Christmas Events for Kids in Cincinnati (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

17 min read

The Cincinnati area has 18 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains in Cincinnati on November 13 to PNC Festival of Lights in Cincinnati, which runs through January 3. 10 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Ohio, part of our guide for every state.

The short version

  • 18 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Cincinnati for 2026, in Cincinnati, Erlanger, Covington, Independence, Harrison, Madeira and Newport
  • First: Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains, Cincinnati, November 13. Runs latest: Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains, Cincinnati, through January 4
  • Free: Letters to Santa, Letters from Santa, Winter Walk, Winter Wonderland, Family Craft Night: Gingerbread House Ornaments, The Day Before Christmas by The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati, Santa Storytime, Madcap Puppets presents The Velveteen Rabbit, Elf Academy, Kids Sing-a-long: Holiday Tunes! and The Night Before the Night Before Christmas Pajama Storytime
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Watercolor illustration: Rally the corgi stands on a red train seat looking out at falling snow, a lit Christmas tree and a white dove. Text: Choo choo! The train starting could be heard. Hello cute white bird!
Rally watching the snow and a lit Christmas tree, from the pages of Rally Takes the Train.

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Ohio Christmas train rides page.

Cincinnati Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
18 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Cincinnati, Erlanger, Covington, Independence, Harrison, Madeira and Newport
Season
November 13, 2026 to January 4, 2027
Free events
10
Kinds of events
Santa visit, holiday story time, holiday lights and Santa and Mrs. Claus
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Cincinnati Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains in Cincinnati on November 13; the last runs to January 3. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Cincinnati? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Cincinnati

6 confirmed events for kids in Cincinnati, soonest first.

Cincinnati: Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains

Santa visitCincinnati Museum Center · Cincinnati

Host
Cincinnati Museum Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203
When
Friday, November 13, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (daily; Santa from Nov 27), 10 am to 5 pm
Cost
Included with museum admission; free for members
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Holiday Junction is Cincinnati Museum Center's holiday tradition at Union Terminal, built around the Duke Energy Holiday Trains, now in their 80th season. Kids can hunt for hidden objects in the garden railway with the Smoky Mountain Seek and Find, pose in front of a Northern Lights backdrop and page through an interactive storybook about the trains' history.

The exhibit runs November 13, 2026, through January 4, 2027, daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours on select dates. Santa arrives by firetruck at noon on Friday, November 27, and then visits with kids in the Ruthven Gallery. Holiday Junction is included with museum admission and free for members. Union Terminal is at 1301 Western Avenue. OMNIMAX films with a train theme, including Rocky Mountain Express and the new Train Time, are also part of the holiday season at the museum.

Parent tip: Check the museum's holiday hours page for extended evenings on select dates.

See dates and details from Cincinnati Museum Center (opens in a new tab)

Cincinnati: PNC Festival of Lights

Holiday lightsCincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden · Cincinnati

Host
Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)
Where
Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220
When
Thursday, November 19, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (nightly except Nov 26, Dec 24 and Dec 25; until 10 pm Fri, Sat and Dec 20 to 31), 4 to 9 pm
Cost
Included with zoo admission; extra charge for train and carousel rides
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The PNC Festival of Lights runs November 19, 2026 through January 3, 2027, with festival activities starting at 4 pm each evening. The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Kids can hunt for Fiona fairy statues in Fiona's Fairyland, see 65 oversized animal lanterns, watch the Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake and catch the Madcap Puppet Show at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 pm.

Santa's Village offers visits and photos every day from 4 pm through December 23, which is the last night to see him. A sensory friendly Santa program is also offered. Festival entry is included with zoo admission, while the North Polar Express train and the carousel cost extra for non members. S'mores stations and a Happy Zoo Year party on December 31 round out the season.

Parent tip: December 23 is the last night to see Santa. Puppet shows do not run Nov 26, Dec 24 or Dec 25.

