WinterFest Columbus to Host Annual Event on November 21

The citys ninth annual winter festival will feature live music, food trucks, and family activities at Dorrian Green.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Cultural

Screen-print poster illustration of a festive wreath and stylized pine trees in warm, muted tones for the WinterFest event. — WinterFest Columbus will host its ninth annual holiday celebration on November 21 at Dorrian Green in partnership with the COSI science center. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you plan to attend local seasonal winter celebrations in your community this year?

WinterFest Columbus is set to take place at Dorrian Green on November 21, 2026. The event marks the ninth annual iteration of the celebration and will be held in partnership with the COSI Season of Celebrations.

Why it matters

The festival brings the community together for a seasonal outdoor experience near a major local educational institution. This collaboration integrates the event with the broader holiday programming offered at the neighboring science center.

This marks the 9th annual iteration of the event, which features a duration of 4 hours.

The players

COSI

The Center of Science and Industry is a major science museum located in Columbus that hosts educational programming.

The details

Attendees can participate in a variety of activities including a petting zoo, gingerbread playground, and axe throwing throughout the afternoon. While access to the festival grounds at Dorrian Green is provided, visiting the interior of COSI requires a separate general admission ticket.

November 21, 2026, 11 a.m.: Tree lighting ceremony begins.
November 21, 2026, noon: WinterFest begins and Silvis performs.
November 21, 2026, 1:30 p.m.: Apricot House performs.
November 21, 2026, 3 p.m.: EMILÍ performs.
November 21, 2026, 4 p.m.: WinterFest ends.

Industry Dynamics

The festival relocation follows the pattern set by the citys efforts to leverage the Scioto Peninsula for large-scale outdoor public programming. By aligning with local cultural institutions, the event strengthens the area as a destination for seasonal public engagement.

Visitors can enjoy the outdoor festivities at Dorrian Green free of charge throughout the four-hour window. Those interested in exploring the adjacent science museum during the festival should purchase a general admission ticket in advance.

The takeaway

Families attending the festival should prioritize the tree lighting ceremony early in the morning before the main grounds open. Planning travel to the Dorrian Green area ahead of time will help ensure easy access to both the outdoor games and the nearby museum.