Every year, as soon as the first twinkle of holiday lights appears around town, my kids start asking when we can begin our Christmas fun in Indianapolis. Living here in Indy means we have so many magical traditions at our fingertips. Some are nostalgic experiences my husband and I enjoyed as children, and some are newer favorites that our kids are now growing up with. Whether you are local like us or visiting Indianapolis for the holidays, this list includes the absolute best and most essential experiences to make the season shine.
These are the traditions we look forward to year after year and the ones I always recommend when families ask for holiday fun in Indy.
Slide into the Season at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
The Children’s Museum WinterFaire is one of our first stops each year. Santa visits, carnival games, and a glowing atmosphere make it exciting, but the real highlight is the iconic Winter Slide. Every Indy kid needs a photo zooming down that rainbow-lit slope. My kids will ride it over and over, and I’ll admit, I love joining in the fun too. It is one of the most energetic ways to kick off holiday break.
Follow the Trains at Jingle Rails
Jingle Rails at the Eiteljorg Museum is always so impressive. Model trains chug through intricate scenes featuring snowy mountains, famous national parks, Las Vegas, Mount Rushmore, and even tiny versions of our favorite Indy landmarks. My kids race around, pointing out different details they missed the year before. It is cozy, magical, and packed with nostalgia.
Wander Through a Forest of Christmas Trees
Festival of Trees at the Indiana Historical Society is a wonderland of more than 80 uniquely decorated trees. Every room offers something new to discover. My kids love finding the themed trees that match their favorite hobbies and characters, and I love admiring the craft and creativity that goes into each one. It is the perfect place to take holiday photos.
Experience Indoor Snowfall at Celebration Crossing
At the Indiana State Museum, Celebration Crossing brings the magic of winter indoors. Snow falls gently from above, and families can visit Santa, ride the Snowfall Express train, and explore festive displays. It is a slower-paced holiday experience that allows us to take it all in and enjoy the season. Check out Celebration Crossing here
Enjoy a Holiday Classic Live on Stage
There is just something about seeing A Christmas Carol performed live that feels extra meaningful. Whether we go to the Indianapolis Repertory Theatre or Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, the story comes alive with warm lighting, beautiful music, and timeless reminders of kindness and generosity. It always leaves us inspired.
Take in the Sights and Sounds on Monument Circle
We love bundling up and strolling around Monument Circle to enjoy the bright lights of the “World’s Largest Christmas Tree.” The kids drop letters to Santa right into his downtown mailbox. Sometimes we grab hot chocolate nearby or listen to holiday music as we walk. It is simple but feels full of Indy holiday spirit.
Drive Through a Million Lights
Christmas Nights of Lights at the Indiana State Fairgrounds is a drive-through show that syncs glowing lights to fun holiday music. We wear pajamas, bring popcorn, and let the kids choose the playlist. Their faces light up as bright as the arches of color above our car.
Discover a Glowing World at Winterlights
Winterlights at Newfields surrounds you with millions of sparkling lights and beautiful illuminated displays. We walk slowly, admire the twinkling gardens, and treat ourselves to hot cocoa or warm cider. It feels like stepping into a holiday storybook.
Visit the Animals at Christmas at the Zoo
The Indianapolis Zoo becomes a glowing wonderland with festive displays and holiday characters, all dressed up for Christmas at the Zoo. Some animals stay active in cooler temps, so we get a completely different experience from our typical summer visits. The dancing lights and cozy winter pathways make this a must-do every year.
Pajamas and a Giant Screen Adventure
We wear our matching pajamas and head to the IMAX Theater at the Indiana State Museum for The Polar Express Pajama Party. Seeing this classic film on a massive screen with other pajama-clad families feels like joining the story. The kids love every second.
(SOLD OUT) Take a Magical Train Ride on the Sullivan Express
Sullivan Hardware & Garden puts on one of the cutest Santa-themed train rides around. We hop aboard the Sullivan Express and take a charming ride through twinkling holiday scenes before arriving at Santa’s workshop.
Dine with Nostalgia in the L.S. Ayres Tea Room
The L.S. Ayres Tea Room at the Indiana State Museum offers a beautiful holiday meal that feels like stepping back in time. We look forward to the classic dishes and seeing the Ayres Cherub. It is elegant, nostalgic, and surprisingly kid-friendly.
Smell the Poinsettias at Garfield Park
Conservatory Crossing fills the Garfield Park Conservatory with blooming poinsettias, miniature train displays, and twinkling holiday lights. It is warm and cozy inside, even on the coldest days, making it a great break from the winter chill.
Celebrate at Broad Ripple Lights Up
Broad Ripple Lights Up brings families together for a fun community parade and neighborhood celebration. We love waving at the parade floats, admiring the decorated storefronts, and enjoying the kickoff of the season.
Visit a Charming Christkindlmarkt
The Christkindlmarkt at the Athenaeum is full of handcrafted gifts, European-style treats, and lively cultural festivities. It has become one of our favorite places to grab a warm snack and pick up unique stocking stuffers.
Ice Skate Outdoors in Two Fun Spots
We love lacing up our skates and gliding across the ice. Whether we choose skyline views at Elevance Bicentennial Plaza or a wooded winter backdrop at Holliday Park Ice Rink, the kids always want “just one more lap.”
DIY Light-Tour Tradition
One of our most loved traditions is loading up the car with blankets, hot cocoa, and holiday music and exploring neighborhood light displays. We use the Indy with Kids Holiday Lights Map to create our own personalized tour each year. It is simple but full of joy.
Your Essential Indy Holiday Checklist
- Holiday slides, trains, trees, lights, shows, Santa visits, and family adventures all over Indianapolis
If you try even a few of these favorite activities, you will feel the magic of the season right here in Indy. These traditions have become a huge part of our family’s holiday joy, and I hope they help make your season unforgettable, too.
