From zoo animals and IndyCar themes to Frozen and A Christmas Story, there is a tree for everyone at the Indiana Historical Society’s Festival of Trees exhibit, on display now through Friday, Dec. 30, at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center located at 450 W. Ohio St. in downtown Indianapolis.
The interactive winter wonderland starts the moment guests set foot inside the building. Several of the 72 elaborately themed trees include games, such as Super Mario Bros., and visitors receive ballots to vote for their favorites. There are daily sing-alongs in the History Center’s Cole Porter Room and visits from the Elf on the Shelf. Those who spot the elf can claim a small prize in the Welcome Center.
New this year, guests can enjoy live, local holiday music during Twilight Tuesdays. From now through New Year’s Eve, the History Center is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays. The exhibit’s remaining hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesdays through Saturdays, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Additional weekend offerings include holiday handmades and visits from Santa.
Guests also may take part in a winter clothing drive sponsored by HealthNet, a local non-profit network of primary care health centers. HealthNet is accepting new or gently used coats, gloves, hats, mittens and scarves in collection boxes located beneath the “Mitten Tree” and at the entrance to the building.
Festival of Trees is free for IHS members. In addition, IHS is offering free admission on Friday, Dec. 9. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Festival of Trees is presented by The Lacy Foundation with support from The Mothershead Foundation. For more information about IHS’s holiday offerings, as well as other programs and resources, call (317) 232-1882 or visit www.indianahistory.org.
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