The air is colder and curling up with some cocoa may seem like a good way to spend time, but bundle up and get outside because Toledo has a ton of holiday fun ready for you!
Ongoing Events
Through December 16
Holiday Toy Drive
Levis Commons
3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg
419-931-8888 | www.shopleviscommons.com
Give the best gift ever by donating a new, unwrapped toy, gift card or other donation to the Lucas County Children Services Holiday Gift Drive! Donations can be dropped off at Levis Commons’ Books-A-Million, Max & Erma’s, and
Yankee Candle.
Through December 18
Santa’s Secret Star
7:30 PM Friday, 1:00 PM Saturday
Ritter Planetarium
2855 W. Bancroft St.
419-530-2650 | utoledo.edu
An updated fulldome version of the planetarium’s classic children’s program by the same name. Follow along as Rudolph introduces Santa to his friends the constellations. You can learn how you can navigate by the stars just like Santa. Friday & Saturday through December 18. $7/adults, $5/children and seniors, free/children under 4.
Through December 19
Mystery of the Christmas Star
7:00 PM
Lourdes University’s Appold Planetarium
6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania.
419-517-8897 | lourdes.edu/planetarium
A family event at the planetarium where everyone will feel more in touch with the universe! Experience a retelling of the Christmas story, with an emphasis on the North Star and how the Three Kings used astrology to find baby Jesus in Bethlehem. On Fridays and Saturdays through December 19. $5/adults. $4/kids under 12.
Through December 23
Visits with Santa
Levis Commons
3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg
419-931-8888 | www.shopleviscommons.com
Come visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, but make sure you check the calendar on Levis Commons’ website because Santa has to be at his workshop in the North Pole on some days!
Through December 24
Photos with Santa
The Shops at Fallen Timbers
3100 Main St., Suite 1599, Maumee
419-878-6255 | www.theshopsatfallentimbers.com
Santa is coming to town, and he is ready to hear your wish list! Capture the moment with a picture of your child and Santa. On Monday evenings from 6-9pm until December 14th, your pet can come visit Santa as well!
December 1–January 3
Frostology: The Science of the Season
Tuesday–Saturday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday Noon-5:00 PM
Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day
Imagination Station
1 Discovery Way, Toledo
419-244-2674 | www.imaginationstationtoledo.org
It might be freezing outside, but it is nice and toasty indoors as kids are invited to explore the science behind snow! Regular admission rates apply.
December 1-January 3
North Pole Express
Fri-Sat 5:00 – 9:00 PM, Sun 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation
11600 County Road 99., Findlay
419-423-2995 | www.nworrp.org
Take a trip on the North Pole Express! This steam train ride will take you through a festive wonderland of holiday decorations and lights. Be sure to stop by the gift shop for fun stocking stuffers.
December 1-January 3
Lights Before Christmas
Sunday–Thursday 3:00 – 8:00 PM
Friday and Saturday 3:00 – 9:00 PM
Toledo Zoo
2 Hippo Way, Toledo
419-385-4040 | www.toledozoo.org
The zoo becomes a winter wonderland during this Toledo area classic event. Enjoy a visit to the Winter Village for treats and a visit with Santa. Experience a ride on the Ice Slide and witness the beauty of ice-carving. And of course, wish some of your favorite animals Happy Holidays! $13/ages 12-59, $10/seniors 60+ and children 2-11, Free/kids under 2.
Through January 2
Horse-drawn Carriage Rides
Levis Commons
3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg
419-931-8888 | www.shopleviscommons.com
Spend an evening on a horse-drawn carriage tour of the beautiful boulevard. $5/person or $10/family. Rides
from 5pm-8pm.
Events
Sunday, December 1-2
Toledo Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah
Dec 1st at 8:00 PM/Dec 2nd at 2:00 PM
Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle
2445 Monroe St., Toledo
419-255-8000 | www.toledosymphony.com
Join the Toledo Symphony in conjunction with the UT and BGSU Choral Societies in this presentation of a holiday classic. Witness the beauty behind Handel’s masterpiece. Tickets $25 and $30
December 4-6 and 11-13
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Fremont Community Theatre
1551 Dickinson St., Fremont
419-332-0695 | www.fremontcommunitytheatre.org
The perfect show for kids, because it’s a show about kids! The story revolves around the Herdmans, who are also known as the worst kids in town. They are the last people a church wants in their Christmas pageant, so guess who gets all the roles? This comedy will leave the family laughing!
