Thanksgiving: the official kickoff to the holiday season and the unofficial beginning of “Why did I eat that much?” season.
When the turkey’s tucked away and the pie is polished off, it’s time to entertain those out-of-town relatives and make the most of what Columbus has to offer. Here are nine things to do Thanksgiving weekend that’ll keep everyone out of your fridge and fully entertained.
1. Feel the magic of the season at one of Central Ohio’s light displays
With Thanksgiving in the rearview, Central Ohio’s light displays are officially in full glow. Wander through the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s Wildlights, stroll the festive Wanderlights at Columbus Commons, and be dazzled by Conservatory Aglow at Franklin Park Conservatory. And if you’re up for a scenic drive, don’t miss the jaw-dropping lights at Historic Clifton Mill (but if you’re one of those people who get jealous of houses with better lights than yours, maybe skip this one…)!
2. See the Holiday Blooms at Franklin Park Conservatory
If you haven’t visited Franklin Park Conservatory during the holiday season, you’re missing out. Along with their light display as mentioned above, their Holiday Blooms event brings hundreds of poinsettias in breathtaking displays, adding rich seasonal colors to every corner of the conservatory. It’s the perfect way to get everyone into holiday mode! Just don’t bring your cat along for the fun (poinsettias and cats do not mix well).
3. Shop at a Central Ohio Holiday Market
If you’re into unique finds and charming décor (or just need to dodge Black Friday madness), Central Ohio’s Holiday Markets are the place to be. From furniture to holiday swag, these places are like shopping at Santa’s workshop (who knew the North Pole was just a wholesaler like Costco?!).
4. Ride in a Carriage at Easton
This isn’t just a horse-drawn carriage ride… it’s a memory in the making. Snuggle up, breathe in the scent of holiday magic (and maybe a little horse), and let Easton’s holiday lights take you to a happier, more whimsical place. Trust me, this is one you’ll be talking about at every family gathering for the next decade.
5. See A Christmas Carol at Ohio Theatre
If you need a quick fix of holiday spirit (and a lesson in how not to behave at the holidays), catch A Christmas Carol at Ohio Theatre. Watching Scrooge get his act together is the feel-good boost we all need, and there’s something magical about seeing it unfold live. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce the kids to live theater. AND they’ll get to see that a ghost story doesn’t have to involve zombies or exorcisms. Bah Humbug!
6. Brave Black Friday Shopping at Easton or Polaris
Ah, Black Friday—the one day of the year when we actually choose chaos. Whether you’re after big discounts or just people-watching, Easton and Polaris are ground zero for the best Black Friday action. Put on comfy shoes, sharpen your elbows, and try not to question every purchase once you get home.
7. Get a (Turkey) Leg Up on Winter Hiking
Some people hit the gym the day after Thanksgiving… while we generally aren’t even dreaming of exercising over Thanksgiving, we do have a soft spot for a brisk hike. My cousins and I have been doing this since we were kids, and let me tell you, there’s no better way to walk off the stuffing than on a scenic Central Ohio trail. The weather might be unpredictable, but hey, at least it’ll keep us moving.
8. Try Family Fun: Bowling, Axe Throwing, Go-Karting & Topgolf
Time to burn off that pumpkin pie, Columbus style. Hit up Star Lanes Polaris for bowling, channel your inner lumberjack with axe throwing at Columbus Axe Throwing, go-kart your way to victory at Buckeye Raceway, or keep it classy (kinda) with a round at Topgolf. My family’s been making a tradition out of this for years… it’s loud, competitive, and an absolute blast every single time.
9. Feel the Rivalry: Ohio State vs. Michigan at The Shoe
It’s the most wonderful time of the year—rivalry weekend! After a rough few years against TTUN, the Buckeyes are ready to squash the Wolverines and restore balance to the universe. If you’re not heading to The Shoe, find a spot at one of Columbus’s best sports bars and join a sea of red. (Link to article) And don’t worry, there’s no wrong way to cheer “O-H!” while clutching a basket of wings. 🎶 Drive, drive on down the field, men of Scarlet & Gray… 🎵
