Illuminate the Circle: A Magical Holiday Experience

Join us as we light up the season and spread joy throughout University Circle with Illuminate the Circle Powered by PNC Bank. For two months, Wade Oval transforms into a shimmering winter wonderland, complete with an immersive light show, holiday vignettes, and iconic seasonal traditions.   

What to expect this season 

Daily Light Schedule, November 24 – December 31:   

• Holiday light displays are turned on daily from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.   
• Light show and music play every 20 minutes from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm   
• Warm white lights are on from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm 

 Daily Light Schedule, January 1 – January 26:   

•   Warm white lights are on daily from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM. 

Add Some Sparkle to Your Visit 

Whether you’re here for a show, a museum day, or even a medical appointment, make your trip to University Circle extra magical with Illuminate the Circle, Powered by PNC Bank! Stroll through Wade Oval and immerse yourself in the holidays. 

Tree Lighting Ceremony – Wade Oval Park

November 23, 2024
5:00 pm to 8:00 pm 

Kick off the holiday season with a dazzling Tree Lighting Ceremony at Wade Oval! This unforgettable evening will feature live music, festive activities, and the grand illumination of our 30-foot Christmas tree. The tree will synchronize with a custom light show set to an original score. 

Event Schedule: 

• 5:00 PM Live Music with Stix Quintet on the Kulas Stage 
• 6:30 PM Lighting of the Tree by Santa Claus
• 6:45 PM Holiday Light Show and Meet & Greet with Santa

During the event, families can enjoy a snowball toss, cornhole, Jenga, Connect 4, and more holiday crafts!

Food Vendors:

• Kernel's by Chrissie
• Delish Mobile Kitchen
• Holiday libations and treats will be available for purchase in the Wade Oval Information Kiosk

This event is free and open to the public, so bring your family and friends to this festive evening and enjoy the first glimpse of Illuminate the Circle, Powered by PNC Bank! It’s the perfect way to start the season.  

Photography Notice

Photography and/or videos are taken during events for promotional use. Please click here to read our disclaimer

The Rink at Wade Oval

After many wonderful seasons, The Rink at Wade Oval is being retired due to declining use in recent years. As we look ahead, we’re focusing on making Wade Oval a space that appeals to broader audiences and offers something for everyone during the winter months. This year, we’ve introduced Illuminate the Circle, which transformed the park into a winter wonderland featuring light displays, holiday vignettes, and a 30-foot tree. We’re excited to continue creating new experiences that bring people together and make The Circle a warm and welcoming destination. Thank you for your support as we embrace this new chapter.