Celebrate the Season: Ohio Holiday Lights Trail Shines Across All Corners of the State
Published by: Ohio, the heart of it all
Original article found here
(COLUMBUS, Ohio) Communities across Ohio are glowing a little brighter this season as TourismOhio unveils the 2025 Ohio Holiday Lights Trail featuring 79 spectacular light displays stretching from small-town downtowns to major attractions.
From walk-through winter wonderlands and historic homes wrapped in twinkling displays to drive-through light shows perfect for a cozy night out, the Ohio Holiday Lights Trail highlights festive experiences in every region of the state — making it easy for families and friends to create memories close to home or on a holiday-themed road trip.
"The Ohio Holiday Lights Trail is really a celebration of local spirit," said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development which oversees TourismOhio. "Every community has its own traditions — its own way of making the season feel magical. When you see how many places across Ohio are lighting up for the holidays, you realize just how much pride and care goes into making this time of year special."
Highlights Along the 2025 Ohio Holiday Lights Trail Include:
Beloved classics like Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo
Hidden gems and local favorites like Gallipolis in Lights and Zane’s Landing Trail of Lights
Historic and cultural experiences like Deck the Hall at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens in Akron and Carillon Historical Park's A Carillon Christmas in Dayton
Immersive walk-through gardens such as FROST: An Ice Capped Garden Experience in Cleveland and Conservatory Aglow at Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus
Drive-through displays including WonderLight's Christmas in Ohio, Light Up Middletown, and Christmas Cruise Thru in Hicksville
The full trail and interactive map can be found at Ohio.org/Holidays, where visitors can sort by region, and plan trips with nearby dining, attractions, and lodging.
Why the Holiday Lights Trail Matters
TourismOhio research shows that one in four visitors coming home to see friends and family never leave the house to do an activity — meaning many miss out on the small traditions that create lasting memories.
"These displays are more than lights," said state tourism director Sarah Wickham. "They're an invitation to get out into our communities — to walk downtown with a cup of cocoa, to support local shops, to make memories with the people who matter."
Plan Your Own Holiday Lights Road Trip
Visitors are encouraged to:
Explore the interactive map
Use #HolidaysInOhio to share their adventures
Make an evening of it by visiting local restaurants, shops, and downtown events along the way
About TourismOhio
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.
###
For Immediate Release:
Nov. 18, 2025
For more information, contact:
Mason Waldvogel
Mason.Waldvogel@development.ohio.gov
Editor's Note: Media wishing to get in touch with specific local Holiday Lights Trail displays or coordinators may contact Mason Waldvogel at mason.waldvogel@development.ohio.gov for introductions and assistance.