2024-25 Winter Bucket List

Winter in Cleveland brings unique activities and festive fun for everyone! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here’s a list to embrace the season. Share your explorations with us on Instagram @theclebucketlist.

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Some event highlights that are always hits are included below. Keep scrolling for the full list!

1. Wild Winter Lights at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Wild Winter Lights at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo will dazzle with over a million lights, themed displays, and interactive elements. Running on select dates from November 17 to December 30, this winter spectacle offers both walk-through and drive-through experiences, ideal for families looking to immerse themselves in holiday cheer​

2. WinterLand in Public Square
WinterLand transforms Public Square into a winter wonderland with festive lights, ice skating, and holiday music. The event kicks off Thanksgiving weekend with a massive tree lighting ceremony and runs through December​

3. Great Lakes Brewing Co. Christmas Ale
Celebrate the holiday season with Great Lakes Brewing Company's famous Christmas Ale. With hints of honey, ginger, and cinnamon, this beloved seasonal brew can be found at various bars, restaurants, and stores across Cleveland​

4. The Chalet Toboggan Chutes in Strongsville
Experience the thrill of racing down the Chalet’s 700-foot toboggan chutes at Mill Stream Run Reservation. Open from November through February, this is a must-do for winter adrenaline seekers in Northeast Ohio​

5. The Rink at Wade Oval
Skate under twinkling lights at the Rink at Wade Oval in University Circle. Known for its affordable rates, it offers $2 admission and $3 rentals, making it a favorite among families and college students​. See more rinks to skate at here.

6. Brite Winter Festival
This unique outdoor festival combines art, music, and community on the West Bank of the Flats in February. Brite Winter is a celebration of Cleveland’s vibrant arts scene, even in chilly weather​

7. Cleveland’s Kurentovanje Festival
Dive into Slovenian culture with the Kurentovanje Festival. Scheduled for February, this event includes traditional music, food, and the famous Kurent monster parade, intended to chase away winter blues​

Check out more activities on our website or see our full Winter Bucket List below to plan your perfect winter day!

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1. Visit the “A Christmas Story” house

2. Take an afternoon to explore the Cleveland Botanical Garden

3. Listen to the world-class Cleveland Orchestra

4. Explore Cleveland street art

5. Support a local business with a purchase

6. Order takeout for a friend

7. Take a local workout class

8. Go tobogganing

9. Go ice skating

10. Visit one of our museums

11. Grab a local coffee

12. Cheer on your favorite team at a bar

13. Explore the aquarium

14. Pick out dinner at the West Side Market

15. Check out a book from your local library 

16. Go sledding

17. Take a winter hike in the Metro Parks

18. Explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park

19. Take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

20. Donate to a local charity

21. Visit a beach when the lake is frozen

22. Attend a winter event (see all here)

23. Visit a holiday pop-up bar while you can!

24. See a Cleveland Monsters game (ok, the Cavs count, too)

25. Bowl at a local bowling alley

26. Volunteer your time with a local organization

27. Burn off some energy at one of these great indoor locations

28. Go Polar Blast Tubing (or skiing/snowboarding) at BMBM

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