Featured Holiday Events
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Christkindlmarkt
The Banks
November 22 - December 31The inaugural Servatii Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt is a European seasonal market traditionally held during Advent, offering food, drink, and seasonal items for sale from open-air stalls, accompanied by traditional choral singing, lighted decorations, and entertainment.- Wednesdays 5-9
- Thursdays: 5-9
- Fridays: 5-11
- Saturdays: 12-11
- Sundays: 12-7
- Thanksgiving: Closed
- Black Friday - November 24th: 12-11pm
- Christmas Eve: 12-7
- Christmas Day: Closed
- Christmas Week: Tues. 12/26-12/29 5-11pm, Saturday 12/30 12-11
- New Years Eve: 12-12:30am (New Years Eve Party)
- New Years Day Closed
Address: 1115 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati OH 45202
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Prolink’s Light Up the Square
Central Business District
November 24 | 6-9PM
Prolink's Light Up the Square returns Friday, November 24th! We’re excited to announce an even bigger and better FULL HOUR show this year full of dazzling performances, fireworks, and of course the lighting of our Prolink Tree from 6:30-7:30pm. RSVP in our Facebook event page for announcements and event updates.
Kick off the holiday season at this beloved annual celebration, our program begins at 6:30pm when we will be joined by special guests Sheree Paolello and Mike Dardis from Channel 5 and Natalie Jones from Q102. The evening will feature live music, dance performances, an appearance by Santa Claus and a dazzling fireworks display. Make sure you're here so you can help us LIGHT UP this year's Prolink Tree.
The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank, will be open for skating all day and evening, 10a-10pm. Rink admission is walk up only, no reservations, so arrive early to ensure you can get a spot on the ice and your skate size. 2nd Wind Band will begin performing at 6pm and will keep the music going till 9pm.
Special thanks to our sponsors and partners Prolink, P&G, altafiber, WGU Ohio, Shipley Energy, Channel 5 and Q102 for making this annual celebration possible! Events at Fountain Square are brought to you by Fifth Third Bank and are produced by 3CDC.
Address: 520 Vine St, Cincinnati OH 45202
Phone: 5136214400
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The Shillito’s Elves
Central Business District
The Elves will be on display in the windows of The Foundry along Fifth Street from Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, to Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024. Though they can be seen 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, they are only animated at the following times: • Mon. – Fri.: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. • Sat. & Sun.: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Address: 50 W. 5th St, Cincinnati OH 45202
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The Nutcracker
Over-the-Rhine
Dec 14 -24 | Various Times The Nutcracker presented by Sheakley Family returns in December, celebrating a favorite holiday tradition. With spectacular choreography by Victoria Morgan, grand sets and costumes, and a beloved story, The Nutcracker also presents a remarkable cast of characters such as the Snow Queen and King, Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier, mischievous mice, brave toy soldiers, chicks and Minnie the Poodle. The narrative follows a girl named Clara who receives a nutcracker on Christmas Eve. Her dreams take her on a great adventure to the amazing Land of Sweets. Accompanying this winter fantasy is the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s melodic score. Dozens of local young performers join Cincinnati Ballet onstage for these performances. It’s a spectacular holiday treat for the entire family!
Address: Music Hall, Cincinnati OH 45202
Phone: 513-744-3344
Christkindlmarkt
- Wednesdays 5-9
- Thursdays: 5-9
- Fridays: 5-11
- Saturdays: 12-11
- Sundays: 12-7
- Thanksgiving: Closed
- Black Friday - November 24th: 12-11pm
- Christmas Eve: 12-7
- Christmas Day: Closed
- Christmas Week: Tues. 12/26-12/29 5-11pm, Saturday 12/30 12-11
- New Years Eve: 12-12:30am (New Years Eve Party)
- New Years Day Closed
Address: 1115 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati OH 45202
The Banks
Prolink’s Light Up the Square
November 24 | 6-9PM
Prolink's Light Up the Square returns Friday, November 24th! We’re excited to announce an even bigger and better FULL HOUR show this year full of dazzling performances, fireworks, and of course the lighting of our Prolink Tree from 6:30-7:30pm. RSVP in our Facebook event page for announcements and event updates.
Kick off the holiday season at this beloved annual celebration, our program begins at 6:30pm when we will be joined by special guests Sheree Paolello and Mike Dardis from Channel 5 and Natalie Jones from Q102. The evening will feature live music, dance performances, an appearance by Santa Claus and a dazzling fireworks display. Make sure you're here so you can help us LIGHT UP this year's Prolink Tree.
