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Upcoming Events in Downtown Columbus

Wanderlights

@
OSU Urban Arts Space
November 25th
2 - 7pm

Columbus Commons will be reimagined with aurora borealis-inspired light installations and projection mapping in partnership with ReMix, a Columbus-based digital arts collective. Stop by the holiday windowscapes on High Street and Town Street to enjoy the nostalgic displays. While you’re there, step into the Urban Arts Space corridor in the Lazarus building, Suite 130, to see local artwork in the Wanderlights exhibition. This one-of-a-kind show celebrates winter wonder and the magic of illumination.

Participating Artists: Haadia Hyder, Micah Johnson, Benjamin Martin, Anisa Mohamed, Nikki Reiss, Nancy Beth Shuler, Angela Stiftar, Stephen Tomasko, Saniat Faheema Zaman

Learn More

Season of Celebrations

@
COSI
December 5th
10am - 5pm

Starting Saturday, November 22, 2025, COSI will once again transform into a spectacular winter wonderland where science, imagination, and holiday traditions come together. From twinkling lights to immersive décor, Season of Celebrations is bigger and brighter than ever, inviting guests of all ages to discover festive fun around every corner of the science museum.

A Forest of Community & Creativity
This year, our beloved Forest of Community Trees moves to a new home in COSI’s Traveling Exhibitions Gallery on Level 2. Dozens of trees, decorated by local schools, nonprofits, and organizations, tell unique stories that highlight the rich diversity of the Columbus community. Stroll through this magical gallery and see how creativity and holiday spirit come alive in every branch.

New Holiday Zones & Décor
Season of Celebrations introduces exciting new themed zones throughout COSI, including:

  • A life-sized yeti greeting guests in the Traveling Exhibitions Gallery.
  • A cozy Winter Chill Speakeasy featuring seasonal food and themed drinks near the Community Forest
  • NEW! Exhibit-inspired trees celebrating Pixar, Cracker Jacks, and Wild Kratts.
  • Expanded photo opportunities, including dazzling displays at COSI’s main entrance and enhanced décor throughout our public spaces.

 

A Step Back in Time
The magic extends into COSI’s classic Progress exhibit, where visitors experience holidays as they were in 1898 and 1962. Thanks to a partnership with Columbus Children’s Theatre, actors will bring these streets to life with festive interactions from 12:00–3:00 pm, Wednesday–Sunday.

Science Meets the Season
In addition to the festive sights, COSI will host special science demonstrations, hands-on activities, and themed programming designed to connect the wonders of the season with the world of science and technology.

Join us this holiday season as COSI lights up with joy, imagination, and community during Season of Celebrations 2025!

Learn More

Wander Nights at Wanderlights

@
Columbus Commons
December 5th
5 - 8pm

Introducing Wander Nights! Take part in an ultra-festive holiday atmosphere and free activities while exploring all three Wanderlights stops. During Wander Nights, you’ll find complimentary hot chocolate and carousel rides at Columbus Commons, free holiday movie screenings at the Scioto Mile Fountain, special visits from Santa in the Lazarus Building galleria, and more!

In partnership with Nationwide Children’s Hospital, ride the free covered trolley to view the butterfly light show at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The trolley runs from from 5 -8 pm during all six Wander Nights. Hop on and off at Columbus Commons or Scioto Mile Fountain.

Wander Nights take place on the following Fridays and Saturdays in December from 5pm to 8pm: 12/5*, 12/6*, 12/12, 12/13, 12/19 and 12/20. 

*Please note that Wander Nights will not occur at the Scioto Mile Fountain on December 5 and 6 due to WinterFest.  

Learn More

FREE Wanderlights

@
Columbus Commons
December 5th
5 - 10pm

Wanderlights is Columbus’ ultimate free holiday destination. Step away from the rush, and embrace the holiday magic amongst more than half a million lights glowing daily at Columbus Commons, West Town Street, and Scioto Mile Fountain.

During Wander Nights at Wanderlights, find an ultra-festive atmosphere on Fridays and Saturdays from December 5 – 20. See below for details.

Wander your way through the kaleidoscope of color in the heart of Downtown Columbus.

Learn More

Mr. Scrooge

@
Studio One at the Vern Riffe Center
December 5th
7 - 8pm

In this lively, fun-filled adaptation of A Christmas Carol, grumpy old Ebenezer Scrooge learns the true meaning of Christmas through magical visits from three spirited ghosts. With catchy songs, colorful characters, and plenty of holiday cheer, this fast-paced, 60-minute musical is the perfect treat for families with kids ages 4-12. Watch Scrooge’s heart grow three sizes as he discovers the joy of giving, friendship, and festive fun!

