12-19-2025 10:25pm

Cincinnati Has Plenty of Holiday Favorites Ready To Go

Beth Callahan Editor

Courtesy of Game Day Communications

WARREN COUNTY, OH -- Looking for things to do south of the county, Cincinnati has many holiday activities to offer to Warren County residents...

Nutcracker Magic with the Cincinnati Ballet: Cincinnati Ballet’s holiday favorite returns to Music Hall Dec. 18–28 with several new elements, inlcuding the debut of new Music Director Alyssa Wang. The 2025 production includes several updates introduced last year, including new Nutcracker heads and wigs representing diverse skin tones an hair textures, and new choreography for some scenes. The Nutcracker Story Walk also returns to Washington Park through Jan. 30, transforming the area with six duct-tape sculptures created by Art Academy students. Tickets start at $39 at cballet.org.

Cue the seat warmers: head to Cincinnati’s Nights of Lights: With winter break underway, Cincinnati’s Nights of Lights is hitting its busiest stretch. The mile-long, drive-thru display at the Clermont County Fairgrounds runs through January 3 and features millions of synchronized lights, fan-favorite displays. Organizers offer these "bright ideas" to maximize fun:
- Visit on weeknights - or Sunday
- Arrive closer to closing time
- Print the activity sheet before you go to occupy kids.
- Make it a cozy car ride with PJS, hot chocolate and snacks.
- Buy tickets online in advance.
Servatii Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt keeps the week busy: The Servatii Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt continues this week with a full lineup of activities including Dickens carolers, Frozen characters, a murder mystery, Merry-Oke finals, and a Santa brunch. Full schedule available at cincinnatichristkindlmarkt.com.

It's a Neon NYE at Hard Rock: Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati is turning up the volume this New Year’s Eve with a free Neo Party inside the Hard Rock Cafe. The celebration starts at 10 p.m. on Dec. 31 and features KISS 107’s JonJon and DJ Boywife, plus neon lights, smoke effects, a balloon drop and high-energy vibes. VIP packages are available now, including booth service for eight or mezzanine tickets with private bars and party favors. Guests must be 21 or older.
Frisch’s warms up winter with comfort food favorites: Frisch’s Big Boy rolls out its Winter Comfort Foods menu December 29 through February 8 at participating locations. Returning favorites include the Grippo’s Grilled Cheese, Chicken Potpie, Meatloaf and the Peanut Butter Piebaby.