Upper Arlington Winter Festival & Tree Lighting

About this adventure

The City of Upper Arlington hosts its annual Winter Festival and Tree Lighting in the charming Mallway business district along Arlington Avenue. This family celebration features horse-drawn carriage rides rolling through the historic neighborhood, ice carving demonstrations, and live musical entertainment on the central stage by local student choirs. Santa Claus arrives in grand fashion on an antique fire truck to greet eager children and help count down to the lighting of the holiday tree in Mallway Park. Children can visit the interactive holiday activity tent to create seasonal crafts, write letters to the North Pole, and warm up with complimentary hot cocoa and roasted marshmallows over outdoor fire pits. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Paved sidewalks and pedestrian walkways along The Mallway provide smooth, step-free access for strollers and wagons. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Restrooms and baby changing facilities are available in the Upper Arlington Municipal Building and nearby local businesses. • Age Suitability: Perfect for infants, toddlers, young children, parents, and neighborhood residents. • Sensory Tips: Fire truck arrival has brief sirens; the rest of the festival offers gentle acoustic carols and cozy fire pit areas.