November 22nd - February 16th

Experience the glow of the season

Winter magic abounds at Wanderlights, where over half a million lights and special experiences brighten Downtown Columbus.

Columbus Shines Bright

Holiday spirit shouldn’t be dimmed by the stress of the season. Wanderlights offers a chance to step away from the rush, and embrace the escape of holiday magic.

Wanderlights is more than just a light display; it’s Columbus’ ultimate holiday destination.

Families, couples, and solo adventurers find joy in the glow of lights that are free to experience! Plus, there are one-of-a-kind holiday experiences against the backdrop of Downtown Columbus.

Wanderlights

November 22nd through February 16th
5 to 10 pm daily

Ready to indulge in your winter wanderlust? Experiencing Downtown decked out is easy. There are just 3 easy steps to a night of fun and lights:

Choose any day of the week from 5-10 pm

Stroll through all three spectacular stops!

160 S High Street
Columbus Commons
Start your Wanderlights experience at Columbus Commons and see the park shining brighter than ever with new twists on this holiday tradition (easy parking is a plus). Experience a kaleidoscope of color as you stroll through the Commons and get ready to make the season BRIGHT. Magical memories are waiting to be made daily, but check out special events through the holiday season for an extra-festive atmosphere.

Wanderlights at Columbus Commons is possible thanks to generous support from the American Electric Power Foundation.
160 S High Street
50 W Town Street
Town Street
New this year, Town Street will be twinkling with expanded lights and decorations, projection shows and a seasonal mural. As you waddle over to the Scioto Mile, see if you can spot all 30 penguins between High Street and Civic Center Drive.
50 W Town Street
233 S Civic Center Drive
Scioto Mile
The Downtown riverfront will be decked out in an elevated glow, centered around the Scioto Mile Fountain, which will be illuminated by more than 40 sculptural lights that will provide passersby and Milestone 229 patrons the ultimate photo-worthy experience.
233 S Civic Center Drive

Holiday Extravaganza

Saturday, December 7

Come Downtown for a flurry of festive events are all happening Downtown. Convenient parking is available at 55 E Rich St.

Downtown Lazarus Santa's Workshop

Lazarus Building

Mr. Claus himself will be at the historic Lazarus Building galleria for photo ops along with holiday activities for the whole family including arts and crafts, face painting, letters to Santa, Secret Santa shopping, and more. At 7 p.m., Santa will lead the group to Columbus Commons. 

Columbus Commons

Enjoy free hot chocolate,  live music, a traveling photo booth, carousel rides, a bar offering hot boozy beverages, plus a shoppable holiday market by The Good Market while wandering amongst the lights.

Common Thread

Sleigh the holiday season with holly, jolly local shopping! Check out the new juice lounge VitaliTEA along with other small businesses this season.

FREE Trolley Hop

Starting Locations:

The Trolley Hop will offer a festive journey through the heart of Columbus. Celebrate the season with shopping, holiday-themed activities, and programming for the whole family.

FREE Yuletide on Gay

This one-day-only free street festival transforms Gay & High to a pedestrian-only winter wonderland experience. Find an iceless ice rink with complimentary skate rentals, live ice sculpture carving, live DJ entertainment, DORA beverages, and food trucks, all happening under “Current”. It’s sure to be a merry and gay time!

Getting Hungry?

Check out recommended restaurants for a Downtown dinner.

Spreading Hope

As the charitable partner to Wanderlights, Nationwide Children’s Hospital will have a special butterfly light sculpture at Columbus Commons, the Holiday Trolley will take visitors to the hospital lawn light display, and you can get your gifts wrapped for voluntary donations. All contributions benefit life-saving research and care for children.

Spark Winter Joy at Wanderlights