More than 2 million people live in the greater Cleveland area – and let’s just say they know how to have a good time.
And when it comes to Christmas, they bring Cleveland to life with their time-honored traditions paired with live music and good food.
One of the best parts about experiencing Christmas in Cleveland is you literally feel like a kid again walking through a giant life-size Candy Land or touring the ‘A Christmas Story’ house.
Even better, Clevelanders are laid-back and friendly – and all about live entertainment and celebrating special moments with friends and family.
So if you’re looking to have a family-friendly, fun-filled Christmas, check out what Cleveland has to offer.
Public Square
Cleveland kicked off this year’s lighting of Public Square with fireworks, music, and free horse and carriage rides!
The 500,000 lights remain lit with a gigantic Christmas tree standing in the heart of the Square – along with other Christmas décor sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.
You can even lace up your skates and go ice skating at the Cleveland Foundation skating rink!
A Christmas Story House
“You’ll shoot your eye out, kid!”
Christmas is not complete without watching ‘A Christmas Story’ at least once.
But did you know the beloved Christmas Story movie was actually filmed in Cleveland?
And what better way to celebrate Christmas than taking a tour of the official A Christmas Story house.
Once you’re done, you can check out the A Christmas Story Museum located right across the street – it has all kinds of nostalgic props like Randy’s snowsuit and an original Red Ryder BB Gun.
Life-Size Candy Land Game
Located at Lorain County’s Miller Nature Preserve, this family-friendly activity is fun for the nostalgic adults too!
For only $2, you can actually walk on a life-sized Candy Land gameboard and pass through famous spots like Peppermint Forest and Licorice Lagoon as you make your way to King Candy’s Castle!
Of course, you’ll also see decorations like gingerbread houses and candy canes.
Talk about a unique experience!
Nela Park
General Electric literally lights up Nela Park with a display of over 500,000 Christmas lights!
For 95 years, this tradition has taken place each Christmas season, with this year’s theme titled “Deck The Halls”.
Not only can you expect to see a magnificent display of lights, but you can have fun taking selfies at the gigantic red ornament “selfie station”.
It’s never too late for Christmas ecards!
Cleveland Play House Festival Of Trees
Located in the lobby of the Allen Theater is a stunning display of more than 25 brightly lit Christmas trees decorated by local artists and designers, each with its own unique theme.
Even better, admission is FREE and open to the public and also includes live music performances throughout the season on select days.
If you have a thing for decked out Christmas trees, this is a must-visit.
Bonus Stop: Westside Market
Your visit to Cleveland is not complete without a visit to Cleveland’s oldest public market.
More than 100 venders fill up this indoor market and sell everything from fresh beef to exotic spices.
There’s a reason The Food Network Magazine named Westside Market the “Best Food Lovers Market”.
Check out what they have and sip on a fun Christmas themed beverage like a gingerbread latte.
You can even get creative with some last-minute shopping ideas – like the gift of meat jerky or unique condiments like “Hot Dog” Tailgate Mustard and “Bee Sting” hot sauce!
The Heart And Soul Of Clevelanders
Not only will you have fun in Cleveland during Christmas, but you’ll appreciate the kindness of Clevelanders.
They are easy going folks and more than happy to give you plenty of tips on how you can experience Christmas in their beloved city.
And if you are one of the people who actually likes to experience snow during Christmas – your chances are high in Cleveland!
So give the good ol’ Midwest a try this season and check out Christmas the Cleveland way.
You won’t be disappointed.
(h/t Proud American Traveler)