Top Indianapolis Attractions Opening On Thanksgiving Weekend

Wondering what to do with the family after Thanksgiving? Instead of rushing to the mall for Black Friday, spend time with family and friends at one of these top Indianapolis attractions opening on Black Friday.

Top Indianapolis Attractions Opening On Thanksgiving Weekend:

Celebration Crossing Opening Day: Santa’s Arrival by Helicopter

Opening Day: Nov. 25, Santa arrives at 11 am
Dates: Celebration Crossing is open Nov. 25-Jan 1. 
Location:
Indiana State Museum

Celebrate the joy of the holidays starting with Santa’s arrival by helicopter on the Indiana State Museum’s front lawn at 11 am! Join in the cheering as he lights the 92 County Tree and kicks off this season’s Celebration Crossing. Ride the NEW! Snowfall Express train, visit Santa’s Front Yard and Reindeer Barn, and share your wish list with the man in red inside Santa’s house.

Jolly Days Winter Wonderland

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 24
Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Enjoy favorites like Jingles the Jolly Bear and visits with Santa at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Make it snow in the Giant Snow Globe, Meet extraordinary Jolly Days characters, from Scrooge to Ms. Claus, “Ice skate” in your socks, and Explore the Ice Castle. 

jolly days

Conservatory Crossing

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 31
Location: Garfield Park

Visit Garfield Conservatory this winter to experience its beautiful winter wonderland! The Conservatory dazzles in the holiday season with a brilliant display of poinsettias, model trains and village, and thousands of twinkling lights. Don’t miss this special time to enjoy the lights throughout the display.​

The Holiday Stroll

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 23
Location: Kelsay Farms

Kelsay Farms invites visitors to stroll through the farm during the holidays for a magical experience. Come with your cameras to make the most of the festival’s larger-than-life decorations and capture some truly extraordinary memories! Relax amongst the lights and the trees while sipping your hot cocoa by a warm campfire.

Kelsay Farm Holiday Stroll

Athenaeum Christkindlmarket

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 18 (Thursday-Sunday)
Location: Athenaeum

Nestled in the heart of Mass Avenue’s Arts District, you’re invited to drink, eat and be merry this holiday season at our inaugural Chriskindlemarkt! Here, you’ll find the traditional festival elements (music, cheesy raclettes, gluhwein and plenty of platzchen to go around) are just the foundation for special storytelling traditions unique to our rich, German culture. Your family will love our St. Nicholas Fest and Krampusnacht.

A Merry Prairie Holiday

Dates: Nov. 25, 26, 27, Dec. 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 21-22
Location: Conner Prairie

Come celebrate the season with glittering lights, a polar bear plunge, festive rides, holiday treats and more! Glittering lights, thoughtful storytellers, and warm fires will transport you from your day-to-day into the stories of yesterday and the traditions of tomorrow. Step into Conner Prairie’s historic Prairietown to visit the Christmas Eve traditions of the 1800s, then head up to the North Pole Workshop to experience Santa and his elves getting ready for the big night. Get your heart racing by taking a spin on Kringle’s Carousel or zooming down our 150-foot Polar Bear Plunge sledding hill.

A Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie

 

Indy's Child
Indy's Child
For over 40 years, Indy's Child has been the go-to resource for Indianapolis families seeking fun, educational, and enriching experiences. Our award-winning magazine and website are devoted to offering expert advice, insider tips, and the latest information on everything from the top local attractions and events to invaluable parenting resources and support. As deeply rooted members of the central Indiana community, our passionate team at Indy's Child is committed to uncovering the best family-friendly experiences and resources that our city has to offer. Whether you're a new parent or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, Indy's Child is here to guide you in the adventure of raising a family in central Indiana.

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