Downtown Cleveland Alliance presents this year’s Winterfest as a month-long celebration of socially distant and virtual experiences. Starting Saturday, November 28, the reimagined holiday offerings will bring festive cheer and fun for all, made possible by partners across Downtown Cleveland.
Winterfest will continue throughout the season with a variety of virtual and interactive happenings in accordance with CDC guidelines and city and state mandates. Please note that, out of an abundance of caution, select events, including Public Square’s skating rink, carriage rides, and the Terminal Tower observation deck tours have been canceled at this time.
Winterfest kicks off with a special broadcast-only lighting of Downtown Cleveland to enjoy on WKYC-3 at 7 p.m. from the comfort of your home. The virtual broadcast replaces the traditional in-person festival celebration and people are strongly encouraged to view the broadcast at home.
Presented by The K&D Group, hosts Mark Nolan and Jasmine Monroe will delight viewers with a primetime show that includes appearances by Mayor Frank Jackson, DCA’s Joe Marinucci, the Singing Angels, recording artist AC Jones and the jolly man in red. It will also feature the illumination of Public Square via a countdown by the May Company building’s restored pediment clock.
Highlights of Winterfest 2020 include:
Nov. 28 – Jan. 3, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Holiday Light Shows – Public Square
Locals are invited to stop by Downtown Cleveland’s Public Square, in a socially distant manner, to enjoy animated light and sound shows. The complimentary displays will activate three times per hour between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. each day for all to take in.
Nov. 26 – Dec. 31
Take A Hike®: Holiday Edition – Downtown Cleveland
Bundle up in your most festive winter gear, then embark on two free self-guided walking tours, highlighting Cleveland’s Grand Department Stores and Historic Hotels. Explore at your own pace while fully complying with social distancing rules. Available on-demand using your mobile device at TakeaHikeCLE.com.
Saturdays, Nov. 28, Dec. 12 and Dec. 19, 11 a.m.
Virtual Visits with Santa – via Zoom
Zoom registration via Eventbrite required
Have no fear, kids! Santa will be ready to Rock n’ Roll come Christmas Eve. Ahead of this all-important day, kids and their families are invited to dial in for a special Zoom visit with Santa from the North Pole where he and his elves will share stories, chat with attendees, pose for selfies and lead a Christmas Sing-Along.
Saturdays, Dec. 5, Dec. 12 and Dec. 19
Fusion.Live’s Winterfest Wonderland Series
– Streamed live via DCA Facebook Page Bring the magic of the holidays to life from the comfort of your home with Fusion.Live’s Winterfest Wonderland series, featuring a virtual lineup of festive crafting and decorating sessions, dance parties, a holiday snack tray tutorial, storytimes, prize drawings, and much more.
Nov. 26 – Dec. 31
Santas of the World Scavenger Hunt – Downtown Cleveland
Visit the Gateway and Warehouse Districts to follow a dedicated “scavenger hunt” and walking tour to view thirteen vintage Santa and holiday-themed dolls from the National City Bank archive. Family-friendly and free, the 60-minute self-guided and socially distant tours begin on Nov. 26. Visit ClevelandDatewayDistrict.com/holidayseason for additional details.
Hotel Staycation Packages – Downtown Cleveland
Ready for a change of scenery – right here in CLE? Take advantage of the opportunity to reserve a staycation for the holidays at one of Downtown Cleveland’s premier hotels. Discover some great one- and multiple-night packages and experiences at any of these fine establishments.
Support Local Dining & Retail – Downtown Cleveland
It’s more important than ever to support our local businesses this holiday season. With over 100 restaurants and eateries in Downtown Cleveland, there’s a Clean Committed dining option for every taste. Order carryout or delivery, then enjoy while you shop online from the comfort of your home for gifts from unique, locally owned establishments to spread some holiday cheer.
For the most up-to-date information regarding Downtown Cleveland holiday experiences, carry out and delivery options and opportunities to shop locally online, please visit WinterfestCLE.com.
