Berlin, Ohio, a lovely little town in the heart of Amish Country, is a hidden gem that welcomes over a million visitors each year. With so many things to do in Berlin Ohio, this delightful destination offers something special for everyone, from exploring quaint shops and restaurants to attending lively festivals and events.
I’ve been to Berlin lots of times, and I can tell you that it’s a town full of nice people and happy times. So, let’s talk about all the exciting stuff you can do in Berlin!
1. Join the Fun at Berlin’s Pajama Party
One of the silliest and most loved events in Berlin is the Pajama Party. It happens every year and has been going on since the late ’90s.
During this event, a bunch of people walk around downtown Berlin in their PJs, looking for great deals at the shops. It’s so funny to see!
| Where | Downtown Berlin, Ohio 44610 |
| When | Usually in January |
| Time | Starts as early as 7 a.m. |
The party usually happens on a Saturday morning in January, and some stores even open as early as 7 a.m. Don’t forget to check when it’s happening on the town’s event calendar. Even if you don’t like waking up early, the Pajama Party is worth it. Trust me, you’ll have a blast!
2. Find Sweet Deals at Berlin Sweet On You
If you love getting good deals, you’ll really like Berlin Sweet On You. This event happens every year in the week before Valentine’s Day, from February 13th to 18th.
Take advantage of shops all over town that have special sales and deals. It’s the perfect time to find a nice gift for someone you love or to get something for yourself.
| Where | All around Berlin, Ohio |
| When | February 13 – February 18 |
| Time | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm |
Berlin has everything from chocolates to jewelry, so you’re sure to find something you like. Just walk around town and keep your eyes open for those sweet deals.
And hey, if you’re single, that’s okay! Berlin Sweet On You is all about sharing love, so go ahead and treat yourself. You’ve earned it!
3. Go on a Fun Scavenger Hunt at Berlin Barnstorming
Ready for an adventure? Then you have to go to Berlin Barnstorming on April 27th! This exciting event is like a big scavenger hunt, where you look for small wooden barns hidden in shops all over Berlin. It’s a really cool way to explore destinations in the town and find some neat local businesses.
| Where | German Village Center and shops in Berlin, Ohio |
| When | April 27 |
| Time | Scavenger hunt during the day Prize drawing starts at 4:00 pm |
The hunt happens during the day when the stores are open, so you can take your time and have fun. Once you’ve found all the barns, go to the German Village Center at 4:00 pm for the prize drawing.
They’ve got gift baskets, gift cards, and even a big grand prize! It’s a day full of laughs and even a little friendly competition. So get your friends together and get ready for a day you won’t forget in Berlin!
4. Have a Blast at the Berlin Summer Spectacular
If you’re visiting Berlin with kids (or if you’re just a big kid yourself), you have to go to the Berlin Summer Spectacular – A Family Fun Day on June 15th. This lively event is packed with activities that’ll keep everyone smiling and having a good time.
| Where | All around Berlin, Ohio |
| When | June 15 |
| Time | Daytime fun Music on the Square from 5:00-9:00 pm |
One of the best parts is Sheiyah Market Kid’s Day, where kids can get their faces painted, play games, and make cool arts and crafts. But that’s not all!
During the day, you can check out displays of locally made items like weavings, carvings, sculptures, and paintings. Make sure to visit Sol’s Summer Craft Show for some really amazing handmade goodies from local artists.
As the day goes on, head over to Music on the Square from 5:00-9:00 pm for some live music and dancing. The Berlin Summer Spectacular is all about celebrating being a kid, art, the community, and making great memories with your family.
5. Eat Yummy Ribs at the Berlin Harvest Festival & Rib Cook-Off
If you like fall flavors and tasty BBQ, you have to go to the Berlin Harvest Festival & Rib Cook-Off on September 6th and 7th. This two-day party celebrates everything that makes Amish Country great.
| Where | Berlin, Ohio |
| When | September 6-7 |
| Time | Friday: Noon – 8:45 pm Saturday: 10:00 am (after the parade) |
The main event is the BBQ Rib Cook-Off contest, where talented cooks compete for money prizes and bragging rights. You can try some of the best ribs you’ve ever had while listening to live music, checking out arts and crafts, shopping at sidewalk sales, and so much more.
The fun starts on Friday at noon, with live music from 1:30-5:00 pm and an auction after that. But the real show-stopper happens when it gets dark and the sky lights up with an awesome fireworks display.
On Saturday, the fun keeps going at 10:00 am with more live music, vendors, rib judging, and awards. And to top it all off, there’s a lively parade that’ll make you smile from ear to ear.
6. Feel the Holiday Magic at the Christmas Open House
When the holidays come around, there’s no place quite like Berlin to get you in the Christmas spirit. The Christmas Open House, which happens from November 7th to 9th, turns the town into a winter wonderland that’ll fill your heart with joy.
| Where | Berlin, Ohio |
| When | November 07 – November 09, 2024 |
| Time | Shops open late Times vary |
As you walk down Main Street, you’ll see shops all decorated for the holidays, with pretty displays and special sales that’ll make your gift shopping easy. The streets are lined with sparkling lights, and you can hear carolers singing happy songs.
Kids will have so much fun meeting Santa Claus and telling him what they want for Christmas, while grown-ups can enjoy yummy holiday treats from local shops.
If you want to feel extra festive, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the decorated streets. The Christmas Open House is a family-friendly event that captures the true magic of the season, and you won’t want to miss it.
