If you’re looking for a magical family outing this holiday season, mark your calendar for Light in the Forest at the Cincinnati Nature Center’s Rowe Woods location. This illuminated walking tour has been refreshed for 2025 with a longer trail, exciting new installations, and plenty of activities for kids and adults alike.
What to Expect
This year’s event features approximately one mile of illuminated trails winding through woodlands, ponds, and fields—creating a true winter-forest glow. Highlights include:
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New light installations created by nine regional light artists, including seven artists from the BLINK festival.
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Children’s craft stations, interactive light activities, and a mobile-guide scavenger hunt.
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Live music, a warm bonfire, decorated historic lodging (Krippendorf Lodge), and holiday shopping at the Nature Shop.
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Food trucks, hot cocoa and coffee trucks, and adult beverages available for purchase (ID required).
Dates & Times
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The event runs on select evenings Thursday, December 4 through Sunday, December 7 for Opening Weekend (complete with ceremonial lighting at 6 pm) and continues through much of December into early January.
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Evening trail access begins at 5:30 pm, with timed entry slots at 5:30–6:00, 6:30–7:00, and 7:30.
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The trail experience typically takes about one hour to complete, and the event closes at 9:00 pm each night.
Location & Parking
Venue: Rowe Woods — 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford, OH 45150.
Free parking is available at Rowe Woods.
Please note: Pets (other than clearly identified service animals) are not permitted during the event.
Tickets & Pricing
Pre-registration is required and tickets are timed entry only. Late arrivals may not be guaranteed entry.
Standard 2025 pricing:
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Members: Adult $15, Child (ages 3-17) $6
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Non-members: Adult $20, Child $8
Children age 2 and under are free.
Discount pricing is available for Opening Weekend when purchased by November 30: Members Adult $13, Child $5; Non-members Adult $18, Child $6.
Tips for Your Visit
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Arrive on time for your scheduled slot, and no later than the 30-minute grace window, to ensure smooth check-in.
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Dress for winter weather and be prepared for muddy or unpaved surfaces—wear boots or sturdy shoes.
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Use the mobile guide QR code at the start of the trail to access interactive maps and scavenger-hunt details.
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Plan to take your time: the event is built for leisurely strolling and photo-ops, not a rush. You’ll want to linger and soak in the atmosphere.
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The trail is mostly outdoors; there are restrooms and one handicapped-accessible restroom along the route.
Why It’s Worth It
Light in the Forest is a standout holiday outing for families in Greater Cincinnati because it combines natural beauty (1,800+ acres at Cincinnati Nature Center) with festive lighting, kid-friendly activities, and a unique “night-walk” experience in the woods. For local parents seeking something beyond traditional light-shows and drive-thru events, this offers immersive, walkable fun that gets everyone moving and merry.
Get your tickets early — this popular event sells out quickly. For full details and to purchase, visit the Cincinnati Nature Center website.
