It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

The Buckeye State offers no shortage of memorable ways to celebrate the holiday season, and we’ve discovered what might just be the most festive small town of them all. Plan a trip to Downtown Bellefontaine and you’ll observe the holiday transformation marked by festive wreaths, ribbons, twinkle lights, and possibly a dusting of snow. It’s certainly one of the best Christmas towns in Ohio. Less than 50 miles from Dayton and Columbus, this Ohio Christmas town is infused with the spirit of the holidays and a tight-knit community that will welcome you as one of its own. And nowhere is that more apparent than in the local shops. Each storefront, café, and restaurant is geared up for Christmastime, and you’ll want to visit each one. Here’s more on why a trip to Downtown Bellefontaine might just be your new favorite holiday tradition where you return every year!

Welcome to Downtown Bellefontaine, Ohio. The moment you arrive in this charming small town, you'll feel the magic of the holiday season. Who knows...you might even spot Old Saint Nick himself!
Downtown Bellefontaine Ohio/Facebook
Start the day off right with a hot cup of coffee and something sweet from Sweet Aromas Coffee.
Sweet Aromas Coffee / Facebook
You'll need plenty of energy for a day of exploring Downtown Bellefontaine, so stop by Sweet Aromas Coffee for plenty of caffeine (and a cookie or two...we won't tell!). The shop offers seasonal drinks such as hot cocoa and eggnog-infused coffee that will set the tone for the perfect holiday outing. Curious to see what's on the menu? Check out the Sweet Aromas Facebook page.
Head to A Robbins Nest to browse antiques, gifts, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
A Robbins Nest/Facebook
A Robbins Nest offers an impressive variety of high-quality fine art, antiques, and gifts of all kinds. Whether you locate that perfect gift or have simply come to peruse inventory, you'll find there's something so rewarding about looking through one-of-a-kind antiques.
Just U'NeeQ is another festive stop for handcrafted decorations, gifts, soaps, and more.
Just U’NeeQ/Facebook
If you're looking for a perfect stocking stuffer, Just U'NeeQ is sure to provide. In addition to its selection of beautiful clothes and accessories, this family-run store also carries its own line of JUNQ & Co. candles.
Looking for the perfect gift for the little ones on your list? Peachtree won't disappoint!
Dustin Gardner/Google
In addition to a beautiful line of boutique women's clothing, Peachtree offers a Santa-approved selection of toys, games, and clothing for children. Plus, there's even a Yellow Brick Road right inside the store -- a perfect attraction for entertaining the little ones if they're shopping with you.
Looking for a place to grab lunch or dinner? Six Hundred Downtown promises mouthwatering pizza and other Italian fare.
Six Hundred Downtown / Facebook
Incorporating house-made dough and time-tested recipes, Six Hundred Downtown is a beloved pizza restaurant with a world-famous reputation. It's been featured on Guy's Grocery Game as well as the Food Network. No matter which toppings or pizza style you prefer, you're bound to find something to please your palette here.

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Then head to City Sweets & Creamery for an afternoon pick-me-up.
City Sweets & Creamery / Facebook
City Sweets & Creamery is an iconic bakery and ice creamery that you shouldn't pass up while you're in town. Featuring a menu of 20 rotating ice cream flavors as well as an assortment of homemade confections and sweets, this spot will put a smile on your face. City Sweets & Creamery also makes beautiful custom cakes, homemade doughnuts, kettle corn, and other sweet souvenirs that you can take back home with you.
Attend the annual Downtown Bellefontaine Christmas Parade on Friday, December 1, 2023.
Downtown Bellefontaine Ohio/Facebook
The Citizens Federal Downtown Bellefontaine Christmas Parade is a tradition you won't want to miss! The event begins at 6:00 p.m. on the corner of Colton Avenue and Main Street and will wind its way to the Historic Holland Theatre. You can look forward to admiring over 50 floats, decorated vehicles, local marching bands, and Kris Kringle himself.
Don't forget to stop by The Photo Booth for a picture with Santa!
The Photo Booth/Facebook
After the tree lighting ceremony and parade, Old Saint Nick will be available at The Photo Booth for commemorative photos with the little ones. It's the perfect token of your holiday-filled day spent in Downtown Bellefontaine.
The Historic Holland Theatre is another wonderful place to discover the spirit of the season.
Holland Theatre/Facebook
Throughout the month of December, the newly-renovated Holland Theatre offers a variety of holiday shows that are bound to put you in the Christmas spirit. Since its opening in 1931, the Holland Theatre has welcomed an impressive array of performers, which this year will include CeeLo Green, an award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer. You can browse the theatre's upcoming events on Facebook.
Last, but certainly not least, Brewfontaine is a great stop for a local brew or festive holiday drink.
Brewfontaine/Facebook
From local craft beer to wine on tap, Brewfontaine is a great place to interact with the local community and reflect on your day in Downtown Bellefontaine. The craft beer bar has been designated with the distinction of serving the #1 beer in Ohio for three years in a row! If you're craving something to eat, you'll want to try the famous mustache-shaped pretzels served with beer cheese.
No matter your reason for visiting Downtown Bellefontaine this time of year, you're sure to leave with a restored sense of holiday cheer.
Downtown Bellefontaine Ohio/Facebook
Bring the family to this charming Christmas town, enjoy the sense of community, and make memories that you will all savor for many years to come. Christmas in Bellefontaine is like nowhere else.

Get a closer look at this charming town:

Wondering what else you can do during your visit to Downtown Bellefontaine, Ohio? Be sure to follow along on Facebook for additional trip ideas and inspiration. If you’ve visited recently, be sure to share your experiences with us in the comments! Why not take a family road trip to some more of the best Christmas towns in Ohio?

More to Explore

The Most Wonderful Towns In Ohio

Will Suphan | November 13, 2023

What are the most peaceful small towns in Ohio?

The most peaceful small towns in Ohio include:

  • Perrysburg. The home of Fort Meigs, which is the largest wooden wall fortification in the nation, has a low crime rate and tons of history.
  • Dennison. This lovely town is home to the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum and is a serene slice of heaven.
  • Fleming. This tiny town is surrounded by bucolic farmland and is as beautiful as it is serene, with farmhouses dotting the landscape.
  • Middlefield. This town is located within one of the largest Amish settlements in the world and is a lovely sight to behold.

Find out more about the most peaceful small towns in Ohio. 

What are the most charming small towns in Ohio?

The most charming small towns in Ohio include:

  • Yellow Springs. This bucolic town west of Columbus has a delightful farmers market and is home to comedian Dave Chapelle. 
  • German Village. This suburb of Columbus has cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and amazing shops and restaurants including Schmidt’s Sausage Haus.
  • Oberlin. This is where you’ll find Oberlin College and an amazing progressive cultural and arts scene.
  • Waterville. This charming little town is home to the Interurban Bridge and the Roche de Boeuf Festival.

Learn more about the most charming small town in Ohio. 

What are the most historic small towns in Ohio?

The most historic small towns in Ohio include:

  • Steubenville. Named after Fort Steuben, this historic town has tons of murals in its downtown area chronicling the history of this town.
  • Lebanon. This little town is home to The Golden Lamb, a tavern and inn where several Presidents have stayed. 
  • Germantown. This town of about 5,500 people was founded by German settlers in 1804 and has its cultural history on display.
  • Bellefontaine. This tiny town has the oldest concrete street in the nation from 1891 and it is still being maintained.

Discover more about the most historic small towns in Ohio. 

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Bellefontaine, OH 43311, USA