Photograph by David Long
More than 30 years ago, leaders in the Lebanon community wanted to create a holiday event that couldn’t be found anywhere else in the tri-state. They decided to host a parade that features only horse drawn carriages. The small community gathering started with just 13 carriages, but has since grown to feature more than 100, each accessorized with unique holiday-themed attire, colorful lights, and festive floral arrangements. The result is a magical experience that draws thousands of people from around the Cincinnati area. “To this day, our parade is the only one of its kind in Ohio,” says Angie Smith, executive director of the Lebanon Area Chamber of Commerce.
On December 7 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the historic streets of Lebanon will once again come alive for this year’s iteration of the festival. The first parade of decorative horse drawn carriages—pulled by minis, Clydesdales, Percherons, and more—begins at 1 p.m. with the second at 7 p.m. And with more than 80 antique and specialty vendors, costumed characters, strolling street musicians, and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus, there is certainly no shortage of entertainment to fill the time in between.
Horse Drawn Carriage Parade and Christmas Festival, Dec. 7, Historic Lebanon
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