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 4 – 19. See below for details.
Wander your way through the kaleidoscope of color in the heart of Downtown Columbus.
Ready to make winter more wonderful? Experience a night of glowing lights Downtown in 3 easy steps:
Start your Wanderlights experience at Columbus Commons, and make your way through a kaleidoscope of color to check out the 40-foot lit tree, over 150 lighted trees, decorated garden beds and an illuminated tunnel made up of glowing archways, complete with a snow globe photo-op. Plus, find illuminations on the Columbus Commons stage and Main Garage as well as the Nationwide Children’s Hospital butterfly charitable light display near the carousel. See Wander Nights experiences below.
Town Street will be twinkling with lights and decorations. Follow the illuminated penguins and lights down the Wanderlights path from Columbus Commons to the Scioto Mile. The historic water tower atop the Lazarus Building will also receive an exciting new lighting treatment, adding a memorable seasonal glow to the Columbus skyline.
The Downtown riverfront will be decked out in an elevated glow, centered around the Scioto Mile Fountain, which will be illuminated by more than 40 sculptural lights and 75 wrapped trees, providing passersby with the ultimate winter photo backdrop. See Wander Nights experiences below.
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, crackling fire pits at the Scioto Mile Fountain, special visits from Santa in the Lazarus Building galleria, and more!
Ride the free covered trolley as it stops at Columbus Commons, Bicentennial Park, and the Lazarus Building Galleria to explore the whole Wanderlights path and experience the butterfly light show at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The trolley runs from 5 – 9 pm during all six Wander Nights.
Ho-ho-ho! Share your wishlist with Santa Claus at the Lazarus Building galleria amidst a magical holiday display. Sip on a seasonal drink from Kronchy Coffee Bar, explore gingerbread art with S.U.G.A.R., and enjoy complimentary face painting.
Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and carousel rides, live music, food trucks, and seasonal DORA beverages from the bar while exploring the lights. Plus, shop local and hand-crafted gifts from The Holiday Shoppe, indoors at 65 E State St!
Unwind by the crackling firepits in the cozy atmosphere at Bicentennial Park with a DORA beverage from the bar. Find elevated photo opportunities, costumed characters, games, and more.
During Wander Nights this year, shop local and discover handmade gifts at The Holiday Shoppe! Located right next to Columbus Commons, 65 East State Street will be transformed into an indoor holiday shopping experience. Plus, Market 65 will be serving delicious food and seasonal beverages.
We’re searching for local makers, artists, and small businesses to participate! Check out the vendor application for more information and to apply.
The holiday celebration extends to the Gay Street neighborhood with illuminated ice sculptures, tasty treats, DORA beverages from an outdoor bar. Enjoy live music as you shop local businesses and explore galleries in the neighborhood.
As the charitable partner of Wanderlights, Nationwide Children’s Hospital will be featured through a special butterfly light sculpture at Columbus Commons. The Wander Nights Trolley will also take visitors to the hospital’s lawn light display. All contributions benefit life-saving research and care for children.
