The Nutcracker Village in Steubenville is everything it’s cracked up to be!
Ok, enough with the puns! In all seriousness, we loved our visit to see the Nutcrackers in Steubenville. My kids thought Mom was a bit crazy for driving 2.5 hours to see some wooden figures, but in the end, they agreed that the Nutcrackers were extremely cool. Here are some things to know before you visit Nutcracker Village in Steubenville, Ohio.
The Steubenville Nutcracker Village is a display of over 200 Nutcrackers spread throughout the downtown of Steubenville, Ohio. In 2025, the nutcrackers will be on display from November 25, 2025 – Jan 9, 2026. The carved structures are scattered throughout the downtown and around Fort Steuben Park. A courthouse light show accompanies the display on select Fridays and Saturdays in November and December.
Traveling to Steubenville from out of town? Set your GPS for Drosselmeyer’s Nutcracker Shoppe! This is the place to pick up a map of the Nutcrackers and begin the walk throughout the city. There are approximately 200 Nutcrackers on display. The variety is astounding—everything from local personalities to famous theologians, movie & book characters, and more. There’s a Nutcracker for all ages!
Most of the nutcrackers in Steubenville are found on 4th Street, which is also the main thoroughfare. Take time to stop in at local shops and browse, too! My mom and I stopped in the Antique Warehouse – it is HUGE. The boys were happy to purchase a video game at Just Play! Games-Movies-Music. I love that the creators of this event wanted to revitialize their downtown and I know as visitors we did everything we could to support the local economy. Oh yes – don’t forget a cream stick from The Downtown Bakery to fuel your stroll.
Some of our favorite Nutcrackers were found in Fort Steuben Park. That’s also where you’ll find the Christmas market (open select hours) and Visitor Center with portable restrooms. Throughout Fort Steuben Park, you’ll also find wooden characters (not nutcrackers) for some popular cartoon characters like Peppa Pig, Minnie Mouse, and Paw Patrol.
There is also an Advent Market & Gluhwein Garden (spiced wine) on the weekends. Check the event page for all of the extra happenings.
Tips for visiting the Nutcracker Village:
- Dress warmly! This is an outdoor event. If you’re bringing little ones, you’ll definitely want to pack a stroller.
- Allow plenty of time. The streets are busy and not wide enough for a quick pace. Take time to enjoy the intricate details of each Nutcracker, and time for visiting local businesses. We spent nearly 2 hours exploring downtown Steubenville.
- You can drive around and see the nutcrackers. The locals recommend visiting on a Sunday morning so there aren’t as many cars on the street.
- At the end of your tour, return to Drosselmeyer’s Nutcracker Shoppe and receive a souvenir ornament! You’ll want to see this beautiful shoppe, regardless!
Where to eat in Steubenville
A local friend recommended Naples Spaghetti House, and she was spot on! It was amazing! Look at those meatball,s and their bread was to die for!
Before you go: One of my daughters’ favorite books about the Nutcracker is this storybook with music from the ballet. Check it out on Amazon!
Do you have any more questions about the Nutcracker Village in Steubenville, Ohio? Put them in the comments!
Interested in more Ohio Christmas events? Check out Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo, FREE Christmas events in Columbus, or Holidays at Kingwood Center Gardens.
PIN FOR LATER:
Really had no idea that Steubenville had fun things to do around the holidays! This is unique and will definitely be added to the list for next season.
Any recommendations on hotels in the area for overnight stays?
TIA
You know, I’m going to have to look at some options of where to stay! I wanted to drive down to Wheeling and see the lights at Oglebay, but hubby wasn’t being fun. LOl