musical Revue! “There’s no business like SNOW business! This spectacular review features that “hoofer from way back” (Rudolph), the “rockin’, rollin’ snow man” (Frosty), “the lovely lady in white” (Suzy Snowflake) and the star of our show, Santa Claus! With loads of humor and contemporary music, join Santa and his friends in some Holiday Hoop-la for all ages. Then join us for the Santa Claus parade and photos. Sure to win your heart over and put you in the Christmas spirit!
Single tickets $6.
Krohn Holiday Show: Poinsettia Express
November 14-January 3
10a-5p daily, Extended hours until 7:30p on 12/9, 16, 23
The 2015 Holiday Show at Krohn is blossoming with the sweet twist of peppermint this season! Hop on the Poinsettia Express and explore a landscape of swirling trees and striped blooms of deep reds and rich chartreuse. Candy cane striped amaryllis, crimson poinsettias dappled in white, spiral junipers, and speckled caladiums create a charming floral setting for this year’s interactive train display and botanical architecture. Trains carrying peppermint candies interweave with fascinating “gingerbread” houses made of all natural materials. Refresh your holiday spirit with your family and friends this year at Krohn Conservatory! Visitors will also experience local musicians, the Schmalz Family holiday display, extended “candlelight” hours, and great photo opportunities. Holiday magic will definitely be in the air!
Tickets $7 adults; $4 kids 5-12; free for 4 and under
Christmas at EnterTRAINment Junction
November 14-January 2
10a-6p Monday-Saturday, 12p-6p Sunday
Extended hours til 9p from 12/12-12/23 and 12/26-12/30
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas (Santa goes on vacation after Christmas.)
See the magic of Christmas at the home of the World’s Largest Indoor Train Display. Take a “Journey to the North Pole”, where you can can meet Mrs. Claus and Santa himself. See our “Main Street Holiday Trains” displays which offers some beautiful winter train displays that are FREE to the public.
Third Sunday Funday: Turkey’s Fly!
November 15
1p-4p
The Taft Museum of Art hosts a fun pre-Thanksgiving event. Make a bird to take home, explore animal textures at the Art Cart and hunt for birds in the Art Collection. There is a juggler too!
Tot Tuesday Turkeys
November 15
10:30a-11:30a
Visit with Tom Turkey for a morning of crafts, songs and stories at the Behringer Crawford Museum.
Tickets are $10 adults; $6 children ages 3-17.
Miami Township Holiday Parade
November 19
7-8p
A festive community event featuring high school marching bands and parade floats, decked out and lit up with holiday lights.
Jewish Book and Chanukah Fair
November 19-21
9a-4p
Stock up on Jewish books, Chanukah gifts and supplies.
Holiday in Lights Drive-Through at Sharon Woods
November 20-January 2
Sunday-Thursday 6p-9p; Friday-Saturday 5:30p-10p
Built over a mile of wooded roadway, the holiday themed displays of fantastic seasonal color adorns the woods, depicting everything from Santa Claus and his elves to every animal on the ark.
Tickets $13 per carload, $2 off coupon available on website.
Pyramid Hill Drive-Through Holiday Light Exhibit
November 20-January 3
6p-9p Monday-Thursday; Tickets $20 per carload
6p-10p Friday-Sunday; Tickets $25 per carload
OPEN Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years
The Polar Express at White Water Valley Railroad
Weekends only from November 20-December 20
See website for times.
THE POLAR EXPRESS rolls into Connersville’s Grand Central Station this Holiday Season. The Polar Express will come to life when the train departs Connersville’s Grand Central Station for a journey through the quiet countryside for a special visit to the “North Pole” with Santa Claus.
Tickets start at $29 and must be purchased in advance.
ChristKindlmarkt
November 20-22
Friday 6-10p; Saturday 11a-10p; Sunday 11a-6p
Holiday excitement with a German twist! Buy holiday themed items, including nutcrackers, candles and beer steins. Enjoy some delicious German food and beer and check out the traditional German music and dancing.
PNC Festival of Lights at The Cincinnati Zoo
November 21-January 2
Sunday-Thursday 5-9p; Friday & Saturday 5-10p
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas.
Meet everyone’s favorite frozen sisters in the NEW Frozen Wonderland. Enjoy a Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake, S’mores-N-More locations, puppet shows, the North Polar Express train ride, holiday post office, and visits with Santa (through 12/23) and Mrs. Claus!
