The holidays in Ohio hit different.
Maybe it’s the twinkling lights, the nostalgic traditions, or the fact that we’ve mastered the art of turning everyday spots into full-blown festive destinations. From small-town charm to over-the-top displays, there’s something magical waiting in every corner of the Buckeye State.
Let’s dive into some of the best ways to soak up the holiday spirit this season.
Fort St. Clair’s Whispering Christmas
Fort St. Clair’s Whispering Christmas in Eaton is holiday cheer cranked up to eleven. Think twinkling lights, animated displays, and decorations that would make Clark Griswold jealous. It’s low-key magical, whether you’re chasing kids through the glow or just pretending you’re in a Hallmark movie.
📍 Address: Fort St. Clair Park, 135 Camden Road, Eaton, OH 45320
🌐 Website: Fort St. Clair’s Whispering Christmas
Guernsey County Courthouse Display
The Guernsey County Courthouse goes all out during the holidays, and honestly, it’s the drama we love to see. The building lights up in a perfectly choreographed show set to festive music that might just make you tear up (or at least hum along). It’s a vibe—and the courthouse has better rhythm than most of us.
📍 Address: 801 Wheeling Ave, Cambridge, OH 43725
🌐 Website: Guernsey County Courthouse Display
A Christmas Story House & Museum in Cleveland
If A Christmas Story lives rent-free in your holiday brain, Cleveland’s Christmas Story House is basically Mecca. Walk through iconic scenes from the movie (leg lamp? Check. Triple-dog dare moment? Yep). It’s like stepping into your TV, but without the risk of Ralphie’s mom telling you to stop running.
📍 Address: 3159 W 11th St, Cleveland, OH 44109
🌐 Website: A Christmas Story House & Museum
Castle Noel
Medina’s Castle Noel is proof that some people take Christmas very seriously—and we’re here for it. This place is packed with over-the-top holiday displays and Christmas movie memorabilia you didn’t even know you needed to see. It’s festive, it’s fun, and it’s the kind of place that’ll make even your grumpy uncle crack a smile.
📍 Address: 260 S Court St, Medina, OH 44256
🌐 Website: Castle Noel
Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt
If Cincinnati’s Christkindlmarkt doesn’t make you feel festive, nothing will. This German-inspired holiday market is all about good vibes, good snacks, and good shopping. Warm up with some mulled wine, snack your way through the stalls, and maybe pick up a gift or two—or just say it’s “for you” and call it a day.
📍 Address: 2nd & 3rd Streets, Cincinnati, OH 45202
🌐 Website: Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt
Winter Wonders Walk 2024
Who needs a snow globe when Dawes Arboretum is out here creating a real-life one? The Winter Wonders Walk is a light-filled trail that turns nature into something straight-up magical. It’s the perfect excuse to bundle up, sip some hot cocoa, and pretend you’re the main character in a winter rom-com.
📍 Address: 7770 Jacksontown Rd, Newark, OH 43056
🌐 Website: Winter Wonders Walk 2024
2024 Christmas at the Fort
Old Fort Steuben’s Christmas at the Fort feels like a time machine with garland. You’ll find historical reenactors, old-school decorations, and a slower pace that’ll make you want to leave your phone in your pocket (okay, maybe just for a few minutes). It’s festive without being flashy—perfect if you’re feeling a little over all the glitz.
📍 Address: 120 S 3rd St, Steubenville, OH 43952
🌐 Website: Christmas at the Fort
Advent Window Walk
In Fairfield County, the Advent Window Walk turns the town into a living advent calendar. Local businesses and residents turn their windows into tiny festive masterpieces, and you get to stroll around like a judge on a Christmas-themed reality show. Bonus points for the cozy community vibes.
📍 Address: Various locations in Fairfield County, OH
🌐 Website: Advent Window Walk
Winter Solstice At Fort Ancient Earthworks
Fort Ancient Earthworks might not be the first place you think of for holiday fun, but don’t sleep on the Winter Solstice celebration. It’s got storytelling, seasonal activities, and just the right amount of mystical energy to make you feel like you’re connecting with the universe. Plus, it’s outdoors, so you can call it “nature time” and feel productive.
📍 Address: 6123 OH-350, Oregonia, OH 45054
🌐 Website: Winter Solstice At Fort Ancient Earthworks
Holiday Family Dinner Cruise
Swap your holiday chaos for a night on the water with BB Riverboats’ Holiday Family Dinner Cruise. There’s good food, live entertainment, and views that’ll make you forget all about the stress of gift wrapping. It’s festive without being overwhelming—and the boat does all the work while you just sit back and enjoy.
📍 Address: 101 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071
🌐 Website: BB Riverboats – Holiday Family Dinner Cruise