This beloved CCT classic brings performers of all ages together on stage, making it a holiday tradition your family will cherish for years to come. Get your tickets today and make this magical musical part of your holiday celebrations!

60 minutes

Ages 5+

Learn More

Holiday Pops

@
Ohio Theatre
December 5th
8 - 10pm

The Columbus Symphony brings magic to the Ohio Theatre in December, transforming it with a show of lights, festive music, heavenly voices, and seasonal cheer! The Columbus Symphony Chorus, Columbus Children’s Choir, and special guests join to present the most-loved holiday songs and carols!

Learn More

Jingle Bell Run

@
Genoa Park
December 6th
9am - 12pm

Get ready for this year’s Jingle Bell Run, the original festive race for charity brought to you by the Arthritis Foundation. Wear your favorite holiday gear, and let’s jingle all the way toward a cure!

Whether you’re running, walking, or strolling, bring your friends, family, and coworkers along for the ride. Together, we’re spreading joy and making strides towards a brighter future — saying “YES” to life, despite arthritis.

Don’t miss out on this special occasion to make a real difference while celebrating four decades of impact with the Jingle Bell Run. Let’s lace up, hit the pavement, and jingle our way toward victory over arthritis!

Learn More

Season of Celebrations

@
COSI
December 6th
10am - 5pm

Starting Saturday, November 22, 2025, COSI will once again transform into a spectacular winter wonderland where science, imagination, and holiday traditions come together. From twinkling lights to immersive décor, Season of Celebrations is bigger and brighter than ever, inviting guests of all ages to discover festive fun around every corner of the science museum.

A Forest of Community & Creativity
This year, our beloved Forest of Community Trees moves to a new home in COSI’s Traveling Exhibitions Gallery on Level 2. Dozens of trees, decorated by local schools, nonprofits, and organizations, tell unique stories that highlight the rich diversity of the Columbus community. Stroll through this magical gallery and see how creativity and holiday spirit come alive in every branch.

New Holiday Zones & Décor
Season of Celebrations introduces exciting new themed zones throughout COSI, including:

  • A life-sized yeti greeting guests in the Traveling Exhibitions Gallery.
  • A cozy Winter Chill Speakeasy featuring seasonal food and themed drinks near the Community Forest
  • NEW! Exhibit-inspired trees celebrating Pixar, Cracker Jacks, and Wild Kratts.
  • Expanded photo opportunities, including dazzling displays at COSI’s main entrance and enhanced décor throughout our public spaces.

 

A Step Back in Time
The magic extends into COSI’s classic Progress exhibit, where visitors experience holidays as they were in 1898 and 1962. Thanks to a partnership with Columbus Children’s Theatre, actors will bring these streets to life with festive interactions from 12:00–3:00 pm, Wednesday–Sunday.

Science Meets the Season
In addition to the festive sights, COSI will host special science demonstrations, hands-on activities, and themed programming designed to connect the wonders of the season with the world of science and technology.

Join us this holiday season as COSI lights up with joy, imagination, and community during Season of Celebrations 2025!

Learn More

WinterFest Columbus

@
Bicentennial Park
December 6th
11am - 4pm

WinterFest Columbus, presented by Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, is an annual celebration of the winter season in downtown Columbus. This free event features seasonal craft beer and cocktails, live music, some of Columbus’ best food trucks, and lots of outdoor winter fun!

Learn More

Mr. Scrooge

@
Studio One at the Vern Riffe Center
December 6th
1 - 2pm

In this lively, fun-filled adaptation of A Christmas Carol, grumpy old Ebenezer Scrooge learns the true meaning of Christmas through magical visits from three spirited ghosts. With catchy songs, colorful characters, and plenty of holiday cheer, this fast-paced, 60-minute musical is the perfect treat for families with kids ages 4-12. Watch Scrooge’s heart grow three sizes as he discovers the joy of giving, friendship, and festive fun!

This beloved CCT classic brings performers of all ages together on stage, making it a holiday tradition your family will cherish for years to come. Get your tickets today and make this magical musical part of your holiday celebrations!

60 minutes

Ages 5+

Learn More
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Gay Street Downtown Columbus

Gay Street

Take a stroll along Gay Street and you’ll discover a dense mélange of lively, street-level bars, galleries, restaurants, retail shops, and cafes.

River South

RiverSouth

From Columbus Commons to the Scioto Mile, for an experience that’s equal parts urban flair and natural splendor, head to the RiverSouth District.