General admission $15; $11 kids 2-12; $11 seniors 62+; $9 for parking.
Holiday Trains at Behringer-Crawford Museum
November 21-January 17
Tuesday-Saturday, 10a-5p; Sunday 1-5p
Dec 21 & 28 (Mondays) 10a-5p, Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve 10a-2p
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
It’s the 24th annual display of holiday toy trains! Lionel and Plasticville trains will chug along more than 250 feet of track, while guests play engineer with 33 interactive accessories. An expanded studio 56 Christmas Carol village display, Thomas the Train, a train raffle and the museum’s amazing Faragher permanent model train exhibit will add to the fun! Wednesdays are Grandparents’ Day, one child is admitted free with each paying grandparent!
$9 adults, $8 seniors (60+), $5 children (3-17).
Polar Express Readings November 29, December 6, 13 and 20 at 2p
Reservations required.
Holiday in Lights 5K
November 21
5p
Run or walk through The Holiday in Lights in Sharon Woods to get into the holiday spirit!
Pre-register by 11/18 cheaper rates ($27 adults; $22 children 12 and under).
John T Neiman Nursery
November 21-December 23
Monday-Saturday 10a-8p; Sunday 10a-6p
Located in Hamilton. Begin a new family Christmas tradition at this tree farm! Warm up with complimentary hot chocolate and cookies. See antique John Deere tractors, Model “A” cars and American flag display. Wreaths, swags and table arrangements made fresh daily! Cash or check only.
Turkey Time Crafts
November 22
1-3p
Take advantage of the chance to make some Thanksgiving themed crafts at the Seasongood Pavilion at Woodland Mound Park.
Crafts are $1 a piece and a motor vehicle parking permit is required to enter the park.
Turkey Bowl
November 24
11a-1p
The ice rink on Fountain Square turns into a bowling alley where bowlers have three chances to knock down as many pins as possible with a frozen turkey to win prizes.
The event is FREE to the public; participants can pay $5 or two canned goods for registration.
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, the Musical at the Aronoff
November 24-December 6
See website for showtimes and to purchase tickets.
The story of two buddies putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and finding their perfect mates in the process. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas promises a merry and bright theatrical experience for the whole family!
BRICKmas at Newport on the Levee
November 24-January 1
4p-8:30p
BRICKmas is a fun holiday attraction that provides a place for LEGO lovers of all sizes to come celebrate one of the world’s favorite toys and see some awesome LEGO displays.
Admission is $8.00 but look for special coupons and offers online!
A Christmas Carol presented by Playhouse in the Park
November 25-December 30
See website for showtimes
This is the 25th Anniversary of this must see holiday production! The Playhouse’s version of A Christmas Carol combines faithful storytelling with spellbinding stage magic to bring to life its familiar story of a sinner given one last chance at redemption by four persuasive ghosts. A Christmas Carol is suitable for all general audiences, including children ages 5 and older. Due to the full-length nature of the show, children younger than 5 cannot be admitted. Please contact the Box Office if you have questions or require additional information.
Light up Middletown
November 26-December 31
Monday-Thursday 6p-10p; Friday-Saturday 7p-9p
A driving tour which includes holiday themed areas including Santa’s sleigh, a train, animated swans, penguin village and a hot air balloon. Admission by donation.
Run Turkey Run VI
November 26
9a
Race proceeds will go to Burlington, KY Student Mission Projects helping to serve local families. Please bring one or more canned or non-perishable food items for Saving Grace Food Pantry.
Registration is $23
After Thanksgiving Fun Days
November 27-28
12p-4p
Head to Miami Whitewater Forest for an afternoon of family fun, including crafts, games and a scavenger hunt for prizes.
Crafts are $1 each and a motor vehicle parking permit is required to enter the park.
The Christmas Ranch in Morrow, OH
November 27-December 31
Sunday-Thursday 5p-9p; Friday-Saturday 5p-10p
Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Enjoy this spectacular walk-thru Christmas wonderland that boasts 1 million dancing Christmas lights synchronized to holiday music. There are Christmas shops, Santa’s bakery, train and wagon rides, and pictures with Santa!
$15 admission per vehicle on Monday-Thursday; $20 per vehicle on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Niederman Family Farm Christmas
November 27-December 30
Sunday-Thursday 6-9pm; Friday-Saturday 6-10pm
Live animals, thousands of lights, Christmas music, decorated trees and hot chocolate make exploring this family farm a true holiday treat.
