Discover Ohio’s top holiday light displays in 2025. From drive-through spectacles to walkthrough wonders, find the best spots across Central and Northeast Ohio. Plan your festive visit today!
Did you know Ohio features over 5 million lights in its holiday displays each season?
Ohio turns into a winter wonderland during the holidays. Families drive or walk through illuminated attractions that sparkle with thousands of lights. The state’s Holiday Lights Trail lists 79 spots, from zoos to fairgrounds. These displays mix tradition with new features, like synchronized music shows and photo spots. In 2025, highlights include the Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill and WildLights at the Columbus Zoo. Use this guide to find Ohio’s top holiday light displays and make your season bright.
Central Ohio Highlights
Central Ohio hosts some of the state’s largest light events. Think drive-through routes and zoo spectacles. These spots draw crowds for their scale and festive vibe.
WildLights at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
The Columbus Zoo in Powell shines with millions of lights at WildLights. Animals blend with holiday themes in this walkthrough event. See twinkling trees and illuminated paths. It runs from November 21, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Gates open at 5 p.m. nightly. Ride the train or carousel for extra fun. Snap photos at key spots like the light tunnels. The zoo partners with TourismOhio for this 37th-year tradition.
WonderLight’s Christmas at Hartford Fairgrounds
Drive through two miles of synchronized lights at WonderLight’s Christmas in Hartford. Over a million LEDs dance to Christmas music on your car radio. Spot reindeer and snowmen in the displays. This event at the Hartford Fairgrounds starts in late November and lasts through early January. Tune your radio to the station listed at entry. It takes about 30 minutes to complete. Families love the hassle-free setup—no need to leave the car.
Conservatory Aglow at Franklin Park Conservatory
In Columbus, Franklin Park Conservatory glows with Conservatory Aglow. Walk through gardens lit with sparkling lights and holiday blooms. It combines plants and illuminations for a unique twist. Open from November 22, 2025, to January 4, 2026, except holidays like Christmas. Hours run from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Peek at the model trains and glass art displays. This spot suits quiet evenings or family outings.
Conservatory Aglow, Holiday Blooms transforms Franklin Park
Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights
Head to Lewis Center for Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights at Alum Creek State Park. This three-mile drive-through features tunnels and holiday scenes. Lights sync to music for added magic. It opens in mid-November and closes in early January. Drive slow to enjoy the full show. Proceeds support local causes.
Northeast Ohio Gems
Northeast Ohio offers diverse light attractions. From zoos to historic sites, these displays highlight the region’s charm.
Wild Lights at Akron Zoo
Akron Zoo hosts Wild Lights with over a million lights. Walk paths lined with illuminated animals and festive setups. Choirs perform on select nights. It runs from late November to December. Open evenings from 5 p.m. Meet Santa or watch light shows. The zoo focuses on conservation, adding meaning to the celebration.
The Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill
Clifton Mill in Greene County boasts the Legendary Lights for 38 years. Over 5 million lights cover the mill, gorge, and bridges. Watch the 100-foot light waterfall cascade down. A new 20ft Twinkling Tree of Lights adds 7,000 bulbs near the water wheel—perfect for photos. The Covered Bridge hosts a music-synced show. Visit Santa’s Workshop to see him load his sleigh every 15 minutes.
Dates: November 28, 2025, to December 23, plus December 24 and 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Gates open at 5 p.m., lights on at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. nightly. Special events include the opening night flip by Governor Mike DeWine on November 28. On December 1, Greene County Commissioners light it up, benefiting the Greene County Fish Pantry. Dayton Children’s Hospital Ambassadors join on December 5 and 12.
Explore the Miniature Village, Santa Claus Museum, and Toy Collection. Eat at the restaurant or shop gifts during winter hours: Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This display earned spots on USA TODAY and ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight. It draws visitors from afar.
FROST: An Ice Capped Garden Experience
In Cleveland, FROST turns gardens into an icy spectacle. Walk through frosted paths with lights and sculptures. It runs during the holiday season. Combine it with nearby WinterLand for more fun.
Downtown Willoughby Lights
Stroll Downtown Willoughby for free neighborhood displays. Lights adorn shops and streets. It creates a cozy, festive downtown atmosphere. Open evenings throughout December.
Other Must-See Displays Across Ohio
Don’t miss spots in other regions. In Southwest Ohio, Pyramid Hill Lights in Hamilton offers extensive grounds with illuminations from November 14, 2025, to January 4, 2026. The Christmas Ranch in Morrow features walkthrough paths with music.
Southeast Ohio has Portsmouth Winterfest and Shine On Chillicothe. Northwest includes Toledo Zoo Lights Before Christmas. Use the Ohio Holiday Lights Trail map from TourismOhio for all 79 locations. It covers everything from drive-throughs to neighborhood shows.
Tips for Visiting Ohio’s Top Holiday Light Displays
Plan ahead to beat crowds. Buy tickets online for popular spots like zoos. Check weather—dress warm for walkthroughs.
Go on weekdays for shorter lines. Arrive early, around opening time. Bring snacks for drive-throughs. Tune radios for synced shows. Support locals: Many events donate to groups like Dayton Children’s Hospital.
Ohio’s top holiday light displays offer magic for all ages. Pick a few and create memories this season.
