Follow the Glow: Holiday Adventures on Fairfield County’s Tinsel & Traditions Trail

If your holiday wish list includes twinkling lights, warm cocoa, and memories that linger long after the season ends, Fairfield County, Ohio is calling. Just a short drive from Columbus and the Hocking Hills, this is where small towns deck the streets with cheer, local shops open their doors to festive treasures, and family traditions old and new come to life along the Tinsel & Traditions Trail.

We’re focusing on experiences that bring people together this holiday season. From outdoor adventures and holiday light displays to craft markets and intimate workshops, every stop along the trail offers an opportunity to create lasting memories and support local businesses in Fairfield County.

Wander Through Holiday Magic

For explorers, adventurers, and families seeking unique experiences that create lasting memories, this collection of events invites you to discover the unexpected joys of the season and awaken your sense of wonder.

Miracle on Lancaster Street in Millersport (November 8, 12–4 PM) is a joyful kickoff to the season. Watch Santa’s grand arrival in a horse-drawn carriage, join Karen’s Bakery for sugar cookie icing fun, and wander through Buckeye Lake Place to see new holiday collections. Be sure to enter the “Tree-mendous Giveaway” when attending the event, and receive double entries to win a Christmas tree for your home. Seasonal refreshments, community cheer, and small-town charm make this one of the best family-friendly holiday events just a short jaunt from Columbus.

For a reflective start to Thanksgiving, join Lancaster Alive for its 12th Annual Thanksgiving Mt. Pleasant Hike. Trek to the top of Mount Pleasant, burn a few calories, connect with friends, and take a moment to give thanks for your community while enjoying the beautiful views from Rising Park. The hike begins at 9:30 AM on Thanksgiving morning.

Step into history at A Rock Mill Holiday (December 7, 1-4 PM), and view a restored 1800s gristmill towering over the Hocking River Gorge up close. Enjoy free cookies, hot drinks, and a glimpse into life from centuries past. Enter for a chance to win a live Christmas Tree from Saum Family Farm.

Holiday storytelling comes alive at the Fontanini Nativity Display at Crossroads Event Center (Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from December 7th to January 4, 6–9 PM). Nearly life-size figures bring the first Christmas to life, creating a reflective, intimate experience for families seeking a meaningful moment in Fairfield County.

Winterlights at Alley Park (December 11-14, 6-8 PM) invites visitors to stroll through thousands of glowing lights and floating luminaries, hear the crackle of a warm bonfire, enjoy peppermint kettle corn, and savor a truly magical winter evening. These experiences are perfect for travelers seeking a holiday getaway from Columbus or a detour from the Hocking Hills filled with wonder and awe.

Small Town Charm, Big Holiday Spirit

For those who love festive streets, community parades, and family-friendly gatherings, these events showcase the warmth and personality of Fairfield County’s towns.

The Lancaster Holiday Parade (November 22, 10-noon) fills downtown streets with marching bands, floats, and the contagious joy of the season. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the spectacle, making it one of the most beloved holiday events in Central Ohio.

Pickerington Village glows with small-town magic at the Holiday Gathering & City Christmas Tree Lighting (Dec. 5, 5–8 PM), as carols fill the air, the tree sparkles to life, and the whole town feels wrapped in holiday warmth. Enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, a kiddie train, balloon artists, a petting zoo, and photos with Santa, followed by the Lion’s Club Lighted Parade. Don’t forget to stop by Combustion Brewery & Taproom for the Holiday Gift Market, featuring over 50 local artisans with gifts that sparkle with personality.

Lancaster’s WinterFest & Tree Lighting (Dec. 6, 12–5:30 PM) fills downtown with holiday sparkle. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop down city streets, while live music, scavenger hunts, and family-friendly fun set the stage for the season’s most joyful celebration. Local shops transform into festive showcases, inviting visitors to explore, sip, shop, and soak in the spirit of the season.

In Baltimore, Hometown Holidays (Dec. 7, 12–8 PM) offers free daytime activities for the entire family throughout the walkable downtown area, ending with a sparkling lighted parade.

Other cozy celebrations include Simply Christmas in Lithopolis (Dec. 13, 9 AM–3 PM), with a pancake breakfast, unique gifts, live music, children’s activities, and Santa at The Wagnalls Memorial Library, and Santa in the Village at the Bremen Historical Society (Dec. 14, 3–5 PM), perfect for families to enjoy crafts, conversation, and a classic visit with Santa.

These experiences are ideal for travelers looking for family-friendly holiday events near Columbus or Hocking Hills, with small-town charm, festive decorations, and community spirit.