See dates and details from Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)

Cincinnati: Sensory-Friendly Santa

Santa visitCincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden · Cincinnati

Host
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)
Where
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Picnic Shelter (Santa's Village), 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220
When
Sat November 21, Sun November 22, Sat November 28, Sun November 29, Sat December 5, Sun December 6, Sat December 12, Sun December 13, Sat December 19 and Sun December 20, 2026, 1 to 3 pm
Cost
Reservation required; zoo admission or membership required, not included
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Cincinnati Zoo sets up Santa's Village in its Picnic Shelter area for Sensory-Friendly Santa visits on weekend afternoons from late November through mid December. Visits happen before dark and before the PNC Festival of Lights crowds arrive, which helps children with holiday light sensitivities or who find big crowds overwhelming.

Families reserve a set time to cut down on waiting. The holiday music is kept lower, lights are dimmed or turned off, and only one family is in the area at a time. Santa has been trained by Dr. Jen Smith of the Children's LEND Program on interacting with visitors of different abilities. Gingerbread houses and holiday decorations fill the space, and photos taken by the zoo's photography team are available to purchase. The reservation does not include zoo admission, so families need a ticket or membership.

Parent tip: Reservations opened November 2 at noon through the zoo's online store. For a Santa visit during the Festival of Lights instead, ask at the Welcome Center about the zoo's Access Pass.

See dates and details from Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)

Cincinnati: Deaf Day with Santa

Santa visitCincinnati Museum Center · Cincinnati

Host
Cincinnati Museum Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203
When
Sunday, December 6, 2026, 2 to 5 pm
Cost
Included with museum admission
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

During Holiday Junction, Cincinnati Museum Center sets aside an afternoon so Deaf and hard of hearing children can visit Santa with interpreters ready to help. Interpreters from Cincinnati State's Interpreter Training Program will be on site, and the visits take place in Santa's spot inside the museum.

Deaf Day with Santa is Sunday, December 6, 2026. Visits begin at 2 pm, after Santa's milk and cookie break, and run until the end of the day at 5 pm. It is part of a regular museum visit, so families can also see the Duke Energy Holiday Trains while they are there. Holiday Junction is included with museum admission and free for members. The visits take place at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Avenue.

Parent tip: Visits start at 2 pm after Santa's milk and cookie break.

See dates and details from Cincinnati Museum Center (opens in a new tab)

Cincinnati: Visit with Black Santa

Santa visitCincinnati Museum Center · Cincinnati

Host
Cincinnati Museum Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203
When
Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 10 am to 5 pm
Cost
Included with museum admission
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

As part of its Holiday Junction season, Cincinnati Museum Center hosts a day of visits with Black Santa at Union Terminal. Kids can share their wish lists, and families can make a day of it with the Duke Energy Holiday Trains, the Smoky Mountain Seek and Find in the garden railway and the Northern Lights photo backdrop.

The visits run all day on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, from 10 am to 5 pm, during regular museum hours. Holiday Junction is included with museum admission and free for members, so plan on a museum ticket for the visit. Santa's spot is in the Ruthven Gallery at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Avenue. Bring a camera or phone for photos with Santa.

Parent tip: A weekday visit is a good way to avoid weekend crowds at Holiday Junction.

See dates and details from Cincinnati Museum Center (opens in a new tab)

Cincinnati: Santa Storytime

Story time with SantaFreeThe Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County · Cincinnati

Host
The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Main Library, 800 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, 10:30 am to noon
Cost
Free
Ages
Whole family
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Downtown Main Library is hosting a holiday storytime with a very special guest: Santa himself. Families will read stories, sing songs and celebrate the season together in a relaxed library setting, which makes it a gentle way for younger children to meet Santa without a long mall line.

After the stories, children can have a picture taken with Santa and then make their own ornament to take home. The library invites the whole family to come along, so siblings of different ages are welcome. The program runs for about an hour and a half on the Saturday morning before Christmas, a good fit for a downtown outing with a stop to see the holiday sights afterward. Like most library programs, it is free to attend.

Parent tip: Bring your own camera or phone for the Santa picture. The library calendar lists no registration requirement.

See dates and details from The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Erlanger

4 confirmed events for kids in Erlanger, soonest first.

