Crisp air, hot beverages, crackling outdoor fireplaces and more that a million multi-colored lights – you’ll experience all of this and more during Winterlights at Newfields, opening November 19.
We were lucky enough to get a sneak peek at Indy’s newest light show last night, and take it from us – this is a show you have to see to believe. When we arrived, we were greeted by a group of carolers, the perfect touch to get us in the holiday spirit. From there, we were immersed in what can only be described as a winter wonderland with more than a million colorful lights illuminating the already gorgeous grounds of Newfields. Perhaps the most breathtaking moment of the evening was the choreographed light show on the grounds outside the Lilly House.
We could go on and on about how mesmerized we were, but instead we’ll give you the scoop straight from Newfields:
Explore The Garden at Newfields as never before with more than one million multi-colored lights and 80 foot trees wrapped to the ends of each tiny branch. Breathe in the crisp, winter air filled with the scent of evergreens and campfires. Marvel at the choreographed Landscape of Light on the Lilly House lawn and stroll garden pathways, nestled amongst trees glowing with color. Listen to your favorite seasonal songs as lights dance to the music.
While strolling through Winterlights, indulge in a warm cup of hot chocolate or apple cider—with spiked options available for adults—and a special Newfields beer from Taxman Brewing Company. Warm your hands by the fire and make your own s’more provided by local Girl Scouts, or continue your journey with treats to go.
Winterlights will continue some of the IMA’s most beloved holiday traditions. At its heart will be the historic Lilly House, filled with sparkling decorations and beautiful floral displays that continue the a tradition started in 1971. Karl Unnasch’s whimsical 50-foot-tall tree of toys, Playtime in Indy, returns in a brand new location surrounded by giant Whimsy Trees, perfect for a family photo. Every Tuesday in December, Santa Claus will join in the fun with a special appearance.
Key features include:
- Poinsettia Path (garden gateway, ticket area, food & retail)
- Snowflake Bridge (features the Woodstock gates covered in lights, illuminated hanging snowflakes, planters)
- The Landscape of Light (Lilly Allee, choreographed to The Nutcracker)
- The Hub featuring seasonal food and drink options available for purchase during the show
- The Whimsical Terrace family area (Playtime in Indy tree, whimsical lights inspired by the colors of the tree)
Details:
- Winterlights opens to the public on Sunday, November 19 and runs through Sunday, January 7 with two shows every night at 5 and 7 pm. Newfields and Winterlights are closed Mondays except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, but only the Winterlights show will be open during those two days. The show will also be open on Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday, as well as Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
- Purchase your tickets online in advance to save 20% and ensure a spot to your desired show (tickets to each showing are limited to avoid overcrowding). Advance tickets are: $20 adult ($15 adult member); $12 youth 6-17 ($8 youth member); children 5 & under are free.
- There will be several stations inside and out where guests may grab a drink and a snack. Options range from beer and wine to hot chocolate and cider. Cookies, candied nuts, and more will be available for snacking as well as s’mores packets sold by local Girl Scout troops on the weekends.
- The beautiful, holiday décor guests have come to love inside Lilly House will be on display during Winterlights. After seeing the light show on the Lilly House lawn, guests can come inside the front door and warm up inside the historic manor. Lilly House is also open during the day as well.
- Note: Floor 1 of the Indianapolis Museum of Art will be open during the Winterlights show times so guests can grab a bite in The Café or browse fun holiday items in The Museum & Garden Shop. However, the IMA Galleries and The Garden will close at 4 pm every afternoon.
- Finally, be sure to bundle up. You will be spending a majority of time outdoors. Outdoor fireplaces and hot beverages found throughout the grounds help, but you’ll want to be sure to come dressed for the weather.
