Christmas

WANDER LIGHTS- let’s enjoy the best Christmas lights that Columbus has to offer. All FREE. We will begin our wander lights experience at Columbus Commons. There is a 40 foot lit Christmas tree, over 150 lighted trees, decorated garden beds and an illuminated tunnel made up of glowing archways complete with a snow globe photo op. Plus new illuminations on the Columbus common stage. NEXT - we will walk down to 50 West Town St. 400 feet away. Town Street will be twinkling with lights and decorations. Follow the illuminated penguins and lights down the wander lights path from Columbus commons to the Seattle mile. Stop by the Lazarus building Galleria, for an elaborate holiday display. NEXT - we will walk down to the Scioto mile. .3 miles. 233 S. Civic Center Dr. The downtown riverfront will be decked out in an elevated glow, centered around the Scioto mile fountain, which will be illuminated by more than 40 sculptural lights and 75 wrapped trees, providing passersby with the ultimate winter photo backdrop. FINALLY- .5 Miles One Direction is LAND GRANT and several other bars. The other direction .4 miles is pecan pennies, the greatest diner ever. Legal Stuff: The event hosts/Organizers are just fellow member volunteers. By participating in any event, you assume all risks of liability and injury inherent in these activities. You are responsible for your own safety and for determining if you are in condition fit to participate. You are also responsible for knowing and abiding by all laws and rules during your participation in any event.

Photos & or Video: by attending these events you acknowledge photos and or video may be taken and used on this and other platforms

**History** [Wildlights](https://www.columbuszoo.org/wildlights) began in 1988 as "Wildlight Wonderland," a smaller-scale effort to boost winter attendance at the [Columbus Zoo](https://www.columbuszoo.org/). Before the event started, December was a slow month for the zoo, with as few as 1,000 visitors in the first week. The inaugural display featured 100,000 to 150,000 white lights around the lake, successfully drawing 12,000 people and establishing a new holiday tradition. The event quickly grew in size and popularity, adding more lights and new attractions over the years. Early improvements included increasing the number of lights to 200,000 in the second year and adding animal-themed light sculptures. By 2006, the event fully transitioned to LED lights, paving the way for a massive expansion in the scale and creativity of the displays. This change allowed the zoo to grow its display to millions of colorful lights. The event has evolved to include themed animated shows, like the *Holiday Magic* light show over Conservation Lake, and new immersive experiences. Today, Wildlights attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each season, becoming a Central Ohio holiday staple. Each year, the event continues to add new attractions, like the 2024 *Yule Tide Boat Ride* on Dino Island. The modern version of Wildlights also incorporates special features to enhance the guest experience, such as meet-and-greets with holiday characters like Rudolph and sensory-friendly viewing nights. Throughout its history, Wildlights has continued to expand, adding new elements while creating a cherished winter tradition for the community. **Summary** Except for the [Congo](https://www.columbuszoo.org/congo-expedition) and [Africa](https://www.columbuszoo.org/heart-of-africa) regions, most of the Zoo is scheduled to be open and appointed with various Christmas decorations. The [Dinosaur Island Boat Ride](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/dinosaur-island-boat-ride), [Zoo Train Ride](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/north-america-train-ride), and [Grand Carousel](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/grand-carousel) are also supposed to be open and in a state of appropriate Yuletide cheer, weather permitting. [Gold members](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership) can ride the rides for free; otherwise, they're $3 or $4, depending on the ride and whether you're a [Zoo member](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership). S'mores and Frosted Nuts will be available at both [Wild Burger](https://www.columbuszoo.org/dining-option/wildburger) and the [Congo Food Court](https://www.columbuszoo.org/dining-option/congo-river-market-food-court). There's also supposed to be a new, "immersive" light display this year in [Adventure Cove](https://www.columbuszoo.org/adventure-cove). Perhaps the Zoo is trying to make everyone forget just how uncomfortable of a roller coaster the [Tidal Twist](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/tidal-twist) is. 😆 **Where we'll meet** If you've never been the Zoo before, they have "red" and "blue" parking lots that are really both equidistant from the main gate. I generally park in the red lot, but and time- and distance-wise, they're really the same. After you've parked, the Zoo has a security gate that you just walk through while they scan you for nuclear bombs and things like that. Then there's a second gate, inside the first security gate, where you'll either give them your ticket (which you can buy either [online](https://www.columbuszoo.org/hours-and-rates), or at one of the ticket windows on-site), or where they'll scan the membership [QR code](https://www.columbuszoo.org/digital-zoo-membership) on your phone if you're a [Zoo member](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership). Just inside this second entry gate is a big fountain with a large metal globe over it. We'll meet by this fountain. **Restrooms and water fountains** You can't walk five feet at the Zoo without bumping into another set of restrooms and water fountains. When kids need to pee, they need to pee, and the Columbus Zoo is a family-friendly place. The restrooms also all have paper towels and not those stupid hand dryers. When kids need to have their faces wiped, they need their faces wiped. There are even restrooms outside the second gate before you even officially enter the Zoo. I'm telling you, someone did some good planning on this place. **Tickets / pricing** Zoo entry is $26 for residents of Franklin County, and $36 otherwise. Parking is $10. If you're a [Zoo member](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership), though, this is all free. **"Should I buy a membership?"** Probably. If you go even twice a year, the [membership](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership) pays for itself. I will always run at least one event a year at the Columbus Zoo. This event will actually be my second at the Zoo for 2025. **After the presents are opened** After absorbing all the holiday cheer and electromagnetic radiation that the Zoo has to offer, we'll charge over to the positively rated [Nocterra Brewing](https://nocterrabrewing.com/powell-taproom/), which is about five minutes away from the Zoo. The brewery has a [food truck](https://nocterrabrewing.com/trail-magic-kitchen/) that has burgers, fries, chicken, pretzels, and grilled cheese. The actual address of the brewery is [41 Depot St, Powell, OH 43065](https://www.google.com/maps/place/41+Depot+St,+Powell,+OH+43065/@40.1596203,-83.0785105,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f2758d4778c9:0xf8991f589eac0291!8m2!3d40.1596203!4d-83.0785105!16s%2Fg%2F11bw3ytblz?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Come out and join us even if you can't make the Zoo (but feel appropriate guilt if you don't).

