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December 03.2025
3 Minutes Read

Discover Family-Friendly Holiday Events This Weekend in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus skyline with snowflakes, family-friendly events theme.

Columbus Comes Alive with Family-Friendly Festivities

As the holiday season unfolds, families in Columbus, Ohio, are in for a treat this weekend from December 5-7, 2025. From enchanting visits with Santa to dazzling light displays, there's no shortage of activities to create cherished memories. Whether it’s your first time joining in the seasonal celebrations or a beloved family tradition, the cornucopia of delights is sure to appeal to families seeking fun and affordable outings.

Visit with Santa: A Tradition for All Ages

The magic of meeting Santa Claus is an experience every child treasures. At Polaris Fashion Place, children can visit Santa amid a delightful train display called The Polaris Express. Each visit includes a complimentary Santa coloring book, Santa glasses, and a golden train ticket, redeemable for free hot cocoa at Pure Imagination Chocolatier. Alternatively, families can head to Easton Town Center, where Afam allows reservations and walk-up visits for photos, bringing a holiday photo experience within reach.

Creating Sweet Treats: Cookie and Cocoa Kits

Families looking to engage in a heartwarming activity can participate in the Sweet! Pack Cookie and Cocoa Kits with Seeds of Caring. This initiative helps serve families in need within Delaware County and lasts through December 7. Children ages 2-12 can join in creating fun, tasty kits, fostering the spirit of giving and connection during the holidays.

A Wonderland of Lights Around Columbus

The Wildlights at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a must-see event running until January 4, 2026. This enchanting spectacle features millions of LED lights synchronized to festive tunes, making it a favorite for families. Meanwhile, Wanderlights in Downtown Columbus and the Conservatory Aglow at Franklin Park Conservatory offer breathtaking light displays that will leave families mesmerized.

Explore the Great Outdoors: Winter Wonderland Maze

Looking for a unique outdoor adventure? The Winter Wonderland Maze at Hoover Gardens & Gift Center invites visitors to traverse its pathways adorned in festive decor. Open daily and priced at just $3, it's an affordable family activity that provides both fun and exercise in the crisp winter air.

Holiday Magic: Drive-Through Light Shows

For those who prefer to enjoy holiday lights from the comfort of their vehicles, Butch Bando's Fantasy of Lights offers a spectacular drive-through experience, running nightly through January 4, 2026. Families can tune in from their cars while viewing enchanting and whimsical light displays, adding to the holiday cheer.

More Ways to Celebrate the Season

Columbus is bursting with additional events aimed at spreading holiday joy. Explore the History of Christmas at the Castle at Landoll’s Mohican Castle, or relish local treats at Ongoing Holiday Events throughout the city. With something for everyone, you’ll discover the essence of community and celebration.

Resources for Family Fun in Columbus

To further plan your holiday fun, local blogs and community sites compile comprehensive lists of events. For example, the Columbus on the Cheap website provides updates on free and cheap holiday events, ensuring families can find affordable entertainment.

This December weekend is set to be one filled with laughter, joy, and connection for families throughout Columbus. Mark your calendars, bundle up, and head out to make unforgettable memories!

For families looking for ongoing activities and other resources throughout the season, stay in the loop with local event updates. Happy holidays!

