The Ohio Statehouse kicked off the 2009 holiday season on Capitol Square on December 1 with a public open house and holiday festival.

The public was invited to "come to the People's House" and participate in the FREE FAMILY-FRIENDLY holiday festival and open house. The event included refreshments and performances by community choirs and the Chapel Brass of the Salvation Army. Other program elements included: Lego Club model train display, a Santa and Mrs. Claus photo station, a finger printing I.D. station, a puppet show, Civil War re-enactors, various community mascots and much more.

The Ohio Statehouse Holiday kickoff event is a tradition that dates back to 1915.