As December approaches, central Indiana transforms into a hub of holiday cheer with events that bring warmth and magic to the season. There is something for everyone: family-friendly fun, a romantic night out and unique gifts.
One of the most cherished traditions is the Christkindlmarkt at The Athenaeum in Carmel.
It runs from November 29 to December 22.
This market brings a taste of Germany to Indianapolis, with dozens of different stands selling various German and American winter desserts and foods.
Visitors can participate in many events, such as ice skating, listening to live-performed music, watching magic shows and so much more.
“I had a great time going with my girlfriend and enjoying the festivities,” senior Tobin Montgonmery said. “I had fun ice skating and enjoyed eating a German waffle from Das SchokoladenHaus.”
If Germany-in-Indiana is not your speed, the Indianapolis Zoo offers another opportunity to dive into the holiday spirit.
From November 23 to January 6, the zoo transforms into a sparkling space with hundreds of thousands of sparkling lights. The event is signified by the Beacon of Hope, a 150-foot-tall display at the Orangutan Center.
Another popular winter event is Winterlights at Newfields, which runs from November 23 to January 5.
“The lights were cool and beautiful,” senior Jake Lee said. “My favorite part was this giant American flag made of lights, which flashed in many cool ways.”
At these events, you can walk around the Newfield grounds and watch the choreographed light shows, garden trails and sparkling decorations. They also sell food and drinks, like hot chocolate, to keep guest warm as they explore the grounds.
“I am looking forward to going to Winterlights this year,” junior Parker Stambaugh said. “I’ve never been, so I am excited to see what it is like.”
One of the most famous Indianapolis holiday spots is the Circle of Lights, where 284-foot-tall Soldiers and Sailers monument centrering Monument Circle is decorated with 5,000 lights entwined with 52 garland strands, making it the “world’s largest Christmas tree.’
“My family and I go to the Circle of Lights events yearly,” Stambaugh said. “It’s one of our family traditions to see the lights get turned on.”
The tree was lit on November 29 and will stay lit until January 11.
“Going to the different events gets me in the holiday spirit, and I get to experience it with my family, which is nice,” Stambaugh said.
With the many festive activities, Indianapolis offers countless ways to celebrate the season.