December 4
The Polar Express Story Time
7:00 PM
Barnes and Noble
3100 Main St. #1400, Maumee
419-878-0652 | www.barnesandnoble.com
In celebration of the 30th anniversary of The Polar Express, Barnes and Noble Fallen Timbers will be hosting a pajama party, so don’t forget your PJs!
December 4-6
A Christmas Carol
The Valentine Theatre
410 Adams St., Toledo
419-242-3490 | www.valentinetheatre.com
Don’t be a Scrooge! Come witness this holiday classic come to life as the Toledo Rep performs their annual production! A story that communicates the true meaning of Christmas. $27/adults, $22/seniors, $17/children 13 and under.
Heralding the Holidays
Friday 5-9, Saturday 10-4, Sunday 12-4
Toledo Botanical Garden
5403 Elmer Dr.
419-536-5566 | www.toledogarden.org
Get some holiday shopping done while visiting the Botanical Gardens. Arts and crafters will have many unique gift ideas available for purchase. Free
December 5, 11, 12
Holiday Lantern Tour
4:00 – 8:30 PM
Sauder Village
22611 St. Rte 2, Archbold
1-800-590-9755 | www.saudervillage.org
Bring a little history into your holiday plans. This holiday trolley tour will share lessons about American Christmas Holiday Traditions throughout the years. The tour will stop at various homes for some hands-on learning and crafts. Pre-registration and prepayment is required. Nonmembers: $13/adult, $7/children 3-16. Members: $11/adult, $6/children 3-16.
Saturday, December 5
Home for the Holidays Parade
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Downtown Perrysburg
www.downtownperrysburg.org/events
‘Tis the season for parades, and the Perrysburg Home for the Holidays Parade is one you will not want to miss. Immediately following the parade will be the annual tree lighting ceremony.
Homesteading: A Pioneering Christmas
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Pearson Metropark
4600 Starr Ave, Oregon
419-407-9700 | metroparkstoledo.com
Calling pioneers of all ages, the Johlin Black Swamp Cabin is open to enjoy. Share in the holiday traditions of our Black Swamp ancestors. See how much home life has changed in the last 148 years. Free
Victorian Christmas at Oak Grove School
11:00 AM
Wildwood Preserve
​5100 W. Central Ave., Toledo
419-407-9700 | www.metroparkstoledo.com
Get out of the chilly winter air and jump back into the past in a one room school house from 1893. Enjoy some cookies and punch while hearing about festive Christmas traditions from all over the world. Make an ornament to take home, and enjoy a visit with Santa.
International Tea & Gingerbread Party
11:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Levis Commons
Hilton Garden Inn
www.shopleviscommons.com
Make a difference during the holiday season by attending ISOH/IMPACT’s annual tea party. All proceeds go to Kids Against Hunger & Keeping Kids Kozy and Warm thru the Winter. The party includes decorating gingerbread houses, desserts, delicious food, and fragrant teas.
December 5–December 13
Holidays in the Manor House/Holiday Café and Craft Show
10:00 AM
Wildwood Preserve
5100 W. Central Ave., Toledo
419-407-9700 | www.metroparkstoledo.com
Enjoy the beauty of the holiday decorated Manor House. Warm up with coffee, hot chocolate, cookies and popcorn. Handmade gifts are for sale from local craftsmen. Free
December 5 and 12
Breakfast with Santa
8:30 AM and 10:00 AM
The Shops at Fallen Timbers: Granite City
3100 Main St., Suite 1599, Maumee
419-740-7080 | www.theshopsatfallentimbers.com
Come join Santa for breakfast at Granite City! Tickets are $10 per person and will include a beverage and breakfast buffet. Music entertainment will be provided by Kerry Clark.
