The holiday season is officially kicking off, which means it’s time for my favorite thing this time of year: Twinkling, sparkling, colorful, holiday lights!
Maybe I just watched Christmas Vacation too many times as a kid, but I can’t help but feel happy and in the holiday spirit when I’m looking at colorful, sparkling lights.
Luckily, there is no shortage of illuminated displays around Columbus. Without further delay, here are the Best Holiday Light Displays In Columbus.
Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights
What: This drive-thru holiday light experience is back again. Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights will cover Alum Creek State Park with LED lights. The cost of the event varies by vehicle. Cars will cost $20 Monday through Thursday, and $30 Friday and Saturday.
When: Open November 21 through January 4, Monday-Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 3311 South Old State Rd, Delaware, OH 43015
WanderLights
What: If you find yourself downtown after dark, be sure to stop by the Columbus Commons. More than 400,000 lights sparkle in the park every night, and the best part? The lights are totally free to view. On Fridays, there will be a little extra holiday cheer with free hot chocolate and carousel rides as well as live music.
When: Open November 21 through February 15, nightly from dusk to 11 p.m. Special Friday events from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons
Conservatory Aglow
What: Enjoy one of central Ohio’s most beautiful holiday shows at Conservatory Aglow! Travel through a glow of bedazzling light displays during this horticultural holiday tradition. Regular admission rates apply and reservations are recommended.
When: Light display open November 22 through January 4 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Franklin Park Conservatory
Holiday Lights at Scioto Mile
What: Thousands of lights and illuminated decorations will line the Scioto Mile. The lights come on at dusk each night, turning downtown Columbus into a legit winter wonderland.
When: Once open, they’ll be on view from dusk til dawn through January.
Where: The Scioto Mile
Holiday Lights at Easton
What: Easton Town Center has decked all of their halls! Spend an evening admiring the lights… all 2 million of them. Don’t forget to check out a special show put on by the impressive 56-foot tree every five minutes on the Town Square, daily from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. They have special holiday experiences all season long, including photos with Santa and Horse Drawn Carriage Rides.
When: Open at dusk nightly through the new year.
Where: Easton Town Center
Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
What: Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium is one of the most beloved holiday traditions here in Central Ohio. Regular Zoo admission prices apply.
When: Open November 21 through January 4, Sunday-Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
Nativity at Cathedral Square
What: Formerly State Auto Christmas Corner, this historic life-sized nativity scene continues downtown—one of Columbus’s longest-running traditions.
When: November 29, 2025–January 6, 2026
Where: St. Joseph Cathedral, 212 E Broad St.
Winter Wonders Walk at Dawes Arboretum
What: A beautifully lit walking trail with glowing trees and festive features.
Details: Santa visits, reindeer, ice sculptures, and live music.
When: Select nights, December 5–13, 2025 Where: Dawes Arboretum (Newark)
Creekside Holiday Lights Celebration (Gahanna)
What: A full-on holiday festival to kick off the season. Details: Live music, kids’ activities, ice sculpting, fireworks, and Santa’s tree lighting. Lights remain up all season.
When: Kickoff festival: Sunday, November 23, 2025, 3–6:30 p.m.
Where: Creekside Park, Gahanna
Metro Parks Holiday Lights & Winter Hikes
What: Trails light up at Battelle Darby Creek, Blacklick Woods, Highbanks, Homestead, and Inniswood through December.
Details: The Winter Hike Series continues into February with hot drinks, treats, guided hikes, and collectible patches.
When: December 2025–February 2026
Where: Various Metro Parks