7. Shop ‘Til You Drop at Shopping Under the Stars
If you want a really magical shopping trip, Berlin’s Shopping Under the Stars event on December 6th is perfect for you. Over 20 local shops stay open late, from 5:00-9:00 pm, offering special discounts, deals, and giveaways that’ll make your holiday shopping a breeze.
| Where | All around Berlin, Ohio |
| When | December 6, 2024 |
| Time | 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm |
As you look at all the unique things to buy in Berlin, Ohio, you’ll enjoy live entertainment, yummy snacks, and warm drinks from many of the stores. It’s like a big block party but with a holiday twist!
And because Berlin is a faith-based town, the shopkeepers go out of their way to help you remember the real reason for the season. It’s a nice change from the usual craziness of holiday shopping.
One of the coolest things about Shopping Under the Stars is that there’s something for every budget. Whether you’re looking for small gifts or big presents, you’ll find lots of choices.
Don’t miss the live show by the Hiland Varsity Singers at the German Village Center from 5:30-6:30 pm. It’s the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit!
8. See the Amazing Live Nativity
For a really special holiday experience, make sure to see Berlin’s Live Nativity event, which usually happens on some weekends in December. This heartwarming tradition brings the story of the first Christmas to life with a live show featuring people from the community dressed up as characters from the Bible.
| Where | Berlin, Ohio (usually in the town square or at local churches) |
| When | Some weekends in December |
| Time | Changes, but usually in the evening |
As you walk through the nativity scene, you’ll see Mary, Joseph, shepherds, wise men, and angels, along with real animals like donkeys, sheep, and camels. The story is told live, often with local choirs singing traditional Christmas carols that’ll give you goosebumps.
The Live Nativity is a free event, but they usually take donations to help local charities or future events. It’s a beautiful way for families to come together and think about the true meaning of the holiday season.
Even if you’re not very religious, the Live Nativity is a moving experience that’ll stay with you long after you leave Berlin.
9. Enjoy the Best Nighttime Activities in Berlin, Ohio
Berlin isn’t just a daytime destination. In fact, there are plenty of fun things to do in Berlin Ohio at night, too! Here are some ideas for how to spend your evenings in this charming town:
| Moonlit Walk | Enjoy a romantic stroll through the Amish countryside under the stars |
| Ohio Star Theater | See a live musical show or play in a cozy setting |
| Boyd & Wurthmann Restaurant | Enjoy delicious Amish comfort food and homemade desserts |
| Late-Night Shopping | Check out Berlin’s unique shops and boutiques after dark |
| Cozy Bed and Breakfasts | Relax and unwind in the inviting atmosphere of a local B&B |
Take a Moonlit Stroll Through Amish Country
One of the most peaceful and romantic things to do in Berlin at night is to take a walk through the scenic Amish countryside. The moonlight makes the rolling hills and farmlands look so pretty, and it feels really special. Just remember to bring a flashlight and wear comfy shoes for walking on uneven ground.
Attend a Show at the Ohio Star Theater
If you want to see a live show, check out the Ohio Star Theater. This relaxing venue has lots of musical performances and shows throughout the year, from happy concerts to heartwarming plays. It’s a great way to spend an evening enjoying the local arts scene.
Enjoy Tasty Amish Food at Boyd & Wurthmann Restaurant
No visit to Berlin is complete without trying some real Amish cooking. Boyd & Wurthmann Restaurant is a local favorite that’s been serving up yummy dishes for over 80 years.
From filling comfort food to homemade pies, there’s something for everyone on their menu. It’s the perfect spot for a satisfying dinner after a day of exploring Berlin.
Explore Berlin’s Charming Shops After Dark
Many of Berlin’s unique shops and boutiques stay open late, especially during special events like the Christmas Open House and Shopping Under the Stars.
Take advantage of these extra hours to browse for one-of-a-kind gifts, locally-made crafts, and other treasures. The town’s cute storefronts look even more magical lit up at night, adding to the special feel.
Relax at a Cozy Bed and Breakfast
After a full day of activities, there’s nothing better than going back to a comfy bed and breakfast for the night. Berlin has several charming B&Bs that offer a warm, welcoming feel and personalized service.
Curl up by the fireplace with a good book, soak in a relaxing Jacuzzi tub, or just enjoy the peace and quiet of your home away from home.
Be Sure To Explore All the Things to Do in Berlin, Ohio!
So there you go – a big list of all the amazing things to do in Berlin, Ohio, both during the day and at night! I hope this guide has gotten you excited for your trip to Berlin.
I’m telling you, it’s a place that’ll make you feel happy and give you so many great memories. The friendly faces, the yummy food, and the one-of-a-kind experiences are what make me want to come back year after year.
What is there to do in Berlin Ohio at night?
At night in Berlin, Ohio, catch a show at the Amish Country Theater for family-friendly entertainment. Enjoy shopping at Sol’s in Berlin, Ohio’s largest arts and crafts mall. Grab a hearty meal at Farmstead Restaurant, known for its homestyle cooking, or treat yourself to sweets at Main Street Fudge & Popcorn Co. for delicious treats.
What are the romantic things to do in Berlin Ohio?
For a romantic day in Berlin, Ohio, visit the antique shops together, like Berlin Village Antique Mall. Enjoy wine tasting and live music at Sunny Slope Winery. Book a stay at Donna’s Premier Lodging for a cozy night with a jacuzzi and fireplace. Consider romantic add-ons like chocolate-covered strawberries or champagne.
What are the things to do in Berlin Ohio for adults?
In Berlin, Ohio, adults can enjoy the Berlin Village Antique Mall for exploring unique antiques, Sheiyah Market for shopping and local coffee at Buggy Brew, and Schrock’s Heritage Village for Amish-made goods. For dining, check out Boyd & Wurthmann Restaurant for hearty Amish-style meals.
