- Event Overview
About
Columbus OH, OH
Santa Pub Crawls
Columbus’s SantaCon brings the Discovery City’s bar culture and Ohio holiday spirit to one of the most Short North-vibrant December celebrations in the Midwest. The Short North Arts District and the German Village bar corridor are the heart of Columbus nightlife and when SantaCon arrives the combination of the Ohio State Buckeye Nation passion, the Columbus arts and tech scene, and the exceptional local bars creates a holiday celebration with a Columbus quality that is creative, community-driven, and completely Ohio.
Columbus has one of the finest urban bar scenes in the Midwest anchored by the Short North and German Village communities and the SantaCon reflects that quality. The Santa costume competition draws on the OSU and Columbus College of Art and Design communities and the Columbus arts scene and the entries have a Discovery City combination of Buckeye passion, CCAD creative excellence, and genuine Ohio warmth.
December in Columbus is cold, typically ranging from 20 to 30 degrees at night. The Ohio winter is real and the Short North bar community is one of the warmest and most creative in the Midwest with some of the finest bars in Ohio.
Our hosts manage the Columbus route through the Short North Arts District and the German Village bar corridor. Specials confirmed at every stop, wristbands handle entry, and the Santa competition celebrates Discovery City creativity.
Event Details
Everything you need to know about the largest SantaCon pub crawl in Columbus.
Largest Pub Crawl Event
Top SantaCon Bar Crawl in Columbus.
5,000+ Attendees
Thousands join the annual SantaCon pub crawl
15+ Participating Bars
Organized Event
- What's Included
What You Get With a Pub Crawl Ticket
Pub crawls for the biggest party holidays. Choose your event and join the party in 100+ cities across the USA.
Santa Costume Award
Top Santa of the night takes home the prize. Judging runs all evening.
Arrival Drink
One complimentary drink poured when you check in.
Stop-by-Stop Specials
Drink specials negotiated with every bar on the SantaCon route.
Wristband Entry
One wristband covers every venue from first stop to last call.
Route Management Team
Hosts coordinate movement, timing, and costume scoring throughout the night.
Priority Access
Express entry at participating bars means less waiting, more celebrating.
SantaCon Accessories
Holiday gear included in your check-in package.
Vetted Bar Selection
Every stop hand-selected for vibe, space, and Santa-season drink quality.
Participating Venues on the Pub Crawl Route
Explore the most popular bars and nightlife venues in Columbus during the SantaCon pub crawl. Each participating venue features exclusive drink specials, music, and a unique atmosphere.
How the Pub Crawl Works
Four simple steps to join the SantaCon pub crawl and start bar hopping.
Choose your city and event, then purchase your pub crawl ticket online.
Meet event staff at the check-in spot to receive your event wristband and digital venue map.
Hop between participating bars, enjoy drink specials, and experience the nightlife with fellow pub crawl guests.
End the night at the final venue with music, dancing, and the full pub crawl group celebration.
Event Agendas
Your complete SantaCon pub crawl timeline from check-in to after-party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Columbus SantaCon Bar Crawl 2026
Do I need a Santa costume?
Yes, Santa theme is required. Full suit or Santa hat minimum. Creative interpretations welcome.
Where is check-in located?
Columbus OH bar district. Full address emailed with your ticket.
What is December weather like there?
December in Columbus OH averages 20 to 30 degrees. Cold Ohio winter. Layer under your Santa suit. Scarlet and gray Buckeye Santa is always appropriate.
What comes with my ticket?
Welcome drink, wristband for all stops, bar specials throughout the route, gear pack, and costume contest entry.
Group bookings available?
Yes. Ten or more get priority entry and group pricing. Reach out at pubcrawls.com.
What is the age limit?
21+ with valid government-issued ID. No exceptions.
Last-minute tickets?
Available at the door if not sold out. Online purchase is safer.
Is the route walkable?
Yes. All stops are within walking distance of each other.