The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank, will be open for skating all day and evening, 10a-10pm. Rink admission is walk up only, no reservations, so arrive early to ensure you can get a spot on the ice and your skate size. 2nd Wind Band will begin performing at 6pm and will keep the music going till 9pm.
Special thanks to our sponsors and partners Prolink, P&G, altafiber, WGU Ohio, Shipley Energy, Channel 5 and Q102 for making this annual celebration possible! Events at Fountain Square are brought to you by Fifth Third Bank and are produced by 3CDC.
Address: 520 Vine St, Cincinnati OH 45202
Central Business District
https://myfountainsquare.com/events/prolinks-light-up-the-square/
Phone Number: 5136214400
The Shillito’s Elves
The Elves will be on display in the windows of The Foundry along Fifth Street from Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, to Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024. Though they can be seen 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, they are only animated at the following times: • Mon. – Fri.: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. • Sat. & Sun.: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Address: 50 W. 5th St, Cincinnati OH 45202
Central Business District
The Nutcracker
Dec 14 -24 | Various Times The Nutcracker presented by Sheakley Family returns in December, celebrating a favorite holiday tradition. With spectacular choreography by Victoria Morgan, grand sets and costumes, and a beloved story, The Nutcracker also presents a remarkable cast of characters such as the Snow Queen and King, Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier, mischievous mice, brave toy soldiers, chicks and Minnie the Poodle. The narrative follows a girl named Clara who receives a nutcracker on Christmas Eve. Her dreams take her on a great adventure to the amazing Land of Sweets. Accompanying this winter fantasy is the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s melodic score. Dozens of local young performers join Cincinnati Ballet onstage for these performances. It’s a spectacular holiday treat for the entire family!
Address: Music Hall, Cincinnati OH 45202
Over-the-Rhine
https://cballet.org/performances/the-nutcracker/
Phone Number: 513-744-3344
Events
Looking for something fun to do this holiday season in Downtown Cincinnati? Here are the holiday happenings.
A Christmas Carol | Playhouse in the Park
- The holiday story you love unfolds in spectacular fashion with a brand-new production specially designed for Moe and Jack’s Place – The Rouse TheatreFeaturing dazzling new set, costume and lighting designs, A Christmas Carolpromises a magical holiday experience for your family like never before!
A Midsummer Night's Dream | Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
- Love is magic and mayhem. Two young lovers flee to the forest, hoping to find solace from the laws of the city, but feuding fairies have other ideas, throwing love triangles, potions, a troupe of bumbling thespians, and a donkey head into the mix. With a midwinter twist, A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings whimsical warmth and adventures to this classically summer tale perfect for the whole family. Various Times
Christkindlmarkt | Schmidlapp Event Lawn in Smale Riverfront Park
- Adjacent to the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage in Smale Riverfront Park will be an all ages German-American Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. The holiday themed Christmas festival with feature food, beverage, merchandise, holiday lights, choral and musical entertainment, with a European, yet Cincinnati Holiday theme.
David Choate’s Hot Chocolate | Aronoff Center for the Arts
- After a sold-out run last season, David Choate's Hot Chocolatereturns for its third and biggest year yet. Hot Chocolate is Cincinnati's largest African-American Nutcracker experience, brought to life by Revolution Dance Theatre – Cincinnati's professional Black ballet company. The soul-stirring story set to original music, Choate’s choreography, and stellar production values have made Hot Chocolate one of Cincinnati's favorite holiday traditions. This year's new music, guest stars, and special surprises make this one show you do not want to miss. 8PM
Golden Days of Yule | Krohn Conservatory
- Enjoy a special holiday tradition at the Krohn Conservatory, a warm tropical setting to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays. You will leave feeling refreshed by our natural environment and magical holiday glow. 10AM-5PM
- Two extremes of orchestral scale combine for a showcase of the CSO that’s both intimate and expansive. Conductor Case Scaglione makes his CSO debut with Bach’s beautifully playful Brandenburg Concerto No. 4, which highlights individual virtuosity within a smaller ensemble, alongside Mahler’s Symphony No. 5. First performed in the U.S. by the CSO, Mahler’s Fifth Symphony employs an orchestra of impressive proportions, from its iconic trumpet opening to the beloved, emotional Adagietto. 11AM
Redsfest | Duke Energy Convention Center
- Bally Sports Ohio Redsfest is an off-season event featuring fan interaction with current and former Reds players, interactive games for kids of all ages, hard-to-find memorabilia, autograph signings, Reds merchandise, interactive games and much more! Proceeds from the event benefit the Reds Community Fund. Friday: 3PM-10:30PM Saturday: -11:00AM-6:30PM
- School of Preforming Arts is presents the production of the Christmas classic, The Nutcracker, performed by the talented dance department! 7PM
Straight No Chaser: Sleighin’ It Tour | Taft Theatre
- RIAA-certified Gold a cappella group Straight No Chaser today announced the “Sleighin’ It Tour,” their fall 2023 run of live shows. Ranked in the top 20 of Pollstar’s “Live 75” for tours at the end of 2022, Straight No Chaser’s annual fall tours have become part of family holiday traditions throughout the United States.