Erlanger: Winter Wonderland

Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeKenton County Public Library · Erlanger

Host
Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Erlanger Branch, 401 Kenton Lands Road, Erlanger, KY 41018 (near Cincinnati)
When
Fri December 11 (6 to 8 pm) and Sat December 12 (10 am to noon), 2026
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Winter Wonderland returns to the Erlanger Branch of the Kenton County Public Library, and this year the theme is gingerbread, with the whole library decorated like a giant gingerbread house. Families can come Friday evening or Saturday morning for holiday music, crafts, hot cocoa, cookies, a photo booth and a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Each session has its own live music. Friday night features holiday music by musician Rob Lowe, and Saturday morning features the Lloyd High School Choir. The library notes that hot cocoa, cookies and coffee are served on Saturday morning only, while supplies last. This is one of the library's biggest family holiday events, and it is free and drop in, so it is an easy way to see Santa and Mrs. Claus close to home in Northern Kentucky.

Parent tip: Come Saturday morning if you want cocoa and cookies, which are served then only while supplies last.

See dates and details from Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Erlanger: The Day Before Christmas by The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati

Holiday showFreeKenton County Public Library · Erlanger

Host
Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Erlanger Branch, 401 Kenton Lands Road, Erlanger, KY 41018 (near Cincinnati)
When
Friday, December 18, 2026, 6 to 7 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Families
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati brings its holiday show The Day Before Christmas to the Erlanger Branch library. The story is set at Santa's Headquarters on the busiest day of the year, when everyone is rushing to get the sleigh off the ground. Then a cold hearted Jack Frost decides to freeze all the festivities, and the North Pole, along with the audience, has to help save the day.

The performance runs about an hour on a Friday evening and is described as family friendly, with audience participation built into the story. Before and after the show, families can browse the library's Holiday Maker Market and shop with local makers. It is a free chance to see a professional children's theatre company without buying tickets downtown.

Parent tip: Arrive a bit early to browse the Holiday Maker Market before the 6 pm show.

See dates and details from Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Erlanger: Elf Academy

Holiday craftsFreeKenton County Public Library · Erlanger

Host
Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Erlanger Branch, 401 Kenton Lands Road, Erlanger, KY 41018 (near Cincinnati)
When
Monday, December 21, 2026, 10:30 am to 7:30 pm
Cost
Free, drop in
Ages
Best for ages 2 to 8
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Little ones can find out if they have what it takes to be one of Santa's helpers at Elf Academy, a drop in program at the Erlanger Branch of the Kenton County Public Library. Children practice elf skills like toy making and trimming trees, and they earn an elf diploma when they finish.

The library offers two sessions on Monday, December 21, a morning session from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm and an evening session from 6 to 7:30 pm, which makes it easy to fit around winter break schedules and working parents. The program is best for ages 2 to 8. Since it is drop in, families can come and go within the session window rather than arriving at a set start time.

Parent tip: No registration needed. Pick the morning or evening session, and arrive any time during the window.

See dates and details from Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Erlanger: Kids Sing-a-long: Holiday Tunes!

Holiday showFreeKenton County Public Library · Erlanger

Host
Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Erlanger Branch, 401 Kenton Lands Road, Erlanger, KY 41018 (near Cincinnati)
When
Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 2 to 3 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Kids and families
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Erlanger Branch of the Kenton County Public Library hosts a monthly Kids Sing-a-long series, and the December session is all about holiday tunes. Children sing, dance and play to fun music, following along with lyric videos on screen so even kids who are still learning the words can join in.

The holiday edition takes place on Tuesday, December 22, from 2 to 3 pm, right in the middle of winter break, which makes it a handy afternoon outing when kids need to burn off some energy indoors. The program is free and open to kids and their families. Older readers can sing along with the lyrics, while toddlers and preschoolers can simply dance and move to the music. No registration is listed on the calendar.

See dates and details from Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Covington

3 confirmed events for kids in Covington, soonest first.

Covington: Letters to Santa, Letters from Santa

Santa visitFreeKenton County Public Library · Covington

Host
Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Covington Branch, 502 Scott Blvd., Covington, KY 41011 (near Cincinnati)
When
Thursday, November 19, 2026 to Monday, December 14, 2026 (during library hours)
Cost
Free
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

From mid November through mid December, the children's department at the Covington Branch of the Kenton County Public Library has a mailbox for letters to Santa. Children can stop by to write a letter at the library and place it in the mailbox, or bring a letter they wrote at home.

