Each Wednesday, I let you know about select fun events and other important updates in the Mama / kid world of Columbus.

We’re heading into that most wonderful time of the year.  My thoughts on keeping it all joyful without the added stress?  Decide now what you want to commit to, get those dates scheduled, and feel just fine when you are also spending time at home.   Kick off the holiday season with one of these fun activities.

• Tonight (December 1) is the Ohio Statehouse Holiday Festival with free activities for kids, holiday music and Santa arriving by helicopter.  Even if you can’t make it this evening, a trip to the “People’s House” is a nice holiday tradition.  The gift shop offers fun shopping, the building is beautifully decorated, and there are free lunch time concerts throughout December.
• Several area communities (including  Bexley, Dublin, Hilliard and Columbus) are holding their tree lighting ceremonies this week .  German Village also hosts Village Lights this Sunday, December 5.
• The Alum Creek Festival of Lights is happening now through January 2.  On particularly cold nights, this is a great option because you stay in the warmth of your car as you drive through the decorations.  Pack a thermos of hot chocolate and make it an event!
• December 5 is the annual free community day at Cosi.  This is a great opportunity to tour the museum and decide if you want to purchase a membership for the upcoming year (or ask Santa for one).