UC Health Ice Skating Rink | Fountain Square
- The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank is open 7 days a week! Enjoy a variety of events including Skate Lessons, Soundtrack Skates, Bengals Tailgates, and more. No reservations required. 4PM-8PM
A Midsummer Night's Dream | Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
- Love is magic and mayhem. Two young lovers flee to the forest, hoping to find solace from the laws of the city, but feuding fairies have other ideas, throwing love triangles, potions, a troupe of bumbling thespians, and a donkey head into the mix. With a midwinter twist, A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings whimsical warmth and adventures to this classically summer tale perfect for the whole family. Various Times
Christkindlmarkt | Schmidlapp Event Lawn in Smale Riverfront Park
- Adjacent to the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage in Smale Riverfront Park will be an all ages German-American Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. The holiday themed Christmas festival with feature food, beverage, merchandise, holiday lights, choral and musical entertainment, with a European, yet Cincinnati Holiday theme.
Christmas with the Petersens | Memorial Hall
- Christmas with The Petersens will be a concert full of Christmas classics you love, warm family moments of laughter, and a reminder of what this time of year is truly about.
David Choate’s Hot Chocolate | Aronoff Center for the Arts
- After a sold-out run last season, David Choate's Hot Chocolatereturns for its third and biggest year yet. Hot Chocolate is Cincinnati's largest African-American Nutcracker experience, brought to life by Revolution Dance Theatre – Cincinnati's professional Black ballet company. The soul-stirring story set to original music, Choate’s choreography, and stellar production values have made Hot Chocolate one of Cincinnati's favorite holiday traditions. This year's new music, guest stars, and special surprises make this one show you do not want to miss.
Golden Days of Yule | Krohn Conservatory
- Enjoy a special holiday tradition at the Krohn Conservatory, a warm tropical setting to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays. You will leave feeling refreshed by our natural environment and magical holiday glow. 10AM-4PM
Holiday Market | Findlay Market
- Visit Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market, Findlay Market, while shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts during its Holiday Market event! Explore the vibrant Over-the-Rhine neighborhood market as you browse a delightful array of food, beverages, decorations and handmade products from more than 50 businesses. 8AM-6PM
- Two extremes of orchestral scale combine for a showcase of the CSO that’s both intimate and expansive. Conductor Case Scaglione makes his CSO debut with Bach’s beautifully playful Brandenburg Concerto No. 4, which highlights individual virtuosity within a smaller ensemble, alongside Mahler’s Symphony No. 5. First performed in the U.S. by the CSO, Mahler’s Fifth Symphony employs an orchestra of impressive proportions, from its iconic trumpet opening to the beloved, emotional Adagietto. 7:30PM
Market Bleu | Contemporary Arts Center
- Market Bleu is Cincinnati’s foremost quarterly night market, featuring both aspiring and seasoned, local and regional, artists and artisan, who always bring a fresh diversity of amazing artworks and handmade products to our city. 6PM-10PM
Pride Winter Market | Washington Park
- Cincinnati Pride invites you to Save The Date for the third annual Winter Market at the Park event, part of the Winter Market series with Washington Park. Shop LGBTQ+ owned and affirming businesses for your holiday and December shopping needs! 3CDC and Washington Park will have The Porch open with beverages as well as a holiday meet and greet with Santa to attract shoppers and visitors to the Park for the weekend! 11AM-5PM
Redsfest | Duke Energy Convention Center
- Bally Sports Ohio Redsfest is an off-season event featuring fan interaction with current and former Reds players, interactive games for kids of all ages, hard-to-find memorabilia, autograph signings, Reds merchandise, interactive games and much more! Proceeds from the event benefit the Reds Community Fund. 11AM-6:30PM
- School of Preforming Arts is presents the production of the Christmas classic, The Nutcracker, performed by the talented dance department! 2PM and 7PM
UC Health Ice Skating Rink | Fountain Square
- The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank is open 7 days a week! Enjoy a variety of events including Skate Lessons, Soundtrack Skates, Bengals Tailgates, and more. No reservations required. 4PM-8PM
- Come dance the night away at the Tri-State's biggest ballroom dance social event of the year! Attire: Formal or Semi-Formal. Snacks/Drinks: No food or drinks will be allowed to be brought to the event. They will be available for purchase at the venue. Seating: This event is GENERAL SEATING. If you have purchased tickets and have a group of 8 or more and would like to reserve a table, email Justin or Brenda at usadance2006@gmail.com. Doors: Doors will open at 7:30 PM. Questions: Contact Justin Chiou or Brenda Karr at usadance2006@gmail.com
Christkindlmarkt | Schmidlapp Event Lawn in Smale Riverfront Park
- Adjacent to the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage in Smale Riverfront Park will be an all ages German-American Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. The holiday themed Christmas festival with feature food, beverage, merchandise, holiday lights, choral and musical entertainment, with a European, yet Cincinnati Holiday theme.
