Ultimate Holiday Events & Christmas Guide to Columbus – 2018
Christmas is coming.
When to start celebrating Christmas can be a polarizing subject. There are generally two types of people when it comes down to it: People who start celebrating the day after Halloween, and normal people, like myself, who wait until after Thanksgiving.
I grew up in a family of Christmas enthusiasts, so I get it. I’ve always been practical when it comes to Christmas planning, but this year, I had to give in. The thing is, I’m busy now. I understand why people start thinking about the holidays months in advance.
Whatever your reasoning is, I’m here to tell you, it’s okay. If you want to pump up the Mariah Carey, put on a Santa hat, and dance around your living room, that’s fine. If you want to have your tree up before Thanksgiving, that’s your choice.
And if you want to go and visit some totally amazing Christmas towns in Ohio every weekend between now and Christmas, I won’t stop you. In fact, I’ll give you a helping hand.
Here are 7 must-see Christmas Towns & Villages In Ohio.
Dickens of a Christmas at Ohio Village
Columbus
What: Capture the spirit of holidays past at Ohio Village, where Charles Dickens’s festive and enduring vision comes to life through jolly carols, decorations, and traditions inspired by his colorful tales. Enjoy craft and cooking demonstrations and shop P. Wylie’s Emporium for the perfect gift. Tickets are $14 for adults, $11 for kids 4-12, and free for kids 3 and under.
When: December 8 & 15 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and December 9 & 16 from noon to 5 p.m.
Where: 800 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211
The Christmas Ranch
Morrow
What: The “Gift of Lights” is a celebration with 1,000,000 lights which dance to the music. This is truly a magical family experience with shops, food, and fun. Visitors can also enjoy a train or wagon ride! Admission to the Christmas Ranch is $20 per vehicle.
When: November 16 through December 23. Open Sunday-Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday & Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 3205 S Waynesville Rd, Morrow, OH 45152
Christmas in Zoar Village
Zoar
What: Experience all the joy and cheer of the season during Christmas in Zoar. Visitors can enjoy musical entertainment, a juried craft show, tour the village, take a horse-drawn wagon ride around the village, and more. On Saturday evening, there will be a candle light church service at the Historic Zoar Meeting house, followed by a tree lighting ceremony. Cost for Christmas in Zoar is $8/person and children 12 and under are FREE.
When: December 2 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and December 3 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Zoar, OH
Castle Noel
Medina
What: Good news for those “every day is Christmas” folks. Castle Noel is the worlds larges indoor, year-round Christmas attraction. You can see props from all of your favorite Christmas movies, including the iconic Santa slide from “A Christmas Story”. Tour prices start at $17 and tickets can be purchased here.
When: Open year round, hours vary.
Where: 260 S Court St, Medina, OH 44256
Historic Roscoe Village
Coshocton
What: Step back in time at the Historic Roscoe Village. During the afternoon, guests may enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, visit with Santa, strolling carolers, complimentary hot-mulled cider and cookies, and many other holiday festivities. Roscoe Village will offer “A Roscoe Christmas” tour during each Candlelighting. Learn about Canal Era holiday traditions and how they were practiced in the 1830s.
When: December 2 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and December 9 from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: 600 N Whitewoman St, Coshocton, OH 43812
Legendary Lights at Clifton Mill
Clifton
What: After 31 years of celebration, it’s safe to assume that Clifton Mill knows exactly how to brighten up your holiday season. Although this isn’t technically a whole town event, Legendary Lights at Clifton Mill is 100% worth your time.
When: November 23 until January 1, Saturday-Sunday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Special hours on Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Years Eve.
Where: 75 Water St, Clifton, OH 45316
Christmas in the Village
Waynesville
What: Head to Waynesville for a quintessential smalltown Christmas. There will be 1,300 luminaries, carriage rides, decorated storefronts, delicious restaurants, dozens of vendors, and of course, a special appearance by Santa Claus.
When: November 30-December 2
Where: Waynesville, OH
