The final weekend before Christmas is packed with lights, holiday markets, and festive performances around Indy. For Dec. 19–21, 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.
Editor’s picks for Dec. 19–21, 2025
All Weekend
The Nutcracker – Metropolitan Youth Ballet
Fri–Sun, Dec. 19–21 | STAR Bank Performing Arts Center, 1000 Mulberry St, Zionsville
Follow Clara and her Nutcracker Prince through a magical Christmas Eve adventure featuring lavish costumes, Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score, and the beloved Land of Sweets. Meet dancers, shop the Sugar Plum Boutique, and enjoy treats in the decorated lobby.
Showtimes: Fri 7:30 pm; Sat 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm; Sun 2:00 pm.
A Merry Prairie Holiday
Fri–Sun, Dec. 19–21 | Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd, Fishers
Stroll through thousands of lights, explore Prairietown’s 1800s holiday traditions, spin on Frosty’s Skating Rink, and catch a 3D projection of ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas at the William Conner House.
Ongoing event, runs through Dec. 23.
Glimmer Lights at Piney Acres
Fri–Sun, Dec. 19–21 | 6:00–9:00 pm | Piney Acres Farm, 1115 E 1000 N, Fortville
Ride the Piney Acres Express through glowing Christmas tree fields, sip signature hot cocoa, and enjoy a cozy holiday train ride without walking in the cold.
Ongoing event, runs through Dec. 21.
Carmel Christkindlmarkt
Fri–Sun, Dec. 19–21 | Fri 4–9 pm; Sat 12–9 pm; Sun 12–8 pm | Center Green, Carmel | Free
Shop wooden vendor huts for hand-carved ornaments, German gifts, and festive foods like schnitzel and giant pretzels. Kids can enjoy crafts in the Kinderecke, puppet shows, and character meet-and-greets.
Ongoing event, runs through Dec. 24.
Celebration Crossing
Fri–Sun, Dec. 19–21 | 10:00 am–5:00 pm | Indiana State Museum, 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis
Hop aboard the Snowfall Express for an enchanting train ride, visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy holiday games and activities throughout the museum.
Ongoing event, runs Nov. 28–Jan. 4.
Festival of Trees
Fri–Sun, Dec. 19–21 | Indiana Historical Society, 450 W Ohio St, Indianapolis
Wander through more than 80 uniquely decorated trees representing individuals and organizations from across Indiana in this festive winter wonderland.
Ongoing event, runs Nov. 14–Jan. 3.
Christmas Nights of Lights
Fri–Sun, Dec. 19–21 | 6:00–10:00 pm | Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 E 38th St, Indianapolis
Drive through miles of glowing displays synchronized to holiday music—perfect for staying warm in the car. Advance online reservations required.
Ongoing event, runs Nov. 7–Dec. 31.
The Lighted Trail
Fri–Sun, Dec. 19–21 | Dusk to dawn | Amphitheater Park, 300 S Washington St, Greenwood | Free
Stroll among 42,000 lights, 85 lighted trees, and a 12-arch candy cane tunnel on this glowing winter walk in Greenwood.
Ongoing event, runs Dec. 7–Dec. 31.
Friday, Dec. 19
Half-Price Student Night at Holliday Park Ice Rink
Fri, Dec. 19 | 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. 20
Grinchmas at Riverside
Sat, Dec. 20 | 12:00–1:30 pm | Riverside Park, 2420 E Riverside Dr, Indianapolis | Free
Celebrate with crafts, games, cookie decorating, and photos with Santa. Kids ages 6–12 can receive holiday gift giveaways while supplies last.
Lowe’s DIY Workshop: Sleigh Ride
Sat, Dec. 20 | 10:00 am–1:00 pm | Participating Lowe’s stores | Free
Kids can build their own holiday sleigh project at this hands-on DIY workshop.
Sunday, Dec. 21
Winter Solstice Skate with Santa
Sun, Dec. 21 | 3:00–4:30 pm | Holliday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis | $7/skater (includes rental)
Celebrate the winter solstice by skating with Santa at the Holliday Park Ice Rink.
All Weekend Events:
Looking for more events? Check out our monthly calendar and the full weekend list.