Golden Days of Yule | Krohn Conservatory
- Enjoy a special holiday tradition at the Krohn Conservatory, a warm tropical setting to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays. You will leave feeling refreshed by our natural environment and magical holiday glow. 10AM-5PM
Handel’s Messiah | Covenant First Presbyterian Church
- Join the Covenant Choir and the Choral Scholars for a sing-along performance of selections from Handel's beloved Messiah. The choir will be presenting the Christmas portion of Messiah on Sunday, December 3 at 3 PM. Covenant-First’s Choral Scholars (mostly current students or alumni from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music) are singing the solos. However, for the choruses, Covenant-First Music Director Yolanda Ortiz-Parker and the choir want you to help them! This is a sing-along, and you are invited to join in on the choruses. The evening will conclude with the Hallelujah Chorus. And, if you are not a singer yourself, there will be more than enough singing to go around — plan to come, listen, and hear the Christmas story through song; you will certainly find yourself humming along at least occasionally! Join us! Free validated parking will be provided in the adjacent Park Place Parking garage. 3PM-4:30PM
Holiday Fundays | Taft Museum of Art
- Explore the Taft Museum of Art's decked-out halls and celebrate the holidays with the whole family throughout select Sundays in December. Enjoy free music, art-making and gallery experiences that'll bring holiday cheer to those who attend. Make it a day full of artistic experiences at the Museum by enjoying its free Holiday Music Series!
Holiday Market | Findlay Market
- Visit Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market, Findlay Market, while shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts during its Holiday Market event! Explore the vibrant Over-the-Rhine neighborhood market as you browse a delightful array of food, beverages, decorations and handmade products from more than 50 businesses.8AM-6PM
Market on Main | Main Street Shop & Studio
- With over 30 unique vendors, two food trucks, a full bar with specialty cocktails, a coffee cart, and more! The perfect opportunity to shop for meaningful gifts from local artists & small businesses this holiday season! 11AM-4PM
Pride Winter Market | Washington Park
- Cincinnati Pride invites you to Save The Date for the third annual Winter Market at the Park event, part of the Winter Market series with Washington Park. Shop LGBTQ+ owned and affirming businesses for your holiday and December shopping needs! 3CDC and Washington Park will have The Porch open with beverages as well as a holiday meet and greet with Santa to attract shoppers and visitors to the Park for the weekend! 11AM-5PM
- School of Preforming Arts presents the production of the Christmas classic, The Nutcracker, performed by the talented dance department! 2PM
UC Health Ice Skating Rink | Fountain Square
- The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank is open 7 days a week! Enjoy a variety of events including Skate Lessons, Soundtrack Skates, Bengals Tailgates, and more. No reservations required. 4PM-8PM
Christkindlmarkt | Schmidlapp Event Lawn in Smale Riverfront Park
- Adjacent to the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage in Smale Riverfront Park will be an all ages German-American Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. The holiday themed Christmas festival with feature food, beverage, merchandise, holiday lights, choral and musical entertainment, with a European, yet Cincinnati Holiday theme.
