Canton Christmas Festival underway: don’t miss the magic!

By Courtney Warren

The Canton Christmas Festival, also known as the “City of Lights,” has officially kicked off its spectacular holiday run. The festival is open nightly from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will continue through December 23, 2025, with a scheduled closure only from December 1 through December 4. Visitors will find a wide array of attractions around the Historic Canton Square, including Rudolph’s Playground, fire truck and train rides, an 18-foot walk-through gift box, and the iconic 3-story Christmas tree. New this year is the snowman 16-foot walk through, now located at 184 East Center Street, alongside the caterpillar 32-foot-long walk through and Santa’s Cookie Stop. The festival will also celebrate America 250 with patriotic displays throughout The Square.

Families are invited to immerse themselves in the festival’s interactive areas. The beloved storyteller, Mrs. Claus, is back and bringing extra Christmas magic this year. Her home has received an upgrade, allowing families to explore her beautiful new location, get cozy, and enjoy her magical tales away from the winter chill—a perfect little escape children will talk about all season long. Other immersive spots include the Christmas Interactive Village (featuring the Reindeer Barn, Frosty’s House, and Rudolph’s House) and Santa’s Snow Village, which offers a peek into Santa’s picturesque hometown. Children can also enjoy classic entertainment on the old-fashioned carousel, antique cars, and the Sky Race. For history buffs and animation lovers, the Christmas Animation Museum and I Spy brings Canton’s history to life with Christmas magic, showcasing the Elves’ Top 10 Favorite Toys.

While the initial Merchants’ Open House Weekend has concluded, the town square will host several special events throughout December. The Singalong Fest with the Best and Photos with Santa (at 137 West Peace Street) will return, running December 5-7, and again from December 12-23. Similarly, horse-drawn carriage rides around the Historic Square will be offered Friday and Saturday, December 5 and 6, as well as from December 12-23. Another event Cantonians are encouraged to mark their calendars for is the 19th Annual Holiday Sip ‘N Cider on December 12, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., where participating merchants will offer warm cider and host competitions.

Access to many attractions requires tickets. Individual tickets cost $2, but guests can purchase a sheet of 25 tickets for $25. Rides like the fire truck, carousel, Sky Race, and antique cars require 2 tickets each, while the wagon train requires 3 tickets. The horse-drawn carriage rides and Christmas Village require 5 tickets per person. Attendees are reminded that only cash or major credit cards are accepted, and all ticket sales are final. For more information, visit CantonTourism.com.