Once Thanksgiving is over, the holiday season will be in full swing. Red and green will be on every storefront and holiday music will echo through halls and radios. Cleveland celebrates the season in style with winter fun for everyone.
Winterfest
Operating Nov. 27–February 2022 Winterfest starts the holiday season with bang. A tree lighting and holiday displays throughout Cleveland’s downtown streets are flicked on for visitors to enjoy. Over the holiday months, musical performances, ice skating, guided tours and special events take over Cleveland’s Public Square.
Fans of the holiday classic A Christmas Story, tour the house where Ralphie and Randy lived. Visitors can book a stay in the house for an unforgettable Christmas vacation. See the backyard where Ralphie defeated Black Bart, try on the iconic pink bunny pajamas and hide under the sink like Randy.
Cleveland Botanical Garden
Step inside “A Garden Holiday” at Cleveland Botanical Garden. Open Nov. 20–Jan. 2, 2022, visitors can be fully immersed in a winter wonderland of towering lighted trees, colorful plants and festive gingerbread sculptures. On weekends Dec. 20–31, guests can grab a cup of hot cocoa, listen to a story, roast marshmallows and join in on community crafts while visiting the gardens.
Metroparks Zoo
Bundle up and head to the Metroparks Zoo for the Wild Winter Lights display. More than 1 million lights illuminate the zoo’s grounds for a magical park visit featuring a 50-foot-tall tree. Costume characters, a carousel, model trains, ice carvers and live music come together for a holiday treat. Drive through and walk-through experiences are available for families to enjoy.
Winter Riverfest
Beginning the day after Thanksgiving, Cleveland Metroparks hosts a winter wonderland celebration at Rivergate Park. Located right along the Cuyahoga River, guests 21 years of age and older can enjoy a refreshing beer next to fire pits at a beer garden. Families can enjoy shopping and a unique, heated igloo dining experience at Merwin’s Wharf. With a maximum of eight people per igloo, the entire family can join in on a shared meal. Reservations must be made in advance.
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