Golden Days of Yule | Krohn Conservatory
- Enjoy a special holiday tradition at the Krohn Conservatory, a warm tropical setting to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays. You will leave feeling refreshed by our natural environment and magical holiday glow. 10AM-5PM
UC Health Ice Skating Rink | Fountain Square
- The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank is open 7 days a week! Enjoy a variety of events including Skate Lessons, Soundtrack Skates, Bengals Tailgates, and more. No reservations required. 4PM-8PM
A Christmas Carol | Playhouse in the Park
- The holiday story you love unfolds in spectacular fashion with a brand-new production specially designed for Moe and Jack’s Place – The Rouse TheatreFeaturing dazzling new set, costume and lighting designs, A Christmas Carolpromises a magical holiday experience for your family like never before!
Golden Days of Yule | Krohn Conservatory
- Enjoy a special holiday tradition at the Krohn Conservatory, a warm tropical setting to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays. You will leave feeling refreshed by our natural environment and magical holiday glow. 10AM-5PM
Magical Holiday Tree Paint and Sip | Brewdog Cincinnati
- Enjoy a perfect night out while exploring your creativity during Paint Nite's Magical Holiday Tree Paint and Sip event at Brewdog! Join Paint Nite's artist, Athena, as she guides you and other fellow painters class through the steps of painting a unique piece of artwork. Throughout the event, enjoy some delicious food and drinks at Brewdog's lively bar. Whether you're an experienced artist or just looking to try something new, this opportunity is great to let your artistic side shine and have a wonderful time with friends. 7:00PM
UC Health Ice Skating Rink | Fountain Square
- The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank is open 7 days a week! Enjoy a variety of events including Skate Lessons, Soundtrack Skates, Bengals Tailgates, and more. No reservations required. 4PM-8PM
Christkindlmarkt | Schmidlapp Event Lawn in Smale Riverfront Park
- Adjacent to the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage in Smale Riverfront Park will be an all ages German-American Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. The holiday themed Christmas festival with feature food, beverage, merchandise, holiday lights, choral and musical entertainment, with a European, yet Cincinnati Holiday theme.
Golden Days of Yule | Krohn Conservatory
- Enjoy a special holiday tradition at the Krohn Conservatory, a warm tropical setting to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays. You will leave feeling refreshed by our natural environment and magical holiday glow. 10AM-5PM
UC Health Ice Skating Rink | Fountain Square
- The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank is open 7 days a week! Enjoy a variety of events including Skate Lessons, Soundtrack Skates, Bengals Tailgates, and more. No reservations required. 4PM-8PM
Christkindlmarkt | Schmidlapp Event Lawn in Smale Riverfront Park
- Adjacent to the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage in Smale Riverfront Park will be an all ages German-American Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. The holiday themed Christmas festival with feature food, beverage, merchandise, holiday lights, choral and musical entertainment, with a European, yet Cincinnati Holiday theme.
Golden Days of Yule | Krohn Conservatory
- Enjoy a special holiday tradition at the Krohn Conservatory, a warm tropical setting to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays. You will leave feeling refreshed by our natural environment and magical holiday glow. 10AM-5PM
UC Health Ice Skating Rink | Fountain Square
- The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank is open 7 days a week! Enjoy a variety of events including Skate Lessons, Soundtrack Skates, Bengals Tailgates, and more. No reservations required. 4PM-8PM
Christkindlmarkt | Schmidlapp Event Lawn in Smale Riverfront Park
- Adjacent to the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage in Smale Riverfront Park will be an all ages German-American Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. The holiday themed Christmas festival with feature food, beverage, merchandise, holiday lights, choral and musical entertainment, with a European, yet Cincinnati Holiday theme.
Golden Days of Yule | Krohn Conservatory
- Enjoy a special holiday tradition at the Krohn Conservatory, a warm tropical setting to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays. You will leave feeling refreshed by our natural environment and magical holiday glow. 10AM-5PM
Happy Holidays with the Mighty Wurlitzer | Music Hall
- This holiday season, join in the celebration with the Friends of Music Hall and their annual Happy Holidays with the Mighty Wurlitzerconcert in Music Hall’s beautiful and historic Ballroom. This holiday program will be hosted by Local 12 News Anchor Kyle Inskeep and will feature renowned theater organist Jelani Eddington as he fills the Wurlitzer organ with spirit of the season! Vocal performances by the Cincinnati Boychoir will ring in the season and dancers from Revolution Dance Theatre present excerpts from Hot Chocolate, the region’s first African American Nutcracker.
