Light in the Forest
Tickets on sale November 1, 2025!
Light in the Forest will be your new winter tradition!
This illuminated walking tour 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.
Don't Miss Opening Weekend!
Walk the trails with friendly woodland animal characters, light up the night with us by dressing in your most lit attire, and join us for a ceremonial lighting of Krippendorf Lodge at 6 pm nightly.
This year's event features:
• Approximately 1-mile of illuminated trails through woodlands, ponds, and fields
• NEW installations and light displays by regional light artists, including seven BLINK artists
• Children's craft and interactive activities
• Live music
• A warm bonfire
• A beautifully decorated historic home
• Food trucks and drinks
• Holiday shopping
Please note: Pets are not permitted at any Cincinnati Nature Center program or event.
The 2024 event is generously sponsored by:
Platinum Sponsor
Supporting Sponsors
Contributing Sponsors
Bar Sponsor
Trail & Music Sponsors
For a full list of event sponsorship benefits and information, please contact Corporate Relations at sponsorship@cincynature.org.
Enter the Contest
Complete the entry form below to enter the Photography Contest.
Photo submissions without a completed digital entry form will not be judged.
Submit Your Photographs
Review the information below and submit your images using the Upload Images button.
- All submitted images must be taken at Rowe Woods or Long Branch Farm & Trails.
- If you enter a photograph of any people, a Likeness Release Form for each person featured must be completed.
- Photos should be named in this format: SuzieSmith_Wildlife.jpg (your name, underscore, category name)
- Adult contestants may submit one original photograph per subject category.
- Photos are allowed to be edited to reflect the natural beauty observed and to enhance your subject matter. Please review the Contest Rules for more details.
- Youth contestants (ages 16 and under) may submit up to nine original photographs to any category of their choosing. These entries will be judged separately from the adult entries in a youth-specific category.
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.
What is special about Opening Weekend?
Opening Weekend is our official kickoff to Light in the Forest! In addition to all of the lights and activities that can be enjoyed throughout the rest of Light in the Forest, Opening Weekend will also feature friendly woodland creature costumes, a festive, ceremonial lighting of the Krippendorf Lodge each night at 6 pm, and discounted tickets if purchased by November 30. Come dressed lit up!
How do I receive discounted tickets for Opening Weekend?
To receive special pricing, purchase tickets by November 30. Discount will be automatically applied. This discount is only valid on tickets purchased for Opening Weekend.
Do I need to show my receipt when I arrive?
Yes, please be prepared to present the QR code from the top of your receipt when you arrive. You may show the QR code directly from your phone—there is no need to print it.
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 share your receipt email with anyone you purchased tickets for or share the name of the person who purchased the ticket.
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(s) to someone else. Share your receipt with the QR code with the new ticket-holder so they can show it at the gate for admission in your place.
Do I have to pay for my two-year-old?
No, children 2 years of age or under are 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 group rates?
Yes, groups of 20 or more nonmembers may enjoy the member 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
Where is Light in the Forest located?
Light in the Forest takes place at Cincinnati Nature Center's Rowe Woods location: 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford, OH 45150
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 Abner Hollow Cabin, through Rowe Visitor Center and Krippendorf Lodge 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 you 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 and Rowe Visitor Center—ID required. (No outside alcohol allowed!) Drinking fountains will also be available at Krippendorf Lodge and 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?
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.
JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST
Get the latest nature news, direct to your inbox!
Enhance your hike with our Mobile Guide!
Access interactive trail maps, information, activities, and more!
