Winter Wonderland at Washington Park
2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.
Immerse yourself in a magical holiday experience at Washington Park's Winter Wonderland. This enchanting installation, a collaboration by Cincinnati Ballet and local partners, features a captivating Nutcracker-inspired story walk with six scenes created by Art Academy of Cincinnati students. Dazzling holiday lights will adorn the park, creating a festive atmosphere throughout December. Don't miss the special launch event on December 1st, complete with ballet dancers, characters, family activities, and free photos with Santa Claus.
See more Christmas lights near Cincinnati
Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
Last year
Tickets
FREE
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Over-the-Rhine
Featured Performers
- Ballet dancers and characters
Food & Drink
Beverages available for purchase, including coffee, soft drinks, and alcohol. Small snacks and treats also available.
Accessibility
Information on accessibility services for performances can be found on the Music Hall and Aronoff Center websites, as well as Cincinnati Ballet's Accessibility Page.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early for the December 1st launch event to fully enjoy the ballet dancers, characters, and family activities before Santa Claus arrives.
- The story walk scenes are created by students, offering a unique artistic perspective on The Nutcracker.
- While the story walk and lights are available throughout December, the special launch event on December 1st offers additional entertainment.
- Check the Cincinnati Ballet website for specific performance times and details related to The Nutcracker at Music Hall, running December 19-29.
- The lighting enhancements in Washington Park will remain visible through February 2025, extending the festive feel beyond the holiday season.
Special Events & Promotions
- Special launch event on December 1st from 11 AM - 3 PM
- Free photos with Santa Claus on-site
- 50th anniversary of The Nutcracker celebration
Links & Contact
Run by Cincinnati Ballet
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I purchase tickets?
Tickets can be purchased at the Cincinnati Ballet Margaret and Michael Valentine Center for Dance, by telephone at 513-621-5282, or online at cballet.org. Cincinnati Ballet is the only authorized seller of tickets to their events.
How long are ballet performances?
Ballet performances typically last about 2 hours and 15 to 30 minutes, including an intermission. It is recommended to arrive early to allow time for parking and seating.
Can I take photos or videos of the performance?
Photography, videography, and recording of any performance are strictly prohibited. While sharing your experience on social media is encouraged, please refrain from capturing the actual performance.
What should I wear to the ballet?
Comfortable, business casual attire is suggested for attending the ballet. For special occasions, guests are encouraged to dress up.
Are refreshments available for purchase?
Yes, bars are open before shows and during intermissions, offering beverages like coffee, soft drinks, and alcohol. Small snacks and treats are also available, with only drinks permitted inside the theater.
Browse Christmas in Cincinnati
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.