Holiday Teas | Taft Museum of Art
- Join Taft Museum of Art for a festive afternoon tea! Enjoy a delicious assortment of savory bites and sweets, including scones and petits fours, plus a selection of Churchill's Teas. Live music of holiday classics will also be playing to make the ambiance of this experience more magical. Following your tea, enjoy holiday displays and the Taft Historic House galleries — included with admission 12:00PM-3:30PM
UC Health Ice Skating Rink | Fountain Square
- The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank is open 7 days a week! Enjoy a variety of events including Skate Lessons, Soundtrack Skates, Bengals Tailgates, and more. No reservations required. 4PM-8PM
A Christmas Carol | Playhouse in the Park
- The holiday story you love unfolds in spectacular fashion with a brand-new production specially designed for Moe and Jack’s Place – The Rouse TheatreFeaturing dazzling new set, costume and lighting designs, A Christmas Carolpromises a magical holiday experience for your family like never before!
Christkindlmarkt | Schmidlapp Event Lawn in Smale Riverfront Park
- Adjacent to the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage in Smale Riverfront Park will be an all ages German-American Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. The holiday themed Christmas festival with feature food, beverage, merchandise, holiday lights, choral and musical entertainment, with a European, yet Cincinnati Holiday theme.
Cincinnati Santacon | Hard Rock Casino, Moerlein Lager House, Rosedale OTR
- Eat, drink and be Santa during Cincinnati Santacon! Join thousands of jolly people as they spread holiday cheer throughout the Cincy Region. Sing classic Christmas carols, explore over 50 venues, grab food and drinks from local restaurants, and make new holiday memories with loved ones all while dressing as good ol’ Saint Nick. Proceeds from this event will benefit The Cure Starts Now Foundation.
City Flea Winter Market | Washington Park
- This two-day holiday flea market is ready to help you complete your shopping lists with an array of local vendors and business owners spread throughout the park. Explore through one-of-a-kind items such as vintage trinkets, holiday home décor, cozy winter accessories, hand-crafted jewelry pieces and more. Rather you discover items that catch your eye as a gift for a loved one or yourself, find something special this holiday season at City Flea's Winter Market!
David Choate’s Hot Chocolate | Aronoff Center for the Arts
- After a sold-out run last season, David Choate's Hot Chocolate returns for its third and biggest year yet. Hot Chocolate is Cincinnati's largest African-American Nutcracker experience, brought to life by Revolution Dance Theatre – Cincinnati's professional Black ballet company. The soul-stirring story set to original music, Choate’s choreography, and stellar production values have made Hot Chocolate one of Cincinnati's favorite holiday traditions. This year's new music, guest stars, and special surprises make this one show you do not want to miss.
Downtown Dazzle | Fountain Square
- Downtown Dazzle, presented by United Dairy Farmers, is back to put a holiday twinkle in your eye! Join Fountain Square every Saturday for one of the biggest highlights of the holiday season. See Santa rappel from a Cincinnati skyrise and wait with anticipation for the sky to fill with a fabulous fireworks display. Come early and stay at the Square to enjoy festive activities such as grabbing a drink or hot cocoa at Fountain Square’s Bar or making holiday memories at the Ice Rink presented by UC Health! 6:00-7:30PM
Golden Days of Yule | Krohn Conservatory
- Enjoy a special holiday tradition at the Krohn Conservatory, a warm tropical setting to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays. You will leave feeling refreshed by our natural environment and magical holiday glow. 10AM-5PM
Narnia the Musical | Taft Theatre
- Narnia The Musical tells of four English schoolchildren – brothers and sisters – sent away from London during World War II to stay in the manor house of their uncle – who stumble upon (and through) a wardrobe into the magical kingdom of Narnia, held in the power of the White Witch, whose evil spell has frozen the land, so that it is “always winter – and never Christmas.” In this spellbound landscape, filled with creatures of myth and fable, the children face temptation and fear, but learn deep lessons of courage, unselfishness, and wisdom that help them grow in spirit and prepare them for life in our world. 2PM and 5PM
UC Health Ice Skating Rink | Fountain Square
- The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank is open 7 days a week! Enjoy a variety of events including Skate Lessons, Soundtrack Skates, Bengals Tailgates, and more. No reservations required. 4PM-8PM
A Christmas Carol | Playhouse in the Park
- The holiday story you love unfolds in spectacular fashion with a brand-new production specially designed for Moe and Jack’s Place – The Rouse TheatreFeaturing dazzling new set, costume and lighting designs, A Christmas Carol promises a magical holiday experience for your family like never before!
