COLUMBUS, Ohio — As the holiday season begins to take hold, Columbus and Central Ohio are bustling this weekend with theater, live music, seasonal lights and more — offering something for nearly every taste.
🎭 Theater & Holiday Tradition
The beloved holiday production A Christmas Carol returns to the Ohio Theatre from Nov. 28–30. The showcase, produced locally by CAPA in collaboration with Short North Stage, is a seasonal tradition that draws families looking to kick off the holidays on a festive note.
For something a little different, the “movie-meets-live-band” event Twilight in Concert is slated for Friday at the Palace Theatre — a chance for film and music fans alike to experience the iconic story in a fresh format.
🎶 Music & Live Shows
Metal-leaning fans can catch Spiritbox at KEMBA Live! on Friday, Nov. 28. The show is one of several concerts happening this weekend.
On Saturday evening, the a cappella/pop group Pentatonix performs at the Nationwide Arena, offering a fast-selling ticket option for holiday-show fans.
🌆 Family Fun & Seasonal Ambience
The downtown park Columbus Commons continues its seasonal light-show series Wanderlights, which runs nightly (5–10 p.m.) through Sunday. Visitors of all ages can enjoy a stroll beneath festive lights — free of charge.
For visitors seeking a mix of culture and affordability, the city’s weekend calendar features a variety of “free or cheap events” — including scavenger hunts in the Short North Arts District, story-time sessions at local libraries, and visits to Christmas tree farms and holiday-themed lots.
📰 What This Means for Locals & Visitors
Between the festive return of A Christmas Carol, live concerts, and welcoming public spaces, Columbus offers a warm, accessible way to launch the holiday weekend. Whether you’re looking for a memorable night out or a low-cost family outing, there are options galore — but demand is high, especially for ticketed events, so booking in advance is advisable.