Macy’s Light Up the Square
November 27
6p-9p
Festivities will begin with live music from great local bands. Fountain Square will also feature plenty of food, music, ice skating and (of course) one heck of a fireworks show!
Carriage Rides at Macy’s Celebration Station
November 27-29; December 5-6 and 12-13
12p-5p (Final boarding at 4:45p)
FREE horse drawn carriage rides through downtown, courtesy of Macy’s.
Metro’s Holly Jolly Downtown Trolley
November 27, 28 and December 5, 12 and 29
12p-5p
Metro’s Holly Jolly Downtown Trolley showcases the seasonal magic of downtown Cincinnati through the windows of an old-style trolley. Two decorated trolleys provide FREE shuttle service in the heart of downtown. Trolley service runs about every five minutes. You can board in front of the Westin on Fifth Street or at designated Holly Jolly Downtown Trolley stops on Fifth Street and Fourth Street.
Santa at Macy’s Fountain Place
Fridays and Saturdays, November 27-December 19; 12p-8p
Sundays, November 29-December 20; 12p-6p
Monday-Thursday, December 21-24; 12p-5p
Visit with an African American Santa on Thursday December 3, 10 and 17; 3p-7p
Bring your own camera for photos with downtown’s only Santa in a festive North Pole setting.
FREE courtesy of Macy’s.
Hometown Holidays
November 27-28
This is a FREE event in historic Milford with horse drawn carriage rides, antique fire truck rides, and carolers.
Scuba Santa
November 27-December31
10a-6p
The whole family will enjoy seeing Scuba Santa swimming in his water wonderland. There are lots of new features this year to keep everyone entertained.
Adults $23; $15 children 2-12 years old; children under 2 are free.
Berninger Trees and Wreaths
November 27-December 23
Monday-Friday 3p-5p; Saturday-Sunday 9a-5p
Located in Lebanon. Cut down your own or choose from a wide selection of pre-cut trees! Free popcorn and hot chocolate available.
Bartels Farm
November 27-December 20
Friday-Saturday 10a-5p; Sunday 12p-5p
Located in Hamilton. This farm offers a peaceful, natural environment for your family to choose and cut your own tree. You can also purchase wreaths and other holiday fare in their Christmas Shop.
Fairfield Avenue Christmas Walk
November 27-28
10a-6p
This is the official welcoming of the holiday shopping season along historic Fairfield Avenue in Bellevue, KY! Shoppers can escape the Black Friday frenzy to opt for Christmas cheer. Stroll the Avenue, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy holiday nibbles and sips at each of the businesses while shopping for the perfect gifts for everyone on your shopping list. On Saturday thrill the kids with Santa’s arrival to the Christmas Walk at 11 am at 318 Fairfield Avenue on an antique Bellevue fire truck!
Mary Poppins presented by the Covedale Center for Performing Arts
November 27-December 27
See website for showtimes and ticket information.
Everyone’s favorite practically perfect nanny takes the stage in this Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures.
Cincy Sings Carolers
Saturday, November 28, December 5 and 12
3-5p
FREE! Enjoy holiday tunes while you shop at locations around Fountain Square from choirs who competed in this year’s ArtsWave’s Cincy Sings competition.
The Santa Claus Limited Train at White Water Valley Railroad
November 28
Train departs at 9:30a, 11:45p and 2p
Board the train at Grand Central Station in Connersville to pick up Santa Claus along the way. Once on board Santa will come and visit with each child on the train.
Tickets are $10 ages 2 and up.
Macy’s Downtown Dazzle
November 28, December 5 & December 12
6:30p (choirs at 5:45p)
Each Saturday Santa rappels down the Huntington Center at 525 Vine St., to the Macy’s rooftop to kick off a spectacular fireworks display. This 20-minute family-friendly program also features performances from local choirs. Then, come inside to Macy’s Fountain Place to warm-up with holiday fun.
Holiday Kick-off – Saturday, November 28
Have your photo taken with members of the Holiday Character Crew on Fountain Square. After the fireworks, come inside Macy’s Fountain Place to get an early start on your holiday shopping.
Give Back – Saturday, December 5
Sign your name to the Red Cross’s Holiday Cards for Heroes and bring a canned food donation for the FreeStore Foodbank on Fountain Square.