City Flea Winter Market | Washington Park
- This two-day holiday flea market is ready to help you complete your shopping lists with an array of local vendors and business owners spread throughout the park. Explore through one-of-a-kind items such as vintage trinkets, holiday home décor, cozy winter accessories, hand-crafted jewelry pieces and more. Rather you discover items that catch your eye as a gift for a loved one or yourself, find something special this holiday season at City Flea's Winter Market!
Christkindlmarkt | Schmidlapp Event Lawn in Smale Riverfront Park
- Adjacent to the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn and Stage in Smale Riverfront Park will be an all ages German-American Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt. The holiday themed Christmas festival with feature food, beverage, merchandise, holiday lights, choral and musical entertainment, with a European, yet Cincinnati Holiday theme.
Golden Days of Yule | Krohn Conservatory
- Enjoy a special holiday tradition at the Krohn Conservatory, a warm tropical setting to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays. You will leave feeling refreshed by our natural environment and magical holiday glow. 10AM-5PM
Narnia the Musical | Taft Theatre
- Narnia The Musical tells of four English schoolchildren – brothers and sisters – sent away from London during World War II to stay in the manor house of their uncle – who stumble upon (and through) a wardrobe into the magical kingdom of Narnia, held in the power of the White Witch, whose evil spell has frozen the land, so that it is “always winter – and never Christmas.” In this spellbound landscape, filled with creatures of myth and fable, the children face temptation and fear, but learn deep lessons of courage, unselfishness, and wisdom that help them grow in spirit and prepare them for life in our world.
UC Health Ice Skating Rink | Fountain Square
- The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank is open 7 days a week! Enjoy a variety of events including Skate Lessons, Soundtrack Skates, Bengals Tailgates, and more. No reservations required. 4PM-8PM
Downtown Specials
Find specials at your favorite Downtown Cincinnati shops, bars and restaurants this holiday season.
- Demonstration Style Cooking Classes, hosted in store! $50 per person, pre-paid reservations required. Classes are BYOB and guests receive a 10% discount on merchandise purchased before or after class. (exclusions apply) Limited seats available! Call 513-263-1002 to book your seat.
- Holiday Pies with Hannah Bender | Thursday November 2 6:30-7:30PM
-Join Hannah for baking pies- from scratch! She shows you how to make a versatile whole wheat flaky crust made with vodka, great for sweet or savory pies. She will take your tastebuds on a tour of her holiday pie trio: Apple Crumble, Pecan, and Pumpkin made fresh, not from a can! - Holiday Soul Food with Mona Bronson-Fuqua | Thursday November 9 6:30-7:30pm
- Join Instructor Mona Bronson-Fuqua in preparing the very best holiday comfort food. Enjoy making Collard Greens or Black-eyed Peas in a multi-cooker, Candied Yams along with a homemade Cheese Sauce for Mac and Cheese. Come learn and taste what a difference a little soul can add to your holiday!
Lucca Workshop | Holiday Specials
- 10% off all weekend Black Friday & Small Business Saturday
Bang & Olfusun | Holiday Specials
- Product Launch Celebration: BeoLab 8 Loudspeaker
- Holiday Sip & Shop, Thursday Dec. 7 from 5PM-8PM. Join us for a festive evening of wishlist creating and gift shopping with drinks, raffles, Gift Deals, and more!
Rookwood Pottery | Holiday Specials
- Holiday Open House, Sat. Nov. 18 & Sun. Nov. 19 - Enjoy complimentary tours, Holiday workshops, artist demonstrations, new holiday releases, drinks, music, food, and fun!
- The Brewing Heritage Trail is offering a special holiday themed tours in November & December that includes two holiday beverages tastings and a visit to an underground holiday light display! Check out their website for more details.
- Cheers & Beers - Saturday, December 2 and Sunday, December 3 - Enjoy four seasonal beverages from local breweries, raffle baskets, mystery bags, and a brewing history contest.
Cincinnati Food Tours | Gift Card Promo
- 20% off gift cards purchased November 24-27. Use promo code BONUSBUY2023
- Thirsty and Thankful: Wednesday, November 22, enjoy $4.50 domestics, $6 Jameson shots, and $6 seltzers from 8pm - close, plus music by Simo starting at 10pm!
- Earn $5 in bonus gift cards for every $25 spent on gift cards.
