Ohio is a dynamic state known for its rich history, vibrant cities, world-class museums, and family-friendly attractions. It’s also home to communities with some of the best elementary schools in Ohio, making it a great place for families to live, learn, and explore. For parents researching areas with the best public elementary schools in Ohio, the state offers countless seasonal events and educational outings that make weekends and holidays truly memorable.
From dazzling holiday light displays and cultural festivals to hands-on museums and outdoor adventures, Ohio has something for every age group. Below is your curated list of November & December events, followed by year-round family favorites.
Interesting Facts about Ohio
Birthplace of Aviation
Ohio is the birthplace of the Wright Brothers, pioneers of modern aviation.
Presidential Legacy
Eight U.S. presidents were born in Ohio — earning it the nickname “The Mother of Presidents.”
Rock & Roll Roots
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is located in Cleveland, celebrating music legends from around the world.
🎉 November & December 2025 Events in Ohio
1. Wildlights at Columbus Zoo & Aquarium – Columbus
A spectacular holiday light festival featuring millions of lights, animated displays, visits with Santa, and festive treats for kids.
Dates: November 22, 2025 – January 5, 2026
Location: Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, Columbus
Link: https://www.columbuszoo.org/events
Did you know?
The Columbus Zoo is one of the largest and most respected zoos in the United States!
2. Festival of Lights at Toledo Zoo – Toledo
One of the Midwest’s most beloved holiday traditions, with animal exhibits, dazzling lights, live entertainment, and winter treats.
Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Location: Toledo Zoo
Link: https://www.toledozoo.org/events
3. Cleveland Public Square Winterfest – Cleveland
A festive downtown celebration with tree lighting, ice skating, fireworks, live music, and family activities.
Dates: November 30, 2025
Location: Public Square, Cleveland
Link: https://www.thisiscleveland.com/events
4. Cincinnati Zoo Festival of Lights – Cincinnati
Enjoy beautifully illuminated animal exhibits, themed light tunnels, holiday music, and kid-friendly attractions.
Dates: November 22, 2025 – January 5, 2026
Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Link: https://cincinnatizoo.org/events
5. Yuletide Village – Renaissance Park, Waynesville
Step into a medieval-style Christmas village featuring artisans, performances, storytelling, and festive food.
Dates: Select weekends in November & December 2025
Location: Renaissance Park, Waynesville
Link: https://www.renaissancefestival.com
6. Stan Hywet Hall “Deck the Hall” – Akron
Explore a historic mansion beautifully decorated for the holidays with themed rooms, gardens, and festive displays.
Dates: November 29 – December 30, 2025
Location: Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Akron
Link: https://www.stanhywet.org
7. Pyramid Hill Journey Borealis – Hamilton
A magical nighttime art experience featuring illuminated installations, nature trails, and interactive light displays.
Dates: November 2025 – January 2026
Location: Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park
Link: https://www.pyramidhill.org
8. Moonpreneur In-person Workshop For Kids
A fun and educational online program offering courses in Robotics, Coding, AI, IoT, and Game Development. Perfect for children interested in STEM — and a great complement to academics for families exploring the best elementary schools in Ohio.
Date: Year-round sessions + December special workshops
Link: Moonpreneur In-person Workshop For Kids
🌿 Year-Round Activities in Ohio
COSI – Center of Science and Industry
Location: Columbus
Link: https://cosi.org
Hands-on science exhibits, planetarium shows, and STEM experiences perfect for curious kids.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Location: Cleveland
Link: https://www.rockhall.com
An iconic museum showcasing music history through interactive exhibits and multimedia experiences.
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
Location: Dayton
Link: https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil
The world’s largest military aviation museum with aircraft, simulators, and family programs.
Hocking Hills State Park
Location: Southeastern Ohio
Link: https://ohiodnr.gov
Famous for caves, waterfalls, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures for all ages.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Location: Cleveland
Link: https://www.clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo
A year-round zoo experience with engaging animal exhibits and educational programs.
Kings Island
Location: Mason
Link: https://www.visitkingsisland.com
One of the largest amusement parks in the Midwest, offering rides, shows, and seasonal events.
Conclusion
Ohio offers a perfect blend of seasonal celebrations, educational attractions, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences — making it an ideal destination for families and parents researching communities with the top elementary schools in Ohio. Whether you’re enjoying festive winter lights or exploring year-round attractions, there’s always something exciting to discover across the Buckeye State.
Moonpreneur is on a mission to disrupt traditional education and future-proof the next generation with holistic learning solutions. Its Innovator Program is building tomorrow’s workforce by training students in AI/ML, Robotics, Coding, IoT, and Apps, enabling entrepreneurship through experiential learning.
🌎 Explore More Local Guides
Planning to visit or live in other cities? Discover events in other U.S. towns with our helpful guides:
- Things to Do in Dublin – Exploring Upcoming Events
- Things to Do in Sunnyvale – Exploring Upcoming Events
- Things to Do in DeLand – Exploring Upcoming Events
- Things to Do in Denton – Exploring Upcoming Events
- Things to Do in Edmonton – Exploring Upcoming Events
- Things to Do in Emeryville – Exploring Upcoming Events
- Things to Do in North York – Exploring Upcoming Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Ohio offers many winter activities including holiday light festivals at major zoos, Winterfest celebrations in cities like Cleveland, indoor science museums, and family-friendly seasonal markets across the state.
Popular November and December events in Ohio include Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo, the Cincinnati Zoo Festival of Lights, Cleveland Public Square Winterfest, Yuletide Village, and holiday tours at Stan Hywet Hall.
Families can enjoy hands-on science centers like COSI, zoo visits, light festivals, museums, state parks, amusement parks, and educational online programs focused on STEM learning.
Yes, Ohio hosts many free or low-cost events such as public tree lighting ceremonies, winter festivals, museum free days, community holiday parades, and outdoor seasonal celebrations.
Top kid-friendly destinations include the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, Cincinnati Zoo, COSI, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, and Hocking Hills State Park.
