COLUMBUS, Ohio (Dec. 26) — As the holiday season winds down, Columbus and Central Ohio offer a robust slate of events for residents and visitors during the weekend of Friday, Dec. 26 through Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025 — from dazzling light displays and timeless performances to family-friendly festivities and professional hockey. Here’s a look at what’s happening around the region.
Holiday Light Displays and Seasonal Fun
Wanderlights continues to shine at Columbus Commons each evening Dec. 26-28, featuring hundreds of thousands of holiday lights at no charge. The free event runs each night 5 p.m.-10 p.m., welcoming families and visitors to stroll illuminated displays in the heart of downtown Columbus.
Nearby, COSI’s Season of Celebrations offers seasonal exhibits and activities throughout the day Dec. 26-28, ideal for all ages looking to stay active during the winter break.
For broader holiday spectacle, Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium and Conservatory Aglow at the Franklin Park Conservatory remain open with festive lights and displays that spotlight nature and animals in wintry landscapes.
Performing Arts & Theater
Through Dec. 28, BalletMet’s production of The Nutcracker continues at the Ohio Theatre, bringing Tchaikovsky’s classic holiday ballet to stages downtown with multiple performances over the weekend.
Local theaters also offer seasonal entertainment: Shadowbox Live’s “Holiday Hoopla” stages sketch comedy and holiday music through Dec. 27, and other musical and theatrical shows remain on calendars around the city.
Sports & Entertainment
Hockey fans can catch the Columbus Blue Jackets in NHL play Dec. 28 at Nationwide Arena, part of the team’s 2025-26 season schedule.
Throughout the weekend, venues around the city host live music and entertainment. Local bars and clubs feature performances by jazz, R&B and soul artists, including sets Dec. 27-28 at neighborhood venues like 945 King Ave and others.
Community & Family Activities
On Sunday, Dec. 28, the Annual Holiday Youthfest at the Columbus Performing Arts Center offers an afternoon of creative and performing arts activities for young people and families.
Additional family-friendly options include the Central Ohio Model Railroad Club’s holiday open house, skating at the Dublin Ice Rink at Riverside Crossing Park, and special cultural events such as Kwanzaa 614 at the Ohio History Center.
Outdoors & Community Highlights
Beyond scheduled attractions, many residents take advantage of seasonal displays and neighborhood traditions — from holiday lights tours in local communities to visits to parks and public spaces like the Scioto Mile and its Bicentennial Park setting.
Whether it’s a traditional performance, a glowing light walk, or a youthful festival, Central Ohio’s holiday weekend calendar offers diverse options through Sunday, Dec. 28.
For ongoing updates and details on times, tickets and any weather or schedule changes, check individual event websites and local listings.