When the most magical time of the year rolls around, Cleveland transforms into a winter wonderland. Snow is an absolutely lovely addition to the landscape, but nothing quite compares to the brilliance of holiday lights. And, if you have never visited Cleveland during the holiday season, you may be surprised to see the extent to which we celebrate. Neighborhoods are absolutely brilliant when draped in DIY lights, and businesses and communities apply all of their design skills when decorating public spaces. Of course, the most anticipated event of the entire holiday season is the tree lighting in Cleveland during Winterfest. Mark your calendars, because this stunning Christmas event in Cleveland is one you won’t want to miss!

Each November, an air of festivity settles over Cleveland.
Erik Drost / Flickr
Downtown Cleveland is always colorful thanks to its endless array of neon lights, but it becomes unbelievably enchanting each and every winter.
As soon as the decorations are all in place, Cleveland kicks off the holiday season with Winterfest!
Erik Drost / Flickr
The event takes place on the final Saturday of November each year. While the evening hours offer oodles of colors, there's something for everyone to appreciate all day long.
The decorations differ each year ...
Erik Drost/Flickr
In previous years, this event has been held in Playhouse Square. It's now held in Public Square, and locals are absolutely enchanted by the event's Christmas Village, twinkling lights, and old fashioned caroling.
But the annual tree lighting is consistently spectacular.
Erik Drost / Flickr
The WinterLand Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place around 6 p.m., and it is absolutely magical. While this is the main attraction, the entire city seems to partake in the festivities.

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Live music and performances keep the event groovin'.
Erik Drost / Flickr
In addition to live music, attendees can also enjoy child-friendly performances in Tower City and a Festival of Trees in the Allen Theatre.
And holiday activities like ice skating will entertain children and adults alike.
Erik Drost / Flickr
Kid-friendly activities, snacks, horse-drawn carriage rides, and all sorts of festivities add a jolly atmosphere to the landscape.
There's so much to see and do at this annual celebration that locals anticipate its arrival year after year.
Erik Drost / Flickr
Even after the tree lighting, you will find much to appreciate in this holly jolly holiday landscape. The after-party will include cookies, hot cocoa, and fireworks. Oh, and the Warehouse District will offer cozy surroundings and adult beverages to help you unwind!
Prepare to celebrate the season in the City of Cleveland, because this event will leave you longing for more holly jolly holiday fun.
Erik Drost / Flickr


Check out a previous downtown Cleveland Winterfest event in this video from One Bite Burger Reviews:

The holiday season is made magical by the arrival of the annual WinterLand Tree Lighting Ceremony in Cleveland. Have you ever attended this epic Christmas event in Cleveland? We’d love to hear your stories!

Craving more holiday splendor? Swing by Strongsville for the most incredible light show in Ohio. And if you know someone who loves to travel, be sure to check out our ultimate gift guide for travelers.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Christmas In Cleveland

Chris Muras | November 09, 2023

What are some Christmas towns near Cleveland?
You know Cleveland becomes pretty Holly Jolly for Christmas, so it is no surprise that there are plenty of charming small towns nearby that also want to feel the holiday spirit. Here are some Christmas towns near Cleveland that help you get out of the city and into some holiday fun:

  • Kirtland, OH: Come check out the free Historic Kirtland Nativity Exhibit for a "silent night" tradition that has been warming hearts for over 20 years.
  • Chagrin Falls, OH: Chagrin will certainly give you "the grins" during the holidays. Especially important to annual traditions throughout the area is the annual Festival of Trees, a light-filled event that you won't want to miss. It is a Cleveland Christmas tree extravaganza!
  • Tremont, OH: Did you know A Christmas Story was filled in this small Ohio town? The actual house from the movie is now a museum so you can tour this iconic piece of holiday tradition.
  • Strongsville, OH: This Northeast Ohio gem is the home of the Strongsville Winter Wonderland event. If you love big bold holiday celebrations you'll love it.
  • Medina, OH: Medina gets pretty festive when the snow flies. The historic downtown is lit like a, well giant Christmas tree. A must-visit location is Castle Noel - a year-round Christmas museum that is a ton of holiday fun.
  • Bath, OH: Hale Farm & Village is a charming Christmas village in this equally lovely small town outside of Cleveland. Its guided lantern tour is really a special way to get in the holiday spirit.
  • Peninsula, OH: Where else can you actually visit Santa's reindeer? (Well, maybe not his actual reindeer, but they could be.) Heritage Farms is a lovely place to pick out your Christmas tree, meet the reindeer, and celebrate the holidays.

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Featured Addresses
Winterfest, Public Square, Cleveland, OH, USA