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Jennings Java Artisan Coffee Roasters](https://www.jenningsjava.com/)!

**Community Dance – Every Friday at Unity of Columbus** Let go of the week’s stress and move into joy! Join us every Friday for an evening of community, connection, and dance at Unity of Columbus. It’s a chance to meet new friends, express yourself through movement, and experience the emotional healing that comes from music and rhythm. No dance experience needed — just bring your energy, an open heart, and your dancing shoes! Dance is freedom. Dance is healing. Dance is fun.

Join us for our Christmas & Winter Solstice Meditation! Or join us on Face Book Live. Our Facebook page is Golden Lotus Yoga for Spiritual Awareness Come for any part of the meditation, try to come and leave on the hour!

# **Band: Firefly Trace, caller Kenny Greer** Beginner lesson at 7:30, regular dancing begins at 8:00 **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

Our monthly meeting and Holiday party will be dec 21st 1-4 PM This will be held at 4049 Garrett W Dr, Columbus, 43214 This is off of Olentangy River Rd, north of Riverside Hospital. This is the home of one of our members. Feel free to being something. Everyone is welcome - beginner to expert. This is a casual folding session. People will teach a few models.

“Join us in your holiday PJs as we meet at 11:30 AM in front of Cheryl's Cookies at Easton! We’ll stroll, snap festive photos, and explore sweet shops. At 1:00 PM, we have a reservation at Rusty Bucket for lunch. Restrooms and elevators are accessible. Can’t wait to celebrate with you!” "This event is free to join—just cover your own purchases, treats, or lunch if you’d like!"

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Sunday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at noon on Sundays. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 12:00 - quick intros. 12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Sunday!

The holiday season can be beautiful—but for many, Christmas Eve can also feel quiet, heavy, or lonely. At Unity of Columbus, we believe no one should feel alone during this sacred night. You are warmly invited to join us for a **Christmas Eve Celebration** filled with light, music, connection, and the true spirit of Christmas. Whether you are seeking a peaceful place to reflect, a spiritual home for the evening, or simply the company of kind-hearted people, you are welcome here.

Happy Holidays!! Join us for a warm and welcoming Vegan Christmas Potluck! All holidays are welcome, not everyone celebrates Christmas. This is a great chance to meet other vegans, make new friends, and share delicious plant-based food with people who share the same values. Holiday attire is encouraged! 🤩Best holiday fit wins a small prize!!🏆 📅 Date: Thursday 12/25/25 ⏰ Time: 12pm - 3pm 📍 Location: It’s All Natural! Temple Store Bring a vegan dish to share and post in the comments of this event what you’re bringing so we can avoid duplicates. Doors open at 12pm to begin setting up, but we aim to start the feast between 12:30pm and 1pm. Come hungry, come friendly, and come ready to connect. Card games will be available too! We can’t wait to celebrate with you! ‼️ REMINDER ‼️ If you arrive to the temple early, please do not ring the doorbell or knock before 12pm. Some people may be in prayer and we do not want to disturb them. Simply wait in your car. Thank you for understanding and being considerate of this! 😊

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

Monday December 29th at 6PM we'll be meeting up dinner at the Pies & Pints at Easton. Feel free to bring guests. Sandwiches run about $15 and large pizzas run $20-30.

Join us this December for a (possibly!) snowy walk in Sharon Woods Metropark. This hike is dog friendly!🐕 Hot cocoa and candy canes will be provided after the hike. [Please register for this hike here](https://forms.gle/e7mLpRt2zWev2WnB6) to receive alerts and specifics about this event.