Get ready to welcome the holiday season with some fantastic free events in Indianapolis. There are so many cost-free festivals happening this time of year, perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the holiday magic without spending a cent. You can look forward to shining Christmas lights, festive Santa parades, live music, and great shopping at local artisan markets. These events don’t just light up the city, they also bring joy and togetherness, reflecting the true spirit of the holidays. In Indianapolis, it’s definitely a season to be jolly!
Free Holiday Festivals near Indianapolis:
Carmel Christkindlmarkt
Nov. 18-Dec. 24 | Center Green
Dive into an authentic market experience filled with traditional food, unique gifts, and captivating performances.
Circle of Lights
Nov. 24 | Monument Circle
Kick off the holiday season with the Circle of Lights musical acts and Santa lighting up Monument Circle.
Bridgeton County Christmas
Nov. 24-26 & Dec. 1-3 | Bridgeton Historic District
Celebrate Christmas in Bridgeton with unique gifts, crafts, decorations, live music, and culinary delights.
Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt
Nov. 24-Dec 17 | Athenaeum
This festive event invites you to eat, drink, and be merry while embracing the rich German culture and traditions.
Christmas in the Village: Parade Day
Nov. 25 | Main Street- Downtown Zionsville
A family-friendly parade featuring a marching band, reindeer, and Santa. Enjoy tree lighting and professional Santa photos.
NPT Night Lights
Dec. 1-3 | Nickel Plate District
Experience Fishers Parks’ NPT Night Lights, a vibrant light display along the downtown Nickel Plate Trail.
Enchanted Luminaria Walk at Minnetrista
Dec. 1-2 | Minnetrista Museum & Gardens
Enjoy the free Enchanted Luminaria Walk, with sweet treats, winter crafts, and festive lights.
Brownsburg Christmas Under the Stars
Dec. 2 | Brownsburg, IN
Head to Brownsburg Town Hall for tree lighting, live music, Santa’s Workshop, photos with Santa, and a winter market with vendors.
Franklin Holiday Lighting
Dec. 2 | Downtown Franklin, IN
Shop at a winter market, view a lighted parade, and enjoy the courthouse lighting at Franklin Holiday Lighting.
Victorian Christmas Celebration
Dec. 2 | Downtown Mooresville
Discover Victorian Christmas in Downtown Mooresville with a free shuttle, carolers, craft fair, carriage rides, and more.
Fortville Winterfest
Dec. 2 | Downtown Fortville
Celebrate the holidays with a parade, Santa, live music, food vendors, and the tree lighting at Fortville Winterfest.
Holiday in the Arts District
Dec. 2 | Indiana Design Center
Delight in the holiday season with elves, reindeer, carolers, trolley rides, and Santa in the Arts & Design District.
Westfield in Lights
Dec. 2 | Grand Junction Plaza
Join the free festive Westfield in Lights festival, with Santa pictures, reindeer show, games, live music, and tree lighting at 5:50 PM.
Cumberland Weihnachtsmarkt
Dec. 2 | Cumberland Town Hall
Kids can play Reindeer Games, visit a vendor tent, do crafts, see Santa, and enjoy the light parade and tree lighting.
Broad Ripple Lights Up Holiday Festival and Parade
Dec. 3 | Broad Ripple Village
Explore the magical Wonderland Village, meet Santa, see the dazzling light displays, and experience holiday entertainment at the Lights Up Festival.
Merry at Main
Dec. 9 | Main Street Park
Shop at Merry at Main and enjoy seasonal treats, reindeer, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
