The holidays are a great time to get out and enjoy everything Cleveland has to offer. From big light displays to local parades and festive concerts, there’s plenty happening around the city this season. Whether you live here or you’re just visiting, these Cleveland holiday activities are a fun way to make the most of winter.
Wild Winter Lights
When: Tuesday, November 18 – Tuesday, December 30, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is bringing back Wild Winter Lights this year – a huge holiday light display that turns the entire zoo into a glowing winter wonderland. Starting November 18, you can either walk through or drive through more than 1.5 million lights spread across themed sections like the Colorful Forest, Glittering Galaxy, and Santa’s North Pole Lodge (where you can actually meet Santa). Guests can also enjoy a 50-foot tree synced to music, free carousel rides, festive characters roaming around, model trains, and plenty of holiday snacks.
“Frost” at the Cleveland Botanical Garden
When: Saturday, November 22, 2025 – Sunday, January 4, 2026 | View Botanical Garden Hours
Where: Cleveland Botanical Garden, University Circle
A fan favorite for Cleveland residents and visitors alike is the Frost immersive holiday exhibit at Cleveland Botanical Garden. Families can experience a dozen themed rooms filled with sparkling lights, seasonal plants and more – plus a gingerbread house competition showcasing nearly 100 unique submissions.
Insider tip: Members and non-members must purchase tickets in advance.
Jingle Bell Jamboree
When: Sunday, November 30, 2025 | 2:00 PM & 6:00 PM
Where: KeyBank State Theatre
Hear renditions of your favorite holiday tunes from the Cleveland Pops and Pops Chorus! This event is also a chance to visit with Santa Claus and check out adoptable puppies and kittens from area shelters! Plus, you can help City Mission distribute gifts to children in need by bringing new toys and gifts for donations. Get tickets here.
Tree Lighting Ceremony Crocker Park
When: Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 4:00 – 8:00 PM.
Where: 177 Market St, Westlake, OH 44145 (Crocker Park)
Kick off the holiday season in Westlake at Crocker Park for an evening of live entertainment and festive fun – just make sure you’re there in time for Santa’s grand arrival at 6:00 PM as he lights the 50-foot tree.
Light Up Lakewood
When: Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Downtown Lakewood | Detroit Avenue Lakewood, OH 44017
Lakewood knows how to bring the holiday spirit! Bring the whole family and experience the Christmas cheer in Downtown Lakewood along Detroit Avenue. The event will feature a holiday parade, live music, ice carvings, food trucks, a beer garden, kid’s games, and more!
The Christmas Story House Museum
When: Every Day | 10:00 AM– 5:00 PM
Where: 3159 W 11th St Cleveland, OH 44109
Don’t forget to make time to swing by the iconic Christmas Story House during your Cleveland holiday tour! Nestled in the Tremont neighborhood, the Christmas Story House has been restored to its 1940s charm and transformed into a museum dedicated to the beloved movie. For an extra special experience, you can even stay overnight in the house or the adjacent Bumpus House. Buy tickets here.
No matter what kind of holiday vibe you’re going for – something low-key with friends or a family night out – there’s no shortage of things to do around Cleveland this season. From light shows and local events to classic traditions, these Cleveland holiday activities make it easy to enjoy the city and soak up a little winter magic.