Picture it: a stroll through downtown with snowflakes falling, holiday music filling the air, and Christmas lights glowing all around you. Whether you’re planning a day trip or making a weekend getaway, Marion, Ohio, is the perfect place to make memories, discover new traditions, and embrace the magic of the holiday season.
From festive craft shows and local shopping to a lighted Christmas parade, holiday performances, and historic attractions, there’s plenty to see and do all season long. So, gather your family and friends and make plans to experience the holiday hustle in Marion!
Shop Local and Find Something Special
Ready to check a few names off your holiday shopping list? Marion is the place to find unique gifts while supporting local businesses and makers.
Downtown Marion’s Pink Weekend, November 20–21, is the perfect opportunity to shop local and discover something special. On Saturday, November 21, the annual Harding Mistletoe Craft Show returns to Harding High School, while The Brickyard on Main hosts its “A Season to Sparkle” Christmas Market from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Browse handmade crafts, clothing, candles, toys, and more as you shop for everyone on your list. With so many opportunities to shop local, you’ll find plenty of reasons to make Marion part of your holiday shopping tradition.
Make New Memories with Marion Traditions
What’s the holiday season without a few favorite traditions? This year, add some Marion traditions to your calendar.
The “A Season to Sparkle” Lighted Truck Christmas Parade kicks off November 21 at 6 p.m. Join friends and family as the sights and sounds of Christmas fill downtown Marion. Following the parade, gather in Founders Park for the lighting of the downtown Christmas tree and celebrate the start of the holiday season together.
Then, on December 12 from 5–8 p.m., experience the “All Is Bright” Church Tour. Pick up your collectible tour book at Aspire Ministries, complete with a tour map and details about each participating church, and enjoy an evening exploring these beautiful local landmarks.
Come for the holiday hustle and stay for the traditions that make Marion special.
Take in the Magic of the Arts
The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a little music, theatre, and entertainment. The historic Marion Palace Theatre offers two special opportunities to celebrate the season.
One of Marion’s favorite holiday traditions, Christmas at the Palace, returns December 4–6. This festive showcase brings local performers together for an unforgettable holiday celebration filled with music, drama, and dance.
Keep the holiday spirit going on December 13 with the Central Ohio Symphony’s “Sounds of the Season.” This concert is perfect for every generation, featuring joyful symphonic arrangements and beloved holiday songs.
Experience the magic of the arts in Marion this holiday season.
Discover Marion’s Rich History
Planning a holiday getaway in November or December? Make time to explore the history that makes Marion a destination worth discovering.
The Harding Presidential Library & Museum and Harding Home are open weekends from November through February, with hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
History and innovation come to life at the Huber Museum, where you can explore remarkable collections of early machinery that showcase ingenuity and innovation. The museum is open Saturdays in November from 1–4 p.m.
Train enthusiasts won’t want to miss Marion Union Station, open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For even more local history, visit Heritage Hall, home to the Marion Historical Society and the Wyandot Popcorn Museum. Both attractions are open Saturdays and Sundays from 1–4 p.m.
Take a break from the holiday hustle and discover the stories, people, and places that have shaped Marion’s history.
Kick Off Your Holiday Hustle in Marion
This holiday season, make plans to experience Marion, Ohio. Whether you’re searching for that perfect one-of-a-kind gift, starting a new holiday tradition, enjoying a show at the historic Palace Theatre, or exploring the community’s rich history, you’ll find plenty of reasons to visit.
Come for the shopping. Stay for the traditions. Discover the history. Enjoy the arts. Most of all, make memories that will bring you back year after year.
Come experience the holiday hustle in Marion, Ohio—and make this season one to remember!