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Fourth & Main

For fashion, food, fun, fabulous tunes, and fantastic retail, the eclectic Fourth and Main District is hard to beat.

Arena District

Arena District

Pro sports, world-renowned live entertainment, and vibrant restaurants and bars— the Arena District scores big every time.

The Peninsula

The Peninsula

The convergence of Downtown’s central business district and the historic Franklinton neighborhood, The Peninsula brings together the best of all worlds – just around the bend of the Scioto River.  

Warehouse District

Warehouse District

Historic buildings have been transformed into must-experience bars, venues and experiences in this up-and-coming District just east of the Scioto. 

Discovery District

Discovery District

Home to a vibrant array of landmark institutions, historic sites, progressive galleries, and contemporary culinary establishments, make your next Discovery in this signature Downtown district.

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of Downtown Columbus through dozens of local events happening every week. 

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15+ DECEMBER EVENTS IN DOWNTOWN COLUMBUS ☃️❄️

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Find a flurry of winter fun this December 🌟 With free hot chocolate and holiday movies at Wander Nights to show-stopping performances and tree lightings, it’s the perfect opportunity to make it one magical month✨

Find more Downtown events at the link in our bio👀

FEATURED EVENTS ⬇️

🚂Holiday Open House FREE @columbuslibrary
📅 Wednesday, December 3 | 6 - 8 pm
📍Columbus Metropolitan Library, Main Branch

🎄Wander Nights FREE
📅 Fridays & Saturdays | December 5 - 20 | 5 - 8 pm
📍Wanderlights locations: Columbus Commons, W Town St, Scioto Mile Fountain

🎶Holiday Pops @columbussymphony @capacolumbus
📅 December 5-7
📍Ohio Theatre

❄️ WinterFest FREE @winterfestcolumbus
📅 Saturday, December 6 | 11 am - 4 pm
📍Bicentennial Park

🎄COSI Season of Celebrations @cosiscience
📅 Daily through January 4
📍COSI

1035 11
Open post by downtowncolumbus with ID 17951696370023958
15+ DECEMBER EVENTS IN DOWNTOWN COLUMBUS ☃️❄️ It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Find a flurry of winter fun this December 🌟 With free hot chocolate and holiday movies at Wander Nights to show-stopping performances and tree lightings, it’s the perfect opportunity to make it one magical month✨ Find more Downtown events at the link in our bio👀 FEATURED EVENTS ⬇️ 🚂Holiday Open House FREE @columbuslibrary 📅 Wednesday, December 3 | 6 - 8 pm 📍Columbus Metropolitan Library, Main Branch 🎄Wander Nights FREE 📅 Fridays & Saturdays | December 5 - 20 | 5 - 8 pm 📍Wanderlights locations: Columbus Commons, W Town St, Scioto Mile Fountain 🎶Holiday Pops @columbussymphony @capacolumbus 📅 December 5-7 📍Ohio Theatre ❄️ WinterFest FREE @winterfestcolumbus 📅 Saturday, December 6 | 11 am - 4 pm 📍Bicentennial Park 🎄COSI Season of Celebrations @cosiscience 📅 Daily through January 4 📍COSI

WHERE TO FIND TREATS IN DOWNTOWN COLUMBUS 🧁

If you’re in the market for local treats that will please a crowd for your holiday gathering (or just a sweet treat for yourself), you’ll need to check out these six spots where you can find a picture-perfect sweets galore😍

🥐 Three Bites @threebitesbakery
📍12 E Broad St
➡️ Filipino and Italian style baked goods!

🧁 Pastry Factory @thepastryfactory
📍59 Spruce St (North Market)
➡️Delicious vegan and gluten free treats for everyone to enjoy!

🍞 Littleton’s Market Bakery @littletonsmarketbakery
📍59 Spruce St (North Market)
➡️ Find more than just baked bread, try their pumpkin spice croissant pictured!

🥨 Brezel Bavarian Pretzels @brezelcolumbus
📍59 Spruce St (North Market)
➡️Authentic hand rolled Bavarian pretzels with a variety of dipping sauces!

🍰 Kennedy’s Kakes @kennedys_kakes
📍310 S High St
➡️ Find custom cakes, cupcakes, and treats that taste as good as they look!

🍪 Freedom a la Cart @freedomalacart
📍123 E Spring St
➡️ From coffee, lunch to bite-sized cookies, this cafe has it all! Be sure to place your order for the charitable Cause Cookies! Available until Dec. 23.