Family

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01.10.2026

Discover Affordable Fun with Kids at Ohio State University Airport

Update Explore the Newest Family Destination in Columbus: OSU Airport As a parent or caregiver in Central Ohio, finding affordable and engaging activities to enjoy with the family can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. Luckily, the Ohio State University (OSU) Airport offers a delightful experience for all ages, and it's completely free! Recent renovations have transformed the airport into an even more exciting spot, making it the perfect outing for parents looking to spark their children's imaginations. What's New at OSU Airport The OSU Airport recently underwent a stunning $20 million renovation, revitalizing its facilities and offering a range of experiences that are designed for both aviation enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The highlight? An expansive new observation deck that now occupies an entire floor! Families can enjoy a bird's-eye view of planes taking off and landing, while the interactive displays help children identify different aircraft. One addition to note is the coloring books available for children, which provide an engaging way for them to learn about aviation. Families can grab a free coloring book at the NetJets Observation Deck—if you don’t see them right away, be sure to ask at the front desk! Historical Insights and Fun Facts OSU Airport is not just a practical space; it’s a location rich with history. Did you know the Columbus Zoo has transported manatees and panda bears using the airport? Or that former First Lady Barbara Bush once touched down at OSU Airport in Air Force Two? Learning such facts while visiting the timeline display adds a historical layer to your kids’ outing that is both informative and entertaining. How to Make the Most of Your Visit To enhance the experience, plan your visit on Monday or Friday mornings when the chances to see planes taking off and landing are at their peak—especially on clear weather days. The ample free parking right in front of the terminal makes accessibility easy! If you’re feeling hungry, although Jack & Benny’s Barnstormer Diner closed in 2022, you can still grab a snack at the Market C located nearby. It's the perfect place to pick up drinks and snacks before or after your airplane-watching sessions. Just look for the sign and see what treats await! From Aviation to Entertainment: Why the OSU Airport Matters Community-oriented events are critical in keeping local spirits alive, and the OSU Airport is no exception. They host a variety of events such as open houses and pancake breakfasts that can turn a regular day into a memorable family experience. In fact, engaging with the local airport can instill a sense of curiosity and appreciation for aviation in your children, potentially inspiring their future careers! Final Thoughts and a Call to Action The Ohio State University Airport is more than just a place to watch planes; it’s a community hub that offers fun, education, and connection. So, pack a snack, grab the kids, and head over to experience this hidden gem right in the heart of Columbus. Let the allure of aviation take your family on a journey of discovery, all while keeping the budget in check! Ready to plan your visit? Share the word with friends and family so everyone can enjoy the sights and attractions at the OSU Airport!

01.08.2026

Explore Family-Friendly Events This Weekend in Columbus, Ohio!

Update Discover the Magic of Columbus: Family-Friendly Events This Weekend If you’re a parent or caregiver in Central Ohio looking to create some unforgettable family memories, you’ll be pleased to know that Columbus has a wealth of activities and events happening this weekend, January 9-11, 2026. Whether you’re in the mood for an outdoor adventure, a cozy indoor activity, or a thrilling show, there’s something for every family member to enjoy. Dive into this weekend's family-friendly offerings! Wanderlights: A Spectacular Holiday Experience Starting off the weekend with a bang, Wanderlights invites families to take a whimsical stroll along a festive path that begins at Columbus Commons and winds toward Bicentennial Park. With dazzling holiday displays lighting up the evening sky, this event creates a magical atmosphere perfect for kids and adults alike. Open daily until February 15 from 5 to 10 PM, it’s a great way to soak in the holiday spirit before it bids adieu. Get Cozy with Books: Winter Reading Challenge Encourage your kids to dive into the world of literature with the Winter Reading Challenge at the Grandview Heights Public Library. This engaging initiative runs through February 15, inviting children (and adults!) to register and set personal reading goals. With opportunities to earn raffle tickets for prizes, this program not only nurtures a love for reading but also builds excitement around literacy. Interactive Fun: The Science Behind Pixar at COSI For aspiring scientists and animators, the Science Behind Pixar exhibit at COSI is a must-visit! Open from Wednesday to Sunday, this interactive exhibition showcases the intricate technologies behind Pixar's acclaimed films. Families can explore the fascinating intersection of creativity and science as they engage with the various displays. Make sure to plan your trip as this experience brings animation to life! A Broadway Classic: Back to the Future at Ohio Theatre The excitement doesn’t stop there; families can enjoy a night at the theatre with Back to the Future: The Musical at the Ohio Theatre. Perfect for children aged 6 and older (children under 4 are not permitted), this Broadway production is packed with laughter, nostalgia, and thrilling performances. The show runs on Friday and Saturday evenings, with matinee options available on the weekend—this is the perfect excuse for a family night out! Library Fun for Toddlers: Early Literacy Bingo On Friday, young children can play Early Literacy Bingo at Westerville Public Library. Designed for kids aged 2–5, bingo becomes an exciting way for little ones to practice recognizing shapes, letters, numbers, and colors. Winning fun prizes encourages kids to engage actively and learn while playing. Cuddle Up by the Campfire: Board Games & S’mores Night Heading into the evening, families can gather around a campfire at Quarry Trails Metro Park for Board Games & S’mores. This delightful event on Friday from 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM provides not only delectable treats but also a chance to connect with fellow families over classic board games. Make sure to come hungry! Outdoor Adventure: Woodpecker Walk Nature lovers can enjoy a light hike at Three Creeks Metro Park this Saturday as they embark on the Woodpecker Walk at 10 AM. Spotting various woodpeckers and learning about their habitats is a fun educational experience, perfect for curious young minds and their parents. Bring your binoculars if you have them! Celebrate Community: Grand Opening of Canal Winchester Library Another highlight this weekend is the grand opening celebration of the latest branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library in Canal Winchester, happening Saturday at 10 AM. With a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony, children can participate in fun activities like a balloon scavenger hunt and enjoy free refreshments. Special commemorative library cards will also be available—a great keepsake for future bookworms! Jazz it Up: PBJ & Jazz Concert at Lincoln Theatre The rhythm will be alive as kids can enjoy the PBJ & Jazz concert at Lincoln Theatre on Saturday morning. Featuring the Chris Brown Quartet, this hour-long kid-friendly performance creates a delightful musical atmosphere where each ticket includes a snack and drink. At just $7 per person or $30 for a family ticket, it's a great way to introduce your children to the joy of jazz! These are just a few of the fantastic family-friendly activities happening in Columbus this weekend. From interactive exhibitions to cozy library events and lively performances, you're bound to find something that will create lasting memories for your family. So why not pack your activity bags and dive into this vibrant community spirit? Your weekend adventure awaits!

