Light in the Forest
Tickets on sale now!
Light in the Forest will be your new winter tradition!
This walking tour of seasonal lights reflects a theme of peace, nature, and the magic of the winter season. The 1-mile-long illuminated trail leads you past enchanting ponds, fields, through woodland areas, interactive light displays, and family friendly activities.
This year's event features:
• A beautifully lit forest
• NEW installations by regional light artists, including five BLINK artists
• NEW children's activities
• Live music
• A warm bonfire
• A historic home with nature-inspired decorations
• Food trucks and drinks
• Holiday shopping
Please note: Pets are not permitted at any Cincinnati Nature Center program or event.
Preregistration is required for adults and children (age 3 and up). Member adult $14; member child $6; nonmember adult $18; nonmember child $8.
Tickets are nonrefundable; all sales are final. Tickets for this event support the mission of Cincinnati Nature Center.
Although you may purchase tickets at the gatehouse if available, we strongly advise purchasing tickets in advance as we expect this event to sell out!
Note: You are registering for a timed arrival. Please arrive on time at the gatehouse at your reservation start time on your ticket, or for a thirty-minute window thereafter.
• 5:30 pm start time — arrive at the gatehouse between 5:30–6 pm
• 6:30 pm start time — arrive at the gatehouse between 6:30–7 pm
• 7:30 pm start time — arrive as close to 7:30 pm as possible to fully enjoy the experience.
Our trail will take about an hour or so to complete. The event closes at 9 pm.
This event is generously sponsored by:
Platinum Sponsor
Supporting Sponsors
Contributing Sponsors
Bar Sponsor
For a full list of event sponsorship benefits and information, please contact Kylee Alter at kalter@cincynature.org or call (513) 965-4249.
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration Questions
Do I need to preregister?
Yes, all guests must pre-register to assure a timed ticket. We expect this event to sell out, and we want to assure your spot at the event.
Why do I need to register for a specific time?
Due to space restrictions, we have a limited number of tickets per time slot. This is for the safety of you, our staff, and our volunteers. Having a timed ticket makes for a faster entrance and assures convenient parking.
What if I can't come during my registered time slot?
We ask that all guests arrive during their registered time slot. If you are a little early or late, we will do our best to accommodate you but it isn't guaranteed.
Can I be refunded if it rains or there is a snowstorm?
If Cincinnati Nature Center must cancel the event due to inclement weather, you'll receive a full refund. We will post all cancellations to this event on our website by 3 pm on the day of the event. Please check our website for any cancellations before attending. However, if the event is still happening, we cannot offer refunds.
Do I need to show my receipt when I arrive?
No, we will have the names of those registered and the number of people they registered; but it may help speed up check-in.
What if another person wants to join me but doesn't have a ticket?
If we have space, we will accept payment at the gate for additional guests in your car. But we cannot guarantee a ticket for your additional guest. We advise you to purchase a ticket online ahead of time before you arrive with an additional unregistered guest.
Can my group come in more than one car?
We ask that your group all come together however, if you are unable, please notify the person checking you in that there are additional guests arriving separately.
Can I get a refund?
All sales are final. Refunds are not issued unless Cincinnati Nature Center must cancel the event due to inclement weather or other reasons.
Can I give my ticket away?
Yes, you're welcome to give your ticket to someone else. However, please have them show your receipt or say your name when they drive through the gate.
Do I have to pay for my two-year-old?
No, children 2 years of age or under or free!
Do I pay for a child ticket for my 15-year-old child?
Yes! Unlike our normal admission prices, anyone 17 and under is considered a child for this event.
Why do members get a discount?
Members are our loyal supporters and receive discounts for a variety of programs including summer camp. If you become a member now, you too can receive this discount!
Can I apply the admission fee that I paid for Light in the Forest to a membership?
No, unfortunately not. Special event tickets cannot be applied toward the cost of a membership. Only general admission can be applied toward a membership.
Are there any coupons?
Yes, we have Valpak and Reach Magazine coupon codes that you can use when you register online. It is for nonmembers only and does not apply to member pricing.
Are there group rates?
Yes, groups of 12 or more people may enjoy a group rate. Please contact registrar@cincynature.org for more information.
Are there any special discounts for seniors, students, or military officers?
Unfortunately, not for this event.
Do you allow buses?
If you wish to bring a bus, please schedule it two weeks in advance by calling (513) 831-1711.
At the Event
Is there a parking fee?
No, parking is free.
Are pets (dogs) allowed?
For the safety of all guests, please leave your pet at home during this event. Service dogs are welcome and must be clearly identified.
How long is the trail?
Our trail this year is about a mile and mostly flat.
Is the trail handicap accessible?
It is with help, as there is a slight incline and the trail is not 100% even. It is not a paved surface.
Is there a specific starting point?
No, you'll be guided onto the trails by a parking attendant. No matter where you park, you'll be near the trail and can get on. The event route is a circular, two-way path.
Will I receive a map or program?
There will be a digital map available through our Mobile Guide. There will be a QR code for you to scan with your phone onsite, and that will take you directly to the map.
How long will I be outside?
Most of the trail is outside. It loops around the Rowe Visitor Center and Krippendorf Lodge, and Abner Hollow Cabin where you can warm up a bit.
How long should I count on being there?
The entire trail should take about an hour to complete. We recommend a slow pace to take in the sights and sounds of this special evening. Be inspired by the forest glow, listen to live music, sip a beverage, savor fare from a food truck, warm by the fire, delight in children's activities, and enjoy holiday shopping in Rowe Visitor Center.
What should I wear?
Dress for the weather. You'll be outside most of the time. The trails can be muddy, so wear appropriate footwear/boots.
How will this year be different than other years?
We're featuring new light installations from five 2024 BLINK artists with additional interactive activities!
What children's activities are available?
We have added an interactive light installation designed for children (and adults who still have a child-like sense of wonder). An entertaining scavenger hunt will also be available on our Mobile Guide. Children's activities are included in the ticket price.
Is it stroller accessible?
Yes.
Are beverages or food available?
Yes! A food truck as well as a coffee and cocoa truck will be located outside of Krippendorf Lodge where yo may purchase food and drinks; this is not guaranteed for all nights and hours of the event.
Adult beverages will be available for purchase at Krippendorf Lodge, Thursday through Saturday only—ID required. Due to our liquor permitting laws, there will be no alcohol served on Sundays. Drinking fountains will be available at Rowe Visitor Center for those who wish to fill their water bottles. Please place trash from food and drink purchases in designated trash receptacles located throughout the event.
Are there restrooms?
Yes, there are three restroom facilities along the trail.
Is there a handicapped-accessible restroom?
Yes, there is one along the trail near the Nature PlayScape.
Are there additional costs once I am there?
Besides unique holiday shopping at The Nature Shop, as well as food and drink purchases, there are no additional costs.
Do I need to bring a flashlight?
Flashlights are not necessary. You are welcome to bring one, but we ask that you refrain from shining it on the trail or on guests.
Will there be shuttles?
No, due to the timed ticketing, we will have enough parking.
Will Rowe Visitor Center be open?
Yes, and it will feature music, two art exhibits throughout December in the auditorium, and plenty of unique holiday gifts at The Nature Shop!
Are there any special offers?
Check out the Holiday Sale items in The Nature Shop at Rowe Visitor Center! Members always enjoy a 10% discount in The Nature Shop.
Will there be photo opportunities?
Yes! Along the trail, there will be a variety of opportunities to take personal photos. Please remain on the trail and be sure to allow room for others to pass by you.
Questions?
Please contact our Registrar at (513) 831-1711 or email registrar@cincynature.org.