Cleveland Winterland (WinterFest) 2024

WinterLand (also known as WinterFest) is the premier holiday attraction in Cleveland. Held for over 30 years on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the festival features amazing lighting displays, shows and performances, the appearance of Santa and his elves, and beautiful fireworks.

The Festival contains the lighting of downtown Cleveland with various holiday events and entertainment, creating a joyful atmosphere for families and visitors. Winterland reveals the true magic of Cleveland in the winter.

Cleveland Winterland Highlights

Many family-friendly attractions are set up in the Christmas village at Public Square in Downtown Cleveland, which resembles a European Christkindlmarkt. The Cleveland Bazaar offers a pop-up holiday shop at the 5th Street Arcades. Best Winterland holiday experiences include caroling near the festive holiday tree, horse-drawn carriage rides, live music, a beer festival, and much more.

There are also plenty of food trucks with holiday treats and snacks from the best Cleveland food joints. The amazing outdoor ice rink, fire pits, and entertainment in Downtown Cleveland last until the end of February. Cleveland Winterland (WinterFest) is a beloved annual event that brings people together to celebrate Cleveland's warm and vibrant holiday spirit.

Lighting Ceremony

The holiday season begins with the Winterland Tree Lighting Ceremony at Public Square in Downtown Cleveland. The festive features music, food, entertainment, holiday activities, an appearance by Santa and various local favorite holiday characters, and a dazzling fireworks display.

Ice skating at the Cleveland Foundation Skating Rink will be available from noon to 10 pm. Visitors can enjoy pre-show activations starting at 3 pm, and the live stage show will last from 4 to 6 pm. The main Tree Lighting will start at 6 pm, imminently followed by fireworks.

Admission and Parking

The festival admission is free to the public. However, visitors must have tickets for Ice Skating, which are purchased on-site. There is ADA-access and a slew of parking spots in downtown Cleveland. Feel free to check out the city's Parking and Transportation Guide for more info.