The holiday season is in full swing with lights, markets, and performances around Indy. For Dec. 12–14, 2025, we rounded up kid-friendly things to do this weekend around Indianapolis. To keep planning simple this week, all multi-day picks are grouped first, followed by single-day events for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Start with our editor’s picks below, then browse the full weekend list for ideas by day and time.
Update: After realizing just how cold it’s going to be this weekend, we put together a second guide with all indoor events and activities! See this weekend’s indoor guide here.
Editor’s picks for Dec. 12–14, 2025
All Weekend
Central Indiana Dance Ensemble Presents The Nutcracker
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | STAR Bank Performing Arts Center, 1000 Mulberry St, Zionsville
Join Clara on her magical journey to the Land of Sweets with waltzing flowers, swirling snowflakes, and Tchaikovsky’s famous score.
AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | Hilbert Circle Theatre, 45 Monument Cir, Indianapolis
Broadway-level vocalists, sensational choreography, and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra light up the season.
Ongoing event, runs Dec. 5–23.
Conservatory Crossing
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | Garfield Park Conservatory, 2505 Conservatory Dr, Indianapolis
Wander through dazzling poinsettias, model trains, and thousands of twinkling lights inside the warm, tropical conservatory.
Ongoing event, runs Nov. 28–Dec. 28.
The Holiday Stroll at Kelsay Farms
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | 5:30–9:00 pm | Kelsay Farms, 6848 N 250 E, Whiteland
Stroll decorated barns and lighted paths with festive trees and cozy photo ops.
Ongoing event, runs Dec. 12–Jan. 6.
Christmas Acres
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | 6:00–10:00 pm | 6211 N 500 E, Franklin | Free
Drive through more than 100,000 lights across five acres—perfect for littles who love the glow from the car.
Ongoing event, runs Nov. 26–Dec. 31.
Friday, Dec. 12
Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt
Fri | Fri 4–8 pm | Athenaeum, 401 E Michigan St, Indianapolis | Free
Browse local vendors for handmade gifts, enjoy glühwein and German treats, and soak in live music and holiday traditions on Mass Ave.
Ongoing event, runs Dec. 5–21.
**Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt will be closed on Satrurday and Sunday this weekend due to weather
Carmel Holiday Trolley
Fri, Dec. 12 | 5:00–9:00 pm | Carmel Arts & Design District | Free
Hop aboard the decorated trolley for a festive ride through Carmel’s boutiques and galleries.
Half-Price Student Night at Holliday Park Ice Rink
Fri, Dec. 12 | 7:00–8:30 pm | Holliday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis | $7/skater (includes rental)
Students skate for half price at this scenic outdoor rink tucked inside Holliday Park.
Saturday, Dec. 13
SPARK Holidays on the Circle: Visit with Santa
Sat–Sun, Dec. 13–14 | 3:00–6:00 pm | Athenaeum, 401 E Michigan St, Indianapolis | Free
Due to the cold, SPARK’s Visit with Santa has moved indoors! Stop by for free photos with Santa and live holiday music from ALEJCAT (5–6 pm).
Holly Jolly Jamboree
Sat, Dec. 13 | 2:00–4:00 pm | Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E 151st St, Carmel | Free
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, see live animals with Silly Safaris, and enjoy crafts and cookies.
Winter Art Sale
Sat, Dec. 13 | 12:00–5:00 pm | Indianapolis Art Center, 820 E 67th St, Indianapolis | Free
Shop one-of-a-kind artwork and handcrafted wares from local artists—perfect for unique gifts.
Mistletoe Musical Festival
Sat, Dec. 13 | 11:30 am–12:30 pm | Indianapolis Artsgarden, 110 W Washington St, Indianapolis | Free
Catch the Indianapolis Municipal Band performing live holiday music in the sunlit Artsgarden.
Carmel Holiday Trolley
Sat, Dec. 13 | 2:00–9:00 pm | Carmel Arts & Design District | Free
Hop aboard the decorated trolley for a festive ride through Carmel’s boutiques and galleries.
Winter Markets at Jingle Rails
Sat, Dec. 13 | Eiteljorg Museum, 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis
Shop handcrafted goods from local and Native artists while exploring the beloved Jingle Rails display. Museum admission includes market access.
Sunday, Dec. 14
Sensory Friendly Morning: Jingle Rails
Sun, Dec. 14 | 10:00 am–12:00 pm | Eiteljorg Museum, 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis
Explore Jingle Rails in a calm setting with adjusted lighting, sound, and crowd levels for visitors with sensory sensitivities.
Even more Weekend ideas
- 101 Things to Do with Kids in Indianapolis — Big bucket list for any weekend.
- Christmas Lights Near Indianapolis — Drive-throughs, walk-throughs, and neighborhood gems.
- Ice Skating Rinks in Indy — Outdoor and indoor options all season.
- Best Sledding Hills — Where to go when the snow flies.
- Indoor Playgrounds — Easy energy-burners for cold days.
All Weekend Events:
Looking for more events? Check out our monthly calendar and the full weekend list.
