When the most magical time of the year rolls around, Cleveland transforms into a winter wonderland. Snow is an absolutely lovely addition to the landscape, but nothing quite compares to the brilliance of holiday lights. And, if you have never visited Cleveland during the holiday season, you may be surprised to see the extent to which we celebrate. Neighborhoods are absolutely brilliant when draped in DIY lights, and businesses and communities apply all of their design skills when decorating public spaces. Of course, the most anticipated event of the entire holiday season is the tree lighting in Cleveland during Winterfest. Mark your calendars, because this stunning event is one you won’t want to miss!

Each November, an air of festivity settles over Cleveland.

Erik Drost/Flickr Downtown Cleveland is always colorful thanks to its endless array of neon lights, but it becomes unbelievably enchanting each and every winter.

As soon as the decorations are all in place, Cleveland kicks off the holiday season with Winterfest!

Erik Drost/Flickr The event takes place on the final Saturday of November each year. While the evening hours offer oodles of colors, there’s something for everyone to appreciate all day long.

The decorations differ each year…

Erik Drost/Flickr In previous years, this event has been held in Playhouse Square. It’s now held in Public Square, and locals are absolutely enchanted by the event’s Christmas Village, twinkling lights, and old fashioned caroling.

…But the annual tree lighting is consistently spectacular.

Erik Drost/Flickr The tree lighting takes place around 6 p.m., and it is absolutely magical. While this is the main attraction, the entire city seems to partake in the festivities.

Live music and performances keep the event groovin’…

Erik Drost/Flickr In addition to live music, attendees can also enjoy child-friendly performances in Tower City and a Festival of Trees in the Allen Theatre.

…And holiday activities like ice skating will entertain children and adults alike.

Erik Drost/Flickr Kid-friendly activities, snacks, horse-drawn carriage rides, and all sorts of festivities add a jolly atmosphere to the landscape.

There’s so much to see and do at this annual celebration that locals anticipate its arrival year after year.

Erik Drost/Flickr Even after the tree lighting, you will find much to appreciate in this holly jolly holiday landscape. The after-party will include cookies, hot cocoa, and fireworks. Oh, and the Warehouse District will offer cozy surroundings and adult beverages to help you unwind!

Prepare to celebrate the season in the City of Cleveland, because this event will leave you longing for more holly jolly holiday fun.

Erik Drost/Flickr

The holiday season is made magical by the arrival of the annual tree lighting in Cleveland. Have you ever attended this epic event? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Erik Drost/Flickr

Downtown Cleveland is always colorful thanks to its endless array of neon lights, but it becomes unbelievably enchanting each and every winter.

The event takes place on the final Saturday of November each year. While the evening hours offer oodles of colors, there’s something for everyone to appreciate all day long.

In previous years, this event has been held in Playhouse Square. It’s now held in Public Square, and locals are absolutely enchanted by the event’s Christmas Village, twinkling lights, and old fashioned caroling.

The tree lighting takes place around 6 p.m., and it is absolutely magical. While this is the main attraction, the entire city seems to partake in the festivities.

In addition to live music, attendees can also enjoy child-friendly performances in Tower City and a Festival of Trees in the Allen Theatre.

Kid-friendly activities, snacks, horse-drawn carriage rides, and all sorts of festivities add a jolly atmosphere to the landscape.

Even after the tree lighting, you will find much to appreciate in this holly jolly holiday landscape. The after-party will include cookies, hot cocoa, and fireworks. Oh, and the Warehouse District will offer cozy surroundings and adult beverages to help you unwind!

Craving more holiday splendor? Swing by Strongsville for the most incredible light show in Ohio.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Public Square, Cleveland, OH, USA