Holiday Getaway in Indy

Indianapolis is a city of tradition and the holiday season is no exception. From the L.S. Ayres Cherub to our decorated, tree-lined streets, holiday cheer spreads throughout the Circle City.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the world’s largest Christmas tree. At the epicenter of downtown stands the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, which on November 23 will be lit with nearly 5,000 lights, forming a 242-foot tall Christmas tree. Affectionately known as the Circle of Lights, this tree has been named by Travelocity as one of the Top 5 must see Christmas trees in the nation.

Indy is truly a magical place this time of year. Bring the family and join in the tradition as you experience the cheer with our favorite holiday picks below:

Performances

A Beef & Boards Christmas is the perfect garnish for Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s 40th Anniversary season line-up. This upbeat performance is a family favorite.

Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is an unforgettable experience, performed by the world-class Indiana Repertory Theatre. Marvel at the opulence of the historic 1927 Indiana Theatre while you take in this decades-long Indy holiday tradition.

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Yuletide Celebration is located in the Hilbert Circle Theater, just steps from the Circle of Lights. This year’s show features holiday classics by Broadway’s best, Ben Crawford, and the sounds of Indy’s symphony. After the show, make your way around the Circle and enjoy a cup of legendary hot chocolate from the South Bend Chocolate Company.

Indiana Ballet Conservatory presents The Nutcracker at the Indianapolis Museum of Art’s Tobias Theatre. This year’s production features guest artist Lasha Khozashvili, principal dancer with Boston Ballet, who will be returning to Indy for the second time to dance the role of the Prince.

Martinis and Mistletoe at The Cabaret! at the Columbia Club. Jazz up your holiday at The Cabaret with the warm, rich sounds of the Buselli Wallarab Septet, divas Shannon Forsell and Brenda Williams, and a selection of sophisticated seasonal tunes.

Attractions

Celebration Crossing at the Indiana State Museum invites you to learn about holiday traditions, both longstanding and new. Visitors can ride the Santa Claus Express, visit with Santa and get their photo taken, and participate in holiday and winter themed activities on all levels of the museum.

Christmas at the Lilly House on the grounds at the Indianapolis Museum of Art uses the American country house setting to explore the decorative ideas of the 1930s and 1940s. Explore this piece of history and witness nearly a century of holiday tradition firsthand.

Christmas at the Zoo is a wintertime experience everyone will enjoy. Stop by the Indianapolis Zoo for its annual light spectacular, and experience one of the nation’s top ten zoos in a whole new way as hundreds of thousands of sparkling lights delight and inspire.

Jingle Rails at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art is a journey to the Great American West--the real West and the West of the imagination. With over 1,200 feet of railroad, watch seven trains wind past the local treasures of downtown Indianapolis, including the Eiteljorg Museum, Monument Circle, Union Station and Lucas Oil Stadium, as well as historical sites, including Mt. Rushmore, the Grand Canyon, Yosemite Falls and Old Faithful.

Jolly Days Winter Wonderland is a holiday treat for the whole family at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Complete with an indoor "ice skating" rink for children to skate in their socks, an ice fishing area and a holiday train, this is an unbeatable family tradition.

Shopping

Circle Centre is located in the heart of the city. Anchored by Carson Pirie Scott to the north end, downtown Indianapolis' foremost shopping, dining and entertainment complex offers shoppers more than 100 specialty stores, plus a vast array of dining options. Circle Centre also offers convenient underground parking (some of the cheapest you'll find in the city).

The Fashion Mall at Keystone is a mix of high-end anchors, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom, upscale and luxury specialty retailers, and a full complement of dining options.

Fountain Square Cultural District is a funky Indianapolis neighborhood filled with vintage shops, a vibrant arts scene, and one-of-a-kind stores that sell comics, musical instruments and home decor. Be sure to check out IndySWANK, a lifestyle store that features works from local artists alongside the best in high fashion vintage clothing.

Mass Ave Arts District is a five-block area ripe with theaters, restaurants and art galleries. But, best of all, Mass Ave is rich with independent boutiques. You'll encounter unique finds on each block. From Stout's Shoes, the nation's oldest shoe store, to Silver in the City, you’ll find the perfect one-of-a-kind gift, unique to Indy.

Lift your holiday spirit with a getaway to the capital city. From our delectable restaurants to our vibrant art scene, Indy is the perfect place to celebrate the season. Continue the tradition. Spread the cheer. Visit Indy.