As the holiday season lights up Indianapolis, there’s no shortage of festive events to get you and your family in the spirit. From sparkling light displays to timeless holiday performances, Indy has something for everyone. To help you plan a memorable season, we’ve rounded up the top 12 holiday events that are simply too good to miss!
Related Page: Holiday Festivals near Indianapolis
1. Christmas at the Indianapolis Zoo
- What to Expect: The Indianapolis Zoo hosts a holiday extravaganza with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and animal-themed displays. They even have a special “Santa’s Village” where you can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus.
- Perfect For: Families and animal lovers who enjoy beautiful light displays in a unique setting.
2. Christmas Nights of Lights at the Indiana State Fairgrounds
- What to Expect: This drive-through light display is a favorite for families. With over a million lights synchronized to holiday music on your car radio, it’s a dazzling way to celebrate.
- Perfect For: Those who want to enjoy holiday lights from the warmth and comfort of their car.
3. Circle of Lights at Monument Circle
- What to Expect: Monument Circle transforms into a holiday wonderland with thousands of lights, holiday decor, and a 52-foot Christmas tree display. The Circle of Lights Lighting Ceremony kicks off the season with music, performances, and festivities.
- Perfect For: Those who love the downtown holiday vibe and a festive outdoor celebration.
4. Jingle Rails at the Eiteljorg Museum
- What to Expect: A model train display that travels through a miniature version of Indianapolis landmarks and iconic U.S. destinations, decked out for the holidays.
- Perfect For: Train enthusiasts, art lovers, and families.
5. The Nutcracker Ballet
- What to Expect: A timeless holiday ballet, “The Nutcracker,” is performed by local ballet companies and theaters throughout the city. Watching this classic is a wonderful tradition for all ages.
- Perfect For: Ballet fans and families looking for a classic holiday experience.
6. Winterlights at Newfields
- What to Expect: Newfields, the art museum’s expansive garden area, hosts a breathtaking outdoor lights display with millions of lights, interactive displays, and cozy spots for warm drinks.
- Perfect For: Couples, families, and anyone who loves a magical outdoor lights experience.
7. Festival of Trees at the Indiana Historical Society
- What to Expect: See over 100 elaborately decorated Christmas trees in a variety of themes, each more whimsical and creative than the last. A perfect indoor holiday treat.
- Perfect For: Indoor festive fun and photo ops with uniquely decorated trees.
8. Carmel Christkindlmarkt
- What to Expect: A traditional German Christmas market featuring artisan goods, holiday treats, and the popular outdoor ice skating rink at Center Green. You can find German-inspired gifts, snacks, and holiday decor.
- Perfect For: Lovers of holiday markets, hot chocolate, and traditional German treats like bratwurst and lebkuchen.
9. Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Yuletide Celebration
- What to Expect: An annual holiday performance featuring classic holiday songs, Broadway-style dance numbers, and festive surprises. It’s a show the whole family will enjoy.
- Perfect For: Music lovers and families who want a high-energy holiday show.
10. Christmas at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
- What to Expect: Known as “Jolly Days,” this holiday event features Santa, “ice fishing,” a snow castle, and tons of festive activities for young kids.
- Perfect For: Families with young children looking for fun and hands-on holiday experiences.
11. Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie
- What to Expect: Conner Prairie offers a chance to get up close with history, as well as special holiday programs and winter scenes from 19th-century life.
- Perfect For: Families, especially those with younger kids who love hands on experiences and historical reenactments.
12. Santa’s Workshop at the Indiana State Museum
- What to Expect: Kids can write letters to Santa, make holiday crafts, and meet Santa in a festive workshop setup.
- Perfect For: Children and families looking for interactive, holiday-themed fun indoors.
Indianapolis has no shortage of holiday activities, from light displays and theater performances to traditional markets and interactive experiences for all ages!
