See all Cincinnati Christmas happenings this year!
Cincinnati sparkles for Christmas 2025 near Fountain Square and the riverfront, where historic facades glow with festive lighting and music. Christmas celebrations, winter festivals and holiday experiences include markets, skating and performances that bring families together for seasonal cheer.
Find the best Cincinnati Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Cincinnati
- Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt
- PNC Festival of Lights
- The Nutcracker
- Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains
- Winter Wonderland at Washington Park
- Shillito's Elves and Main Street Holiday Programming
- Duke Energy's Light Up the Square
- Downtown Dazzle
- Westside Market Holiday Edition
- Findlay Holiday Market
See even MORE Christmas events below!
Cincinnati Christmas Events
Cincinnati Christmas Light Displays
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Step into a winter wonderland at the Cincinnati Zoo's 43rd annual PNC Festival of Lights! Be dazzled by over 5 million LED lights, explore whimsical fairy statues, and discover 65 larger-than-life animal lanterns. Enjoy festive treats, seasonal concessions, and the spectacular Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake. Don't miss the North Polar Express train ride and the chance to meet ambassador animals.
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Step into a winter wonderland at Holiday Junction, featuring the beloved Duke Energy Holiday Trains. This signature holiday experience brings generations together with its dazzling display of over 300 rail cars and 50 locomotives. Explore the enchanting Northern Lights, embark on a fun scavenger hunt, and marvel at a LEGO metropolis. Don't miss the chance to visit Santa Claus, who arrives in spectacular style!
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Immerse yourself in a magical holiday experience at Washington Park's Winter Wonderland. This enchanting installation, a collaboration by Cincinnati Ballet and local partners, features a captivating Nutcracker-inspired story walk with six scenes created by Art Academy of Cincinnati students. Dazzling holiday lights will adorn the park, creating a festive atmosphere throughout December. Don't miss the special launch event on December 1st, complete with ballet dancers, characters, family activities, and free photos with Santa Claus.
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Duke Energy's Light Up the Square transforms Fountain Square into a winter wonderland. This beloved annual celebration features the spectacular lighting of the Duke Energy Holiday Tree, accompanied by a dazzling fireworks display. Enjoy live music from the 2nd Wind Band and the festive atmosphere of the UC Health Ice Rink, open all day.
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Experience the magic of Downtown Dazzle, a spectacular holiday light display transforming Cincinnati's urban core into a festive wonderland. Wander through streets adorned with dazzling illuminations, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere for all to enjoy during the holiday season.
Cincinnati Christmas Markets and Shopping
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Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt, a German-American holiday festival. Located next to the Moerlein Lager House in Smale Riverfront Park, this event offers a magical European-themed experience with a Cincinnati twist. Discover unique gifts, savor delicious food and drinks, and enjoy live entertainment.
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Step into a winter wonderland as the iconic Shillito's Elves return to Cincinnati, now enchanting visitors on Main Street. This cherished tradition, over 70 years in the making, features a delightful collection of animated figures depicting classic Christmas scenes. Complementing the elves, a vibrant pop-up holiday market showcases local artisans and unique gifts, while festive movies are screened in Ziegler Park. It's a perfect destination for holiday merriment and supporting local businesses.
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Experience the magic of the Westside Market Holiday Edition, a vibrant celebration of local small businesses. This beloved pop-up market, now in its 8th season, brings together talented artisans and entrepreneurs offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to unique gifts. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting local dreams and fueling passions. Don't miss this festive community event!
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Discover the Findlay Holiday Market, a festive celebration of local artisans and seasonal delights. Browse unique handcrafted gifts, savor delicious holiday treats, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this beloved market. It's the perfect destination for finding special presents and experiencing the joy of the holiday season.
Cincinnati Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
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Step into a world of wonder with Cincinnati Ballet's "The Nutcracker." Follow Clara's enchanting adventure as her dreams unfold in the magical Land of Sweets, all set to Tchaikovsky's beloved score performed live by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. This spectacular production promises a dazzling display of choreography, costumes, and festive holiday spirit.
Christmas Events Near Cincinnati
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Our goal is complete coverage—from major festivals to small community celebrations, ensuring you never miss anything happening in your area.
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