- November 22 - 4PM-2AM
- Half-price drafts includes beer, wine, and cocktail drafts and $5 select calls (4pm-7pm)
- $4 White Tea Shots / $4 Green Tea Shots / $4 White Claws (7pm-close)
- $2 Miller High Life (all night)
Qlicious Bubble Tea & Pastries | Holiday Specials
- Bubble Tea in Gingerbread man bottles
Shires' Rooftop | Holiday Specials
- Gift card promo - Buy a $50/$100 gift card, receive a $10/$25 gift card for yourself! Promotion begins Black Friday
- Holiday lunch hours - December 20-22 from 11-2,
- Brunch - December 23 and 24 from 10-2
- Christmas Eve dinner service until 7pm.
- Heated Garden Igloos and Terrace Greenhouses available for reservation every day through March.
- Holiday Lunch is available through December 18-22 from 11AM-2PM
- Gift Card Promo in December -- Buy one e-giftcard of $100, get a $25 e-giftcard for free
Oasis Face Bar | Holiday Specials
- Friendsgiving: BOGO 50% off facials, 11/15-11/26.
- Gift card specials 11/15-12/31.
- Groups of 6+ get special discounts and a complimentary bottle of bubbly
- Weekday group deals, contact amy@oasisfacebar.com for details.
- Mistletoe - stores throughout OTR will have a mistletoe handing outside of their door. Snap a pic with your loved one and share with #mistletoememoriesinOTR
- Sip & Shop - December 8th -participating OTR shops will be open until 9pm!
- Strolling Carolers - throughout the holiday season, carolers will be strolling through OTR sharing holiday cheer
- OTR A GLOW - from Nov 18-Jan 1, storefronts in OTR are encouraged to light up their windows, doors, walls etc to show who has the most holiday spirit!
Art on the Streets | Holiday Specials
- The annual Holiday BRIGHT Ride - December 9th! Meet at 6PM at Findlay Market and ride out at 6:30PM. This will be a short, slow, flat, fun ride for everyone - bring the kids!
Decorate yourself and your wheels with your battery-operated, shiny, sparkly finest. We'll create a moving holiday spectacle and smiles.
Contemporary Art Center | Holiday Specials
- Free shipping on orders of $150+ at shopcincycac.org (some exclusions may apply)
Friends of Music Hall | Holiday Specials
- Happy Holiday with the Mighty Wurlitzer on December 8 at 7PM in the Music Hall Ballroom. Tickets on sale now.
Taft Museum of Art | Holiday Specials
- 20% off Gift Memberships at the Dual/Family Level from November 1-December 31, 2023
Holiday Rental Spaces
Looking for a space to host your holiday party, or trying to find catering options Downtown? Look no further.
- Alice OTR | 1432 Main St – Contact brynn@aliceotr.com
- Artichoke | 1824 Elm Street – Contact hannah.bender@artichokeotr.com
- Beeline on the Levee | 1 Levee Way - Check website for booking
- Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | 1195 Elm Street – Contact patricia.ryan@cincyshakes.com
- Contemporary Art Center | 44. E. 6th Street – Contact cchilds@cincycac.org
- Corkopolis | 640 Main Street – Contact j.cooper@corkopolis.com
- E+O Kitchen - The Banks | 56 Freedom Way - Contact info@eokitchen.com
- Friends of Music Hall | 1241 Elm Street – Contact btroendly@cincinnatiarts.org
- Richter & Phillips | 601 Main Street – Contact events@richterphillips.com
- Rookwood Pottery | 1920 Race Street – Contact SWhitcomb@Rookwood.com
- Tablespoon Cooking Co. | 1731 Elm Street – Check website for booking
- Taft Museum of Art | 316 Pike Street – Contact events@taftmuseum.org
- Union Hall | 1311 Vine Street – Contact bookings@unionhallcincy.com
Heading Downtown? Be sure to check out the Shillito's Elves located at The Foundry at Vine and Fifth streets.
Looking to make the most out of your time Downtown? Hop on the free Cincinnati Bell Connector and check out everything going on at each of its 18 stops.
Looking for parking? There are plenty of garages and surface lots Downtown. Park once and hop on and off the free streetcar to make the most of your visit. There are also plenty of other ways to get around, including Red Bike, scooters and the Metro.
Your ticket to shopping local.
Need a gift with incredible possibilities? The Queen City Card can be used for retailers, restaurants, and experiences throughout Downtown.
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