To kick off the display, entertainment, music, cookies, cocoa and a special North Pole visitor will greet children on Friday, November 17. Wildlights , Columbus Zoo, November 17-January 1 The Columbus Zoo will transform into a sparkling wonderland with thousands of lights, ice skating, cookie decorating and more. This event will also provide an opportunity to view the animals in a different setting. Don't miss the hippoquarium or the recently added Arctic Encounter exhibit. The Christmas Tree Adventure , Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, November 24-December 10 Create lasting holiday memories while traveling by train through the scenic Cuyahoga Valley to pick out the perfect Christmas tree.
Riders can select and cut their own trees or choose fresh trees from the barn.
The trees will then be loaded into the baggage car for the return trip. This daylong celebration will begin with music and vendors in Olde Gahanna. Visitors can browse displays or enjoy the natural beauty of Creekside Park. The highlight of the event will be a nighttime parade of lights featuring floats, bands, and civic organizations decked out for the holidays. Thanksgiving Polka Weekend , Cleveland, November 23-25 Dance off that turkey and dressing or relax to the sounds of polka bands from all over the country at this competition and demonstration event on Public Square.