Holiday Lights & Christmas Events
Cincinnati and the surrounding area come alive during the holiday season with festive events perfect for families looking to create magical memories together. From classic performances like The Nutcracker to interactive experiences with Santa, there's something to delight every age and interest. We've rounded up the best holiday lights and Christmas events happening this season so you can plan your family's festive adventures.
CAM Nights & Holiday Lights Featuring the Work of Charley Harper
CAM Nights & Holiday Lights Featuring the Work of Charley Harper at Cincinnati Art Museum
THE TWELVE DATES OF CHRISTMAS
Holiday-themed comedy at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park—perfect for families seeking festive theatrical fun.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Timeless Christmas tale performed by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park—a family tradition of live theater.
A Christmas Carol
Cincinnati Playhouse brings the beloved classic holiday tale to the stage.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra - The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve
Trans-Siberian Orchestra - The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve at Heritage Bank Center
Christmas Tree Sale
Pick out your family's perfect Christmas tree at historic Findlay Market.
The Most Wonderful Tap of the Year: Weihnachtsbier Christmas Lager Keg Tapping
The Most Wonderful Tap of the Year: Weihnachtsbier Christmas Lager Keg Tapping at Hofbrauhaus Newport Brewery & Restaurant
Nutcracker, Jazzed Up
A high-energy jazz reimagining of Tchaikovsky's beloved Nutcracker ballet.
Scuba Santa's Water Wonderland
Meet Scuba Santa underwater at Newport Aquarium with penguins, holiday lights & festive bubbles.
Duke Energy's Light Up the Square
Holiday kickoff with dazzling performances and fireworks at downtown Fountain Square.
The Coca-Cola Holiday Caravan
Meet Santa, see the iconic Coca-Cola truck, real reindeer & get free photos.
O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy
A hilarious British comedy blend of Monty Python and Dr. Seuss at Aronoff Center.
Cincinnati Christmas Streetcar Food Tour
Holiday streetcar food tour at Fountain Square combining seasonal treats and festive transport.
Disney's The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live to Film
The Muppet Christmas Carol with live orchestra at Cincinnati Music Hall.
Tree Lighting & Santa | 6pm
Tree lighting and Santa meet-and-greet at St. John United Church of Christ.
Disney's The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live to Film
Watch The Muppet Christmas Carol on screen with live orchestral accompaniment at Music Hall.
The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati’s Downtown Dazzle
Watch Santa rappel down a Cincinnati skyscraper at this iconic holiday spectacle.
Last Call - Christmas Card Submissions!
Last Call - Christmas Card Submissions at Florence
David Benoit Christmas Tribute to Charlie Brown Show
Jazz pianist David Benoit celebrates Charlie Brown Christmas at Ludlow Garage.
David Benoit Christmas Tribute to Charlie Brown Show With Special Guest Courtney Fortune
Jazz pianist David Benoit performs a musical tribute to beloved Peanuts holiday specials with vocalist Courtney Fortune.
'Twas The Night Before...
Cirque du Soleil's holiday spectacular reimagines Christmas magic with acrobatics, wonder, and family fun.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Tree lighting ceremony downtown—a magical seasonal tradition for the family.
David Choate's Hot Chocolate
David Choate's African American Nutcracker returns for its sixth year—a spirited holiday dance tradition at the Aronoff Center.
Mindi Abair's I Can't Wait For Christmas
Jazz saxophonist Mindi Abair performs holiday favorites at Ludlow Garage Cincinnati.
Holiday in the Village
Family holiday celebration with tree lighting, Victorian carolers & North Pole workshops.
BAMSO Holiday Concert
Community holiday concert celebrating seasonal traditions with live orchestral music for all ages.
A Brazilian Christmas
Brazilian-jazz take on Christmas classics with vibrant rhythms and improvisation.
ON THE LASH: A Celtic Christmas
Celtic folk-rock holiday concert blending traditional music with festive cheer.
Straight No Chaser
Straight No Chaser at Taft Theatre
Jingle Jazz: Swingin’ Into the Holidays
Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra swings holiday classics in their annual Jingle Jazz celebration.
Every Christmas Story Ever Told
Hilarious holiday comedy mashup of every Christmas story told on stage.
Cyclones v. Fuel
Cincinnati Cyclones hockey game with Nutcracker-themed giveaway night.
Herman's Hermit's Christmas Staring Peter Noone
Herman's Hermits' Peter Noone performs classic hits with holiday cheer.
Breakfast with Santa
Pancake breakfast with Santa; proceeds benefit local families in need this holiday season.
Breakfast with Santa
Meet Santa and enjoy breakfast at Cincinnati Zoo's festive holiday event.
Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil
'Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil at Aronoff Center—dazzling holiday acrobatics.
MainStrasse Christkindlmarkt
Traditional German-inspired holiday market in Covington with local makers, gifts & festive cheer.
Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
Candlelit Christmas carols performed on strings at Fountain Square's magical Winterhaus.
The Nutcracker Presented by Sheakley Family
Victoria Morgan's enchanting adaptation of The Nutcracker at Cincinnati Music Hall.
Christmas with Chris Tomlin
Singer-songwriter Chris Tomlin performs holiday favorites at Taft Theatre.
Candlelight: Christmas Classics
Festive candlelit concert of Christmas carols in the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
Track Santa on His Magical Journey Around the World 🎅🏻
Interactive online experience tracking Santa's Christmas Eve journey worldwide.
Candlelight: Christmas Classics
Candlelit concert celebrating Christmas classics in a historic Cincinnati venue.
Good to know
- What holiday events are happening in Cincinnati right now?
- Cincinnati and the Dayton area are hosting a variety of Christmas events this season, including ballet performances, orchestral shows, musical performances, and interactive family experiences like breakfast with Santa. Check our current events list for specific dates and locations.
- Are these holiday events family-friendly?
- Yes, most events on our list are designed for families, though some performances like The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol work best for children ages 5+. We recommend checking individual event descriptions for age recommendations.
- How much do these Cincinnati Christmas events cost?
- Prices vary widely depending on the event—some performances and experiences are paid ticketed events, while activities like tracking Santa are free. Each event listing includes pricing information to help you plan your budget.
- When do these holiday events take place?
- Most Christmas events in the Cincinnati area run from November through December, with many concentrated in December. Check our event calendar for specific dates and times for each activity.
- Where can I find holiday lights displays near Cincinnati?
- Our events page features holiday experiences throughout Cincinnati and nearby areas like Dayton—check the full listing for locations and details on light displays and festive attractions.