Every child who sends a letter will receive a personal response from Santa mailed to their home. Directions are available in the branch, and the library asks that each letter include the child's name and mailing address so Santa's reply can find its way back. This is a free, flexible activity that works on any visit during library hours, and it pairs nicely with picking up holiday books from the children's section. Letters must be in by December 14.

Parent tip: Make sure the letter includes your child's name and full mailing address. Drop it off by December 14.

See dates and details from Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Covington: Mr. & Mrs. Claus Visit the Library!

Story time with Mrs. ClausKenton County Public Library · Covington

Host
Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kenton County Public Library, Latonia Branch, 3911 Winston Avenue, Covington, KY 41015 (near Cincinnati)
When
Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 6 to 7:30 pm
Cost
No cost listed
Ages
Whole family
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Kenton County Public Library welcomes Mr. and Mrs. Claus to its Latonia Branch for an evening of holiday cheer. The highlight is a reading of The Night Before Christmas, and families can also take a festive photo with the guests from the North Pole. The library invites the whole family to come.

The Latonia Branch opened in June 2026 in the Latonia Commerce Center off Winston Avenue, next to Ritte's Corner. It has a children's area with an interactive space for kids, ample free parking and bus access. The event runs in the evening from 6 to 7:30 pm, so it works for families coming after work or school. The branch has meeting and study rooms and is fully accessible.

Parent tip: Free parking is available at the branch. Bring a camera or phone for photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

See dates and details from Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Covington: Madcap Puppets presents The Velveteen Rabbit

Holiday story timeFreeKenton County Public Library · Covington

Host
Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Latonia Branch, 3911 Winston Ave., Covington, KY 41015 (near Cincinnati)
When
Sunday, December 20, 2026, 2 to 3 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Families
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Madcap Puppets brings its version of The Velveteen Rabbit to the Latonia Branch of the Kenton County Public Library the Sunday before Christmas. The show is set in a cozy family home during the Christmas season and follows a shy toy rabbit on a journey to discover what it means to be real.

This adaptation is a lighter, brighter retelling of the classic story, with a comedic cast that includes a boastful wind up robot, a dramatic jack in the box and a pair of mischievous wild rabbits. The library describes it as family friendly, with whimsical puppetry, festive scenes, humor and a heartfelt message about friendship and love. The performance runs about an hour on a Sunday afternoon and is free to attend.

See dates and details from Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Independence

2 confirmed events for kids in Independence, soonest first.

Independence: Winter Walk

Holiday story timeFreeKenton County Public Library · Independence

Host
Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Independence Branch, 1992 Walton-Nicholson Pike, Independence, KY 41051 (near Cincinnati)
When
Tuesday, December 1, 2026 to Saturday, December 19, 2026 (Monday to Thursday evenings), 5 to 8:30 pm
Cost
Free
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Independence Branch of the Kenton County Public Library is turning its reading garden into a tree filled Winter Walk for most of December. Families can stroll the garden in the evening, sip hot chocolate, complete a wintery scavenger hunt and follow a story walk of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, reading the classic poem page by page as they go.

The Winter Walk is open Monday through Thursday evenings from 5 to 8:30 pm, from December 1 through December 19. It is a free, drop in activity, so it is easy to stop by after school or dinner. The library is also holding a Winter Walk Closing Celebration on Saturday, December 19, from 5 to 8 pm, with crafts, cocoa and a holiday concert by Bravo Ensemble from 6 to 7 pm.

Parent tip: The walk is outdoors in the reading garden, so dress kids warmly. Open Monday to Thursday evenings only, plus the December 19 closing celebration.

See dates and details from Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Independence: Cookies at the North Pole

Santa and Mrs. ClausKenton County Public Library · Independence

Host
Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kenton County Public Library, Independence Branch, 1992 Walton-Nicholson Road, Independence, KY 41051 (near Cincinnati)
When
Thursday, December 17, 2026, 6 to 8 pm
Cost
No cost listed; no registration required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

For one evening, the Independence Branch of Kenton County Public Library is transformed into the North Pole. Families can visit Santa's workshop, make a craft and enjoy cookies while listening to holiday songs. Santa, Mrs. Claus and some helpful elves greet visitors, chat with kids and even pose for selfies.

