A Magical Holiday Experience
There’s something truly magical about Christmas in Marietta, Ohio. Established in 1788 as the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory, Marietta is the oldest city in Ohio, and its rich history and festive traditions attract thousands of visitors each year. Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Marietta transforms into a holiday wonderland, making visitors feel as if they’ve stepped onto the set of a Hallmark movie.
Holiday Shopping in Marietta
One of the most beloved activities for visitors during the holiday season is Christmas shopping. The town is filled with a blend of long-standing shops and new businesses, all beautifully decorated for the holidays. Marietta’s downtown offers a wide range of locally made, handcrafted goods, antiques, and home decor items, making it easy to find unique gifts for friends and family.
As visitors stroll through the charming streets, they’ll discover boutiques and small, locally owned businesses that take pride in their artisanal craftsmanship. Whether it’s a hand-stitched quilt, a locally crafted piece of jewelry, or a one-of-a-kind home decor item, Marietta’s shops are filled with treasures perfect for the holiday season. Shopping here is not just about finding gifts—it’s an experience that connects visitors to the town’s rich history and local creativity.
Diverse Dining Experiences
After a day of holiday shopping, Marietta’s wide variety of dining options offers something to satisfy every palate. From fine dining restaurants to cozy pubs, the town’s eateries serve up seasonal flavors with locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can enjoy everything from farm-to-table meals to classic pub fare, all with a focus on regional purveyors and fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides Through Downtown
For a nostalgic holiday experience, free horse-drawn carriage rides are available on the first three Saturdays in December. Sponsored by local businesses, these rides offer a whimsical and merry way to see Marietta’s holiday charm. Visitors can enjoy the sound of horses’ hooves clopping along the cobblestone streets as they take in the festive lights and beautifully decorated storefronts along Front Street. These carriage rides capture the magic of a classic holiday season, adding an extra touch of warmth and nostalgia to the town’s holiday atmosphere.
“Merry-Etta” Holiday Events
Marietta’s holiday season isn’t complete without its array of special events. The town’s “Merry-Etta” celebration includes activities that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Popular attractions include the Holiday Tree Walk, where beautifully decorated trees are displayed throughout downtown. Visitors can also experience Marietta’s historic charm through loft tours, where downtown buildings open their doors to showcase stunning holiday decorations. For families, a visit to the Santa House is a must, where children can meet St. Nicholas and share their Christmas wishes.
Tour Historic Homes and Museums
For those interested in history, Marietta’s holiday tours of historic homes and museums offer a festive look at the town’s past. The Castle, one of Marietta’s most well-known historic homes, is beautifully decorated for the season, offering tours that highlight its history and architecture. The Henry Fearing House and Henderson Hall also welcome visitors to experience their holiday splendor.
In addition to its historic homes, Marietta is home to the Campus Martius Museum, dedicated to the pioneers of the Northwest Territory. The museum offers special programming during the holiday season, making it a great place to learn more about the area’s history. Visitors can also take a scenic winter ride on the Valley Gem Sternwheeler or catch a holiday performance at either the Peoples Bank Theatre, the Tower Event Center, or the Mid-Ohio Valley Players Theater.
Nearby Holiday Light Displays
A short drive from Marietta, visitors can explore the enchanting Belpre Holiday Lights in Civitan Park. This beloved tradition features thousands of lights and hand-crafted displays, creating a magical holiday scene. The event runs from November 25th through January 3rd and is a must-see for anyone visiting the area during the holiday season. Belpre Holiday Lights offers a family-friendly adventure that visitors can enjoy from the warmth of their car as they drive through the park.
The Marietta Ice Festival
The holiday magic in Marietta extends beyond Christmas with the annual Marietta Ice Festival, held in January. Downtown Marietta comes to life with intricate ice sculptures crafted by local artist Tyson Whistler of Whistler Ice Works. Visitors can watch live ice carving demonstrations on the Armory lawn, where Tyson transforms blocks of ice into dazzling masterpieces. This chilly winter festival invites families to bundle up with a cup of hot cocoa as they explore downtown shops and marvel at the creativity of the sculptures.
A Warm Welcome Awaits
Visitors to Marietta will find a wide range of accommodations to suit their needs, from historic inns to modern hotels. No matter where you stay, Marietta’s warm hospitality and festive charm will make you feel right at home during your holiday visit.
With so much to see and do, Marietta, Ohio, is the perfect destination to experience the magic of the holiday season. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, enjoying a festive carriage ride, or marveling at the light displays, the town’s holiday spirit is sure to brighten your Christmas season. For more information on holiday events and to plan your visit, check out the Marietta Visitor Bureau’s website at MariettaOhio.org or call 740-373-5178.