That’s Entertainment – Saturday, December 12
Join special guest John Morris Russell, the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra conductor, and singers from The May Festival on Fountain Square.https://cincymomcollective.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=6914&action=edit
Story Time with Mrs. Claus at Macy’s Fountain Place
November 28 and December 5 and 12
Immediately following Macy’s Downtown Dazzle fireworks. FREE courtesy of Macy’s.
Santa’s Workshop at Washington Park
November 28 & December 5, 12, 19
1p-3p
Santa and his merry band of Elves will be spending time in Washington Park making gifts, ornaments and other fun creations. Bring your family, bring your wish lists, but most all–be sure to bring your cameras!
Deerfield Township Tree Lighting
November 28
5-7p
Check out the annual tree lighting at Deerfield Towne Center, complete with a petting zoo, holiday music and a visit from Santa on a fire truck.
Home Alone presented by the Cincinnati Pops
November 28
7p
The Cincinnati Pops perform the score by John Williams of the comedy Home Alone, complete with images of the movie.
North Pole Express at LM&M Railroad
November 28-29; December 4-6, 10-13, 17-22
See website for times.
A Lebanon Christmas tradition filled with lights, photo ops, Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate and the North Pole Junction. Tickets must be purchased in advance!
Big Tree Plantation
November 28-December 23
Monday-Saturday 9a-7p; Sunday 9a-6p
Located in Morrow. Come join the farm for a cut your own Christmas tree experience that will create wonderful family memories for years to come. They will provide the saw, wagon ride, and hot chocolate, and you find the perfect tree for your home.
Dirr Nurseries
November 28-December 23
9a-5p daily
Located in Goshen. This season at Dirr Nurseries Xmas Tree Farm they are offering the largest selection ever of both Cut-Your-Own Christmas trees and Ball & Burlap Christmas Trees. Their Flat Pricing allows you to get a Big Tree without Big Costs.
$45 flate rate per tree.
Go Santa Go 5K
November 29
9a
Support Cancer Support Community by running this 5K at Summit Park in Blue Ash.. All 5K Participants will receive either a customized Santa Long Sleeve Shirt, Hat and Beard or an Elf Long Sleeve Shirt and Hat and goody bag.
$45 in advance, $50 day of the race.
Cinderella presented by Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati
December 2-January 3
See website for showtimes
While not specifically a holiday production, this family-friendly production of a classic story is a great way to spend time together this holiday season.
Tickets are $44 for adults and $18 for children.
Trans Siberian Orchestra
December 4
4-8p
You don’t want to miss this traditional holiday performance. Attendees are in for an amazing laser light show and musical experience. Prices vary, see website to purchase tickets.
Shop Bellevue! Home for the Holidays
December 4
5p to 9p
Step onto the Polar Express as you walk through the shopping district taking in the story. Warm up between your shopping stops in one of the restaurants for a bite, a drink or for a holiday party. The glow of the Christmas decorations and festive spirit will create a memorable Shop Bellevue! as friends and families gather for a joyful evening.
The Christmas Bazaar ar Chesterwood Village
December 4
9:30a-3p
What better way to share the joy of Christmas than by bringing a little holiday magic into the lives of a local family in need? The Christmas Bazaar at Chesterwood Village does just that. It is a showcase of handmade crafts created by the residents of Chesterwood Village and all proceeds are donated to purchasing items for the Hillandale Adopt-A-Family Program.
Chesterwood Village is located at 8073 Tylersville Rd. West Chester, Ohio 45069
Awaited: A Christmas Experience
December 4-23
See website for showtimes.
Awaited is a creative retelling of the Christmas story, produced and hosted at Crossroads church. FREE tickets available November 23 at 10a. Tickets required for the show!
A Charlie Brown Christmas presented by The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati
December 4-6; December 12-13
See website for show times.
Bring your family and celebrate Christmas with the live rendition of your favorite holiday special! Don’t let the hustle and bustle of the holidays get you down – Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts gang are here to remind us all about what’s most important during this Yuletide season.
Christmas in the Village of Waynesville
December 4-6
5p-9p
Visit Waynesville Ohio this holiday season and capture the spirit of the holidays! Stroll in and out of retail and dining storefronts, while listening to barbershop quartets, choirs, and musicians. You will be able to take a carriage ride and feel the holiday spirit in the air, all while listening to the clip clapping of the horses hooves and jingle bells. Costume characters will be strolling along the sidewalks, throughout the weekend to help bring a smile to your face. Don’t forget jolly old St. Nick! He will be here all weekend long to listen to the requests of all the good boys and girls.
