Shop The Season

For the shopping enthusiast, Westerville is a dream come true, especially during the holiday season. Stroll through the historic brick streets of Uptown Westerville, where you'll discover a treasure trove of boutique shops, unique finds, local Ohio gear, antique stores, and delicious treats. Whether you're searching for big gifts or stocking stuffers, Uptown Westerville has you covered. You might even find something to add to your own wish list! Don't miss the Ugly Sweater Snack & Stroll event on December 14 from 12-4 p.m.  Enjoy free treats while finishing up your last minute shopping. Of course, a DORA holiday cocktail always adds an extra bit of fun to your experience! Additionally, be on the lookout for Santa and Mrs. Claus this day, as they will be strolling through Uptown spreading holiday cheer!

Wrapped in Westerville - Uptown Holiday Shopping Trail

From Small Business Saturday (Nov. 29) through Valentine’s Day (Feb. 14), experience the charm of Uptown Westerville with 26 festive stops  featuring one-of-a-kind gifts, warm seasonal treats, and endless holiday spirit — from sparkling December evenings to joyful New Year moments and Valentine’s delights.

Simply make a purchase and scan the QR code at 10 participating shops to be entered to win one of three $250 Uptown Gift Cards, redeemable at more than 20 local restaurants and boutiques. Celebrate the season — and support local — with this fun and festive shopping adventure in the heart of Westerville!

Learn more and grab your passport!

Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Celebration

Join in the festivities on Dec 5 as Westerville celebrates the season with the Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration in Uptown from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Watch the parade of lights travel from Home St. to Plum St. with the official tree lighting outside of City Hall at 7:00 p.m. Uptown Westerville merchants will stay open late for holiday shopping and visitors can grab a seasonal DORA  drink to sip on while they shop and stroll. You can also enjoy hot chocolate, popcorn and holiday tunes while you shop.

The 2025 Westerville Community Christmas Parade will take place the next day, on Saturday, Dec 6 at 10 a.m. The parade starts at St. Paul's Church and ends at Walnut Street. Enjoy parade fun plus photos with Santa, hot cocoa stations and festive characters on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 10 a.m. Stick around after the parade as the fun continues in our historic Uptown district. Enjoy holiday shopping at our boutique shops, grab a coffee, sweet treat or lunch.

Annual Ice Sculpture Tour

On December 19, the Westerville Uptown Merchants Association will host their annual Ice Sculpture Tour. Gather the family and meander through the Uptown streets to enjoy this mesmerizing event. The sculptures are an absolute delight and add a touch of winter wonder to the holiday season. But remember, these icy masterpieces won't last forever, so don't wait too long to witness their frozen beauty! All ice sculptures will be displayed starting at 6 p.m. and will remain until they melt.

Progressive Christmas Concert

Organized by the Westerville Habitat Partnership, this annual walking event stops for concerts at each of the three Uptown Westerville churches - Church of the Master, Church of the Messiah, and First Presbyterian Church - all within a block of each other on Friday, Dec. 12. Participants are led by costumed guides with lanterns to each church to enjoy a short concert. It's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Learn more and purchase tickets.

Letters to Santa

Starting just after Thanksgiving and continuing through Christmas, head to Rotary Mini Park in Uptown Westerville (located at the corner of N. State & Home St.) for a festive family experience. Capture the perfect holiday photo in a beautifully illuminated setting and then write and send your letters to Santa, ensuring they arrive just in time for Christmas. It's a tradition that will warm your heart.

Outdoor Adventures in Winter

Winter in Westerville isn't just about shopping and holiday lights. Embrace the chilly weather and explore the city's parks and trails:

• Go for a winter hike or bike ride.
• Birdwatch and appreciate the beauty of wildlife.
• Take in the scenic views of the Hoover Reservoir, which is even more enchanting when draped in snow.
• For the little adventurers, the sledding hills at Alum Creek Park North & South promise endless thrills as children dash down the slopes.

Incredible Illuminations

Discover the beauty of Westerville's outdoor spaces illuminated in all their holiday glory:

• At Inniswood Metro Gardens, starting in December, witness the enchanting "Inniswood Illuminated" as the gardens come alive with light displays after dark.
• Everal Barn & Homestead at Heritage Park offers a stunning backdrop for beautiful scenery and holiday lights that will leave you spellbound.
• Stroll through the picturesque campus of Otterbein University to see stunning oak trees amidst historic brick buildings, making it a scenic winter wonderland.

"It's a Wonderful Westerville" is more than just a catchy phrase; it's a promise that Westerville, Ohio, delivers on during the holiday season. From shopping in charming boutiques to enjoying sparkling light displays and taking part in heartwarming traditions, Westerville offers a festive escape for all. So, plan your visit to this enchanting city and immerse yourself in the magic of the season. Westerville welcomes you with open arms and twinkling lights!

Post updated Nov. 2025