Indianapolis Holiday Attractions

Seasons Greetings from the Circle City

The holidays in Indianapolis are made for families. From sparkling light displays and interactive museum exhibits to festive train rides and timeless traditions, Indy offers countless ways to make memories together. Whether it’s your first visit or an annual trip, these family-friendly attractions will fill your season with wonder, laughter, and a little holiday magic.

Festival of Trees

November 13, 2026-January 2, 2027

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.

Jingle Rails

November 21, 2026-January 18, 2027

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.

WinterFaire

November 21, 2026-late February 2027

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 new winter adventure.

Winterlights

November 21, 2026-January 3, 2027

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. Celebrating its 10th year, this beloved event is bringing back Playtime in Indy. This Winterlights staple is making its return after nearly a decade. Its sure to bring holiday cheer to guest new and old; through an installation of secondhand toys sourced from Whale of a Sale. Also making its return to provide an extra special experience, guest can celebrate the season with a private, heated igloo. Igloo rentals are perfect for a family gathering as it offers a magical evening completed with premier tickets and access to Winterlights from 5-9 pm. for 8 people, a holiday nosh board, drink tickets, lightbulb necklaces and two parking passes. From the “whimsy trees” to the lawn, it will be impossible to not marvel at this holiday date night or family outing destination.

Christmas at the Zoo

November 21, 2026-January 3, 2027

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.

SPARK Holidays on the Circle

November 27, 2026-Mid January 2027

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. Throughout the season, enjoy SPARK Holidays on the Circle on the northwest quadrant of Monument Circle. Meet Santa, mail your letters to the North Pole, sip hot cocoa from the Container Café, enjoy live musical performances, and take in the dazzling holiday lights and decor on the Circle.

Celebration Crossing

November 27, 2026-January 3, 2027

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).

Christkindlmarkt at The Athenaeum

November 28-December 21, 2025

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.

A Merry Prairie Holiday

November 27-December 23, 2026

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! A Merry Prairie Holiday is open on Friday–Sunday from Nov 27–Dec 20, plus Mon Dec 22 and Tue Dec 23.

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