The holidays are magical all over Central Indiana, but there is something extra special about celebrating the season in Hamilton County, Indiana. Every community offers something a little different and a whole lot of fun. Whether my kids want bright lights or big thrills, warm treats or winter traditions, we always find something magical to do.
Here is your must-do holiday list for Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield, and all across Hamilton County. I hope you find a few new favorites and revisit some beloved traditions, too.
Take a Stroll Through a Quaint Holiday Village at Conner Prairie
Conner Prairie’s Merry Prairie Holiday feels like stepping into a Christmas storybook. The historic buildings glow with warm light, and live entertainment pops up throughout the village. My kids love exploring outdoors with hot chocolate in hand and watching their favorite holiday characters bring the season to life.
Taste Your Way Through a Traditional German Holiday Market
The Carmel Christkindlmarkt is one of my family’s very favorite traditions. We wander through the wooden huts, try warm German-inspired snacks, shop for handmade treasures, and enjoy the joyful winter atmosphere. We go for the food but stay for all the fun.
Ride a Real Train With Santa on the Nickel Plate Express
There is something magical about a real train ride at Christmas. The Nickel Plate Express Reindeer Ride delivers holiday cheer with Santa, treats, and sweet surprises. My kids press their noses to the windows and giggle the whole trip.
Tee Off for Holiday Fun Mini Golf Style
Birdies in Westfield transforms its mini golf course into a holiday wonderland with glowing decorations at every turn. Christmas Golf at Birdies is the perfect outing when we want holiday fun with a side of competition and laughter.
Get a Free Santa Photo on His Front Porch
Santa’s Wonderland at Cabela’s is a kid-favorite in our house. The chance to meet Santa, explore the festive displays, and take home a free photo feels like a win for everyone. The excitement on my kids’ faces makes this a must-stop experience.
Watch as the Sights and Sounds of the Season Take the Stage
For a special night out, we love the holiday performances at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It is one of those traditions that feels fancy and memorable, even if the kids are wearing snow boots under their dresses.
Toss a Teddy Bear on the Ice at the Indy Fuel Game
The Teddy Bear Toss game at the Indy Fuel is the perfect mix of high-energy sports and holiday giving. When the team gives the go, stuffed animals fly through the air and onto the ice to support local kids during the holidays. My crew loves the anticipation almost as much as the toss itself.
Skate Under the Stars or Under the Sun at Three Outdoor Rinks
Hamilton County gives families multiple ways to glide into the season.
• Carter Green in Carmel has real ice with downtown sparkle
• Federal Hill Commons in Noblesville feels like a classic winter scene
• Grand Junction Plaza in Westfield features a winding ice ribbon that’s fun for explorers
No matter which one you choose, skating outdoors with rosy cheeks is a winter tradition that never gets old.
Ride the Snowy Slopes at Koteewi
Snow tubing at Koteewi Run Seasonal Slopes in Noblesville is fast, fun, and a total hit with both kids and grown-ups. We race down the hill, ride the lift back up, and go again and again. It’s a thrill every single time.
Take a Walk in a Natural Winter Wonderland
Sometimes the best holiday memories happen away from the crowds. Hamilton County parks offer peaceful walking trails perfect for snowy days. My kids hunt for animal tracks while I soak in the quiet beauty of winter trees and crisp air.
Watch the Holiday Magic Come Alive When the Lights Switch On
Tree lighting ceremonies across the county officially kick off the season with music, activities, and glowing decorations. We love bundling up and counting down to that magical moment when the lights shine bright.
Drop a Letter Bound for the North Pole With Your Biggest Wish
Festive Santa mailboxes pop up in towns big and small. Writing letters and dropping them into the bright red boxes has become one of my kids’ favorite traditions. They love imagining those envelopes making their way straight to Santa.
Enjoy Twinkling Lights and Seasonal Magic on a Family Walk
We never miss the chance to walk through holiday lights where the atmosphere feels joyful and bright. Favorite spots include the Monon Trail, Carmel Christkindlmarkt, the Nickel Plate District in Fishers, and Holidays at the Hill in Westfield. Every stroll feels special in its own way.
Hot Cocoa, Holiday Music, and a DIY Holiday Light Tour
On nights when we want something simple and cozy, we hop in the car with cocoa and carols and drive past cheerful holiday home Christmas light displays. Many neighborhoods go all out with lights and decor, and this tradition is always free and full of memories.
Why Holidays in Hamilton County Feel Extra Magical
Hamilton County gives families every kind of holiday experience. Big adventures and small magical moments. Seasonal shows and the occasional snowy hills. Cozy meals and twinkling lights. It’s easy to fill the entire season with joy, love, and memory-making experiences.
Most of all, I love that every outing becomes a moment where we are together. Laughing, exploring, savoring the season. That is what makes the holidays here so special.
So pull out the mittens. Pour the cocoa. Turn up the holiday playlist. And make the most of every magical minute right here in Hamilton County with kids.
Holiday Fun in Hamilton County Indiana: Best Christmas Activities for Families
Be sure the check the Indy with Kids calendar for even more things to do in Indianapolis with Kids!
