In addition to all of the holiday fun and family gatherings over Christmas break, you'll probably encounter bored kids or will just need to get out of the house. There are plenty of free and cheap activities for winter break in Columbus, so plan ahead to keep the kids from complaining. This … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Activities for Winter Break in Columbus
family activities
Winter Reading Challenges Around Columbus
Winter is here, and it's the perfect time to cozy up with a favorite book or 10. Libraries across Central Ohio make it even more fun with Winter Reading Challenges. Whether you're looking for a family activity, motivation to tackle your TBR list, or a reason to explore local libraries, there … [Read more...] about Winter Reading Challenges Around Columbus
Free Santa pictures at Indian Mound Mall in Heath
Santa is at Indian Mound Mall in Heath, Ohio again in 2025, and taking photos with Santa is FREE! Photos with Santa at Indian Mound Mall November 22 - December 24, 2025 Meet with Santa at the Indian Mound Mall in Heath, Ohio for photos (or just a chat). There is no photographer on site this … [Read more...] about Free Santa pictures at Indian Mound Mall in Heath
Ice Skating in Dublin at the Dublin Ice Rink at Riverside Crossing Park
The City of Dublin brought back the ice rink to Riverside Crossing Park for winter fun in Dublin! The 3,200-square-foot rink is located in the lower plaza on the east side of the Dublin Link pedestrian bridge. This ice rink differs from the Ice Rink at Coffman Park, which requires freezing … [Read more...] about Ice Skating in Dublin at the Dublin Ice Rink at Riverside Crossing Park
Christmas Open House at the Orange Johnson House – Dec 14
The Orange Johnson House Museum is one of the oldest residences in its original location in Central Ohio. See what it was like in nineteenth-century Worthington on the property, which offers a view of both the pioneer and Federal periods in Worthington. The house is furnished with period … [Read more...] about Christmas Open House at the Orange Johnson House – Dec 14
Huntington Holiday Train at Columbus Metropolitan Library
The Columbus Metropolitan Main Branch Library is a family-favorite holiday destination with the beloved Huntington Holiday Train. Make it a stop on your holiday lights viewing, or come for the Holiday Open House. Huntington Holiday Train at the Main Library View this huge display from … [Read more...] about Huntington Holiday Train at Columbus Metropolitan Library
Santa Parade in Clinton Township Spreads Holiday Cheer!
Mark your calendars for a holiday tradition that Clinton Township residents look forward to every year: the annual Santa Parade! On Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 9:30 a.m., Santa and his elves will be making festive rounds across the township, spreading holiday cheer to children and families … [Read more...] about Santa Parade in Clinton Township Spreads Holiday Cheer!
Holiday Film Series at Drexel: Elf
Drexel Theatre celebrates the season with the Holiday Film Series. Grab the family or friends for some cheap holiday fun at the Drexel for Elf! ELF (pg) Join Drexel for the Elf Hot Cocoa and PJ Party. Wear your PJ's, bring your blankets! The Hot Cocoa Bar will start 30 minutes before the … [Read more...] about Holiday Film Series at Drexel: Elf
Train Lovers: Don’t miss the Great Train Show
If trains are a beloved hobby in your family, don't miss the Great Train Show at the Ohio Expo Center on January 10-11, 2026. Surprise the train lover in your family with tickets! You'll find tables of trains for sale, exhibitors from around the country, Model Train displays, and a Thomas the … [Read more...] about Train Lovers: Don’t miss the Great Train Show
Sending Letters to Santa in Columbus and where to find Santa’s Mailbox
Naughty or nice, it's time for kids to write their Letters to Santa! There are drop-off locations for Santa's Mailbox around Columbus that will be sent to the North Pole for Santa to read. It's a great way to get kids excited about the holiday season and to make sure they stay on the 'good' … [Read more...] about Sending Letters to Santa in Columbus and where to find Santa’s Mailbox
Christmas in Ash Cave in Hocking Hills
Head to the Hills for Christmas in Ash Cave this holiday season. Ash Cave in Hocking Hills will feature a cozy holiday set up and activities on Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 5 pm - 7 pm. Christmas in Ash Cave This holiday program begins with a lighted walk along the paved … [Read more...] about Christmas in Ash Cave in Hocking Hills
Letters to Santa at Ohio Railway Museum – Saturdays in December!
Train loving kids will be thrilled with this holiday event at Ohio Railway Museum. Letters to Santa at Ohio Railway Museum returns for 2025 and features Santa letters, ornament-making, train rides, and visits with Mrs. Claus! Trains + Santa + Holiday fun The fun takes place on Saturdays, … [Read more...] about Letters to Santa at Ohio Railway Museum – Saturdays in December!
Family-friendly Noon Years Eve in Columbus
While New Year's Eve celebrations are a little too late for most kids to enjoy, Noon Year's Eve parties are perfect for the littles and their families. Let them celebrate early so they can go to bed early! Noon Day Ball at Bexley Public Library Monday, December 29, 2025 from … [Read more...] about Family-friendly Noon Years Eve in Columbus
Holiday fun and annual events in Hilliard, Ohio
Hilliard, Ohio is located just west of Downtown Columbus, and is an area rich with festivals, fun events, parks, and more. Hilliard is home to the Franklin County Fairgrounds, 2 public pools, a Community Center/Senior Center, Splash Pad at Hilliard Station Park, and over 27 parks and 41 miles of … [Read more...] about Holiday fun and annual events in Hilliard, Ohio
Santa at The Lazarus Building in Downtown Columbus
If you grew up in Columbus, you probably remember visiting Santa at The Lazarus Building. He's coming back in 2025 as one of the most anticipated events for Christmas in Downtown Columbus! Santa at the Lazarus Building Take photos with Santa in the original sleigh from the former Lazarus … [Read more...] about Santa at The Lazarus Building in Downtown Columbus
