A 1-minute guide to holiday fun across the Indianapolis area
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Holiday fun is in full swing across Indianapolis.
Why it matters: It's the most wonderful time of the year.
State of the (decked) halls: Here are some local happenings to help make the most of the season.
✨ Christmas Nights of Lights at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, Newfields' Winterlights, a Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie, and Christmas at the Zoo offer dazzling light displays for those willing to pay.
💡 Those looking for a free light show can visit SPARK: Holidays on the Circle to see the monument lit up for the season, meet Santa, and mail letters to the North Pole.
🎄 For indoor fun, visit the Children's Museum's WinterFaire carnival or see more than 80 trees at the Indiana Historical Society's aptly named Festival of Trees.
💃 Banish your bah humbugs with "A Christmas Carol" at the Indiana Repertory Theatre, Yuletide with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, or a musical version of the classic "A Christmas Story" at Carmel's Civic Theatre.
🚂 "Polar Express" enthusiasts can visit the Garfield Park Conservatory's holiday train and poinsettia display, Jingle Rails at the Eiteljorg Museum, and take a ride on the State Museum's Snowfall Express through a snowy forest filled with music and movement.
🕎 Celebrate Hanukkah on Dec. 20 at the Athenaeum's Christkindlmarkt with traditional music and holiday activities.
- The market will celebrate Kwanzaa with special programming, including a dance performance, the following day.
⛸️ Hit the ice for outdoor fun at Morris Bicentennial Plaza, Holliday Park and Carmel's ice rink at Carter Green.
🍸 Sip festive drinks like Sugar Plum Mai Tais (Almost Famous) and Mistletoe Martinis (Omni Severin Hotel) at pop-up holiday bars.
- Visit Indy has a rundown of nearly a dozen options.