A Merry Prairie Holiday returns to Conner Prairie in Fishers with twinkling holiday lights, cozy campfires, and living-history fun for all ages. This beloved holiday tradition is an easy, memory-making night that feels festive without being fussy.
The 2025 season runs select evenings Nov 28 and 29 and Dec 5 to 23, 5:30 to 9:30 pm. Book early. Popular nights sell out.
Looking for more Christmas lights? See the best Christmas lights in Indianapolis guide for dates, free options, and tips.
Quick snapshot
- When: Nov 28–29; Dec 5–23, 2025, 5:30–9:30 pm
- Where: Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd, Fishers, IN
- Tickets: Member and Access Pass presale Oct 7. General Admission Oct 14. Find tickets here.
- Pricing: Members $15, Nonmembers $26. Access Pass pricing available
Why families love A Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie
From the moment you step onto the grounds, you enter a Dickens meets Midwest winter scene. Lanterns flicker, holiday lights sparkle across the village, interpreters share stories by the fire, and kids bounce between rides, music, and Santa selfies. It feels classic and family friendly without feeling overwhelming, which is why many families make A Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie an annual tradition.
Projection-mapped “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” on the William Conner House
Big nostalgia and wow factor. The show loops through the evening, so you can time it between rides. Stand a bit back for the best view. Parents like starting here to set the tone for the night.
North Pole Village
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, wave to the elves, and catch live tunes at Blitzen’s Bandstand. This is an easy place to grab your holiday photo. If you are visiting with very young kids, try to see Santa early before bedtime hits.
Kringle’s Carousel and the Polar Bear Plunge tubing hill
Two hill sizes so little riders can build confidence. The shorter lane is perfect for younger kids. Older kids usually head for the longer run. Lines move steadily, but they are shortest early or late in the evening.
Frosty’s sock-skating rink
No skates required and toddler friendly. Socks only keeps things simple for families with multiple ages. Bring an extra pair of dry socks to stretch the fun.
1830s Prairietown by lantern light
Stroll through historic homes, listen to hearthside stories, and watch a charming crankie show that peeks at global holiday traditions. It is calm, immersive, and a nice balance to the higher energy rides.
Little things that make a big difference
- Warm-up spots with campfires are spread around the grounds, which helps on colder nights.
- Paths are stroller friendly in most areas. A stroller with wider tires is the easiest on packed surfaces.
- Food and cocoa stands are placed near high-traffic zones, so you can refuel without leaving the action.
- The loop between the projection show, North Pole Village, and rides keeps walking manageable for small legs.
- Photo ops are everywhere, from the William Conner House to the carousel lights, so plan a few minutes for pictures as you move between activities.
Plan your night (parent-approved tips)
Keep the walking easy and the vibes cozy.
- Start with a loop: Projection show → North Pole Village for early photos → Carousel or Tubing → Sock Skating. This flow trims backtracking with small kids
- Dress for outdoors: Most experiences are outside. Layer up, bring hand warmers, and plan warm-up breaks by the campfires
- Sock-skating tip: Pack a dry backup pair of socks. Happy feet mean longer nights
- Crowd strategy: If your date is flexible, pick an earlier December weekend or a weeknight toward the end of the run
- Strollers and terrain: Paths are a mix of paved and packed surfaces. Wider-tire strollers handle best on chilly nights
Accessibility and ASL tours at A Merry Prairie Holiday
Conner Prairie schedules ASL interpreted nights so Deaf and hard-of-hearing guests can fully engage with costumed interpreters and activities across the grounds. Check the event calendar for specific dates and reserve those timed experiences when you buy tickets.
Tickets and membership
- On-sale timeline: Member and Access Pass presale Oct 7. General Admission Oct 14
- Buying: Purchase directly from the A Merry Prairie Holiday event page for your chosen date and time. Find more ticket info here.
- Why consider membership: Members receive event discounts and year-round perks. A good value if your family loves seasonal traditions at Conner Prarie,