Christmas Town
December 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 26, 28
5-8pm
The Creation Museum is celebrating with a FREE live nativity scene and garden of lights. Inside the museum, guests can check out the exhibits and stop by the planetarium to learn about the Christmas star.
Lebanon Carriage Parade & Christmas Festival
December 5
10a-8p
Lebanon’s largest annual event, always held the first Saturday in December. More than 100 antique carriages pulled by majestic Clydesdales, Percherons, and many other breeds of horses parade through the charming streets of Historic Downtown Lebanon. Early birds line the streets for an afternoon parade, while those who attend the evening procession are treated to a candlelit spectacle. Parade Times 1p and 7p (candlelit parade).
Pancakes with Santa
December 5
10a-12p
Create your own flapjack masterpiece at our pancake buffet, enjoy family-friendly hands-on activities and take photos with the jolly man in the red suit, Santa Claus. Treat your guests to a first class experience with one private hour in Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains and The Art of the Brick.
Tickets for members are: $35 adults; $15 children. Tickets for non-members are: $40 adults; $20 children. Children under 2 are free.
The Nutcracker at The Museum Center
December 5
12:30p and 2:30p
Cincinnati Ballet’s Otto M. Budig Dance Academy is pleased to bring The Nutcracker to Cincinnati Museum Center for a special free performance. Journey through the Land of Sweets and Sugarplum Fairies in this abbreviated version of a beloved classic that is sure to delight the young and old.
Santa’s Workshop in Deerfield Township
December 5
10a-11a; 11a-12p
Deerfield Township residents can register for one of two workshops where kids ages 3-8 years old can make holiday themed crafts while enjoying juice and cookies. Santa will also be making an appearance. Space is limited and the event is FREE, so make sure you register online.
A Visit with Sensitive Santa at Children’s Hospital Medical Center
December 5
An event full of family fun and a Santa who is sensitive to children with special needs, including cognitive and physical disabilities. This event is FREE and a great way to get those photos with Santa in an environment designed to ensure success for your family. This event is located in the Sabin Auditorium at the main hospital campus on Burnet Ave. **Your child will not be interacting with hospitalized children.**
Light Up Fairfield
December 5
3p-6p
Help Santa welcome the holiday season and light up the big tree at the Village Green Amphitheater. Activities include a holiday market with local vendors, caroling, ornament crafting and a children’s story time. Click the link for the schedule of events.
Bethel Down Home Christmas
December 5
Begins at 9a
Come join your family and friends and be a part of the Bethel Down Home Christmas Celebration. Browse through the shops of Bethel, visit with Santa, enjoy and create crafts, a Santa Doggy parade, play games, sign up for drawings. A little something for everyone. Click on the link above to see the schedule of events! (There is also Breakfast with Santa at 8a for $7 per person.)
Luminaria
December 5
8p
This FREE event lights up Mariemont, complete with Santa and horse drawn carriages.
German Village Christmas Walk
December 6
12p-5p
Holiday horses, large toy soldiers and a Victorian holiday feel make this annual event a real treat. Tour some historic homes and visit Santa as well. Admission is FREE.
Hanukkah LEGO Station
December 7
5a-7p
Learn how to make LEGO dreidels and menorahs and take home one of your creations. Stay to read Hanukkah stories and participate in the community Menorah lighting at 6p
Cincinnati Moms Blog Ho-Ho-Holiday Playdate
December 7
10a-12p
Holiday treats, crafts, an a story time with the one and only Mrs. Claus! Take advantage of the play space at The Red Balloon Cafe + Play as well and enjoy some holiday treats from a variety of delicious vendors.
Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical at The Aronoff Center for the Arts
December 9
6:30p
See Rudolf, Clarice, and Santa come to life on stage. This is a great holiday event for the entire family.
Tickets range from $35-$65.
Winterfest in the Village
December 12
4p-8:30p
Horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday characters and caroling by local children’s choirs and a live nativity scene will transform the evening into an old town hallmark village atmosphere. Popular food vendors, face painting, cookie decorating, hot chocolate, a petting zoo, pony rides and pictures with Santa. Santa and Mrs. Claus will begin taking photos with your children at 4:30pm. Fire pits will be placed about for all to enjoy the warmth of the holiday spirit.