No registration is required, so families can drop in anytime during the two-hour window. Crafts and cookies are offered while supplies last, so arriving earlier in the evening is a good idea. The branch is a large library with a separate children's area and family restrooms, and it sits on Walton-Nicholson Road in Independence. The branch also offers a drive-through window and family assisted restrooms.

Parent tip: Crafts and cookies are while supplies last, so come early. Bring a phone for selfies with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

See dates and details from Kenton County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Harrison

1 confirmed event for kids in Harrison, soonest first.

Harrison: Family Craft Night: Gingerbread House Ornaments

Holiday craftsFreeThe Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County · Harrison

Host
The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County (opens in a new tab)
Where
Harrison Branch Library, 10398 New Haven Road, Harrison, OH 45030 (near Cincinnati)
When
Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 6:30 to 7:30 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 12 and under with a caregiver
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Harrison Branch Library is hosting a family craft night in mid December where children make a Gingerbread House Picture Frame Ornament. The finished ornament holds a small photo, so it can become a keepsake for the family tree or a gift for grandparents.

The program is for children ages 12 and under, who should attend with a caregiver. It runs for one hour on a weekday evening, which works well after school and dinner. Registration is required and space is limited, with a waitlist available once spots fill. Because the frame needs a picture, families should plan ahead and print a photo before they come. It is a simple, hands on holiday project that younger kids can do with a little help.

Parent tip: Bring your own 2 inch photo to put in the frame. Register ahead, since space is limited and the library uses a waitlist.

See dates and details from The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Madeira

1 confirmed event for kids in Madeira, soonest first.

Madeira: The Night Before the Night Before Christmas Pajama Storytime

Holiday story timeFreeThe Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County · Madeira

Host
The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County (opens in a new tab)
Where
Madeira Branch Library, 7200 Miami Ave., Madeira, OH 45243 (near Cincinnati)
When
Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 7 to 8 pm
Cost
Free, no registration required
Ages
Families with kids ages 3 to 8
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Madeira Branch Library is celebrating what it calls Christmas Eve Eve with a pajama storytime on the evening of December 23. Children are invited to come in their pajamas to hear stories about the Night Before Christmas, then make holiday crafts with their families as the big day gets close.

The program is aimed at families with kids ages 3 to 8 and runs for one hour in the early evening, so it can slide neatly into a bedtime routine. No registration is required, which makes it easy to fit in during a busy holiday week. It is a calm, low key way to build excitement before Christmas Eve, especially for preschoolers and early elementary children who love a bedtime story.

Parent tip: Kids are encouraged to wear pajamas. Drop in, since the library says no registration is required.

See dates and details from The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Newport

1 confirmed event for kids in Newport, soonest first.

Newport: Scuba Santa's Water Wonderland

Holiday lightsNewport Aquarium · Newport

Host
Newport Aquarium (opens in a new tab)
Where
Newport Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 41071 (near Cincinnati)
When
Friday, November 27, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (daily during aquarium hours)
Cost
Aquarium admission; prices not stated on event page
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Scuba Santa's Water Wonderland is a well known Cincinnati area holiday tradition at the Newport Aquarium, just across the river in Northern Kentucky. For the 2026 season it returns from November 27 through December 24, so there is plenty of time to plan a visit during Thanksgiving weekend or winter break.

The aquarium describes the season as a Water Wonderland full of playful penguins, colorful holiday lights and a flurry of magical bubbles, with Scuba Santa as the star. The event page does not list daily times or prices, so check the aquarium's ticket and reservation pages before you go. Families are also invited to share their favorite photos from their visit through the aquarium's website. Plan extra time, since the season is popular.

Parent tip: The event page links to Get Tickets and Make Reservation, so book your visit ahead and check daily Scuba Santa times on the aquarium site.

See dates and details from Newport Aquarium (opens in a new tab)

Looking further afield? Our Ohio Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Columbus, OH and Cleveland. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Cincinnati Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Cincinnati in 2026?

