MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Marion County is set for a bustling two weeks of festive activities as the Christmas holiday approaches, with dozens of events planned across the city and surrounding villages starting today, Wednesday, Dec. 10.

Community calendars are packed with family-friendly entertainment, shopping opportunities, and classic holiday traditions designed for all ages, with many events offering free admission.

Major local attractions include the multi-day Christmas by Candlelight drive-thru light display at the Marion County Fairgrounds, which runs from Dec. 12 through Dec. 28, 6-9 p.m.

The weekend is centered on community gatherings, craft shows, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus.

Events this week:

  • Wednesday, Dec. 10: The day kicks off with a Christmas Play at the Marion Correctional Institution at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. (free), followed by Christmas in the Village in Downtown LaRue from 5-7 p.m. and a free Family Fun Night at the Marion Public Library at 5:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, Dec. 11: Downtown Marion hosts its Girls Night Out: A Downtown Marion Shopping Event from 5-8 p.m. at various businesses.
  • Friday, Dec. 12: Highlights include the premier Nutcracker Nights: Downtown Marion Inc. Annual Christmas Gala at The Brickyard on Main (tickets required), a free Holiday Concert at The Ohio State University at Marion at 7 p.m., and a Parents’ Night Out child care event at Central Baptist Church.
  • Saturday, Dec. 13: The day is filled with holiday markets, including the Christmas Craft Show at Marion St. Mary Catholic School and the Christmas in the County Craft Show at the Meeker Community Center (both 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.). Photos with Santa are available at Days Gone By Photography and The Harding Centre. The evening concludes with the “All is Bright” Self-Guided Church Tour of seven Marion County Churches from 5-8 p.m.
  • Sunday, Dec. 14: The weekend wraps up with a Brunch with Santa at the Morral Salt Rock Fire Department at 12:30 p.m., the Central Ohio Symphony’s Sounds of the Season at the Marion Palace Theatre at 2 p.m. (ticket required), and the free Jingle Jam at Dayspring Wesleyan Church at 6 p.m.

Other key events planned for next week include Cops, Cookies and Cocoa at Grant Middle School (Dec. 15), a Christmas Blind Book Swap (Dec. 18), and a Polar Express Pajama PLINGO (Dec. 19).

Residents are encouraged to check individual event listings for any changes or pre-registration requirements.