Holiday Pops
December 11-13
Friday-Saturday 8p; Sunday 2p
Join “Mr. Christmas” himself, John Morris Russell, for Cincinnati’s can’t-miss holiday family tradition! Tony-winning Broadway phenomenon Brian Stokes Mitchell joins the Pops to warm your heart with traditional and contemporary holiday favorites—along with spectacular singers and dancers, and an appearance by Santa himself!
Kids tickets are only $10!
The City Flea
December 12
5p-10p
The City Flea is Cincinnati’s original curated, urban flea market that takes place in Washington Park. Since its conception in 2011 The Flea has seen dozens of vendors grow from hobby to full time business and it is with much pride that we consider ourselves not only a monthly market, but a small business incubator, community organization, and city advocate. The Flea is a place to keep your dollars local, support small business and experience YOUR city in a unique and engaging way. This is the last of the season and a great way to enjoy some holiday shopping.
Holly Days at the Heritage Village Museum
December 12-13
12p-4p
Enjoy the sights and sounds of a 19th century Christmas with live music, Victorian crafts to make, storytelling, and holiday treats!
$8 for adults; $5 for children ages 5-11; children under 5 and museum members are free. ($1 off coupon available on the website)
Krohn Conservatory Live Nativity
December 12-January 3
9a-9p daily
Dedication Ceremony on December 12 at 3p.
Ornament Blow
December 12, 13, 18
10a-8p
A unique holiday experience for the entire family. Classes are offered by Neusole Glassworks. Register for a 30 minute class to make your own ornament for your own tree or to give as a gift.
Manheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis
December 13
7p
An incredible holiday show, complete with multi-media effects and beloved holiday music.
Tickets start at $38.
Michael W Smith at Music Hall
December 15
7:30p
Famed christian music artist is coming to town for a performance to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
Tickets start at $25.
Giant Menorah Lighting
December 16
5:30p
Come celebrate Hanukkah with this menorah lighting and stay to enjoy the petting zoo and LED light show.
The Cincinnati Ballet presents The Nutcracker
December 18-27
See website for showtimes.
The Snow Queen and her King will help you find your way to the Land of Sweets where the Sugar Plum and Cavalier are waiting to welcome you with sweet treats and exotic celebrations! Indulge yourself in Tchaikovsky’s most popular work, with live instrumentation by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and revel in the magic and wonder that is Cincinnati’s favorite holiday tradition.
Bricktastic Pajama Party at The Museum Center
December 18
7p
Experience a winter paradise in the Duke Energy Children’s Museum lobby that has been reimagined with LEGO® bricks. Put on your best pajamas and join us as we play games, participate in hands-on activities and create lasting memories – all inspired by The Art of the Brick.
Early bird ticket pricing (before 12/11) $20 Members; $30 Non-members. After 12/11 $25 Members; $35 Non-members.
Mt. Adams Egg Nog Jog 5K
December 19
10a
Come to Mt. Adams to the 24rd annual holiday tradition. Scenic and challenging course begins at Jerome and St. Gregory and winds through Mt. Adams and Eden Park offering spectacular views of the city. Details to come soon.
Library Holiday Model Train Display
December 19-20
Saturday 9a-6p; Sunday 1p-5p
Stop by the Reading Garden Lounge to view a holiday model train display from the Cincinnati Northern Model Railroad Club. The display will operate during normal Library business hours.
Winter Solstice Celebration Weekend at the Museum Center
December 20-21
12p-3p
Come and celebrate Holidays from around the world! Enjoy a weekend of fun, hands-on activities about Hanukkah, Chinese New Year, Diwali and Kwanzaa.
Fly Me to the Moon
December 31
8p
Ring in 2016 by celebrating Frank Sinatra’s 100th birthday, Cincinnati Pops Style.
Happy Zoo Year
December 31
5p-9p
Meet Father Time and Baby Zoo Year, see a performance by Mad Cap Puppets, and enjoy some fireworks in a family friendly new year’s celebration.
Adults $18; $12 Children and Seniors. Discount tickets available online.
International New Year’s Eve at The Museum Center
December 31
11a-5p
Celebrate the New Year and travel around the world in the rotunda of the Museum Center. Each hour features a different country as they ring in the New Year in real time and highlights their unique culture with music, games and hands-on activities. In just one afternoon you’ll be able to visit Australia, Thailand, China, Pakistan, Russia, South Africa and Israel. Grab a passport from Customs and fill it with stamps to commemorate your international travels!
[…] The 2015 Cincinnati Guide to Family Holiday Events […]