It's Not Christmas In Cincinnati Until You Do These 7 Enchanting Things
By Andrea Limke|Updated on October 20, 2023(Originally published October 23, 2022)
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
Cincinnati is always a fun and exciting place to be, but around the holidays the city really comes to life. There are events and activities all over the city, so many in fact, that it can be difficult to narrow it down to the best. You can’t really go wrong with any of the festive choices downtown or scattered throughout Cincinnati’s neighborhoods, but if you want a list of the absolute best attractions to check out this season then we’ve got you covered. It’s just not Christmas in Cincinnati until you’ve done these enchanting things.
The PNC Festival of Lights just seems to become more magical each year. Thanks to Cincinnati's sweethearts, the still-small hippo Fiona and her brother, the zoo is more popular than ever and hosts what's possibly the one can't-miss holiday event in the city. If you're looking for Christmas activities in Cincinnati, you must come here! For more details, check out the Cincinnati Zoo's website.
One of Cincinnati's most loved holiday traditions returns this year at Kings Island. WinterFest receives rave reviews for its spectacular lights and memorable ice-skating experience on the fountain. For more details and to help plan your visit, check out the King's Island website. This is one place that makes Cincinnati at Christmas so special!
Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA
Andrea Limke/OnlyInYourState
Krohn Conservatory is a hidden gem in Eden Park that offers a one-of-a-kind holiday show each year. With enchanting train displays, a stunning miniature tribute to Cincinnati, and of course beautiful flowers, it's a lovely way to celebrate the season. Make time to check out this stunning display this Christmas season and make it an annual tradition while you celebrate Christmas in Cincinnati.
If you're adding to your list of Christmas things to do in Cincinnati, consider "The Nutcracker" ballet. Getting dressed up and going to see "The Nutcracker" is like a Christmas dream come true, and you can experience it each year in Cincinnati thanks to our amazingly talented ballet. The performance takes place at the recently renovated Music Hall, so it's sure to be more memorable than ever. For more details and to purchase your tickets, visit the Cincinnati Ballet's website.
5. See Trains at Cincinnati Museum Center
Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203, USA
Heading to the Cincinnati Museum Center during the holidays to see the model trains has long been a favorite tradition this time of year. Since 1946 kinds of all ages have enjoyed this whimsical Christmas display. You'll find incredible Lego displays, visits with Santa, activities, and yes, trains. Check out the Cincinnati Museum Center's website for all necessary ticketing information.
Paul R. Young is a very recognizable building in Mt. Healthy and their Nativity has been a Cincinnati tradition for years. Yyou can experience the beautiful display, along with live animals and other festivities, as a part of Christmas in Mt. Healthy. For more details, visit Paul R. Young Funeral Home website. While you are making sure you have the right dates and times, take a moment to read about the history of the unique nativity figures.
7. Visit Fountain Square
Fountain Square, 520 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA
Fountain Square is one of the city's most popular (and beautiful) places and it really shines during the holidays. Visit the fantastic Christmas tree and ice skate with the magical fountain behind you. For more details, visit the Fountain Square website to learn about Light Up The Square and other Christmas activities in Cincinnati.
Take a look at this video of a previous year's festivities by @local12WKRC:
This list should definitely put you in the holiday spirit! Cincinnati is such a festive place this time of year. Did your favorite Christmas activity in Cincinnati make the list? What else would you add? Let us know in the comments!
If you’d like to just stick to the best Christmas light displays around town, check out our Christmas Lights Road Trip. And be sure to check out our list of holiday gifts for unique gifts for the travelers in your life.
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More to Explore
Christmas in Cincinnati
Katie Feldkamp|October 28, 2022
Are there any Christmas train rides near Cincinnati?
Beginning in November and going through December, the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad has a Christmas train ride near Cincinnati you can take known as The North Pole Express. Here's what you need to know:
The train only operates on select days, so be sure to visit their website in plenty of advance to purchase your tickets. Then, sit back and enjoy a magical ride.
The North Pole Express is an evening expedition in which riders will journey with Santa while snacking on what else? Milk and cookies!
To put you in the festive spirit, riders are encouraged to wear their favorite Christmas pajamas!
The best part of the ride is just like in the beloved Christmas story, each child will go home with a bell. As you look back on your North Pole Express memories, will the bell still ring for you?
What are some other Christmas activities in Cincinnati?
Other Christmas activities near Cincinnati include the following:
Just a short drive from Cincinnati is the small town of Metamora, where visitors can go on an Old-Fashioned Christmas Walk.
If you’d rather sit and admire the twinkling lights, head north to The Christmas Ranch and go on a holiday wagon ride among the thousands of lights on the property. Afterward, sip some hot chocolate and warm up around the bonfire.
