Hungry for the holidays? Check out these Columbus foodie Christmas events
Columbus is bursting with holiday cheer this season, offering something festive for everyone. Whether you’re looking to snap a photo with Santa, pick up last-minute gifts, enjoy a film with dinner or simply soak up the sights and sounds of the season, these upcoming local events are sure to make your December merry and bright.
Here’s a list of what’s happening around town:
Winter Wonderland at COMU
When? Dec. 18, from 4-7:30 p.m.
Where? The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road.
How do I get tickets? This event is free to enter.
This event’s Facebook page says to “capture the moment with pictures with Santa, sip hot cocoa, snack on fresh-baked cookies, and enjoy live holiday music that fills the Museum with cheer. Guests can also enter raffle drawings for a chance to win fun prizes throughout the night.”
Pictures with Santa end at 6:45 pm, according to the event’s Facebook page.
Merry and Bright Christmas Market
When? Dec, 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where? Legacy Reserve at Old Town, 8601 Queen Bee Drive
How do I get tickets? This event is free to enter.
The event’s Facebook page says to “stop by to grab those final gifts, indulge in tasty bites, and soak up all the festive vibes inside the Legacy Reserve.”
Brunch with Santa
When? Dec. 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where? Hudson’s at Main Street, 6296 Veterans Parkway
How do I get tickets? This event is free to enter. Reservations made ahead of the event will have their deposit added as credit on their bill, according to the event’s Facebook page.
The event’s Facebook page says, “We ask is that everyone is mindful of guests who are dining with us — and we’ll make sure there’s space for joy, treats, and memories for everyone.”
Christmas Dinner and a Movie
When? Dec. 23-24, from 5-9 p.m.
Where? 11th and Bay Southern Table, 1050 Bay Ave.
How do I get tickets? Reservations for this event should be made ahead of time on their website 11thandbay.com.
This year’s movie is “The Santa Clause,” according to 11th and Bay’s Instagram.
Up at Smoke’s Pop-up Christmas Bar
When? Tuesdays through Fridays, from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Where? Former Smoke Bourbon and BBQ restaurant, 1047 Broadway
How do I get tickets? No cover charge
The event’s website says the bar is “tucked inside the Smoke location at 1047 Broadway, we’re bringing you a full-blown holiday pop-up bar that glows with over 10,000 twinkling lights, festive cocktails, and dreamy photo-op moments around every corner.”
Highside Farmers Market
When? Sundays, from noon to 4 p.m., through Dec. 28
Where? Daisy Park at Highside Market, 211 13th St.
How do I get tickets? This event is free.
The event’s website says to expect “fresh food, local flavor and good vibes in the heart of Columbus.”
This story was originally published December 17, 2025 at 5:00 AM.