November 8, 2024, Press Release from the Ohio Department of Development: (COLUMBUS, Ohio) – TourismOhio is kicking off the holiday season with the debut of its new Ohio Holiday Events Guide, filled with 440 festive events across the state sure to chase away the winter blues.
Now available online at Ohio.org, the Ohio Holiday Events Guide spotlights five standout events from each of Ohio’s 88 counties, organized by month and region. TourismOhio consulted with county convention and visitors bureaus to curate the events taking place from November through New Year’s Day.
The cover of the guide features a cheerful crowd gathered for the bright Merry-Etta Tree Lighting in Marietta, one of the highlighted events in the guide.
“The holidays are all about creating magical memories with the people you love—and there’s no better place to do that than at one of Ohio’s incredible holiday events,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development, which oversees the TourismOhio office. “Whether you’re continuing a tradition or trying something new, Ohio’s holiday spirit is truly something special—and we look forward to sharing it with everyone!”
The guide features events sure to put even the staunchest grinch in the holiday spirit – from tree lightings and parades to the all-important meetings with Santa and holiday markets to find the perfect present. Highlighted events include traditions like the 86th Annual Portsmouth Area Christmas Parade, twists on old classics like the Santa Fly-In in Batavia, modern classics like the Short North Holiday Hop in Columbus, and new traditions like Port Clinton’s New Year’s Eve Walleye Drop.
“Whether you’re in the mood for a sparkling parade or a cozy holiday market, our guide has events that will make your heart grow three sizes,” said state tourism Director Sarah Wickham. “The holidays are full of tradition, excitement, and fun, and we’re so excited to help Ohioans and visitors make lasting memories this season!”
The Ohio Holiday Events guide is just the start of TourismOhio’s slate of holiday-focused content for the season, including the annual Ohio Holiday Lights Trail. Those looking for a family get-together or a winter break excursion inspiration can check out the Holidays in Ohio landing page at Ohio.org.
Operating within the Ohio Department of Development, TourismOhio works to showcase all Ohio has to offer as a place of adventure, a place of promise, and the place for you.
The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.
