When the snowflakes start to fall and twinkling lights shine in the night, northeast Ohioans fill their schedules with the many events of the holiday season. From Cleveland traditions to new adventures certain to become old favorites, we’ve rounded up some of the best to add to your calendar.

Nov. 17–Dec. 19: The Polar Express
Embark on a magical journey to the “North Pole,” aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad during this trip that recreates the popular children’s book. Kids are invited to don their pajamas and warm up with hot cocoa on the ride. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Rockside Station, Independence 44131, 800/468-4070. cvsr.com. 7–9 p.m. $35

Nov. 20–Jan. 2: WinterShow
This family tradition features favorites like gingerbread houses, festive decorations, ice skating and holiday shopping. New this year is a display of animal topiaries. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland 44106, 216/721-1600. cbgarden.org. Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 12–5 p.m. Adults $8.50, children ages 3–12 $3, children under 3 free.

Nov. 26–Jan. 2: Indians Snow Days
Baseball may be over but the home of the Cleveland Indians is open for the winter season. The ball field becomes a snowy winter wonderland during this unique event with a 10-lane snow-tubing hill atop the bleachers, an ice-skating rink around the outfield, a walking trail with holiday lights and a children’s play area. Progressive Field, 2401 Ontario St., Cleveland 44115. indians.com/snowdays. Times and prices vary; see website for details.

Dec. 1: First Night of Hanukkah Candle Lighting and Concert
Kick off the first day of Hanukkah with music performed by Rabbi Shawn Zevit, representing the holiday’s traditions and Jewish culture throughout the world. Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, 2929 Richmond Rd., Beachwood 44122, 216/593-0575. maltzmuseum.org. 6:30 p.m. $12 members/$15 nonmembers

Dec. 3–23: “A Christmas Carol”
The Great Lakes Theater Festival brings to the stage a Charles Dickens classic about a miserly man’s Christmas Eve redemption. Ohio Theatre, PlayhouseSquare, 1501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 44115, 216/771-8403. playhousesquare.org. Call or visit website for times. $28–$50

Dec. 5: Holiday CircleFest
Celebrate the season with free admission at many of University Circle’s museums, churches and cultural institutions, some boasting music and holiday activities. University Circle, Cleveland 44106, 216/791-3900. universitycircle.org. 1–7 p.m. Free

Dec. 8: The Cleveland Orchestra: “Holiday Movie Magic”
Hear the world-renowned orchestra perform selections from classic holiday films like “A Miracle on 34th Street,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” and more, as images from the movies are projected above the stage. Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 44106, 216/231-1111. clevelandorchestra.com.
8 p.m. $41–$108