It’s Not Christmas In Cincinnati Until You Do These 9 Enchanting Things
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 the Queen City until you’ve done these 9 enchanting things.
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The PNC Festival of Lights just seem to get more magical each year. Thanks to Cincinnati's sweetheart, baby hippo Fiona, the zoo is more popular than ever, and possibly the one can't miss holiday event in the city. For more details, visit here.
Holiday in Lights is a drive-thru display in Sharon Woods that has been a favorite in Cincinnati for over 27 years and he lights are always mesmerizing. Make sure to visit Santaland after cruising through. For more details, visit here.
One of Cincinnati's most loved holiday traditions returns this year at Kings Island. WinterFest is getting rave reviews for its spectacular lights and memorable ice-skating experience on the fountain. For more details, visit here.
4. Krohn Conservatory Holiday Show
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. For more details, visit here.
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. This year the performance returns to the newly reopened Music Hall, so it's sure to be more memorable than ever. For more details, visit here.
Heading to the Cincinnati Museum Center at the holidays to see the model trains has long been a favorite tradition this time of year. Despite the current renovations, this year the Museum has opened Holiday Junction featuring Brickopolis. You'll find incredible Lego displays, visits with Santa, activities, and yes, trains. For more details, visit here.
Paul R. Young is a very recognizable building in Mt. Healthy and their Nativity has been a Cincinnati tradition for years. This year, you can experience the beautiful display, along with live animals and other festivities, as a part of Christmas in Mt. Healthy on December 9th. For more details, visit here.
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 here.
9. Visit Santa at Macy's Downtown
Lindsey Louis
It's not Christmas in Cincinnati without a visit with Santa during his stop at Macy's Fountain Place. Photos are free (bring your own camera!), and Santa's visiting times are a little random, so make sure to double check the times before you go. For more details, visit here.
This list should definitely put you in the holiday spirit! Cincinnati is such a festive place this time of year. Did your favorite Christmas tradition in Cincy 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.
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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.
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