It may be winter, but that’s no reason to stay inside.
Whether we like it or not, we all live in a place that experiences the worst season, but I think 2024 is the year that we should lean into winter. Take a winter road trip. Enjoy the splendor of the great outdoors. Dip into a shop for the perfect hot chocolate.
The best part about winter is that it doesn’t last forever, so let’s make every minute count. If you’re looking to elevate your plans this season, consider visiting one of Ohio’s many winter festivals. From ice sculptures to loads of beer, there’s a lot to keep you occupied over the coming months.
Mohican Winter Fest
When: January 11
Where: Loudonville
Aboug: Head over to Loudonville for Mohican Winter Fest. You can admire the exquisitely carved ice sculptures and even watch these icy creations as they’re formed by different artists. There will also be a model train expo, a Snowball Dance, a stuffed animal workshop, and much more throughout the weekend.
Website: Mohican Winter Fest
Marietta Ice Festival
When: January 18, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Downtown Marietta
About: The Marietta Ice Festival is a must-see event featuring 19 dazzling ice sculptures displayed throughout the historic commercial district. Highlights include a live ice carving at 1:30 p.m. on the Armory lawn, along with shops, restaurants, and plenty of winter charm to explore.
Website: Marietta Ice Festival
Logan Frozen Festival & Hocking Hills Winter Hike
When: January 18
Where: Logan/Hocking Hills State Park
About: For the 8th year, the Logan Frozen Festival is happening the same day as the ever-popular Hocking Hills Winter Hike. Winter Hikers are given the invitation to join the fun in Logan while boarding the buses at Ash Cave to return to their cars. There are also very large ice sculptures at Cedar Falls and Ash Cave to give the hikers a sample and a great selfie. Don’t forget to bundle up!
Website: Logan Frozen Festival/ Hocking Hills Winter Hike
Fire & Ice Walk
When: January 18, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Vermilion River Reservation, Vermilion
About: Bundle up for a day of winter magic at the FIRE & ICE WALK! Enjoy live ice carving, firepits, sled dogs, and a snow globe photo op, plus new activities like ice skating on an artificial rink. Don’t miss scenic snowshoe hikes (weather permitting) and warm treats from food trucks. Tickets are $5 per person, and registration is required by January 17.
Website: FIRE & ICE WALK
Buckeye Lake Winterfest
When: January 25
Where: Buckeye Lake
About: Head out at dawn to Buckeye Lake Village to see if Benny The Bass predicts an early spring (or not) by eating the bait, followed by beautiful pre-dawn fireworks. After that, you can spend the day visiting a variety of participating businesses all around the Buckeye Lake region. Oh, and did we mention the Polar Plunge? Stay warm out there!
Website: Buckeye Lake Winterfest
Kent BeatleFest
When: February 221
Where: Kent
About: If like me, you missed out on the opportunity to see The Beatles perform live, this Beatle-mania-themed festival is the next best thing. Back for another year, the festival will feature performances from over 20 bands. Fingers crossed that they play all of your favorite hits.
Website: BeatleFest
Arnold Sports Festival
When: February 27-March 1
Where: Columbus
About: The Arnold Sports Festival is the largest multi-sport festival in the nation with more than 22,000 athletes competing in more than 80 sports and events. This massive event takes place at both the Ohio Expo Center and the Greater Columbus Convention Center, and there is a lot to take in. Pro tip: Don’t miss the caber toss. It’s my favorite part of the whole weekend. Kilts for the win!
Website: Arnold Sports Festival
Maple Syrup Festival
When: March 1-2 and 8-9
Where: Malabar Farm State Park
About: If winter could have a topping, I feel pretty confident that it would be maple syrup. The Maple Syrup Festival at Malabar Farm will have live historical demonstrations, horse-drawn wagon rides, art demonstrations, walking tours, and of course, maple products to taste and by. The event is free, but donations will be accepted.
Website:Maple Syrup Festival
Columbus Brew Festival
When: March 8
Where: Columbus
About: As winter draws to a close, leave a little time for one last cheers with the crew. The Columbus Brew Festival is taking over COSI, featuring over 50 breweries, 150 beers, and access throughout the museum. COSI will be closed to the public at the time, giving attendees special access to the museum’s exhibits.
Website: Columbus Brew Festival
