Holidays IN Indy 2024
Are the to-do lists, gift shopping, and seasonal obligations piling up?
I’ve been there too, overwhelmed by the holiday rush. But over the years, I’ve discovered that setting aside time for meaningful moments with my family doesn’t add to the stress—it brings me back to what truly matters.
This guide isn’t about giving you more to check off. Instead, it’s about helping you intentionally choose a few special experiences to share with the people you love.
Let’s embrace the season with joy, create memories that last, and find the magic in simple, meaningful moments.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a season filled with love and connection!
Christmas Nights of Lights: Indiana State Fairgrounds and Event Center 1202 E. 38th St.
Go see over 1 million lights at Indianapolis’ largest drive thru light show synchronized to music broadcasting through your car radio! Entrance to lights are at Indiana State Fairgrounds 1698 E 42nd St. (Gate 12). Online Reservations Required and they do not sell tickets at the gate. See website for car and entrance details*
Winterlights: Newfields 4000 Michigan Road
Get in the holiday spirit by walking through The Garden where nearly three million lights dance and dazzle around you. Drinks and treats are available for purchase around crackling firepits at the Culinary Campsite at the Garden Terrace. Tickets Required and time slots do sell out quickly so make sure to grab them early.
Winter Wunderland Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt: Athenaeum 401 E. Michigan Street
In the heart of Mass Avenue’s Arts District, you’re invited to eat, drink, and be merry this holiday season as the Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt returns to the enchanted Rathskeller Biergarten. Visit their website for more information. Parking: Paid street parking is available or park in Block 20 Parking Garage 428 N East Street where you can Pre-purchase parking.
Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure: Eiteljorg Museum 500 West Washington Street
Partake in the wonderful holiday tradition of Jingle rails and its breathtaking model train display featuring nine G-scale trains traveling through spectacular landscapes and past famous landmarks of Indianapolis and the American West. Take the whole family as tickets allow you to visit the whole museum and kids can learn, play, and explore in Nina Mason Pulliam Education Center. Tickets Required.
Christmas at the Zoo: Indianapolis Zoo 1200 West Washington Street
Join in one of Indiana’s most beloved nighttime experiences while looking at animals under the glow of twinkling lights that fill the zoo. All included with regular admission. Tickets Required (please visit website to also find out more about parking prices).
WinterFaire: Indianapolis Children’s Museum 3000 North Meridian Street
WinterFaire is a magical indoor world featuring a festive, carnival-like atmosphere, fun-filled games, loveable critters, and hands-on activities. Play, laugh, and make lifelong memories together in this one-of-a-kind indoor winter experience. Visit the website to see daily activities included with your tickets happening at WinterFaire. Free parking is available. Tickets Required.
Festival of Trees: Indiana Historical Society 450 West Ohio Street
The 2024 Festival of Trees will feature a winter wonderland of 85 trees representing individuals, families and companies from around Indiana. Tickets required.
Ice Skating: several locations. Check individual websites for updated dates and hours.
Ice Skating at Elevance Health Rink on Bicentennial Unity Plaza Reservations Required with specific time slots
The Ice Rink at Holliday Park 6263 Spring Mill Rd Reservation Required with specific time slots
Public Skate in Corteva Coliseum at Indiana State FairGrounds & Event Center Tickets can be purchased upon arrival Parking is $10.
A Christmas Story The Musical: Beefs and Boards Dinner Theatre
Enjoy the movie classic in musical format as you enjoy a buffet dinner at Beef and Boards. The buffet opens 2 hours prior to the show and closes 30 minutes prior to the show. A discount of $6 off per ticket available to children ages 3-15. Children under age 3 not admitted to this show. Not all shows may be suitable for all ages. Shows are selling out fast so be sure to get your tickets ASAP.
The Nutcracker
Go see a Christmas must with several performances of The Nutcracker ballet. Tickets for different showings and locations can be found here.
AES Yuletide Celebration: Hilbert Circle Theater 45 Monument Circle
Join Indiana’s larget performing arts organization, The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, for AES’s Yuletide Celebration. This spectacular performance features musicians, dancers, and singers. Tickets are required
Carmel Christkindlmarkt: 10 Carter Green
Immerse yourself in Christmas spirit as you experience the unique offerings of over 60 huts, daily performances, and ice skating. Shop for unique gifts, and enjoy holiday music performed by artists from around the world and if you are wondering if children will enjoy this, crafts, characters, and music await your little ones in the Kinderecke. The event is free
Spark Holidays on the Circle: 111 Monument circle
SPARK Holidays on the Circle will feature themed musical performances and appearances from Santa Claus within the northwest bollards of Monument Circle every Saturday and Sunday from 4-8 p.m. through December 22. During SPARK festivities, hot cocoa and coffee will be available for purchase from the Container Café. This is a free event.
