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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

Artist Commune: Being and Belonging

@
OSU Urban Arts Space
December 9th
11am - 6pm

In an increasingly fragmented world, Artist Commune: Being and Belonging creates space for artists to examine what it means to exist authentically and find connection—with ourselves, each other, and the communities we inhabit. The works in this show explore the tender, complicated, and transformative experiences of being human: the search for belonging, the navigation of multiple identities, the vulnerability of emotional truth, and the ongoing process of healing.

Reception: Friday, December 12, 6:30–8:30 PM

Learn More

Season of Celebrations

@
COSI
December 12th
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 12th
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 12th
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 12th
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

The Nutcracker

@
Ohio Theatre
December 12th
7:30 - 9:30pm

Get into the holiday spirit with the iconic ballet, The Nutcracker.

Learn More

A Christmas Carol

@
Studio Two at the Riffe Center
December 12th
8 - 10pm

Back by popular demand, A Christmas Carol returns to The Contemporary stage again this December! In this masterful solo retelling of Charles Dickens’ famous Christmas story, over 30 characters– every Ghost, every Cratchit, and Scrooge himself– are brought to life in the virtuosic performance of audience-favorite Angela Iannone. This one-person show shines a dazzling new light on a beloved classic, leaving you utterly spellbound and filled with the holiday spirit.

Learn More

Season of Celebrations

@
COSI
December 13th
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

The Nutcracker

@
Ohio Theatre
December 13th
12 - 2pm

Get into the holiday spirit with the iconic ballet, The Nutcracker.

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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8 COZY BARS & RESTAURANTS ❄️🍷

The forecast is looking chilly (single digits on Sunday!), so if you’re looking to slow down and cozy up, we’ve got just the line-up of homey bars and restaurants for a night Downtown ✨ Plus, stop by Wanderlights before or after and make a whole night of it 🎄

🎄 Miracle @thecitizenstrust
📍11 W Gay St

🏙️ Brass Eye @brasseye
📍77 Belle St

❤️ Santa Baby @thejuntohotel
📍77 Belle St

🍝 Spaghetti Warehouse @spaghettiwarehousecolumbus
📍150 S High St

🧉 Goodale Station @goodalestation
📍77 E Nationwide Blvd

🍕 Aracri Pizzeria @aracripizzeriaongay
📍 51 E Gay St

☕ Cure Coffee + Cocktails @cure_614
📍154 N 3rd St

🍸 Capri @capricolumbus
📍39 E Gay St

741 5
Open post by downtowncolumbus with ID 18063391913200607
8 COZY BARS & RESTAURANTS ❄️🍷 The forecast is looking chilly (single digits on Sunday!), so if you’re looking to slow down and cozy up, we’ve got just the line-up of homey bars and restaurants for a night Downtown ✨ Plus, stop by Wanderlights before or after and make a whole night of it 🎄 🎄 Miracle @thecitizenstrust 📍11 W Gay St 🏙️ Brass Eye @brasseye 📍77 Belle St ❤️ Santa Baby @thejuntohotel 📍77 Belle St 🍝 Spaghetti Warehouse @spaghettiwarehousecolumbus 📍150 S High St 🧉 Goodale Station @goodalestation 📍77 E Nationwide Blvd 🍕 Aracri Pizzeria @aracripizzeriaongay 📍 51 E Gay St ☕ Cure Coffee + Cocktails @cure_614 📍154 N 3rd St 🍸 Capri @capricolumbus 📍39 E Gay St

WANDER NIGHTS IS BACK THIS WEEKEND🎄❄️

If you enjoy holiday lights, hot chocolate, digital artwork, pop-up markets, Santa, spiked apple cider, and more... Wander Nights is for you 🎅🛍️

The festivities take place in Downtown Columbus at Columbus Commons, W Town Street, and Scioto Mile Fountain, all powered by @aepohio💡

🎅 Wander Nights
🗓️ December 12-13, 19-20 from 5 - 8 pm
📍Wanderlights locations below

