Christmas in Indianapolis: Family Events & Activities

Christmas in Indianapolis is a special time of year, with lots of festive activities & events to get you into the holiday spirit!

Whether you are looking to start new family Christmas traditions or partake in old ones, browse our interactive map & calendar for Indianapolis Christmas events, holiday light displays and kid-friendly Christmas shows near you. Find out where you can go ice skating or cut your own Christmas tree, too, for even more seasonal family fun.

What are your family's favorite things to do for Christmas in Indianapolis? Like & review your picks below, and add any that are still missing!

3 Recommendations

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(216.4 mi)

Free

Go to carmelchri....com

Beth Wood: Feel like you're celebrating Christmas in old world Germany when you visit the Christkindlmarkt in Carmel this holiday season. This outdoor market centers around an outdoor ice skating rink - The Ice at Center Green - where you can bring your own skates or rent some, and enjoy an afternoon or evening on the ice. You can also shop among all of the different vendors in the Christkindlmarkt where you'll find yummy food and drinks, custom holiday gifts, toys, authentic German wares and much more.

(219.3 mi)

$13/adult, $5/child

Go to indianahistory.org

Beth Wood: Plan a trip to the Indiana Historical Society and see 75 trees decorated in different themes throughout the museum. Each guest will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite tree. Visitors can also take part in scavenger hunts for The Elf on the Shelf throughout the building — watch IHS’s social media channels for hints on its locations! Kids can also enjoy holiday crafts.

(220.4 mi)

Included with admission

Go to indianapoliszoo.com

Beth Wood: Enjoy the Indianapolis Zoo as it's decorated with thousands of LED lights for the holidays. While enjoying the light displays, be sure to plan a visit to Santa's Village where you can see Santa's reindeer and visit with Santa himself. See many of the zoo animals, ride the train and other zoo rides, listen to holiday music, enjoy tasty holiday treats and have much more fun as you wander through the zoo at night.