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Community, Events, OhioPublished January 13, 2026
Events to Check Out This Winter in Columbus, Ohio
What's Happening in Columbus?
It may be cold this time of year in Ohio, but there’s plenty to do to get you warmed up. Winter is full of fun events in the city for a date night or family outing alike-- check out some below!
Wanderlights
When: November 21st-February 15th
Where: Columbus Commons & Downtown Columbus
What: Wanderlights is Columbus’ ultimate free holiday destination. Step away from the rush, and embrace the holiday magic amongst more than half a million lights glowing daily at Columbus Commons, West Town Street, and Scioto Mile Fountain.
Outdoor Ice Rink
When: Now-March 15th
Where: Riverside Crossing Park
What: Glide to the winter ambiance of Downtown Dublin at the Riverside Crossing Park Ice Rink. The 3,200 square-foot-rink is situated in the lower plaza on the east side of The Dublin Link pedestrian bridge. Visitors can enjoy this seasonal attraction through mid-March.
Winter Ice Festival
When: Jan. 14-25
Where: Franklin Park Conservatory
What: Get ready for winter fun at the second annual Winter Ice Festival at Franklin Park Conservatory. Watch the Fire & Ice sculpture competition and cheer on your favorite carver. Guests can also ice skate each night from 5-9 p.m. on the Super Games synthetic ice rink—skates are provided, or you can bring your own! They can also take their picture inside a sculpted ice frame, warm up with hot beverages and food from the on-site food trucks, grab some adult beverages at the Watershed bar, or opt for a Kona Ice!
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Events
When: Jan. 19
Where: Various locations around Columbus
What: Join our local organizations, cultural institutions and educational establishments to honor the ideals and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. See a full list of events here.
(614) Restaurant Week
When: Jan. 26-31
Where: Participating restaurants around Columbus
What: Get ready to grub! Visit participating restaurants all around the city and enjoy a three-course meal for a flat rate during (614) Restaurant Week. Prices vary from $15-$50. Menus will be released on the Experience Columbus website here.
Wonderball at the Columbus Museum of Art
When: Jan. 31
Where: Columbus Museum of Art
What: Wear your most imaginative outfit to the Columbus Museum of Art's celebration of creativity and wonder. This fashionable evening of local food, music, and performance will support Central Ohio's vibrant arts community.
Black History Month Events in Columbus
When: Throughout Feb.
Where: Various locations in Columbus
What: Honor Black History Month in Columbus by attending one of our city's many events throughout February. Read about how to Honor Black History Month in Columbus here.
Central Ohio Home & Garden Show
When: Feb. 14-22 (closed 2/17)
Where: Ohio Expo Center, Bricker & Celeste Buildings
What: Get inspired for all things spring at the Central Ohio Home & Garden Show presented by Ohio Mulch. New this year, there will be nine Celebrate America-themed indoor gardens courtesy of America250-Ohio and multiple opportunities to connect with professionals who can help make your ideas for your next big project come to life
Disney On Ice presents Mickey's Search Party
When: Feb. 19-22
Where: Nationwide Arena
What: Join Mickey Mouse and his friends at Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, an adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts! The kids will love watching their favorite characters take the ice with magical performances and sing-alongs. There are plenty of opportunities to join in the fun with nine shows.
Source(s): https://www.experiencecolumbus.com/blog/post/cant-miss-winter-events-in-columbus/
