Holidays at the Franklin Park Conservatory

When you think of the Franklin Park Conservatory, you usually think about the tropical Palm House and beautiful warm days filled with flowers and butterflies. Most Columbusites would be surprised to learn the Conservatory is a favorite holiday spot for folks in the know. The beauty of spring and summer becomes the joy of the holiday season with a truly breathtaking display.

Decked out with displays of 1,300 poinsettias, seasonal trees and more than 100,000 twinkling lights. The conservatory also has a 15-foot traditional poinsettia tree, hanging baskets and displays of cinnamon, holly and citrus trees.

Top 20 Holiday Events in Columbus

The holiday season at Franklin Park Conservatory has something for everyone. Besides being beautifully decorated, there is a new feature at the conservatory - 40 original animation drawings and production cells of Academy-award winning director Chuck Jones. Jones produced, directed and wrote the screenplay holiday classic Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Attendees learn more about Jones’ career at Warner Brothers that spanned 60 years and learn more about famous WB characters like Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Porky Pig.

Taking their cue form Jones' work, six pro bakers will create and display their fantastic gingerbread creations.

Gingerbread enthusiasts should check out or sign up for the fifth annual gingerbread competition and conservatory attendees are asked to vote for the best. There are five different categories - including one for families. Other family events include:

Saturday, December 10


 Breakfast with Santa
8:30 p.m. – 10 a.m.

Wednesday, December 14

6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
From the website: See the infamous Grinch and his little dog Max as you visit the Whoville Post Office to create holiday cards. Join in on a sing-along, Whoville style, around the tree at 7 and 8pm, and taste Who Pudding and Roast Beast ($1).

Tuesday, December 27

From the website: Illusionist John Steven Bloom wows with a special blend of magic, humor, and family entertainment.
View the Website for more info.

More Events



Candlelight Dinners

December 14, 21, 28
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

From the website: Candlelit dinner in the warm and exotic surroundings of the John F. Wolfe Palm House decorated for the holidays and featuring a delicious menu made in house by Conservatory Catering.

Franklin Park Conversatory
1777 East Broad Street
Columbus, Ohio

Admission

$25 members; $30 non-members

$12 member children ages 3 – 10

$15 non-members ages 3 – 10

free for children under 3

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