The holiday season in Mount Vernon and Knox County is filled with twinkling lights, festive performances, small-town charm, and the kind of warm community spirit that makes winter feel magical. From parades to ballet performances to unique outdoor experiences, this is one of the best times of year to plan a weekend escape.

Located just a short walk or scenic drive from the area’s most beloved holiday events, The Mount Vernon Inn offers a peaceful, cozy stay complete with homemade breakfast, warm baked goods, and the personal hospitality our guests love.

Here’s your guide to the most festive things to do in Mount Vernon and Knox County this holiday season.

🌟 Top Holiday Events in Mount Vernon & Knox County

1. “Winter in Downtown” Holiday Series

Mount Vernon’s downtown comes alive each year with classic holiday celebrations, including:

🎁 Small Business Saturday (Nov 29)

Stroll local shops, enjoy holiday décor, and find unique gifts—perfect for supporting the community.

🎅 Holiday Parade & Public Square Lighting (Nov 30)

A can’t-miss Mount Vernon tradition!

4:00 PM — Holiday Parade down South Main Street
5:00 PM — Lighting of Public Square as the town glows with thousands of lights

✨ Festival of Lights Holiday Lighting Competition (Dec 12–14)

Drive or walk through neighborhoods competing for the best holiday displays. A fun, family-friendly tradition.

🌟 3. Woodward Opera House — Nutcracker Ballet

The historic Woodward Opera House hosts seasonal ballet and theatre performances, and the Nutcracker Ballet is the holiday highlight.

Experience:

Local dancers and guest performers
Gorgeous historic architecture
A magical setting perfect for families and tradition-lovers

It’s one of the most beloved holiday arts events in Knox County.

🌟 4. Honey Run Waterfall — Fire & Ice Festival

One of the most unique holiday experiences in Ohio.

Held at Honey Run Waterfall, this event features:

Ice luminaries lining the paths
Fire bowls glowing in the forest
Hot drinks and seasonal treats
A serene winter walk leading to a waterfall

It feels like stepping into a winter fairytale. Guests love pairing this event with a warm, relaxing stay at the Inn afterward.

🌟 5. Holiday Farmers Markets & Local Shopping

On select December weekends, downtown hosts festive markets with:

Local baked goods
Artisan gifts
Holiday greenery
Carols and seasonal music

Perfect for last-minute shopping or simply enjoying a cozy morning in town before returning to the Inn for tea or warm muffins.

🏡 Why Stay at The Mount Vernon Inn During the Holidays?

The Mount Vernon Inn offers a quiet, charming, and comfortable home base during the bustling holiday season.

Guests love:

Cooked-to-order breakfast every morning
Muffins, cookies, and baked goods
Garden courtyard full of twinkling lights
Walkable access to downtown shops, parade routes, restaurants, and theatres
Peaceful, cozy rooms perfect for unwinding after events
Friendly, personal hospitality that makes every guest feel at home

If you’re planning to attend multiple holiday events, staying with us turns the experience into a mini-vacation.

🎁 Make Your Holiday Getaway Special

Whether you’re coming for a parade, a performance, a romantic dinner, or the magical Fire & Ice walk, Mount Vernon is full of festive experiences. The Mount Vernon Inn makes it easy to relax, explore, and enjoy everything the holiday season has to offer.

📅 December weekends fill quickly — reserve your room today!
👉 themountvernoninnohio.com

Holiday Events in Mount Vernon & Knox County, Ohio: A Cozy Winter Stay at The Mount Vernon Inn