Your Holly Jolly Guide to Winterfest Cleveland

Bundle up and join the masses for the annual Winterfest Cleveland. The festival includes everything from ice skating to horse-drawn carriages to demonstrations by the Cleveland Cavaliers. If you can’t seem to shake off your Grinch this holiday season, let Winterfest get you in the Christmas spirit. 

For additional recommendations on what to do and where to eat in Northern Ohio, be sure to access our exclusive Vacation Guide. Our on-the-go guide simplifies your travel planning and best of all—it’s free!

Everything You Need to Know About Winterfest Cleveland

Experience the magic of Christmas at Winterfest Cleveland. The event is the city’s largest winter festival, and everyone in town plays a role in the snow-covered fun. Experience it for yourself this year at Winterfest!

Cleveland Foundation Skating Rink

The Cleveland skating rink will be open to the public from dawn to dusk. During Winterfest, attendees will be able to skate for free. Bring your skates or rent them there, but don’t miss your chance to glide under the shadows of the downtown buildings.

Horse-Drawn Carriages

Free horse-drawn carriage rides are available from 1-4 during Winterfest. Pick up your carriage ticket and hop aboard near Old Stone Church. 

Winterfest Kids’ Village, presented by the Cleveland Cavaliers

Let the kids loose at the Winterfest Kids’ Village. Enjoy craft-making, face painting, Home Depot activities, samples from Jack Frost Donuts, and demonstrations from the Cleveland Cavaliers. 

Tower City Center Holiday Shows

Enjoy holiday performances at Tower City Center. Shows are conducted by the Performing Arts Center and will include The Toy Soldier, Fairy Godmother, and Olmsted. While you’re perusing Tower City Center, don’t forget to check out the shops and ride the holiday train.

Old Stone Church 

Make your way over to Old Stone Church towards dinner time. Enjoy a free concert, cookies, hot chocolate, and final performance by the Old Stone Choir.  

Shop Euclid Avenue

Stop into some of Cleveland’s favorite stores to celebrate Small Business Saturday. Cleveland Clothing Company, The Tea Lab, and The Arcade Shopping mall are just a few of our favorites. 

And to view some of the area’s most talented artists, be sure to check out East Fourth Street. Artists will be actively painting a holiday mural for Cleveland to enjoy.

The Tree Lighting Ceremony

It’s not Christmas until the Public Square tree is lit. Don’t miss the biggest show of the Yuletide season. Festivities start at 6 p.m. and include appearances from Mayor Frank G. Jackson, the Monsters Girls kick-line, Wesley Bright and the Honeytones, and Santa himself. Indulge in cookies and hot cocoa while you wait for the lights to come on. Once the lighting is over, stay for a beautiful firework show. 

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