We confirmed 18 Christmas events for kids in Cincinnati for 2026 on each host’s own page: Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains in Cincinnati (November 13), Letters to Santa, Letters from Santa in Covington (November 19), PNC Festival of Lights in Cincinnati (November 19), Sensory-Friendly Santa in Cincinnati (November 21), Scuba Santa's Water Wonderland in Newport (November 27), Winter Walk in Independence (December 1), Mr. & Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! in Covington (December 2), Deaf Day with Santa in Cincinnati (December 6), Winter Wonderland in Erlanger (December 11), Family Craft Night: Gingerbread House Ornaments in Harrison (December 16), Visit with Black Santa in Cincinnati (December 16), Cookies at the North Pole in Independence (December 17), The Day Before Christmas by The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati in Erlanger (December 18), Santa Storytime in Cincinnati (December 19), Madcap Puppets presents The Velveteen Rabbit in Covington (December 20), Elf Academy in Erlanger (December 21), Kids Sing-a-long: Holiday Tunes! in Erlanger (December 22) and The Night Before the Night Before Christmas Pajama Storytime in Madeira (December 23). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Cincinnati, Ohio?

For families in and around Cincinnati, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains (Daily, Nov 13 to Jan 4, 10 am to 5 pm, included with museum admission; free for members); PNC Festival of Lights (Nightly, Nov 19, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027; Santa through Dec 23, included with zoo admission; extra charge for train and carousel rides); Sensory-Friendly Santa (Saturdays and Sundays, Nov 21 to Dec 20, 1 to 3 pm, reservation required; zoo admission or membership required, not included); Deaf Day with Santa (Sun, Dec 6, 2 to 5 pm, included with museum admission); Visit with Black Santa (Wed, Dec 16, 10 am to 5 pm, included with museum admission); Santa Storytime (Sat, Dec 19, 10:30 am to 12 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Cincinnati section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Erlanger, Ohio?

For families in and around Erlanger, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Winter Wonderland (Fri, Dec 11, 6 to 8 pm, and Sat, Dec 12, 10 am to 12 pm, free); The Day Before Christmas by The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati (Fri, Dec 18, 6 to 7 pm, free); Elf Academy (Mon, Dec 21, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm or 6 to 7:30 pm, free, drop in); Kids Sing-a-long: Holiday Tunes! (Tue, Dec 22, 2 to 3 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Erlanger section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Covington, Ohio?

For families in and around Covington, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Letters to Santa, Letters from Santa (Nov 19 to Dec 14, during library hours, free); Mr. & Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! (Wed, Dec 2, 6 to 7:30 pm, no cost listed); Madcap Puppets presents The Velveteen Rabbit (Sun, Dec 20, 2 to 3 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Covington section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Independence, Ohio?

For families in and around Independence, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Winter Walk (Mondays to Thursdays, Dec 1 to 19, 5 to 8:30 pm, free); Cookies at the North Pole (Thu, Dec 17, 6 to 8 pm, no cost listed; no registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Independence section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Harrison, Ohio?

For families in and around Harrison, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Family Craft Night: Gingerbread House Ornaments (Wed, Dec 16, 6:30 to 7:30 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Harrison section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Madeira, Ohio?

For families in and around Madeira, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: The Night Before the Night Before Christmas Pajama Storytime (Wed, Dec 23, 7 to 8 pm, free, no registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Madeira section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Newport, Ohio?

For families in and around Newport, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Scuba Santa's Water Wonderland (Nov 27 to Dec 24, aquarium admission; prices not stated on event page). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Newport section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Cincinnati?

Yes. 10 of the 18 events here are free: Letters to Santa, Letters from Santa in Covington, Winter Walk in Independence, Winter Wonderland in Erlanger, Family Craft Night: Gingerbread House Ornaments in Harrison, The Day Before Christmas by The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati in Erlanger, Santa Storytime in Cincinnati, Madcap Puppets presents The Velveteen Rabbit in Covington, Elf Academy in Erlanger, Kids Sing-a-long: Holiday Tunes! in Erlanger and The Night Before the Night Before Christmas Pajama Storytime in Madeira. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Cincinnati this December?

Santa appears at Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains in Cincinnati (November 13), Letters to Santa, Letters from Santa in Covington (November 19), PNC Festival of Lights in Cincinnati (November 19), Sensory-Friendly Santa in Cincinnati (November 21), Scuba Santa's Water Wonderland in Newport (November 27), Mr. & Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! in Covington (December 2), Deaf Day with Santa in Cincinnati (December 6), Winter Wonderland in Erlanger (December 11), Visit with Black Santa in Cincinnati (December 16), Cookies at the North Pole in Independence (December 17) and Santa Storytime in Cincinnati (December 19). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Cincinnati?