Sunday, December 6
Festival of Lights Parade
4:00 – 7:00 PM
Downtown Sylvania
cityofsylvania.com
Carriage Rides and Sing Along at Maplewood Park and surrounding areas, followed by a parade at 5pm. The main event is a tree lighting ceremony with the arrival of Santa Claus. Free
Monday, December 7
Frozen Sing Along
6:30-8:15 PM
Oregon Branch of the Toledo Public Library
3340 Dustin Rd., Oregon
419-259-5250 | www.toledolibrary.org
This favorite Disney movie is sure to be a friendly fun event. The little ones are welcome to bring a blanket to sit up front by the screen.
Wednesday, December 9
21st Annual Walking in a Winter Wonderland
6:30-8:00 PM
Toledo Heights Branch of the Toledo Public Library
423 Shasta Dr
419-259-5220 | toledolibrary.org
Bring the whole family for an evening of holiday fun with a craft and then participants will walk to the Highland Park Shelter House for songs, cookies and hot chocolate. Free
Wednesday, December 9
Sweet Harmony Holiday Performance
7:00-7:45 PM
Sylvania Branch of the Toledo Public Library
6749 Monroe St., Sylvania
419-882-2089 | www.toledolibrary.org
Bring in the holidays with some seasonal songs! This all female a cappella ensemble is sure be a hit with all ages. Free
Thursday, December 10
Jazz Holiday Concert
7:00 PM
The University of Toledo’s Center for Performing Arts – Recital Hall
2801 W. Bancroft St., Toledo
419-530-2452 | www.utoledo.edu/comm-arts/music/ensembles/jazz_ensemble.html
Join UT jazz ensemble for a holiday performance! All you favorite holiday tunes. Come a little early for a free picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus!
December 10-13 & 17-20
Winter Wonderland
6:00-8:00 PM Thursday/Sunday and
6:00-9:00 PM Friday/Saturday
Sandusky County Fairgrounds
901 Rawson Ave., Fremont
419-332-5604 | www.sanduskycountyfair.com
Discover the beauty of a winter wonderland in your own backyard. Friday and Saturday offer the opportunity to walk through the fair grounds and enjoy horse rides, carolers, refreshments, crafts, and of course Santa! Thursday and Sunday are a drive thru only where drivers are welcome to come view the lights. Cost is $1 or a donation of a nonperishable food item.
December 11 –December 26
Children’s Wonderland
11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tam-O-Shanter
7060 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania
419-885-1167 | www.playsylvania.com
This Toledo classic event has been around for over 50 years. A truly beautiful look at the wonders of Christmas. An excellent family event with train rides, treats, interactive kid zones, and pictures with Santa!
Saturday, December 12
Holiday Celebration at the Library
4:30-5:30 PM
West Toledo Branch of the Toledo Public Library
1320 W. Sylvania Ave., Toledo
419-259-5290 | www.toledolibrary.org
Enjoy an afternoon of holiday stories, crafts, and a visit from Santa! Concluding the event is the tree lighting ceremony across the street in the park. All ages are invited!
Indoor Family Movie Night Matinee
Downtown Perrysburg Commodore School Building/Beck Auditorium
Louisiana Ave. at Indiana Ave., Perrysburg
419-872-6246 | www.downtownperrysburg.org
Come in from the cold and enjoy a free holiday family film with popcorn, refreshments, and pre-movie entertainment!
Saturday, December 12
Jingle Bell Run 5K
9:00 AM
The Shops at Fallen Timbers
3100 Main St., Maumee
614-503-5591 | [email protected] | www.theshopsatfallentimbers.com/events/jingle-bell-runwalk
Run fast and you’ll be warm! Be a part of the largest holiday 5K race series aimed to fight arthritis! Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis is a fun and festive way to kick off your holidays by helping others. Voted one of the Most Incredible Themed Races, whether running or walking, all are encouraged to wear holiday themed attire – some even tie jingle bells to their shoelaces.
Saturday, December 12
Santa Claus is Coming to the Library!
2:30-3:30 PM
Holland Branch of the Toledo Public Library
1032 S. McCord Rd., Holland
419-259-5240 | www.toledopubliclibrary.org
Join Santa and the librarians for story time. Kids will also be able to make a holiday craft and enjoy treats!
