8 Christmas Towns In Greater Cleveland That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
As soon as it starts snowing, something magical happens to the Northeast Ohio landscape. From Cleveland to the suburbs and even into the rural farmland, the holiday season infuses the region with cheer. Colorful lights, spirit-lifting music, and decorated trees make each Christmas in Ohio magical. Of course, you don’t have to travel far to see such splendor! The best Christmas towns near Cleveland put on celebrations that rival the North Pole’s.
Ready for a holiday-centric adventure across Greater Cleveland? Pack up the car; this map will guide your way like Rudolph guides Santa’s sleigh:
1. Kirtland
Kirtland, OH 44094, USA
Kirtland, Ohio is the best place near Cleveland to experience an old-fashioned Christmas. The annual Historic Kirtland Nativity Exhibit is free to visit, and it has enchanted visitors for circa two decades with enchanting holiday scenes from around the world. With a decoration-strewn historic district, charming winter hiking trails, and plenty of comfort food right in town, this destination truly feels like Small Town, USA during the holidays. Nothing quite compares to a silent night stroll through this pretty community!
2. Chagrin Falls
Chagrin Falls, OH 44022, USA
Santa often comes early to Chagrin Falls, Ohio... and can you blame him?! This darling small town is filled to the brim with holiday spirit! The annual Festival of Trees celebration fills their riverside park with trees and lights, and the nearby roaring waterfall is always delightfully framed by snow, wreaths, and and glimmering strands of lights. The Downtown area is delightfully quaint, and many local businesses there join in on the merrymaking. Each holiday season merits a trip from Cleveland to Chagrin Falls!
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3. Public Square
Public Square, Cleveland, OH, USA
Okay, so Public Square isn't a town, but hear me out. Each year, the annual WinterLand CLE celebration transforms this corner of Cleveland into a town within a city, complete with incredible lights, holiday pop-ups, ice skating, music, and so much more. Walking through this song-filled winter wonderland is a coveted annual tradition for many Clevelanders, and it's fun for the whole family. The best way to spread Christmas cheer? Why, it's as simple as wandering through this magical destination right at the heart of Cleveland.
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4. Tremont
Tremont, Cleveland, OH, USA
In Northeast Ohio, Tremont's holiday scene is a source of pride for locals. After all, it's the home of the A Christmas Story House and Museum... yes, A Christmas Story features many scenes filmed right here in Cleveland! From that iconic shot of Higbee's in Downtown Cleveland to the Bumpus House and Ralphie Parker's family home, Cleveland makes that movie magical. Over in Tremont, the Parker and Bumpus homes have been turned into a year-round museum. Somewhere near twenty percent of the movie was filmed here, so it's a great opportunity to embrace the holly jolly seasonal vibes before Santa comes.
5. Strongsville
Strongsville, OH, USA
The Strongsville Winter Wonderland is one of my favorite holiday experiences in Northeast Ohio. This annual decoration transforms the center of town right on Route 82, so it's easy to hop off I-71 right up the road. Lights galore interact with music and falling snow to transport you to a world of wonder. Plus, the old-fashioned Historical Society is right around the corner, so it's easy to imagine a time when this part of Strongsville was actually a small town. With a mall just around the corner and an endless array of dining options, winter trips to Strongsville are always worthwhile.
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6. Medina
Medina, OH 44256, USA
No town in Ohio is quite as merry and bright as Medina, whose historic downtown is lit up with warm lights and endless cheer each winter. In addition to sporting a charming gazebo with a gorgeous tree, Medina is also home to Castle Noel, a year-round Christmas museum that's filled to the brim with movie memorabilia. From Cindy Lou Who's bedroom set to Buddy the Elf's costume, you'll be able to get up close and personal with real elements of seasonal magic. Plus, tours through Castle Noel are magical and engaging, featuring hands-on activities like an inflatable hallway and a massive slide.
7. Hale Farm & Village
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Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Rd, Bath, OH 44210, USA
I'm hooked on the old-fashioned charms of Wheatfield, the fictional village that spans Hale Farm & Village in Bath, Ohio. Each year, the presence of snow transforms the landscape... and it's a decoration contribution from Mother Nature herself! Wreaths, trees, and candlelight further transform the landscape, and guided lantern tours infuse warmth into the experience. Combined with aromas of gingerbread and a welcoming atmosphere, you'll feel like you stepped back in time! Who needs Hallmark movies when you can embrace your own adventure right here in Northeast Ohio?!
8. Peninsula
Peninsula, OH 44264, USA
Christmas in Peninsula is a season-long affair... there's so much to love about this community celebration! From visiting reindeer (possibly Santa's very own sleigh team) to decorations and carols, this town fully embraces the holiday spirit. Plus, Heritage Farms is the perfect place to pick your own Christmas tree. Since 1848, this family farm has fueled the community, and they make it easy to find the perfect live tree to deck your halls this year.
These enchanting destinations are truly the best Christmas towns near Cleveland. Which of these seasonal celebrations is your favorite? Are there any other towns you’d add to the list? Let us know in the comments!
There’s just something about the holiday season that’s cozy and nostalgic. Want to experience even more nostalgia? Check out our favorite vintage Christmas photos snapped in Cleveland for more of the warm and fuzzies.
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