Must-See Holiday Exhibits in University Circle This Winter

Posted on 11/11/24 by Nicole in Winter in the Circle

University Circle is the ultimate holiday destination this season, filled with enchanting lights, festive events, and artistic displays to get everyone into the spirit. Here’s your guide to the must-see holiday exhibits that are transforming University Circle into a magical winter wonderland!

Frost: An Ice-Capped Garden Experience

Where: Cleveland Botanical Garden
When: Saturday, November 23 - Sunday, January 5 (Timed Tickets Required)
Wander through an ice-kissed garden paradise where lights dance among flowers, larger-than-life animals, and seasonal soundscapes. Frost at the Cleveland Botanical Garden is an immersive holiday experience that dazzles both indoors and outdoors. This is a unique opportunity to explore the gardens in a whole new way, as they transform into a glistening winter landscape.

Tree Lighting Ceremony & Illuminate the Circle, Powered by PNC Bank

Where: Wade Oval
When: Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, November 23, 5:00 - 8:00 PM; Holiday lights continue through January 26
Kick off the holiday season with a magical Tree Lighting Ceremony on Wade Oval! Join us for an evening of live music, festive activities, and a grand illumination of a 30-foot Christmas tree. The tree lighting will be synchronized with a custom light show set to an original score, creating an unforgettable holiday experience. For the next two months, Wade Oval transforms into a glittering wonderland, with holiday vignettes, twinkling lights, and interactive displays that make it a must-see destination all season long.

Winter Toyland

Where: Cleveland History Center
When: Friday, November 29 - Sunday, January 12 (Times Vary)
Step into the enchanting world of Winter Toyland, where a winter village named HollyDays—crafted with love by Dennis Hoert—comes to life. This intricate display features over 350 buildings, nine trains, and tributes to beloved Northeast Ohio landmarks. Synchronized to holiday music and lights, Winter Toyland promises a nostalgic journey that all ages will enjoy, with nods to classic holiday traditions and Dennis' love for the season.

Chamber Music in the Atrium: A Musical Interlude for the Holidays

Where: The Cleveland Museum of Art
When: Wednesday, December 4, 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Treat yourself to an evening of holiday music with a twist. At the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Atrium will come alive with festive chamber music performed by talented musicians from Musical Upcoming Stars in the Classics and the Cleveland Institute of Music. This special concert features waltzes, piano solos, and even ballet performances that make for an elegant holiday outing.

2024 Student Holiday Sale and 100 Show + Sale

Where: Cleveland Institute of Art
When: Friday, December 6 (5:00 - 9:00 PM), Saturday, December 7 (10:00 AM - 6:00 PM)
Discover handmade gifts and original artworks created by Cleveland Institute of Art students. The Student Holiday Sale offers a range of unique items crafted from glass, ceramics, and metals, perfect for holiday gifting. Meanwhile, the 100 Show + Sale presents artworks priced at $100, with proceeds supporting the annual CIA student spring break trip. This event is a wonderful chance to support local artists and take home one-of-a-kind pieces.

Krampusnacht with Ohio Krampus Society

Where: Cleveland Botanical Garden
When: Saturday, December 7, 6:00 - 8:30 PM
Get ready for a holiday night with a twist! Krampusnacht at the Cleveland Botanical Garden brings folklore to life as costumed Krampuses roam the gardens, searching for "naughty" guests. Shop for Krampus-themed goods, enjoy live music, and immerse yourself in the frosty magic of the gardens. It’s a fun and unconventional way to celebrate the season for those looking to shake up their holiday traditions.

Holiday Tree Lighting & Caroling

Where: Cleveland Cultural Gardens (Centennial Peace Plaza)
When: Friday, December 6, 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Gather for a classic holiday experience with the Cultural Gardens community as they decorate the holiday tree, sing carols, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. Santa will be there to add some extra magic, making this a family-friendly event perfect for kids and adults alike!

Cleveland Orchestra Holiday Concerts

Where: Severance Music Center
When: Wednesday, December 11 - Sunday, December 22 (Dates and Times Vary)
Experience the timeless joy of holiday music with The Cleveland Orchestra. These concerts are designed to bring the sounds of the season to life in the stunning Mandel Concert Hall. From sing-alongs to Santa meet-and-greets, cookies, hot cocoa, and a letter-writing station, this event is a true holiday celebration that warms the heart.

Holiday Pop Up! Open Studio

Where: The Cleveland Museum of Art
When: Thursday, December 26 - Sunday, December 29, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Looking for creative family time during winter break? Head to the Cleveland Museum of Art for their Holiday Pop-Up Open Studio, where families can explore hands-on art-making activities together. This free, drop-in event is ideal for visitors of all ages who want to connect and get crafty during the holiday season.