Dayton comes alive with holiday cheer, offering a variety of festive activities for all ages. Here are some of the best holiday experiences to do in Dayton:
1. Woodland Lights in Washington Township
- What to Expect: A beautiful, half-mile woodland path lined with sparkling holiday lights. Woodland Lights also features visits with Santa, seasonal food, and carnival rides.
- Perfect For: Families and anyone who loves holiday lights in a cozy, wooded setting.
2. A Carillon Christmas at Carillon Historical Park
- What to Expect: Carillon Park transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of lights, holiday decor, historical displays, and even a 200-foot-tall Carillon Tree of Light. The park also offers crafts, treats, and photos with Santa.
- Perfect For: Families and history buffs who want a unique, festive experience in a historic setting.
3. The Dayton Holiday Festival & Grande Illumination
- What to Expect: This event kicks off the holiday season with the lighting of Dayton’s Christmas tree in Courthouse Square, along with a nighttime parade, live entertainment, a children’s train ride, and horse-drawn carriages.
- Perfect For: Those looking for a classic downtown holiday celebration with fun activities for all ages.
4. MetroParks Ice Rink at RiverScape
- What to Expect: Enjoy outdoor ice skating in the heart of downtown Dayton. The rink is beautifully decorated for the holidays, with music, holiday lights, and warm refreshments.
- Perfect For: Friends and families looking for a festive, active holiday outing.
5. Rike’s Holiday Windows at the Schuster Center
- What to Expect: Once a beloved holiday tradition at the former Rike’s Department Store, these vintage holiday window displays have been restored and are showcased at the Schuster Performing Arts Center.
- Perfect For: Nostalgia lovers and families who enjoy festive, detailed holiday displays.
6. The Christmas Ranch in Morrow
- What to Expect: Although a short drive from Dayton, The Christmas Ranch is worth the trip. It’s a sprawling display of over 1 million lights, synchronized to music, along with shops, Santa visits, and train rides.
- Perfect For: Families looking for a large, immersive light display and a fun day trip from Dayton.
7. Trans-Siberian Orchestra Holiday Show at the Nutter Center
- What to Expect: Known for their high-energy, rock-inspired renditions of holiday classics, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra is a holiday tradition for many. The show is a spectacular blend of music, lights, and visuals.
- Perfect For: Music lovers and anyone looking for an exciting holiday concert experience.
8. The Nutcracker Ballet by the Dayton Ballet
- What to Expect: A holiday staple, the Dayton Ballet’s performance of “The Nutcracker” is a beautiful interpretation of the classic story with talented dancers, lavish costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.
- Perfect For: Families and ballet enthusiasts who want to enjoy a classic holiday performance.
9. Christmas at the Dayton Arcade
- What to Expect: This historic arcade transforms for the holidays with beautiful lights, decorations, pop-up shops, and festive events. It’s a newer holiday tradition but quickly becoming a favorite.
- Perfect For: Those who enjoy holiday shopping, art, and supporting local vendors in a unique historical setting.
10. Clifton Mill’s Legendary Light Display
- What to Expect: Just outside Dayton, Clifton Mill’s holiday light display is a stunning spectacle of over 4 million lights, including a 100-foot “waterfall” of lights, a Santa Museum, and a miniature village.
- Perfect For: Those who love over-the-top holiday lights and classic holiday charm.
From classic ballet performances and cozy winter lights to community festivals and historic traditions, Dayton offers endless ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re looking for something nostalgic or a bit more adventurous, these holiday activities bring out the best of Dayton’s festive spirit.
