Cincinnati Christmas: A Holiday Guide To The Queen City

The holiday season is upon us, and Cincinnati, Ohio, is a fantastic place to experience the magic of Christmas. From its stunning light displays to its festive events and activities, the Queen City has something for everyone to enjoy during the winter months. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best of Cincinnati's Christmas offerings.

Cincinnati's holiday season kicks off in late November and runs through January, with a wide range of events and activities to suit all interests and ages. One of the city's most iconic holiday traditions is the Cincinnati Zoo's Festival of Lights, which features over 2.5 million LED lights, making it one of the largest and most spectacular light displays in the country.

Things to Do in Cincinnati During the Holiday Season

Cincinnati offers a diverse range of holiday activities and events that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the top things to do in Cincinnati during the holiday season:

Visit the Cincinnati Zoo's Festival of Lights

The Cincinnati Zoo's Festival of Lights is a must-visit event during the holiday season. The zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with millions of LED lights, animal-themed displays, and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy the light displays, animal exhibits, and a variety of holiday activities, including a visit with Santa Claus.

Explore the Newport Aquarium's Scuba Santa

The Newport Aquarium's Scuba Santa event is a fun and unique holiday experience. Santa Claus dons scuba gear and dives into the aquarium's 75-foot shark tank to interact with the marine life and take photos with visitors. The event also features festive decorations, holiday crafts, and a chance to meet Santa.

Take a Holiday Lights Tour

Cincinnati has a rich history of holiday lights displays, and there are several tours available to help you experience the best of the city's festive decorations. The Cincinnati Holiday Lights Tour takes you through some of the city's most beautifully decorated neighborhoods, including Hyde Park and Clifton.

Cincinnati's Holiday Events

Cincinnati's holiday events calendar is packed with a wide range of activities and festivities, from parades and tree lighting ceremonies to holiday markets and concerts. Here are some of the top holiday events in Cincinnati:

Cincinnati Ballet's The Nutcracker

The Cincinnati Ballet's production of The Nutcracker is a beloved holiday tradition in the city. The ballet features stunning costumes, sets, and choreography, and is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

Cincinnati Zoo's Holiday Concert Series

The Cincinnati Zoo's Holiday Concert Series features a range of festive concerts and performances, from jazz and blues to rock and pop. The concerts take place in the zoo's outdoor amphitheater and offer a fun and unique way to enjoy the holiday season.

Shopping in Cincinnati During the Holiday Season

Cincinnati has a range of unique shopping districts and markets that offer a great way to find holiday gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Here are some of the top shopping destinations in Cincinnati during the holiday season:

Findlay Market's Holiday Market

Findlay Market's Holiday Market is a festive outdoor market that takes place every Saturday in December. The market features a range of local vendors selling handmade crafts, decorations, and gifts, as well as food and drink.

OTR's Holiday Market

OTR's Holiday Market is a unique shopping experience that takes place in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. The market features a range of local vendors selling handmade gifts, decorations, and clothing, as well as food and drink.

Conclusion

Cincinnati is a fantastic place to experience the magic of Christmas, with its stunning light displays, festive events, and unique shopping destinations. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the best of Cincinnati's holiday offerings. So why not start planning your holiday trip to Cincinnati today?