By Erica Thompson

Posted On: Nov 28, 2022

It's the most wonderful time of year in the most wonderful city. Ok, we're a bit biased. But Columbus offers so many unique ways to enjoy the holiday season.

Whether it's tasting a creative craft cocktail or finding the perfect vintage gift, you can get in the holiday spirit almost anywhere in the city. Here's a list of places and events to seek out this year.

Photo courtesy of The Citizens Trust

Drink and Be Merry at Miracle at The Citizens Trust

What can you expect at the "Miracle" Christmas-themed pop-up at The Citizens Trust bar Downtown?

"Somehow, an old bank lobby is transformed into Christmas, Santa's workshop and a winter wonderland," said beverage manager Chris Marek. "At the same time, you get delicious cocktails."

Those festive libations include everything from Christmaspolitans to Snowball Old-Fashioned drinks served in decorative mugs and glasses. And, depending on your mood, you can indulge in a Nice Shot or Naughty Shot.

Founded in New York in 2014, the Miracle pop-ups can currently be found at bars across the U.S. and in several other countries. At The Citizens Trust, you can enjoy the magic Tuesday through Saturday until Christmas.

Address:
The Citizens Trust
11 W. Gay St.
Columbus, OH

Photo courtesy of Comfort Witcher of Comfort Photography

Find a Few of your Favorite Things at Zora's House's WoCO (Women of Color Owned) Holiday Market

What's better than shopping for unique, handmade hair products, clothing, home décor, jewelry, and candles? Doing so while supporting local entrepreneurs who are often overlooked.

Taking place Dec. 9 (6-9 PM) and Dec. 10 (11AM – 3PM), Zora's House's WoCo Holiday Market features all women of color business owners.

"A big piece of this is to create a much larger platform for women of color to gain access to different customers," said LC Johnson, founder and CEO of Zora's House, a co-working space and leadership incubator for women of color.

Shoppers also will enjoy holiday-themed décor, live DJs, food trucks, and other treats.

Address: 
Gravity Project
500 W. Broad St.
Columbus, OH

Register at zorashouse.com/events

Photo courtesy of "The Hip-Hop Nutcracker"

Watch the "The Hip-Hop Nutcracker" Put a New Spin on an Old Classic

If you want to shake up your holiday tradition this year, nothing beats seeing "The Nutcracker" remixed with hip-hop dancers, a DJ, and hip-hop pioneer Kurtis Blow as MC.

As part of its 10th-anniversary tour, "The Hip-Hop Nutcracker" will make a stop in Columbus at 7PM on Dec. 4. Audiences will watch Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker Prince go on an adventure set in contemporary New York City instead of 19th-century Germany.

"It sells out every single time," said Rich Corsi, who oversees programming at the Palace Theatre via the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA). "The dancing is incredible. The music is incredible. It's just a unique experience. Once people see it, they just fall in love with it."

Address: 
The Palace Theatre
34 W. Broad St.
Columbus, OH

Tickets are available at cbusarts.com

Photo courtesy of Basic Biscuits, Kindness & Coffee

Make a Merry Little Visit to Basic Biscuits, Kindness & Coffee

You've probably got your holiday dinners covered, but what about breakfast? Pop into this sunny and quaint shop in Grandview Heights to get your fill of homemade breakfast sandwiches, quiche, and absolutely addicting mini biscuits in assorted flavors.

Customers also can walk away with hearty pans of cinnamon rolls, savory breakfast casseroles, and baked French toast to serve larger groups. Additionally, there are also jars of locally sourced honeys and jams that make for great stocking stuffers.

"Everything is made from scratch with love here," said owner Rebekah Weiss. "My employees are all mostly my friends. And a lot of my customers become friends. And I think it's because of that kindness and hospitality that they receive."

Address:
Basic Biscuits, Kindness & Coffee
1160 Goodale Blvd.
Grandview Heights 

Go on a Holly Jolly Hunt for Vintage Gifts at The Little Light Collective

Have a friend or family member who is obsessed with shopping local and/or shopping vintage? Impress them with a gift from The Little Light Collective, a charming, two-floor shop in Clintonville.

Enjoy the holiday décor as you shop for vintage ornaments, clothing, barware, and candleholders. The store also offers private shopping appointments for groups (and bringing your own wine is permitted!). 

"We try really hard to have a lot of fun stuff for people to choose from,”"said the store owner, April Rhodes. "We are a collective of over 45 female vendors. So, when you're shopping within Little Light, you're supporting so many other small business owners."

Address:
The Little Light Collective
3041 Indianola Ave.
Columbus, OH

Whether you're shopping, taking in a show, for just enjoying the holiday season, there's so much festive fun to find in the Columbus Inviting Region. 

For more things to do this #HolidaysinOhio season, check out #OhioFindItHere at Ohio.org.