Lights, Love, and Local Traditions

There’s something timeless about the sparkle of lights, the sound of carols in the air, and the scent of pine filling your living room. And if you’re on a mission to find the perfect Christmas tree this year, you’re in good company. As Clark Griswold so wisely declared, “The most enduring traditions of the season are best enjoyed in the warm embrace of kith and kin.” So bundle up, grab the family (and maybe a thermos of cocoa), and make a day of it at one of Fairfield County’s beloved tree farms. Whether you’re wandering the rows at Albert Family Tree Farm & Nursery in Amanda, searching for that just-right spruce at Beck’s Christmas Tree Farm, or choosing a fir that would make Clark himself proud at Saum Family Farms or Timberpeg Tree Farm in Lancaster, you’ll find more than a tree; you’ll find a little holiday magic rooted right here in Fairfield County.

The Advent Window Walk (Dec. 1–Jan. 1, 6–10 PM) turns dozens of historic downtown homes into a life-size residential Advent calendar. Families and visitors can wander on foot to see illuminated window displays celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, bringing a sense of community and artistry to the heart of Central Ohio.

The Downtown Christmas Stroll (Dec. 13, 5:30–9 PM) blends music, crafts, hot chocolate, and visits to historic churches for seasonal performances, all within the glow of Lancaster’s historic streets and holiday lights.

For music lovers, The Nostalgics Big Band Christmas Bash (December 7, 3-4:30 PM) at the Victoria Opera House in Baltimore offers free admission to a festive big band concert, followed by the Baltimore Lighted Holiday Parade.

The Tipsy Tinsel Trolley Tour on the Fun Bus Trolley is a 21+ BYOB adventure through Lancaster’s sparkling lights, complete with holiday trivia, ugly sweater contests, and giveaways—perfect for a grown-up holiday outing. December 27, 5:30, 7:00, 8:30, and 10 PM boarding times.

Explore Lancaster’s festive creativity on the Holiday Spirit Trail, which highlights both downtown businesses and residential neighborhoods. Downtown businesses compete in a window display contest, each adorned with seasonal decorations, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer. Beyond downtown, residential streets feature beautifully decorated homes that fill neighborhoods with sparkling lights and whimsical displays—perfect for a leisurely stroll or drive. Together, this two-part trail offers an immersive experience, celebrating the holiday spirit of Lancaster’s residents and local businesses alike.

Finally, the Fairfield County Festival of Lights (Thanksgiving Day–December 25 | Sunday–Wednesday 6–9 PM, Thursday–Saturday 6–10 PM) offers carriage rides through the lights, visits with Santa, themed nights, scavenger hunts, and plenty of hot cocoa, creating a true winter wonderland experience. These events are ideal for travelers seeking holiday light displays near Columbus or the Hocking Hills.

Gifting from the Heart

For creative gift-givers and shoppers looking for meaningful, handmade presents for their loved ones, these events highlight small businesses and workshops that let you give with heart.

Holiday Sip, Shop, & Savor (Nov. 22–23, 11-5 PM) Join Buckeye Lake Winery for their Holiday Sip & Shop event. Take a stroll through the barn, listen to holiday tunes, shop from incredible vendors, and grab a drink at the bar! Oh, and don’t forget to say hi to Santa! This event is completely free to the public.

Winter at the Round Barn (Nov. 30, 10–4 PM) brings together 100 small businesses at the Fairfield County Fairgrounds for a one-day-only pop-up market filled with handmade gifts, holiday décor, and cozy finds — a must-visit for those seeking unique gifts from local artisans.

The Make Your Own Christmas Gifts Workshop (December 11, 6–7:30 PM) at Keller Market House invites you to craft herbal salves, beauty creams, and aromatherapy gifts. Everything you need is provided, including tins, ribbons, and handmade ornaments. Learn from generations of herbalists and take home something unique and personal.

Pickerington’s Holiday Gift Market (Dec. 5, 5–8:30 PM) features over 50 local vendors, offering handmade crafts, baked goods, jewelry, décor, and more — perfect for conscious holiday shopping that supports small businesses.

Visit Stoutsville on December 13, from 1–8 PM, for A Very Merry Stoutsville Christmas, where the day includes a craft bazaar, lunch, and dinner fundraisers, Santa visits, and an evening parade, all creating a festive local experience.

Plan Your Perfect Holiday Getaway

Whether you’re planning a holiday weekend escape from Columbus, a festive detour from the Hocking Hills, or a day trip from another corner of the state, Fairfield County is your destination for joyful experiences, cozy moments, and unforgettable holiday memories. Wander through historic downtowns, sip warm drinks from local cafés, browse boutique shops, and follow the glow of twinkling lights along the Tinsel & Traditions Trail. Every experience supports local makers and small businesses, helping you give gifts with heart while creating memories with family and friends.

Extend your stay and cozy up in one of our welcoming hotels, charming cabins and cottages, or stylish downtown flats—each offering its own festive touch of comfort. From cheerful downtown strolls to quiet nights under glowing lights, your holiday getaway awaits. Find your stay and plan your visit at VisitFairfieldCounty.org/where-to-stay/

Be sure to download the Visit Fairfield County app to explore the trail, check event details, and plan your ultimate 2025 holiday escape.