December 12 & 13
The Nutcracker
Saturday 2:00 & 7:00 PM, Sunday 2:00 PM
Stranahan Theater
4645 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo
419-381-8851 | www.stranahantheater.org
Take your family to see the longest running annual performance of The Nutcracker in the country. A classic ballet that is sure to spark the spirit of the holidays in audiences of all ages. Tickets range from $25-$55.
Sunday, December 13
CoCA Holiday Concert
3:00 PM
University of Toledo: University Hall’s Doermann Theater
2801 W. Bancroft St., Toledo
419-530-2452 | www.utoledo.Tix.com
The University of Toledo’s College of Communication and the Arts will host their annual holiday concert which features many performing music ensembles and performances by the theater students. Fun for the whole family!
Sunday, December 13
Holiday Open House
1:00 – 4:00 PM
Fort Meigs
29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg
419-874-4121 | www.fortmeigs.org
Fort Meigs will be hosting a celebration of the holidays in their Visitor Center. Come ready to watch demonstrations and have all your questions answered about the War of 1812. Holiday music, snacks, and activities will also be available. The site will be open from noon-5pm and the open house hours will be from 1-4pm.
Sunday, December 13
Hanukkah Palooza 2015
11:30 PM
Congregation B’nai Israel
6525 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania
RSVP at [email protected] or 419-724-0362
Celebrate Hanukkah with the whole community at this free and fun event! There will be face painting, a photo booth, DJ, dancers, a glow in the dark dance party, potato and salad bars, and much more! Please bring paper products to donate to the Jewish Family Service Food Pantry.
Sunday, December 14
Winter Festival of Crafts
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Franciscan Center at Lourdes University
6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania
419-841-1593 | Info Here
This holiday art and craft show is the perfect opportunity to pick up last minute Christmas gifts, or decorations for your home. Crafts are all made by local artists.
Tuesday, December 15
Frozen Fest
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Lagrange Branch of the Toledo Public Library
3422 Lagrange St., Toledo
419-259-5280 | www.toledopubliclibrary.org
Fun for teens! Grades 6-12 are invited to enjoy treats and holiday crafts.
Friday, December 18
Silver Screen Classic Film Series: It’s a Wonderful Life
7:30 PM
The Valentine Theatre
410 Adams St., Toledo
419-242-3490 | www.valentinetheatre.com
One of the most famous holiday films will be back on the big screen for one night only! Treat your family to the joy of the heart-warming film It’s a Wonderful Life, a 1946 classic that shows the true meaning behind Christmas.
December 18-20
A Magical Christmas
Fremont Community Theatre
1551 Dickinson St., Fremont
419-332-0695 | www.fremontcommunitytheatre.org
Fremont Community Theatre presents original script written and featuring magician Floyd Collins. This seemingly normal magic show gets turned around when one of Santa’s elves appears trying to find Christmas magic. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students/seniors.
December 26-31
Sleigh Rides
1:00 – 4:00 PM
Rutherford B Hayes Presidential Center
1 Spiegel Grove, Fremont
419-332-2081 | www.rbhayes.org
Enhance your holiday season with a relaxing ride through wintry snow at the historic Rutherford B Hayes Presidential Center. $3/rider.
December 20–January 4
Toledo Walleye Winterfest
Fifth Third Field /Huntington Center
406 Washington St., Toledo
419-725-9255 | www.toledowalleye.com
Watch the Walleye play at Huntington Center, (no outdoor rink this year) along with adult/child hockey clinics, open skating time, Holy Toledo Night, Spike’s Birthday Bash, Superhero and Villain Night and the Winterfest Youth Hockey Tournament.
Thursday, December 31
Noon Year’s Eve
11am-1pm
Toledo Zoo
2 Hippo Way, Toledo
419-385-4040 | www.toledozoo.org
Ring in the New Year a little early! Perfect for the young ones who want to celebrate the holiday without having to stay up super late. This family event will include watching the ball rise at noon, an apple juice toast, races down the ice slide, ice carving, and crafts.
