Spectacular displays, dazzling drive-through shows, movie-worthy main streets, and one-of-a-kind traditions are all featured on TourismOhio’s 2024 Ohio Holiday Lights Trail. With 73 stops, this year’s trail brings together Ohio’s most beloved displays, including a Seneca County favorite, inviting Ohioans and visitors to experience the brilliance of the holidays.
“If you’re looking to experience the magic of the season with the best light displays in the state, the Holiday Lights Trail is a great place to start,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Following the trail gives families the opportunity to bundle up and explore some of the most enchanting holiday experiences in the heart of it all.”
The Ohio Holiday Lights Trail can be viewed online or downloaded on the Holidays in Ohio featured page on TourismOhio’s website Ohio.org.
“The magic of the Ohio Holiday Lights Trail lies in the dedication of the communities who help bring these displays to life,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development, which oversees TourismOhio. “Each display reflects the creativity and passion of the many Ohioans who are spreading holiday joy and helping families make memories together.”
Displays along the self-guided trail include the impressive seven million lights at Winterfest at Kings Island, the nationally recognized and locally beloved Steubenville Nutcracker Village, six beautifully lit botanical gardens to stroll through, five illuminated zoos to explore, and four merry museums and historic parks to wander.
Nearly all the displays have over 100,000 lights, with many exceeding one million.
Among the highlights is the Seneca County Family Fair Lights, located at the Seneca County Fairgrounds at 100 Hopewell Avenue in Tiffin. Running from Nov. 22 through Dec. 22, the display invites visitors every Friday and Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 6 to 8 p.m. The event features 150 light displays designed by local businesses, organizations and community members, creating a magical experience for families to enjoy while staying warm in their cars. As long as cars are in line by the posted closing time, visitors will be able to drive through the display.
Now in its third year, the Seneca County Family Fair Lights is a shining example of community collaboration. Spearheaded by the Seneca County Junior Fair Board in partnership with the Seneca County Senior Fair Board, the event showcases the incredible teamwork and dedication of local volunteers and sponsors. Proceeds from this year’s event, including the $5 per car admission fee and any additional contributions, will go toward paying off the remaining debt on the new Small Animal Pavilion, a 12,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility unveiled at the 2024 Seneca County Fair.
The pavilion, which replaced aging structures, now accommodates poultry, rabbit and goat projects for young exhibitors. Featuring modern amenities such as excellent ventilation, LED lighting and a 24-foot ceiling fan, the pavilion also includes an additional show ring and improved accessibility. Last year’s Family Fair Lights event helped fund the construction of this building, and this year’s funds will ensure its legacy for future generations.
“This event not only spreads holiday joy but also supports our Junior Fair Board and the next generation of agricultural leaders in Seneca County,” said Emily Gilliland, Seneca County Junior Fair Coordinator. “We are honored to be part of the Ohio Holiday Lights Trail for the second year in a row and grateful for the community’s ongoing support.”
“Ohio’s Holiday Lights Trail is a twinkling treasure hunt full of festive surprises that light up the season in unexpected ways,” said Sarah Wickham, Ohio state tourism director. “It’s the perfect way for Ohioans and visitors to experience our state’s holiday spirit and make spirits bright, one sparkling light at a time.”
This year’s featured photo includes a family enjoying the multi-colored lively display at Lights Before Christmas at the Toledo Zoo, one of the featured stops on the trail.
TourismOhio opens the call for applications for the Ohio Holiday Lights Trail annually in late summer. TourismOhio staff review each submission to ensure attractions meet trail criteria and that all regions of the state are well represented.
For even more festive holiday cheer, TourismOhio encourages Ohioans and visitors to download the newly released Ohio Holiday Events Guide. The guide spotlights five events from each of Ohio’s 88 counties.
About Destination Seneca County
Destination Seneca County exists to serve visitors of Seneca County and residents in getting connected to attractions, events, and unique opportunities within Seneca County to create impactful experiences while also assisting local businesses in benefiting from tourism through innovative marketing, increased awareness, and out-of-the box ideas.
About TourismOhio
Operating within the Ohio Department of Development, TourismOhio works to showcase all Ohio has to offer as a place of adventure, a place of promise, and the place for you.
The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.