You often hear Toledo natives talk about how it’s never anything to do here in the city. I beg to differ. The holiday season is one of my favorite seasons in Toledo because of how much they have going on for the holidays. There are so many things to do to have a good time!

Make sure you come back to this post and check for updated events!

Here’s a list of everything that’s happening for the upcoming holiday season:

Toledo Zoo Lights Before Christmas: Starting November 22, 2024, and running through December 31, this event transforms the zoo into a holiday wonderland with over one million lights, including 200 illuminated animal displays and the iconic Big Tree. It’s a fun, magical experience for kids and families, with tickets required .

The Blade Holiday Parade: On November 16, 2024, from 10 a.m. to noon, enjoy the annual downtown parade featuring giant balloons, floats, marching bands, and more. Santa’s appearance is a highlight, making it an exciting start to the holiday season .

Holidays at the Manor House: From December 7-15, 2024, Wildwood Preserve’s historic Manor House will be beautifully decorated, with free admission. There’s also a model train exhibit for children to enjoy. On select weekends, carriage rides through the scenic preserve are available for a small fee .

Toledo Symphony Holiday Concert: Enjoy classical holiday tunes performed by the Toledo Symphony Orchestra at the Peristyle Theater.

. Wolcott House Victorian Christmas: Experience a 19th-century Christmas at the Wolcott House Museum, decorated in Victorian holiday splendor.

Imagination Station’s Winter Wonderland: Engage in hands-on, holiday-themed science exhibits and activities designed for families.

Hensville Lights: Head to Hensville in downtown Toledo for a stunning holiday light display that runs from November through January.

The Nutcracker Ballet: Watch Toledo Ballet’s annual performance of “The Nutcracker,” a beloved holiday tradition for families.

Christmas in the Village at the Toledo Botanical Garden: Take a stroll through the beautifully lit garden and visit with Santa in the village area.

Whitehouse Village Winter Festival: Enjoy ice carving, Santa visits, and live entertainment at this family-friendly winter celebration.

Winter Brewfest: Adults can celebrate the season with craft beers from local breweries at Fifth Third Field, home of the Toledo Mud Hens.

Ice Skating at Ottawa Park: Take the family ice skating at this outdoor rink, one of the largest in the region.

The Olander Park Lighted Walk: Stroll through Sylvania’s Olander Park, which is transformed into a winter wonderland with dazzling holiday lights.

The Toledo Rep’s A Christmas Carol: See a live performance of the classic holiday tale, a yearly tradition at the Toledo Repertory Theatre.

Metroparks Ice Carving Competition: Watch professional ice carvers transform blocks of ice into intricate sculptures at various Metropark locations.

Model Train Display at Sauder Village: Explore a detailed, holiday-themed model train exhibit at nearby Sauder Village, perfect for kids.

Holiday Nights at the Toledo Museum of Art: Special events featuring seasonal music, art workshops, and holiday crafts for children and families.

Frost Fest: An indoor holiday festival at the SeaGate Convention Centre with games, live entertainment, and visits from holiday characters.

Holiday Craft Markets: Check out local craft fairs and markets around Toledo, such as the Art Loop Holiday Loop, for unique gifts and handmade items.

The Snow Queen - A ballet performed by the Grand Kyiv Ballet at the Stranahan Theater on November 21 .

A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland - A festive show on November 22 at the Stranahan Theater

Happy Holidays and hope you and your families have fun!

Xoxo,

Britt