Zanesville, Ohio, is a charming city that truly comes alive during Christmas. With its rich history, beautiful landscape, and a warm sense of community, Zanesville offers a wide range of festive events and activities that make the holiday season special. Whether you are a resident or planning a visit, Zanesville’s Christmas events will fill your heart with joy and holiday spirit.
“Christmas is a special time of year for families and friends to reconnect and make heartfelt memories,” said Kelly Ashby, Director of Visit Zanesville. “We encourage those memories to be made right here in Muskingum County – shopping, exploring, riding a horse-drawn carriage, viewing the Christmas Lights, attending the holiday shows at Secrest, and so much more. Enjoy the magic of the season in Muskingum County.”
The annual Christmas parade will start the holiday season featuring colorful floats, storybook characters, marching bands, and Santa himself on Wednesday, November 29, at 6 pm. It is a joyous event that brings the community together and fills the streets with laughter and holiday cheer.
Make sure to pause and appreciate the downtown sights of Zanesville, including Ohio’s only 26-foot LED ornament tree.
A visit to Santa’s House is a must for families with young children. This enchanting experience allows kids to meet Santa Claus, share their Christmas wishes, and take photos. It is a heartwarming experience that creates cherished memories for children and parents. The Santa House is outside the Secrest Auditorium from 5:30 – 8 p.m. on December 1, 2, 8, 9, 16, and 22.
As you stroll through the streets, enjoy the carolers and horse-drawn carriage rides (December 8 and 15). Be sure to make a delightful detour to Zane Landing Park to capture a captivating holiday light display. Cap off your evening with mesmerizing courthouse music and a light show.
For more festive fun, consider participating in the Storybook Christmas Gingerbread Contest hosted by the Muskingum County Fairgrounds. You can also embrace the winter spirit by enjoying ice skating and mingling with cheerful Christmas characters as they roam the downtown streets on December 8 and 15.
Reserve your seats for the Holly Jolly Trolly Ride scheduled for Friday, December 8. Enjoy a leisurely ride through downtown Zanesville and Zane Landing Park, where you will have the pleasure of admiring the beautiful streets, storefronts, and parks. Reservations are required and pickup and dropoff will take place at the Muskingum County Senior Center.
The Senior Center will also be holding a craft show, offering a variety of vendors and DIY crafts options suitable for families, children, and individuals to either take home or enjoy right there at the center.
Sign up for the Storybook Christmas 5k and 1-Mile Fun Run on Saturday, December 2. This year brings a new course winding through the beautifully decorated downtown Zanesville, adorned with festive Christmas lights and holiday decorations. The first 250 registered participants will receive a custom finishers medal and a race day swag to commemorate this joyful event.Come and enjoy the magic of Christmas in Muskingum County, where the spirit of the holidays is alive and thriving. For more information, visit www.visitzanesville.com.
