The holiday season is here, and Ohio knows how to celebrate in style!
This year’s Ohio Holiday Lights Trail is the biggest yet, featuring over 70 stops across the state. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic drive-thru experience or dazzling walk-through displays, this trail has something for everyone.
“Ohio’s Holiday Lights Trail is a twinkling treasure hunt full of festive surprises that light up the season in unexpected ways,” said Sarah Wickham, Ohio state tourism director. “It’s the perfect way for Ohioans and visitors to experience our state’s holiday spirit and make spirits bright, one sparkling light at a time.”
We’ve rounded up the biggest and brightest highlights from each region to help you plan your festive adventure.
Central Ohio
The heart of the state knows how to shine! Central Ohio offers some of the most iconic light displays, perfect for a night of holiday magic.
🌟 Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (Delaware) – Stroll through millions of LED lights and enjoy seasonal attractions like Santa and animated displays.
🌟 Conservatory Aglow (Columbus) – Experience the Franklin Park Conservatory transformed into a glowing wonderland with twinkling lights and festive décor.
🌟 Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights (Lewis Center) – A beloved drive-thru experience featuring synchronized lights and holiday music.
Northeast Ohio
From historic estates to scenic railroads, Northeast Ohio brings holiday cheer with a touch of charm.
🌟 Deck the Hall at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens (Akron) – Tour a historic mansion decked out with over a million lights and stunning holiday decorations.
🌟 Wild Winter Lights at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (Cleveland) – A walk-through event featuring themed areas, massive light displays, and winter treats.
🌟 Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad North Pole Adventure™ (Akron) – Hop aboard this magical train ride to the North Pole for a family-friendly holiday experience.
Northwest Ohio
Northwest Ohio offers cozy charm and enchanting light displays perfect for a winter evening.
🌟 Lights Before Christmas (Toledo) – The Toledo Zoo comes alive with over a million lights, a giant glowing tree, and festive activities.
🌟 Upper’s Winter Fantasy of Lights (Upper Sandusky) – A drive-thru display that’s all about spreading joy with classic holiday scenes.
🌟 North Pole Express (Findlay) – A train ride through a winter wonderland, perfect for kids and holiday enthusiasts alike.
Southwest Ohio
Home to some of the state’s most iconic displays, Southwest Ohio brings the magic in a big way.
🌟 PNC Festival of Lights (Cincinnati) – One of the nation’s top zoo light displays, featuring synchronized lights, festive snacks, and holiday shows.
🌟 Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill (Clifton) – This jaw-dropping display features over 4 million lights illuminating a historic mill and covered bridge.
🌟 WinterFest at Kings Island (Mason) – A full holiday transformation with themed areas, ice skating, and live entertainment.
Southeast Ohio
If you’re looking for small-town charm, Southeast Ohio has you covered with cozy and classic holiday light shows.
🌟 Gallipolis in Lights (Gallipolis) – A riverside park transformed into a glowing holiday escape, featuring over 500,000 lights.
🌟 County Courthouse Holiday Light Show (Cambridge) – Watch a historic courthouse come alive with an animated light show set to festive music.
🌟 Shine On Chillicothe (Chillicothe) – A community favorite with plenty of photo-worthy displays and holiday spirit.
Plan Your Trail Adventure!
The Ohio Holiday Lights Trail is the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends and family. Visit a few highlights or make it a road trip to remember—either way, these glowing displays are sure to make your holidays merry and bright.
To see the full list of stops, visit Ohio’s Holiday Lights Trail and start planning your magical journey.