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Open post by downtowncolumbus with ID 18070089206611139
WHERE TO FIND TREATS IN DOWNTOWN COLUMBUS 🧁 If you’re in the market for local treats that will please a crowd for your holiday gathering (or just a sweet treat for yourself), you’ll need to check out these six spots where you can find a picture-perfect sweets galore😍 🥐 Three Bites @threebitesbakery 📍12 E Broad St ➡️ Filipino and Italian style baked goods! 🧁 Pastry Factory @thepastryfactory 📍59 Spruce St (North Market) ➡️Delicious vegan and gluten free treats for everyone to enjoy! 🍞 Littleton’s Market Bakery @littletonsmarketbakery 📍59 Spruce St (North Market) ➡️ Find more than just baked bread, try their pumpkin spice croissant pictured! 🥨 Brezel Bavarian Pretzels @brezelcolumbus 📍59 Spruce St (North Market) ➡️Authentic hand rolled Bavarian pretzels with a variety of dipping sauces! 🍰 Kennedy’s Kakes @kennedys_kakes 📍310 S High St ➡️ Find custom cakes, cupcakes, and treats that taste as good as they look! 🍪 Freedom a la Cart @freedomalacart 📍123 E Spring St ➡️ From coffee, lunch to bite-sized cookies, this cafe has it all! Be sure to place your order for the charitable Cause Cookies! Available until Dec. 23.

GIVEAWAY: SMALL BUSINESS SHOPPING SPREE 🛍️🍷

It’s time we give our Downtown local businesses some love! Small Business Saturday is just around the corner, and we’re giving away gift cards to 9 different businesses ❤️

TO ENTER:
➡️ Comment below the business you’d like a gift card to!
➡️ You must be following @downtowncolumbus
🕐 Giveaway closes on Monday, Nov 24 at 5pm. We will notify 9 winners by DM on Tuesday, Nov 25.

No payment information is required to enter or win. This giveaway is not affiliated with Instagram.

Gift Cards for Shops Include:
🍷 Accent Wine @accentwine
🥣 Artisans & @artisans_and
🖼️ Columbus Museum of Art Gift Shop @cmamuseumstore
👚 Evolverie @evolverieclothing
🍜 North Market @northmarket
🥜 Peanut Shoppe @thepeanutshoppecolumbus
💆‍♀️ Replenish Spa @bereplenish
🕯️ Restalgic Atelier @restalgic
🎼 Spoonful Records @spoonfulrecords

Happy shopping!

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Open post by downtowncolumbus with ID 17951783268018949
GIVEAWAY: SMALL BUSINESS SHOPPING SPREE 🛍️🍷 It’s time we give our Downtown local businesses some love! Small Business Saturday is just around the corner, and we’re giving away gift cards to 9 different businesses ❤️ TO ENTER: ➡️ Comment below the business you’d like a gift card to! ➡️ You must be following @downtowncolumbus 🕐 Giveaway closes on Monday, Nov 24 at 5pm. We will notify 9 winners by DM on Tuesday, Nov 25. No payment information is required to enter or win. This giveaway is not affiliated with Instagram. Gift Cards for Shops Include: 🍷 Accent Wine @accentwine 🥣 Artisans & @artisans_and 🖼️ Columbus Museum of Art Gift Shop @cmamuseumstore 👚 Evolverie @evolverieclothing 🍜 North Market @northmarket 🥜 Peanut Shoppe @thepeanutshoppecolumbus 💆‍♀️ Replenish Spa @bereplenish 🕯️ Restalgic Atelier @restalgic 🎼 Spoonful Records @spoonfulrecords Happy shopping!

CAUSE COOKIES ARE BACK at @freedomalacart 🧑‍🍳🍪❤️

Every year, Freedom a la Cart brings out a unique (and delicious!) way to give back... with cookies! By making a $30 donation, you can get one dozen hand-crafted treats. Cause Cookies make a perfect gift to bring to gatherings!

This year, the Cause Cookies flavors are...
🍪 Raspberry Red Currant which catches the eye with its raspberry marmalade in the center
🍪 Cookie Butter Biscotti with yummy semi-sweet chocolate chips!
🍪 Gingersnaps that feature bold flavors like candied ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg
🍪 Lemon Spice Crinkle that is dusted with powdered sugar and made with lemon zest and cream cheese

In case you didn’t know, Freedom a la Cart helps survivors of human trafficking through programs like workforce development, housing stability, and the Butterfly Program to foster community connection 💚

Every Cause Cookies purchase gives back to their mission! So make your holidays extra meaningful by giving the sweet taste of Freedom.

