The holidays are a fun and festive time of year, but it's also very expensive. The cost of gifts and events can definitely be overwhelming, but there are many things to do around town that are free for the family. If you're looking to make memories this season without breaking the bank, here are seven ways to celebrate the holidays in Cincinnati without spending a dime.
1. Talk a walk at the Creation Museum.
Located in Petersburg in Northern Kentucky, ChristmasTown at the Creation Museum is a free illuminated garden. The pathways and lake are beautifully lit with colorful Christmas lights and there are fun activities offered for the whole family. There is a small charge for parking, but the event itself is free to attend. For more on ChristmasTown, check out our previous article here.
2. Visit the life size nativity at Paul R. Young Funeral Home.
For decades, Paul R. Young Funeral Home has displayed a beautiful life-sized nativity on their front lawn, complete with wax figures and live animals. The nativity is set up December 15 and will remain on display through January 1, 2019. Learn more about the nativity on its event page here.
3. Check out Christmas in Mt. Healthy on December 15th.
Mt. Healthy has one of the most festive events of the season, and it takes place on December 15th. Walk through the charming shops, brewery, antique mall, bakery, and more. Find out more about this free day of family fun on its Facebook page here.
4. Drive through Light Up Middletown.
Pile in the car and head to Middletown for a wonderful drive-thru light display. There is no charge for the attraction, but they do greatly appreciate donations. Learn more about Light Up Middletown in our previous article here.
5. Stroll around Liberty Center.
Liberty Center may be filled with shopping destinations, but there's plenty to see for free. The huge tree is magnificent, there's a nativity inside the tree, and there are many other holiday scenes set up throughout the Center. Find out more about Liberty Center here.
6. Check out an Antique Christmas at the Taft Museum of Art on a Sunday.
The Taft Museum of Art is extra special during the holidays, thanks to its Antique Christmas event. Admission to the museum is free on Sundays, so start a new tradition this year with the family! Find out more about the Taft Museum in our previous article here.
7. Watch the first annual South Lebanon Christmas In The Village Horse Parade.
On December 15th, head to South Lebanon for its first annual Village Horse Parade. It takes place at 5 p.m. and is free to watch! Find out more details on the event's page here.
The holidays are undoubtedly expensive, but it is possible to make many festive family memories in Cincinnati without spending a dime. Did your favorite seasonal event make this list? Any other free activities to add? Let us know in the comments!
And for more winter activities to check out even after the holidays, take a look at our previous article here.
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