The holiday season is just around the corner, and Columbus Commons is gearing up to spread some cheer! With an array of dazzling events and activities, the heart of Downtown Columbus is set to become a winter wonderland, perfect for family outings, romantic date nights, and memorable experiences. From the enchanting Annual Holiday Lights display to the bustling festivities of Festive Fridays and the delightful Good Market – Holiday Edition, there’s something for everyone to revel in the holiday spirit.
Annual Holiday Lights Display
Get ready to be mesmerized by the enchanting glow of the Annual Holiday Lights at Columbus Commons, starting November 17. Presented by the American Electric Power Foundation, this long-standing Downtown holiday tradition will illuminate the park every evening until January 1. With over 400,000 LED lights creating a magical atmosphere, it’s the perfect backdrop for a joyous family outing or a romantic date night.
โจ Festive Fridays โจ
Get ready to dive deeper into the festive spirit with the super exciting Festive Fridays at Columbus Commons. Yeah, you heard it right! Every Friday in December, from 5 pm to 9 pm, the park will be buzzing with free hot chocolate, awesome music, carousel rides, and a bar serving hot boozy drinks. And guess what? There will be a traveling photo booth that will capture all the joyous moments! RSVP on Facebook so you don’t forget!
Downtown HOLI-DAY – December 2nd
Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 2, as Downtown Columbus gears up for a spectacular HOLI-DAY celebration. Join the fun with a range of special festive activities, including the Santa Extravaganza at the Lazarus Building, the Good Market – Holiday Edition at Columbus Commons Esplanade, and the Winter Fest. Explore the city’s holiday offerings, from small business shopping to trolley tours, culminating in the grand finale of the CSO Holiday Pops at the Ohio Theatre.
- Santa Extravaganza at the Lazarus Building (4-7 pm)
- Festive Saturday at Columbus Commons (4-9 pm)
- Good Market Holiday Edition (4-9 pm)
- Winter Fest (11 am – 4 pm)
- Kick off the winter season in Columbus with seasonal craft beers and cocktails, live music, some of Columbusโ best food trucks and lots of outdoor winter fun at WinterFest Columbus, presented by Columbus Recreation and Parks Department.
- CSO Holiday Pops at the Ohio Theatre (3 pm)
- Discovery District Trolley Hop (1-6 pm) – Learn more here
๐ Free Santa Extravaganza ๐
Don’t miss the chance to meet Mr. Claus himself at the Lazarus Building Galleria on December 2, from 4 pm to 7 pm. Capture the magical moments with a photo session and indulge in an array of holiday activities for the whole family, including arts and crafts, face painting, and the opportunity to write heartfelt letters to Santa. RSVP – Facebook Event
Note that Santa will take a 15-minute break at 5:30 pm.
๐ Good Market – Holiday Edition ๐
Your One-Stop Holiday Shopping Destination Looking for unique, hand-crafted gifts for your loved ones? This cozy holiday market will be the merriest place to start your holiday shopping, with a variety of hand-crafted, local goods for sale from 20+ Columbus vendors located in the State Street walkway next to the Ohio Theatre – the perfect place to kick-start your holiday shopping spree.
Easy parking is accessible at 55 E Rich Street. Did you know parking at either of the Columbus Commons garages supports free events in the park and makes programming like Holiday Lights possible. Park here and pay it forward to enjoy everything from local bands to family fun in the new year.
With the glittering Annual Holiday Lights, the vibrant Festive Fridays, and the bustling Downtown HOLI-DAY celebrations, Columbus Commons is set to be the epicenter of holiday merriment in the heart of Downtown Columbus. Embrace the festive spirit, create lasting memories, and spread joy with your loved ones amidst the radiant glow of the season. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to revel in the magic of the holidays right in the heart of the city.
