Indianapolis Holiday Attractions

Seasons Greetings from the Circle City

Indianapolis is a city of tradition, and the holiday season is no exception. Join thousands of spectators for Circle of Lights, where Monument Circle becomes the most iconic Christmas tree in Indy.

Or be a part of a newer tradition and see the grounds of Newfields decorated with more than one million dazzling lights. From old to new, here are a few of our favorite holiday traditions and attractions.

Christkindlmarkt at The Athenaeum

At the Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt, you’ll find the traditional festival elements (music, warm raclettes, gluhwein, and plenty of platzchen to go around) are just the foundation for special storytelling traditions unique to our rich, German culture. This is your chance to gather with friends and family to celebrate the magic and wonder of the holiday season in the historic Biergarten.

Festival of Trees

The Indiana Historical Society presents Festival of Trees in addition to their other traditional holiday celebrations. Visitors can take in the IHS’s charming holiday-based photo ops and enjoy the same family-friendly activities and events they’ve come to love. Visit an amazing tree-filled wonderland featuring 75 unique holiday-themed trees and a special 30-foot show-stopper tree you have to see to believe.

Christmas at the Zoo

Christmas at the Zoo is a wintertime extravaganza everyone will enjoy. Stop by the Indianapolis Zoo for its annual light spectacular, and experience one of the nation’s top 10 zoos in a whole new way as hundreds of thousands of sparkling lights delight and inspire. Soaring 150 feet above the Skjodt International Orangutan Center, you’ll spot the Beacon of Hope glowing in holiday colors from miles away.

Jingle Rails

Jingle Rails is the Eiteljorg's annual journey to the Great American West - the real West and the West of the imagination. With over 1,200 feet of railroad, watch seven trains wind past the local treasures of downtown Indianapolis, including the Eiteljorg Museum, Monument Circle, Union Station, and Lucas Oil Stadium, as well as historical sites including Mt. Rushmore, the Grand Canyon, Yosemite Falls, and Old Faithful. New this year, see the magical landscape of San Francisco, CA, mapped out before your eyes.

WinterFaire

Welcome to the enchanting world of WinterFaire at The Children's Museum, where the magic of winter comes to life! As you step into this whimsical wonderland, you'll find yourself transported to a place where the chill in the air is filled with the warm spirit of the season. WinterFaire is a unique and magical winter carnival that takes place in an enchanted forest, and it's the perfect destination for those seeking a brand-new winter adventure.

Winterlights

Winterlights at Newfields is a family tradition for Indy. A dazzling choreographed light show invites you to walk through the garden trails as you sip your favorite hot beverage. From the “whimsy trees” to the lawn, it will be impossible to not marvel at this holiday date night or family outing destination.

Circle of Lights

Circle of Lights is one of the world's largest Christmas trees, complete with nearly 5,000 lights and 52 garland strands streaming from Indy's beloved 284-foot-tall Soldiers and Sailors Monument. Travelocity named this tree one of the top five must-see Christmas trees in the nation.

Celebration Crossing

Celebration Crossing is alive with holiday merriment at the Indiana State Museum! New this year, bring the family for a ride on the Snowfall Express and discover a forest populated by charming whimsical characters celebrating the coming winter and first snowfall. Play and create in Santa’s Front Yard, the Reindeer Barn, and the new Tot Spot. Make a full day of it with a visit and pictures with Santa, and lunch at the iconic L.S. Ayres Tea Room (reservations recommended).

A Merry Prairie Holiday

A Merry Prairie Holiday includes several different family-friendly holiday events. Transport back to 1836 through the Prairietown walking tour, Conner Prairie by Candlelight. Guests can marvel at the famous Reynolds Farm Equipment Christmas Lights in their new home, visit the North Pole Village for a midway and games, enjoy local entertainers and musicians performing, and sample warm holiday treats and beverages. Finally, Santa is coming to town to enjoy breakfast and dinner with guests at the prairie!

You Might Also Like:

Indianapolis Holiday Performances
Learn More
Holiday Trip Ideas
Learn More
Where to See Holiday Lights in Indianapolis
Learn More