Holiday story times on this page: Winter Walk in Independence, Mr. & Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! in Covington, Santa Storytime in Cincinnati, Madcap Puppets presents The Velveteen Rabbit in Covington and The Night Before the Night Before Christmas Pajama Storytime in Madeira. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Are there kids' Christmas events in Cincinnati on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains in Cincinnati (through January 4), PNC Festival of Lights in Cincinnati (through January 3) and Scuba Santa's Water Wonderland in Newport (through December 24).

How much is Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains in Cincinnati?

Included with museum admission; free for members. Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains is on Friday, November 13, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (daily; Santa from Nov 27), 10 am to 5 pm at Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Letters to Santa, Letters from Santa in Covington?

Free. Letters to Santa, Letters from Santa is on Thursday, November 19, 2026 to Monday, December 14, 2026 (during library hours) at Covington Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is PNC Festival of Lights in Cincinnati?

Included with zoo admission; extra charge for train and carousel rides. PNC Festival of Lights is on Thursday, November 19, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (nightly except Nov 26, Dec 24 and Dec 25; until 10 pm Fri, Sat and Dec 20 to 31), 4 to 9 pm at Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Sensory-Friendly Santa in Cincinnati?

Reservation required; zoo admission or membership required, not included. Sensory-Friendly Santa is on Sat November 21, Sun November 22, Sat November 28, Sun November 29, Sat December 5, Sun December 6, Sat December 12, Sun December 13, Sat December 19 and Sun December 20, 2026, 1 to 3 pm at Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Picnic Shelter (Santa's Village). Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Scuba Santa's Water Wonderland in Newport?

Aquarium admission; prices not stated on event page. Scuba Santa's Water Wonderland is on Friday, November 27, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (daily during aquarium hours) at Newport Aquarium. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Walk in Independence?

Free. Winter Walk is on Tuesday, December 1, 2026 to Saturday, December 19, 2026 (Monday to Thursday evenings), 5 to 8:30 pm at Independence Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Mr. & Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! in Covington?

No cost listed. Mr. & Mrs. Claus Visit the Library! is on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 6 to 7:30 pm at Kenton County Public Library, Latonia Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Deaf Day with Santa in Cincinnati?

Included with museum admission. Deaf Day with Santa is on Sunday, December 6, 2026, 2 to 5 pm at Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Wonderland in Erlanger?

Free. Winter Wonderland is on Fri December 11 (6 to 8 pm) and Sat December 12 (10 am to noon), 2026 at Erlanger Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Family Craft Night: Gingerbread House Ornaments in Harrison?

Free, registration required. Family Craft Night: Gingerbread House Ornaments is on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 6:30 to 7:30 pm at Harrison Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Visit with Black Santa in Cincinnati?

Included with museum admission. Visit with Black Santa is on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 10 am to 5 pm at Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Cookies at the North Pole in Independence?

No cost listed; no registration required. Cookies at the North Pole is on Thursday, December 17, 2026, 6 to 8 pm at Kenton County Public Library, Independence Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is The Day Before Christmas by The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati in Erlanger?

Free. The Day Before Christmas by The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati is on Friday, December 18, 2026, 6 to 7 pm at Erlanger Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Storytime in Cincinnati?

Free. Santa Storytime is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 10:30 am to noon at Downtown Main Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Madcap Puppets presents The Velveteen Rabbit in Covington?

Free. Madcap Puppets presents The Velveteen Rabbit is on Sunday, December 20, 2026, 2 to 3 pm at Latonia Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Elf Academy in Erlanger?

Free, drop in. Elf Academy is on Monday, December 21, 2026, 10:30 am to 7:30 pm at Erlanger Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Kids Sing-a-long: Holiday Tunes! in Erlanger?

Free. Kids Sing-a-long: Holiday Tunes! is on Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 2 to 3 pm at Erlanger Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is The Night Before the Night Before Christmas Pajama Storytime in Madeira?

Free, no registration required. The Night Before the Night Before Christmas Pajama Storytime is on Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 7 to 8 pm at Madeira Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Cincinnati?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Cincinnati Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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Christmas Events for Kids in San Jose (2026)