It’s the most sparkly time of the year, and downtown is the place to be if you want to illuminate your holiday season. Some festive displays started as early as the November 19, and others light up the night in the coming week. Load up the kids or grab some friends and head to the heart of the city for some holiday shine.



Topiary Park Holiday Lights lit up the unique and beautiful topiaries on November 19. See the park in a new way this holiday season. Topiary Park is also a stop on the Discovery District Holiday Trolley Hop on December 12.

Columbus Commons Holiday Lights features more than 200,000 LED lights lighting up the night. You can stop by from November 23 - January 3 to take in the sights. And be sure to head across High Street to look at the holiday displays in the Lazarus Building windows.

Enjoy your holiday lights surrounded by beautiful plants and the beloved Chihuly glass. In addition to a gingerbread display, Paul Russe model garden railway, the 15-foot poinsettia tree and more, Franklin Park Conservatory is open select evenings so you can watch things sparkle. Stop by for special evening hours on November 25, 27 - 29 and December 2, 9, 18 - 23, 26 - 31 and January 1 - 2.

The Statehouse Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting takes place on December 1 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. in the Ohio Statehouse Atrium. This family-friendly event features the tree lighting, tasty treats, pictures with Santa, story time, a magician, a ballet performance and more.

State Auto Christmas Corner features the much beloved life-sized Nativity scene, which is recognized worldwide for its beauty and artistic detail. The display will be lighted on December 2 at 5:30 p.m. In addition to the beautiful Nativity scene, visitors can enjoy lights, Christmas trees and performances by local choirs.

Head to Bicentennial Park on December 4 for The Grand Illumination. Mayor Coleman will preside over the lighting of thousands of twinkling lights and festive holiday decor along the Scioto Mile.