Looking for ways to make holiday memories this year with friends and family? Head to downtown Cincinnati for refreshed traditions, new venues, and plenty of festive things to do. Whether you’re planning a family outing, date night, or just a festive stroll, here’s your 2025 guide to the magic of the season.

What's New This Year

The Ice Rink is Moving and Expanding!

This year, the beloved outdoor ice-skating spot — the UC Health Ice Rink presented by Fifth Third Bank — is relocating from its longtime home at Fountain Square to a fresh, bigger space at the brand new Elm Street Plaza (adjacent to the soon-to-reopen Convention Center).


This new rink will be open from November 21 through February of next year. Also available at the new location will be rentable private Igloos, Pergolas (with fire pits!) and a warming tent with picnic tables. Learn more about renting one of these spaces for your small or large group here. 

 

Introducing: Winterhaus

Meanwhile, Fountain Square isn't being left behind! This year visitors can enjoy a new holiday space called "Winterhaus", a glass-enclosed tent open on the square from November 15 through December 31. This cool, temporary venue will feature daily programming, a full bar, and rentable event space. Drop in during the day and use it as a co-working space, or reserve it for your private holiday party, dinner or luncheon! 

* Closed on Thanksgiving Day.

A graphic rendering of Winterhaus, a glass-paneled structure that will be built on Fountain Square for the holiday season.
Rendering of Winterhaus, provided by 3CDC.

Holiday Events Downtown

Mark your calendars

Downtown Dazzle Nov 29

Downtown Dazzle

Downtown Dazzle is back to put a holiday twinkle in your eye! Head to Fountain Square every Saturday through December for one of the biggest highlights of the holiday season. See Santa rappel from a Cincinnati skyrise and wait with anticipation for the sky to fill with a festive…

Duke Energy's Light Up the Square Nov 28

Duke Energy's Light Up the Square

Kick off the holiday season at downtown Cincinnati’s beloved Light Up the Square celebration! Be on Fountain Square for an unforgettable evening with live music, a visit from Santa Claus and a dazzling fireworks display. Join the excitement and help light up this year’s Duke…

Parking

Recommended Garage

It doesn't get easier with parking for events on Elm Street Plaza/Fountain Square than using the Fountain Square North Garage (520 Vine Street). With four underground levels, 600 spaces and entrances/exits on Vine Street (northbound between 5th and 6th streets) and Walnut Street (southbound between 6th and 5th streets), there's ample room! Parking rates vary, with flat weekend rates of $9.

Pro tip: pre-book your parking at garages downtown with apps like SpotHero. Metered street parking is FREE on weekdays from 9 PM - 8 AM and all days Sunday.  

Aronoff Center for the Arts

Plan a Night Out at the Aronoff in Downtown Cincy

  • 6 minute read

Cincinnati's Aronoff Center for the Arts is a vibrant cultural hub that draws theatergoers from around the region. You'll find a diverse range of live shows to pick from, including Off-Broadway productions, ballets, concerts…