WHAT TO EXPECT ☃️🎶⤵️

🎄📍 Columbus Commons, 160 S High St
Start your Wander Nights experience here!
➡️ find FREE hot chocolate served from the cafe @tortillastreetfood (it’s Crimson Cup hot chocolate mix, milk, and whipped cream!)
➡️ take a free carousel ride
➡️ shop for local holiday gifts from @goodmarket.cbus in the State Street breezeway by the Ohio Theatre
➡️ hop on the free covered trolley to visit the lights at Scioto Mile Fountain + the butterfly lawn display @nationwidekids
➡️ grab a seasonal drink from the bar and enjoy live music amongst the lights, and take home a new stainless steel Wanderlights cup for $9 from the bar
➡️warm up on the COTA Express bus + grab a light-up necklace (Dec 13 only)

🎅📍 Lazarus Building Galleria, 50 W Town St
➡️ take photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus in a stunning holiday backdrop
➡️ enjoy live music from Graves Piano
➡️ behold new digital artworks by local artists curated by @muralremix

❄️📍Scioto Mile Fountain, 233 S Civic Center Dr
➡️ enjoy a holiday movie by the stage
➡️ wind down by a firepit on the lawn
➡️ enjoy seasonal DORA drinks from the bar, food trucks, face painting and balloon twisters!

Movie start at 6pm at the Scioto Mile Fountain:
🎥 Dec 12: Frozen  
🎥 Dec 13: Frozen 2   
🎥 Dec 19: Miracle   
🎥 Dec 20: Cool Runnings   

GETTING HERE ⤵️
🚗 Parking is $10 at the Columbus Commons Main Garage (55 E Rich St) during Wander Nights!
🚌 Get here with @cotabus! All Downtown routes (Lines 1–12, 102 and CMAX) stop just steps from the Commons, making it easy to arrive for all the holiday fun.

Psst — remember that Wanderlights is illuminated every day from 5 - 10 pm if you’re looking for a nice, quiet winter stroll! ☃️

676 2
Open post by downtowncolumbus with ID 18088507382297691
WANDER NIGHTS IS BACK THIS WEEKEND🎄❄️ If you enjoy holiday lights, hot chocolate, digital artwork, pop-up markets, Santa, spiked apple cider, and more... Wander Nights is for you 🎅🛍️ The festivities take place in Downtown Columbus at Columbus Commons, W Town Street, and Scioto Mile Fountain, all powered by @aepohio💡 🎅 Wander Nights 🗓️ December 12-13, 19-20 from 5 - 8 pm 📍Wanderlights locations below WHAT TO EXPECT ☃️🎶⤵️ 🎄📍 Columbus Commons, 160 S High St Start your Wander Nights experience here! ➡️ find FREE hot chocolate served from the cafe @tortillastreetfood (it’s Crimson Cup hot chocolate mix, milk, and whipped cream!) ➡️ take a free carousel ride ➡️ shop for local holiday gifts from @goodmarket.cbus in the State Street breezeway by the Ohio Theatre ➡️ hop on the free covered trolley to visit the lights at Scioto Mile Fountain + the butterfly lawn display @nationwidekids ➡️ grab a seasonal drink from the bar and enjoy live music amongst the lights, and take home a new stainless steel Wanderlights cup for $9 from the bar ➡️warm up on the COTA Express bus + grab a light-up necklace (Dec 13 only) 🎅📍 Lazarus Building Galleria, 50 W Town St ➡️ take photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus in a stunning holiday backdrop ➡️ enjoy live music from Graves Piano ➡️ behold new digital artworks by local artists curated by @muralremix ❄️📍Scioto Mile Fountain, 233 S Civic Center Dr ➡️ enjoy a holiday movie by the stage ➡️ wind down by a firepit on the lawn ➡️ enjoy seasonal DORA drinks from the bar, food trucks, face painting and balloon twisters! Movie start at 6pm at the Scioto Mile Fountain: 🎥 Dec 12: Frozen   🎥 Dec 13: Frozen 2    🎥 Dec 19: Miracle    🎥 Dec 20: Cool Runnings    GETTING HERE ⤵️ 🚗 Parking is $10 at the Columbus Commons Main Garage (55 E Rich St) during Wander Nights! 🚌 Get here with @cotabus! All Downtown routes (Lines 1–12, 102 and CMAX) stop just steps from the Commons, making it easy to arrive for all the holiday fun. Psst — remember that Wanderlights is illuminated every day from 5 - 10 pm if you’re looking for a nice, quiet winter stroll! ☃️

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

1153 12
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.

801 8
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 CLOSED: 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!

259 234
Open post by downtowncolumbus with ID 17951783268018949
GIVEAWAY CLOSED: 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!

Wanderlights is back ❄️

Learn More