Winter Activities & Holiday Events in Akron & Summit County
Welcome to Akron and Summit County, where winter is a season to celebrate! The entire region comes alive with winter activities, holiday events, and festive traditions that make it the perfect destination for creating magical memories.
From outdoor adventures to enchanting holiday events and holiday celebrations, Summit County promises fun for everyone this winter.
Enchanting Holiday Lights and Events
When it comes to festive lights and seasonal displays, Akron and Summit County deliver a spectacular experience. Don’t miss the Akron Zoo’s Wild Lights, where twinkling lights and themed displays transform the zoo into a dazzling wonderland. Guests can stroll through more than one million lights, enjoy synchronized music displays, and visit Santa and the Grinch, making for a magical holiday outing complete with treats, cozy beverages, and festive photo ops.
Over at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, the annual Deck the Hall event showcases more than one million holiday lights, beautifully decorated rooms, and outdoor displays across the historic estate’s gardens. Visitors can enjoy an enchanting evening enjoying freshly baked gingerbread cookies and hot cocoa, exploring the Manor House, and shopping for unique gifts at Molly’s Shop.
For a unique journey into holiday history, Hale Farm & Village’s Holiday Lantern Tours invite you to experience the charm of a 19th-century holiday through guided lantern-lit tours of the village. As you journey from home to home, you’ll experience how families celebrated the holidays back then, with each stop offering a glimpse into the past — and a sweet treat to end the night.
All Aboard the North Pole Adventure
A holiday favorite for all ages, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s North Pole Adventure is a magical train journey through the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Kids will be enchanted by the interactive storytelling, festive decorations, and the chance to meet Santa himself as the train travels to the North Pole. This one-of-a-kind experience is perfect for families and fills up quickly, so be sure to reserve your tickets early!
More Holiday Magic
Nothing captures the spirit of the season like a Holiday Parade and Lighting Celebration! Attend this festive event to usher in the magic of the holidays in downtown Akron!
Additionally, there are several holiday markets in the area that you can’t miss! These are must-see markets filled with unique gifts, crafts, and treats from local artisans to add to the merriment of the season! Visit holiday markets across Akron and Summit County to find handmade items while also supporting local vendors.
Ring in the New Year in Style
For New Year’s Eve celebrations in Akron, choose whether to enjoy live music, countdowns, or fireworks as you welcome the new year with friends and family.
Make this winter one to remember in Akron and Summit County, Ohio. With so many unique experiences and festive events, there’s no better place to celebrate the season!
Outdoor Fun for the Whole Family
Embrace the fresh, crisp winter air with outdoor activities at some of Greater Akron’s most popular locations. Head to Lock 3 Park in downtown Akron for the Grand Reopening on November 29, 2024 at 6 p.m. Celebrations kick off with the Welcome Santa Parade, followed by ice skating, ice sculpting and more! Enjoy the wonderland experience all winter long by exploring all the new developments in the park, especially lacing up your skates and gliding across Ohio’s largest seasonal outdoor ice rink.
Looking for more thrills? Boston Mills and Brandywine Ski Resorts offer a range of winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and exhilarating snow tubing trails, perfect for both beginners and experienced adventurers.