This may be the most wonderful time of the year, but not so much for our wallets. All those presents, ugly holiday sweaters and jelly-of-the-month subscriptions can really add up. Hoping to celebrate the season in Cleveland without having to sell your house in exchange for an RV (e.g. Cousin Eddie)? We’ve got you covered.
This holiday season, the best scenery at the Allen Theatre is in the lobby. The Festival of Trees returns with designs by the most talented artists in The Land. This free and family-friendly event runs throughout the season, so be sure to stop by before or after that special holiday outing with your family at Plahouse Square.
Holiday Lights on Public Square (Begins Nov. 26)
Can’t make it to the lighting ceremony at WinterLand? Never fear. These 500,000+ holiday lights dazzle all season long. Trust us, Cleveland’s Public Square has never looked better — or brighter. Stop by for a stroll through the lights or jump out on the ice at the Square’s skating rink. It’s a true winter wonderland. And, of course, if you’re too afraid of the chilly temps, then head inside to Tower City Center to scope the massive Christmas tree and frequent showings of the Toy Soldier.
University Circle’s annual CircleFest is distinctly Cleveland. Some of our city's finest cultural institutions, gardens, galleries, churches and schools open their doors for this festive winter celebration. Visitors can expect an afternoon full of activities, live music, great food and holiday shopping. Wade Oval comes alive with ice carving, horse drawn carriage rides, ice skating, Santa photo-ops and more. While some activties do have paid admission, most of them are completely free to the public as the first holiday gift of the season.
Some of the most beautiful — and colorful — holiday decorations have nothing to do with lights. Nature puts on her own dazzling display with thousands of poinsettias inside this lush Glenville neighborhood greenhouse. Need some calm and quiet during this cray Christmas season? Then step inside for a holiday scene like no other. Don’t forget your camera.
Lakewood knows how to party. Join 20,000+ other merrymakers for food trucks, live music, Roundstone Beer Garden, Holiday Parade, caroling and even more holiday hijinks. Don’t miss the Indoor Holiday Market to get a start on your seasonal shopping. Oh, and did we mention the winter fireworks? Your night will end with a bang.
Experience the holidays with an artistic twist. Enjoy pop-up music and theater performances as you meander through Gordon Square and the nearby Cleveland Public Theatre campus. Merriment, food, shopping — and even a fire pit for s’mores — round out this celebration of the arts and this vibrant Cleveland neighborhood.
Need a Great Backdrop for Your Holiday Card Photo?
Get to one of Destination Cleveland’s script signs located around Cleveland for that perfect (and free) holiday card backdrop. Learn more here.