➡️ Order online at their website, and pick up from their cafe on Spring Street.

☕ Freedom a la Cart
📍123 E Spring St

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Open post by downtowncolumbus with ID 18045479822466313
CAUSE COOKIES ARE BACK at @freedomalacart 🧑‍🍳🍪❤️ Every year, Freedom a la Cart brings out a unique (and delicious!) way to give back... with cookies! By making a $30 donation, you can get one dozen hand-crafted treats. Cause Cookies make a perfect gift to bring to gatherings! This year, the Cause Cookies flavors are... 🍪 Raspberry Red Currant which catches the eye with its raspberry marmalade in the center 🍪 Cookie Butter Biscotti with yummy semi-sweet chocolate chips! 🍪 Gingersnaps that feature bold flavors like candied ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg 🍪 Lemon Spice Crinkle that is dusted with powdered sugar and made with lemon zest and cream cheese In case you didn’t know, Freedom a la Cart helps survivors of human trafficking through programs like workforce development, housing stability, and the Butterfly Program to foster community connection 💚 Every Cause Cookies purchase gives back to their mission! So make your holidays extra meaningful by giving the sweet taste of Freedom. ➡️ Order online at their website, and pick up from their cafe on Spring Street. ☕ Freedom a la Cart 📍123 E Spring St

WANDERLIGHTS IS BACK THIS FRIDAY, 11/21 🎄🌟

The countdown continues! Wanderlights illuminates Downtown for the winter starting this Friday, Nov 21. From then, the holiday lights will be on every night from 5 - 10 pm until Feb 15.

Get ready for Wander Nights in December! Six special nights full of extra-festive merriment including free hot chocolate, a pop-up market, holiday movies, seasonal drinks, Santa visits, and more cheer 🎄🎁 Find more info at the link in bio!

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Open post by downtowncolumbus with ID 18433993483104084
WANDERLIGHTS IS BACK THIS FRIDAY, 11/21 🎄🌟 The countdown continues! Wanderlights illuminates Downtown for the winter starting this Friday, Nov 21. From then, the holiday lights will be on every night from 5 - 10 pm until Feb 15. Get ready for Wander Nights in December! Six special nights full of extra-festive merriment including free hot chocolate, a pop-up market, holiday movies, seasonal drinks, Santa visits, and more cheer 🎄🎁 Find more info at the link in bio!

NEW HOLIDAY POP-UP BAR: Santa Baby at @thejuntohotel 🎅🎄🍸

For the FIRST time ever, the Junto Hotel created holiday magic with Santa Baby, a rich red lounge with elevated festive flair, very merry cocktails, and stellar service ❤️‍🔥

You’ll find decadent cocktails with a seasonal twist on Santa Baby’s menu including Das Krampus Fire (spiced old fashioned), Mele Kalikimaka (mai thai punch bowl), and the titular Santa Baby (mulled wine) 🍹🌟

Mrs. Claus’ food menu satisfies allll the holiday hankerings like the Reindeer Feast Charcuterie Board ($16), Tableside S’mores ($20), and Stocking Stuffer Meatballs ($15) 🧀

The Santa Baby bar IS NOW OPEN! Walk-ins welcome or text 469-967-6767 to reserve your spot on the nice list.

🎁 Santa Baby Holiday Bar
📍 77 Belle St
📆 Now - January 3
🕐 Thursday–Saturday, 5 pm-1 am

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Open post by downtowncolumbus with ID 18115586440560302
NEW HOLIDAY POP-UP BAR: Santa Baby at @thejuntohotel 🎅🎄🍸 For the FIRST time ever, the Junto Hotel created holiday magic with Santa Baby, a rich red lounge with elevated festive flair, very merry cocktails, and stellar service ❤️‍🔥 You’ll find decadent cocktails with a seasonal twist on Santa Baby’s menu including Das Krampus Fire (spiced old fashioned), Mele Kalikimaka (mai thai punch bowl), and the titular Santa Baby (mulled wine) 🍹🌟 Mrs. Claus’ food menu satisfies allll the holiday hankerings like the Reindeer Feast Charcuterie Board ($16), Tableside S’mores ($20), and Stocking Stuffer Meatballs ($15) 🧀 The Santa Baby bar IS NOW OPEN! Walk-ins welcome or text 469-967-6767 to reserve your spot on the nice list. 🎁 Santa Baby Holiday Bar 📍 77 Belle St 📆 Now - January 3 🕐 Thursday–Saturday, 5 pm-1 am

Wanderlights is back ❄️

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