12.21.2025

Joyful Winter Festivities for Families in Columbus This Holiday Season

Update Discover Holiday Magic: Columbus Beckons Families This Winter As winter settles in over Columbus, the atmosphere buzzes with a charm that only the holiday season can bring. With kids out of school and families looking for ways to embrace the festive spirit, Columbus offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that promise to entertain and create lasting memories. Whether it’s the excitement of drive-through holiday lights or the timeless classic of The Nutcracker, there’s surely something for everyone. Experience Winter’s Delights at Family Events Families can kick off their holiday fun with annual favorites such as the Columbus Zoo's Wildlights, featuring dazzling LED displays and special character meet-and-greets. Open until early January, this event is an extraordinary way to immerse in the holiday spirit after daybreak. In addition to the festive lights, children can enjoy the unique Rudolph in 4D experience—all while marveling at the zoo's numerous animals. For something unique, families can participate in Butch Bando's Fantasy of Lights. This enchanting drive-through light display opens its gates nightly, allowing families to enjoy sweet treats like complimentary cocoa while enveloped in a magical light wonderland. Social media users should definitely capture their favorite moments to share with friends online! Indoor Activities to Keep the Chill at Bay Winter doesn’t mean confinement indoors; however, should the cold weather become unbearable, there are many engaging indoor locations to visit. Columbus boasts various indoor play spaces, like the popular Westerville Community Center's indoor playground and Graeter’s with its delightful play area. Enabling parents to enjoy delicious ice cream while their kids make new friends, these spots ensure that winter fun does not have to take place outside! Connecting with Nature For families who enjoy the outdoors, the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks offer a series of winter hiking programs perfect for exploring the scenic wonders of the midwest. Parents can take their children on leisurely strolls along trails adorned with twinkling lights, making evening turns into magical experiences. Artistic Ventures and Learning Experiences Inside the walls of the Columbus Museum of Art, families can engage in creative pursuits during the Winter Art Break sessions. Children can tap into their artistic talents with discounted admission on select Sundays, making it an affordable educational experience amidst the seasonal hustle and bustle. Why not blend a visit to the museum with an afternoon trip to the library to check out some holiday-themed books? Capturing the Countdown: New Year's Eve Family Fun As the days count down to the New Year, Columbus does not disappoint in hosting family-friendly celebrations that welcome 2026. Many local venues prepare special events complete with activities designed to keep the little ones engaged and entertained until midnight. Parents can explore local skating rinks, such as Skate Zone 71, which hosts a family celebration featuring a mock countdown that’s perfect for young children. After all, what better way to welcome the New Year than with laughter and skating under twinkling lights? Plan the Perfect Holiday Season In summary, Columbus flourishes with seasonal charm and numerous family-centric activities that allow you to create cherished memories during winter break and New Year's Eve. Check out the multitude of events—from light displays to art workshops—and make this year's holiday season truly unforgettable! For more activity ideas, feel free to subscribe to local newsletters that keep you updated about current and upcoming happenings. Don’t let winter blues dampen the festive spirit—get out there and explore!

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