Cincinnati Nature Center

Back To Event Calendar

Light in the Forest

DATE: Monday 12/22/25 TIME: 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Registration Requirements: Preregistration required.

Intended Audience: This program is designed for all ages.

*Pets are not permitted at any Cincinnati Nature Center program or event. Service dogs are welcome and must be clearly identified.

Event Description: This illuminated walk celebrates the magic of nature in the wintertime. The 1-mile-long trail leads you past ponds, woodlands, and fields, and features dazzling light displays and interactive activities the whole family will enjoy, including:

Approximately 1 mile of illuminated trails through woodlands, ponds, and fields
New installations, including light displays from nine different regional artists
Children's craft and interactive activities
Live music
A warm bonfire
A beautifully decorated historic home
Food trucks and drinks
Holiday shopping!

DON'T MISS OPENING WEEKEND! Friday, 12/5, Saturday, 12/6 and Sunday, 12/7. Featuring:

Friendly woodland animal characters
A ceremonial lighting of the Krippendorf Lodge at 6:00 nightly
Light up the night with us by dressing in your most lit attire
PLUS DISCOUNTED TICKETS! Purchase by November 30 to receive a special discount on Opening Weekend tickets (December 5-7).
Tickets are nonrefundable; all sales are final.

What to Expect:

Arrival & Parking: Our gatehouse staff will scan your ticket and direct you where to park when you arrive. Parking is free. You'll be guided onto the trails by a parking attendant. No matter where you park, you’ll be near a trail entrance.
Restrooms: Three restroom facilities will be available along the trail, including a handicapped accessible restroom.
Trail Information:
- The majority of the trail is outside and covers about a mile of mostly flat terrain around the Rowe Visitor Center, Krippendorf Lodge, and Abner Hollow Cabin. Plan to dress in layers for comfort.
- The entire trail should take about an hour to complete.
- The event and trails close at 9 pm.
Frequently Asked Questions: For answers to other frequently asked questions regarding Light in the Forest, please refer to our Light in the Forest website page.

Note: You are registering for a timed arrival. Please arrive on time at the gatehouse at your reservation start time listed on your ticket, or for a thirty-minute window thereafter.

5:30 pm start time — arrive at the gatehouse between 5:30 to 6 pm
6:30 pm start time — arrive at the gatehouse between 6:30 to 7 pm
7:30 pm start time — arrive as close to 7:30 pm as possible to fully enjoy the experience

Severe Weather Policy: This event is rain or shine, except in cases of severe weather. Extreme weather, such as severe storms, may cancel this program, and a full refund will be offered. Cancellations will be posted on our website by 3 pm on the day of the event. Please check our website for updates before coming out for your event.

Location: Join us at our Rowe Woods location (4949 Tealtown Rd, Milford, OH 45150).

Pricing: Ticket fees are as listed. Tickets are nonrefundable; all sales are final. Tickets for this event support the mission of Cincinnati Nature Center.

Check your email for registration information regarding this transaction. SAVE A TREE, please retain your order number or save an electronic copy of the email acknowledgment as a receipt. You will be asked to show your QR code to gain entry at the gate/to attend your program.

Please note that our program and cancellation policies vary. By completing registration for this program, you agree to the following fundraising program policies.

The 2025 event is generously sponsored by:

Platinum Sponsor