Skip to content 
Best Things to Do in Indiana During Christmas. Indiana comes alive during the Christmas season, offering a delightful blend of traditional holiday cheer, dazzling light displays, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re seeking festive small-town charm, vibrant city celebrations, or cozy winter adventures, Indiana has something to offer for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Indiana during Christmas, packed with must-visit spots and holiday fun.
Best Things to Do in Indiana During Christmas
1. Explore the Indianapolis Christmas Markets
The state capital boasts vibrant holiday markets filled with handcrafted gifts, festive foods, and seasonal decor.
- Carmel Christkindlmarkt: Inspired by German traditions, this market offers unique gifts, holiday treats, and an ice-skating rink.
- Indianapolis Circle of Lights Festival: The iconic Soldiers and Sailors Monument transforms into a dazzling Christmas tree, surrounded by a festive market.
2. Experience Enchanting Light Displays
Indiana offers some of the most stunning Christmas light displays:
- Christmas Nights of Lights (Indianapolis): A drive-through event with millions of synchronized lights.
- Santa Claus Land of Lights (Santa Claus, Indiana): A magical journey through the story of Santa Claus, with twinkling displays and festive scenes.
- Fort Wayne Fantasy of Lights: A family-friendly display featuring over 100 lighted scenes.
3. Visit the Festive Town of Santa Claus, Indiana
Known as “America’s Christmas Hometown,” Santa Claus, Indiana, offers a unique holiday experience:
- Santa Claus Museum & Village: Explore the history of Santa Claus and write a letter to the big man himself.
- Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari: Although the park is closed for the season, the town is bustling with holiday events.
- Santa’s Candy Castle: Treat yourself to seasonal sweets and their famous frozen hot chocolate.
4. Attend Holiday Performances and Events
Indiana’s theaters and venues offer spectacular holiday-themed performances:
- The Nutcracker Ballet: Watch this classic holiday production in cities like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne.
- A Christmas Carol: Enjoy a heartwarming performance of this timeless tale at the Indiana Repertory Theatre.
- Holiday Pops Concerts: Local orchestras perform festive music that captures the spirit of the season.
5. Go Ice Skating and Winter Sports
Winter activities are a highlight of Indiana’s Christmas season:
- Pan Am Plaza Ice Skating (Indianapolis): Glide under the city lights for a magical holiday experience.
- Perfect North Slopes (Lawrenceburg): Enjoy snow tubing, skiing, and snowboarding for a winter adventure.
- Eagle Creek Park Winter Trails: Explore scenic hiking trails with a serene winter backdrop.
6. Enjoy Indiana’s Christmas Tree Farms
Cutting down your own Christmas tree is a cherished tradition:
- St. Joe Christmas Tree Farm (Fort Wayne): Pick the perfect tree and enjoy hot cocoa and family activities.
- Dull’s Tree Farm (Thorntown): This farm offers a magical Christmas experience with trees, crafts, and festive events.
- Whitetail Acres (Brookville): Take a wagon ride and choose a beautiful tree for your home.
7. Explore Holiday Museums and Exhibits
Indiana’s museums embrace the holiday spirit with special exhibits:
- Indiana State Museum (Indianapolis): The annual Celebration Crossing features a holiday train ride and festive displays.
- Conner Prairie’s Holidays on the Prairie (Fishers): Step back in time to experience 19th-century Christmas traditions.
- Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: The “Jolly Days” exhibit offers interactive fun for kids.
8. Take a Scenic Holiday Train Ride
Christmas train rides are a magical experience for families:
- Polar Express Train Ride (French Lick): Relive the magic of the beloved story with hot cocoa, music, and Santa Claus himself.
- Whitewater Valley Railroad’s Santa Train (Connersville): A festive ride through the countryside, complete with Santa’s visit.
- Nickel Plate Express Holiday Ride (Noblesville): Enjoy holiday decorations, treats, and cheerful staff.
9. Savor Festive Food and Drinks
Indiana is known for its delicious holiday treats:
- Das Dutchman Essenhaus (Middlebury): Indulge in hearty Amish comfort food with a Christmas twist.
- South Bend Chocolate Company: Stock up on gourmet chocolates and seasonal goodies.
- Winter Farmers Markets (Bloomington): Shop for local produce and holiday treats.
10. Discover Charming Christmas Towns
Indiana’s small towns embrace the holiday season with unique traditions:
- Madison, Indiana: A riverside town with beautifully decorated streets and festive events.
- Metamora’s Christmas Walk: A quaint canal town featuring holiday shopping and scenic beauty.
- Shipshewana: Known for its Amish holiday traditions and craft fairs.
Looking to explore more festive destinations this holiday season? Don’t miss the magic of Florida with its tropical Christmas celebrations, dazzling light displays, and unique holiday experiences. If you’re heading west, discover the vibrant charm of California, known for its iconic holiday parades and world-class theme parks. For a blend of big-city festivities and small-town traditions, explore Texas, where everything from light trails to holiday markets offers unforgettable Christmas memories. Check out our guides on things to do in Florida during Christmas, things to do in California during Christmas, and things to do in Texas during Christmas for more inspiration!
Why Celebrate Christmas in Indiana?
Indiana’s blend of urban excitement and small-town charm makes it an ideal destination for holiday celebrations. From festive light displays to cozy winter activities, the state offers something for all ages. Whether you’re seeking traditional Christmas cheer or unique holiday experiences, Indiana is the perfect place to create magical memories.
