Wildlights at the Toledo Zoo
Wildlights at the Toledo Zoo transforms the park into a winter wonderland each holiday season. Over one million lights adorn the trees, pathways, and animal exhibits. This dazzling display runs from November 18th through January 8th each year. In addition to the lights, Wildlights offers many other fun activities like carousel rides, model train displays, live music performances, ice carvings, and photos with Santa. You can even grab a bite to eat at one of the zoo’s restaurants or snack bars. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to allow 2-3 hours to fully experience Wildlights.
Address: 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609
Phone: (419) 385-5721
Toledo Repertoire Theatre
A live performance of the Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol is a timeless holiday tradition. Toledo Repertoire Theatre presents this show every December in grand theatrical fashion. Their talented cast and musicians bring the story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation to life in a way that captivates all ages. Performances run on select dates from late November through December. Due to popularity, many shows sell out in advance, so book your seats early. To fully immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit, our party buses can transport your group to and from the theater in VIP style. You’ll avoid the hassle of finding parking near the crowded downtown venue. Plus, our buses have plush seats and amenities to make your time on board merry and bright.
Address: 16 10th St #1, Toledo, OH 43604
Phone: (419) 243-9277
Toledo Museum of Art
From late November through early January, the Toledo Museum of Art decks its halls with elegant holiday decor. The Home for the Holidays exhibit transforms spaces like the Great Gallery and Glass Pavilion into winter wonderlands. Intricately decorated trees tower beneath the museum’s soaring ceilings. In addition to the decor, the museum hosts fun family art activities and performances on select dates. Admission to view the holiday finery is free. However, some events like Brunch with Santa require paid tickets.
Address: 2445 Monroe St, Toledo, OH 43620
Phone: (419) 255-8000
Manor House in Wildwood Metropark
For a glimpse of old-fashioned Christmas splendor, visit the Manor House at Wildwood Metropark. Throughout December, this 1930s-era home decorated in authentic Victorian Yuletide finery. From the enormous Christmas tree to the wreaths in each window, the manor conjures images of holidays past. In addition to the decorations, the Manor House offers Christmas teas on select dates. Guests indulge in tea sandwiches, scones, desserts and unlimited tea while enjoying the surroundings. Tickets should be purchased in advance since these events fill up quickly.
Address: 5100 W Central Ave, Toledo, OH 43615
Phone: (419) 407-9700
Winterfest at The Coliseum
Winterfest is one of Toledo’s largest and most popular holiday events. For two days each December, The Coliseum convention center transforms into a winter playground, with something fun for all ages to enjoy. Attractions include ice skating, carnival rides, arcade games, live entertainment, Santa visits, crafts, and so much more, all under one roof. With so many activities to choose from, you’ll want to allow a full afternoon or evening to take it all in.
Address: 401 Jefferson Ave, Toledo, OH 43604
Phone: (419) 321-5007
Toledo Zoo’s Lights Before Christmas
For a more laid-back holiday lights experience, visit the Toledo Zoo’s Lights Before Christmas. This illuminated display features over one million lights along the Bend in the Road pathway. You’ll see dazzling trees, swirling tunnels of light, giant snowflakes, and more as you stroll. Lights Before Christmas runs nightly from November 18th through December 31st, 5:00-9:00 pm. With a relaxed vibe and fewer crowds than Wildlights, it’s perfect for soaking in the holiday glow at your own pace.
Address: 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609
Phone: (419) 385-5721
East Toledo Family Center
For free family-friendly fun, check out Holly Jolly Days at East Toledo Family Center. Held annually in early December, this event gets you into the holiday spirit with activities like ornament making, caroling, cookie decorating, hot chocolate, and photos with Santa. You can also browse the small craft fair and donation shop. Holly Jolly Days provides a full day of entertainment with minimal out-of-pocket cost. The community center requests canned good donations to benefit local food pantries. Make sure to bring your generosity along with your holiday cheer!
Address: 1020 Varland Ave, Toledo, OH 43605
Phone: (419) 691-1429
Christkindl Markt
Modeled after the traditional Christmas markets of Germany, Christkindl Markt brings old-world holiday charm to downtown Toledo. For three weekends each December, the Coliseum convention center transforms into an indoor German village, complete with wooden vendor stalls selling handmade gifts, ornaments, and decor. In addition to shopping, Christkindl Markt offers German food and drinks, live entertainment, Christmas train rides for kids, and photos with St. Nick. You’ll want to allow 2-3 hours to browse all the goodies.
Address: 401 Jefferson Ave, Toledo, OH 43604
Phone: (419) 321-5007
Valentine Theatre
For holiday entertainment the whole family will love, catch a showing of the beloved film It’s a Wonderful Life on the big screen at the Valentine Theatre. This Toledo tradition runs for several weeks each December, bringing the heartwarming story of George Bailey to life in stunning detail. Screenings occur daily with multiple showtimes to choose from. Due to popularity, many performances sell out in advance, so book your seats early for the best selection.
Address: 400 N Superior St, Toledo, OH 43604
Phone: (419) 242-2787
Rent a Party Bus for Your Holiday Adventures
As you can see, Toledo shines bright with holiday spirit each December. Now that you know about the top events and attractions, it’s time start planning your group celebrations. At Party Bus Toledo, we make it easy to transport your crew around town for all your merrymaking adventures. Our fleet of party buses offers a range of sizes to fit groups of any size. You’ll ride in comfort and style while avoiding the parking headaches and traffic snarls of the holiday season. Ready to book your holiday transportation? Call Party Bus Toledo at (419) 324-0783 and we’ll get your trip quote started. Happy planning!