Downtown Cincinnati celebrates the holiday season in true Christmas fashion with “Light Up the Square,” the annual Fountain Square Christmas tree lighting on Friday. Ablaze with 20,000 twinkling lights, the tree will be topped off with a 5-foot-tall red star. This is the largest tree that's ever been on the square, measuring 60 feet.
“St. Nick,” the mystery host, will be the entertainment before acknowledging the event sponsors, Cincinnati Bell and Procter & Gamble. Bring your children to see Santa as he makes a special appearance at the U.S. Bank Ice Rink, which will be open from 11 a.m. to midnight. Santa will be granting Christmas wishes until 8 p.m. on the first floor at Macy’s. Parents are encouraged to bring their own camera to capture the moment.
There will also be myriad festive treats, including hot chocolate, cookies and adult drinks. Restaurants around the square will be open as well.
The holiday fun starts at 6:30 p.m. There will be a performance from the winner of NBC’s Clash of the Choirs and “Team Cincinnati.” The tree will light up at 7 p.m. followed by fireworks. Arrive early to avoid the crowd and roadblocks. Some streets may be closed starting as early as 4 p.m. Get event details here.
