Charming Northeast Ohio Towns to Visit This Holiday Season🎄
As we celebrate this holiday season, the charm and warmth of Northeast Ohio's small towns beckon travelers and locals alike. With twinkling lights, festive events, and community spirit, these towns offer the perfect backdrop for creating lasting holiday memories.
This year, why not explore some of the hidden gems in Northeast Ohio’s Lake County? Here, we've curated a list of five enchanting towns in —Painesville, Madison Village, Willoughby, Fairport Harbor, and Kirtland—that are sure to delight visitors with their unique holiday offerings. Learn about the upcoming events in these Northeast Ohio towns and community events for 2025.
Painesville, OH: A Festive Wonderland
Nestled in Lake County, Painesville is a town where history meets holiday cheer. Known for its beautiful Victorian architecture, Painesville transforms into a festive wonderland every Holiday Season. The historic buildings, adorned with wreaths and garlands, provide a picturesque backdrop for the town’s holiday events.
Featured Holiday Events in Painesville
🎅Santa in the Square: Select Weekend Dates between Saturday, December 6th - December 14th
The big man in red will be in Painesville Square weekends in December leading up to the big day. This is a FREE experience and open to all.
Where:
Downtown Painesville 186 Main St, Painesville, OH 44077 Get Directions
Where Locals Say to Stay:
Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Pub
Address: 348 Mentor Ave, Painesville, OH 44077
Phone: (440) 639-7948
Madison Village, OH: A Cozy Holiday Retreat
Madison Village is a quaint town that exudes small-town charm year-round, but it truly comes alive during the holidays. Its picturesque Main Street and square are adorned with festive decorations that invite visitors to explore and enjoy.
Featured Holiday Events in Madison Village
Christmas in the Village Park: Saturday, December 6th at 2 PM
Get ready for a full day of holiday magic happening Saturday, December 6th at Madison Village Park! All park festivities start at 2 PM!
🛍️ A Small Town Market at South Elementary School (10-3pm!)
❄️ Horse-drawn carriage rides
🍪 Cookie Walk (2–4pm!)
🎶 DJ Jeremy James
🔥 S’mores, hot chocolate, food trucks
🌶️ Chili Cook-Off
🎅 Parade at 5:30 PM + a visit from SANTA
🎁 200 Limited Edition Ornaments handed out after the parade
🎄 And so much more festive fun!
Held during the Christmas in the Village Park, this outdoor market showcases the talents of local crafters and artisans. It's the perfect place to find handmade holiday decorations and gifts.
Where: Madison Village Square: 52-76 OH-84, Madison, OH 44057 Directions
Where Locals Say to Stay:
If You’re Feeling Extra Festive…
Stay at one of the Holiday themed rooms at the Holiday Inn Express Madison.
Address: 181 Water Tower Dr, Madison, OH 44057
If You’re Seeking Quiet & Cozy…
Book a secluded luxury cabin in the woods at Standing Rock Farms.
Address: 7394 Ross Rd, Madison, OH 44057
Kirtland, OH: An Enchanting & Historic Town
Kirtland, OH, is an enchanting town during the holiday season, characterized by its charming atmosphere. Nestled in Lake County, the town offers a picturesque holiday experience with its scenic landscapes and warm community. Renowned for its historic sites and natural beauty, Kirtland serves as an ideal backdrop for festive celebrations.
Featured Holiday Events in Kirtland, OH
Lake Metroparks Farmpark Country Lights Drive-thru: Select Dates December 5th - 28th
This magical experience allows visitors to enjoy a spectacular display of lights from the comfort of their vehicles, making it a delightful outing for all ages. The drive-thru features themed displays and festive music, ensuring a family-friendly experience that keeps everyone warm and entertained.
Historic Kirtland Nativity Exhibit, Christmas in Kirtland: November 30th - December 30th
Each year, hundreds of exquisite Nativity displays bring the spirit of the season to life at Historic Kirtland, drawing visitors from across Ohio and beyond. This year, the collection will also be showcased at the Kirtland Temple Visitors’ Center.
Crafted from a stunning variety of materials—including traditional fabrics, glass, porcelain, jewels, hand-carved wood, clay, and more—these Nativities reflect the beauty and diversity of cultures around the world. You and your family are invited to join us as we experience the peaceful reverence and artistic wonder of the season.
Willoughby, OH: A Vibrant Holiday Experience
Visiting downtown Willoughby, OH during the Christmas holiday season is a truly enchanting experience that captures the essence of festive cheer. As you stroll through the town, you'll be greeted by the warm aroma of seasonal treats wafting from cozy cafes and bakeries. Local shops, adorned with holiday displays, offer a treasure trove of unique gifts and handcrafted items, perfect for last-minute shopping. Whether you're exploring with family or enjoying a romantic evening out, downtown Willoughby promises a memorable holiday experience for everyone.
Holiday Events in Willoughby
Holiday Lighting Ceremony: Thursday, December 4th, 2025 7 PM 🎄
Before we turn on the holiday lights, enjoy the sounds of the season from local entertainment (check back for a list of performers!)
Additional events on Thursday evening include a Live Nativity, sponsored by Willoughby United Methodist Church from 6 pm – 8 pm. The annual Evening Lions Holiday Auction downstairs of City Hall to benefit the Lions Eye Care Program and community service projects starting at 7:45 pm (after the lights).
Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be on stage after the lighting to greet the children.
Dates: Times:
Thursdays: December 11, 18 – 5:00-8:00 PM
Fridays: December 5, 12, 19 – 5:00-8:00 PM
Saturdays: December 6, 13, 20 – 2:00-5:00 PM
Sundays: December 7, 14, 21 – 2:00-5:00 PM
Step outside on December 13th to get a glimpse of Santa as he rides through Willoughby! Santa and his elves will travel through neighborhoods beginning at 11:30 am with the help of the Willoughby Fire Department. The elves will be collecting non-perishable food items for the Willoughby Food Pantries along the route for those who wish to donate.
Fairport Harbor, OH: Nautical Holiday Spirit
Fairport Harbor offers a unique holiday experience with its nautical theme. Located on the shores of Lake Erie, this town combines its maritime heritage with holiday festivities for a memorable visit. Shop the local boutiques along the historic brick sidewalks by day, or maybe bundle up and see the wintery shores of Lake Erie, or maybe take in the festive lights throughout the gazebo and park by night.
Featured Holiday Events in Fairport Harbor
Harbor Holidays and a Day with the Grinch: Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 6PM🎄
This event features village-wide specials from local shops and businesses, tours of the historic Fairport Harbor Lighthouse & Museum, and you can’t miss the reading from the Grinch himself from above. Enjoy guided golf cart tours, festive music, local food and drink specials and holiday crafts perfect for families.
Are you interested in joining our list? Email elyse@tourlakecounty.com to learn more about how to partner with Tour Lake County!
