[Updated: November 10, 2026 | Published: November 10, 2026]
At Friendship Village of Dublin, the holiday season is a time to gather, celebrate, and make the most of living in our charming, welcoming town of Dublin, Ohio. Dublin is beloved by its residents. According to a 2025 National Community Survey, 99% of residents rate Dublin as a wonderful place to live, and the city shines especially brightly in winter. Situated northwest of Columbus and just south of the vibrant Bridge Park development, Friendship Village of Dublin puts residents close to the season’s most festive celebrations. Read on to discover holiday activities for older adults in Dublin, Ohio, and how our community helps residents savor every moment of the season.
Holiday Traditions for The Whole Family
You’ll find plenty of festive things to do in Dublin, Ohio, for when children, grandchildren, and loved ones come to town. Few things capture the spirit of the season like a glowing Christmas tree, and the City of Dublin kicks off the holidays with a free Tree Lighting Ceremony at Coffman Park. Santa and Mrs. Claus kick off the festivities, and guests can enjoy caroling, dance performances, and hot chocolate. While you’re there, step inside the historic Coffman Homestead, an 1860s-era home decorated for an old-fashioned Christmas.
Santa in the Park also welcomes visitors for free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate, and live music, plus North Pole mailboxes for the little ones’ letters.
For a dazzling evening out, Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium fills the zoo with millions of LED lights and animated musical light shows. Arrive before dark to see animals from all over the world, then enjoy light shows, train and yule tide boat rides, and a starlight safari featuring larger-than-life animal sculptures.
Festive Markets and Holiday Shopping
Check off your gift list while supporting local makers. This year, Dublin welcomes its first-ever Christkindlmarkt, a European-style holiday village at Riverside Crossing Park. Open November 21 through December 24 with free admission, the market offers artisan gifts, traditional German treats, and seasonal festivities.
On Saturday, December 5, Merry Market at Bridge Park brings together more than 120 local craftsmen, farmers, bakers, and makers, along with live music, decorated holiday trees, and photos with Santa from noon to 3:00 p.m., adding a festive flair to shopping in Dublin, Ohio.
Seasonal Sips and Sweets
Cozy up for a festive night out at the Ugly Sweater Crawl on Saturday, December 12, from 6 to 9 p.m. Pull on your most cheerful sweater and enjoy holiday drink specials at participating bars and restaurants across Bridge Park, Dublin, Ohio and Historic Dublin. Or, satisfy both your hunger and creativity at once with a Family Gingerbread House Workshop at Our CupCakery on December 6th at noon; tickets required.
Back home, delicious dining is on the menu at Friendship Village of Dublin, too. With four distinct dining venues, there is always something new to savor, from fireside dining at the Legacy Dining Room on a chilly winter evening to an upscale experience at the Riverwalk Restaurant.
Celebrate the Season at Friendship Village of Dublin
At Friendship Village of Dublin, residents can enjoy everything Dublin and Central Ohio have to offer during the most wonderful time of the year. Our vibrant community offers engaging activities, helpful resources, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate with friends and neighbors, making life here as joyous as the town around us. Contact us today to learn why our welcoming community in Dublin, Ohio, is the perfect place to spend your retirement and every holiday season to come.
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