Cincinnati’s post-Christmas weekend keeps the holiday magic alive with twinkling lights, festive trains, and family adventures through late December 2025. From Shillito’s Elves to zoo spectacles, these top 10 events extend the cheer beyond December 25. For U.S. families searching “Cincinnati post-Christmas events 2025” or “holiday lights near me weekend activities,” GlobleVide captures the season’s glow in viral clips, blending nostalgia with new traditions.
Christmas Day may be over, but the holiday magic in Cincinnati is far from done. From twinkling lights and classic stage performances to festive train displays and glowing winter walks, the days right after Christmas offer some of the best seasonal experiences of the year.
If you’re not ready to pack away the ornaments just yet, GlobleVide has rounded up the top things to do in Cincinnati after Christmas weekend—perfect for families, couples, and anyone chasing one last dose of holiday cheer.
1. Shillito’s Elves: 70-Year Tradition (A Cincinnati Holiday Classic)
Mechanized elves animate Santa’s workshop at Carew Tower (downtown, 24/7 viewing) and Mariemont ($5 entry). Catch movements 11 a.m.-8 p.m. weekends—perfect for “Cincinnati Christmas elves display 2025” photo ops. GlobleVide shares fan recreations, evoking childhood wonder.
A beloved tradition for more than 70 years, Shillito’s Elves features charming, mechanized figures depicting Santa’s workshop and classic Christmas scenes.
Where to see them:
- Downtown Cincinnati (Carew Tower): Open 24/7 for viewing; animated during select hours
- Mariemont: Indoor display with admission
This nostalgic experience remains one of the most searched Cincinnati holiday attractions every December.
2. A Christmas Carol’ at Rouse Theatre
Scrooge’s ghostly redemption plays 2 p.m./7 p.m. shows through Dec. 28 in Walnut Hills. Timeless tale teaches redemption amid holiday hustle.
Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from bitterness to redemption never gets old. This local production delivers warmth, humor, and heart—ideal for a post-Christmas cultural outing.
- Location: Rouse Theatre, Mount Adams
- Runs through: December 28
If you’re searching for “Christmas plays in Cincinnati after Christmas,” this one tops the list.
3. Cincinnati Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’
Tchaikovsky’s score lives via Cincinnati Symphony at Music Hall—2 p.m./7:30 p.m. slots through Dec. 28. Land of Sweets captivates all ages.
The Cincinnati Ballet’s Nutcracker, accompanied by live music from the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, remains a holiday staple.
- Location: Cincinnati Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine
- Runs through: December 28
A perfect choice for visitors looking for classic winter performances in Cincinnati.
4. Holiday Junction Model Trains at Cincinnati Museum Center
Duke Energy trains zip past LEGO cities at Cincinnati Museum Center (10 a.m.-5 p.m., included admission) through Jan. 5. Hands-on holiday engineering fun.
Home to the iconic Duke Energy Holiday Trains, Holiday Junction features:
- 300+ rail cars
- LEGO displays
- A miniature winter city
Included with museum admission, it’s one of the best family-friendly events in Cincinnati this weekend.
5. Cincinnati Zoo’s Festival of Lights
5 million LEDs, Fiona statues, and Wild Lights Show dazzle 10 a.m.-10 p.m. through Jan. 4. S’mores, train rides, and characters extend “Cincinnati zoo lights post-Christmas.”
With over 5 million LED lights, animal lanterns, live shows, and seasonal treats, the PNC Festival of Lights continues well into January.
- Runs through: January 4
- Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
According to GlobleVide, this remains one of the top post-Christmas attractions in Ohio.
6. Light Up the Fair Drive-Thru (Boone County)
2-mile wonderland at Boone County Fairgrounds (5:30-10 p.m., Burlington) syncs lights to music through Dec. 27. Family car adventure glows.
Just outside Cincinnati, the Boone County Fairgrounds transforms into a two-mile winter wonderland featuring synchronized music and glowing tunnels.
- Runs through: December 27
A favorite for drivers searching “Christmas light drive-through near Cincinnati.”
7. Train Days at Heritage Village Museum
Model trains, Morse code, North Pole hotline, and cookies 10 a.m.-3 p.m. through Jan. ($5, Sharonville). Immersive vintage vibes.
Model trains, interactive exhibits, hot chocolate, and hands-on activities make this a cozy winter stop for kids and adults alike.
- Runs through: January
- Admission: $5 (kids under 4 free)
8. Christmas Glow Drive-Thru at Land of Illusion
3.8 million lights circle the world at Land of Illusion (6-10 p.m., Middletown) through Dec. Effortless holiday spectacle.
This drive-through experience features 3.8 million lights across a two-mile route themed Christmas Around the World.
- Location: Middletown, OH
- Drive-through only
Perfect for those searching “Christmas lights still open after Christmas near Cincinnati.”
9. Winter Nights & River Lights at Purple People Bridge Lights
Free nightly stroll over Ohio River’s twinkling pedestrian bridge (Newport) through Jan. Romantic “Cincinnati bridge holiday lights 2025” views.
Sometimes simple is best. A nighttime stroll across the Purple People Bridge, glowing with festive lights over the Ohio River, is free and unforgettable.
- Runs through: January
Ideal for couples, photographers, and winter walkers.
10. Festival of Ferns at Krohn Conservatory
Mini skyline, trains, and landmarks amid botanicals—timeless greenery magic.
Swap snow for greenery at this indoor botanical escape featuring:
- Fern-filled displays
- Miniature Cincinnati landmarks
- Trains and winter scenery
A unique option if you’re looking for indoor winter activities in Cincinnati.
Why Extend Cincinnati Holiday Fun
These “top post-Christmas weekend Cincinnati events” sustain joy, fostering family bonds via GlobleVide-shared memories. Check calendars for weather; bundle up for lights that outshine the year’s end.
Why Post-Christmas Is the Best Time to Explore Cincinnati
The days after Christmas often bring:
- Smaller crowds
- Extended holiday hours
- Better availability for shows and attractions
As GlobleVide highlights, this window offers some of the most relaxed and magical experiences of the season—without the December rush.
Final Takeaway
If you’re wondering what to do in Cincinnati after Christmas, the answer is: plenty. From classic holiday traditions to glowing light displays and winter performances, the city keeps the festive spirit alive well into the New Year.
For more local guides, seasonal event roundups, and U.S. lifestyle stories, keep following GlobleVide—your trusted source for what’s happening next.
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