{"id":667,"date":"2024-12-20T22:32:25","date_gmt":"2024-12-20T22:32:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.englishivys.com\/blog\/?p=667"},"modified":"2024-12-20T22:32:25","modified_gmt":"2024-12-20T22:32:25","slug":"top-christmas-things-to-do-in-downtown-indianapolis-this-holiday-weekend","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.englishivys.com\/blog\/top-christmas-things-to-do-in-downtown-indianapolis-this-holiday-weekend\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Christmas Things to Do in Downtown Indianapolis This Holiday Weekend\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

It\u2019s the most wonderful time of the year in Downtown Indianapolis! The city transforms into a winter wonderland, brimming with festive energy, twinkling lights, and activities that promise to warm even the coldest nights. This guide will help you plan the ultimate holiday weekend, packed with must-see events, local tips, and hidden gems to make your Christmas unforgettable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Looking for Christmas Things to Do Near Downtown Indianapolis? Visit English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Downtown Indianapolis Holiday Weekend Fun<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Whether you’re a family looking for memory-making fun, an adult searching for sophisticated holiday cheer, or a tourist wanting to experience the spirit of Indianapolis, Downtown Indy has something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Family-Friendly Christmas Activities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Circle of Lights <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Kick off your holiday excitement by visiting the iconic Circle of Lights at Monument Circle. This dazzling display has been a treasured Indianapolis tradition since 1962. Featuring thousands of lights wrapped around the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, live music performances, and even a visit from Santa, it\u2019s a must-see for families. Insider tip? Head there just before sunset to see the lights come to life without wrestling heavy crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Christmas at the Zoo <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Bundle up and head to the Indianapolis Zoo for their annual Christmas at the Zoo event. Stroll through the zoo grounds illuminated by millions of holiday lights, and enjoy winter-themed animal exhibits, hot cocoa stations, and the chance to meet Santa. The carousel is especially magical this time of year and perfect for younger kids. Plus, this event\u2019s long history\u2014it\u2019s been held since 1967\u2014makes it a cherished part of Indy\u2019s holiday traditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Indiana State Museum\u2019s Celebration Crossing <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Step back in time with Celebration Crossing at the Indiana State Museum. Kids can ride the historic Snowfall Express train, meet Mrs. Claus, and enjoy interactive exhibits. Don\u2019t miss the recreated L.S. Ayres Winter Wonderland to experience the charm of Christmases past. Pro tip? Purchase tickets in advance to save time during your visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Garfield Park Conservatory\u2019s Holiday Train & Light Show <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Perfect for train-loving kiddos, this indoor holiday display at Garfield Park Conservatory<\/a> features miniature trains zipping through festive scenery amidst bright, twinkling lights. Take advantage of the affordable entry fee and enjoy a cozy, crowd-free outing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Christmas Fun for the Adults<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Holiday-Themed Bar Crawls <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Gather your friends and deck yourselves out in holiday sweaters for an unforgettable bar crawl. Bars like The Tap and Kilroy\u2019s often offer holiday drink specials and festive decorations to set the mood. For something truly unique, check out SantaCon<\/a>, a city-wide bar crawl where hundreds of attendees dress up as Santa Claus!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

English Ivy\u2019s Eatery & Pub <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This local gem stands out during the holidays with its cozy yet vibrant atmosphere. English Ivy\u2019s<\/a> serves elegant comfort food and holiday-themed cocktails that are perfect for a festive night out. LGBTQ-friendly and welcoming to all, it\u2019s the ultimate spot to toast the season with loved ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Live Holiday Music & Entertainment <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Catch a live performance of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra\u2019s Yuletide Celebration at the Hilbert Circle Theatre. Known for its Broadway-quality production and special guest performers, this show always brings to life the magic of the season. For a more intimate vibe, there are local bands<\/a> performing holiday music at small venues like The Jazz Kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Upscale Holiday Dining and Cocktails <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Make the season merry and bright by reserving a table at St. Elmo Steak House, famous for its Christmas d\u00e9cor, delicious steak, and legendary shrimp cocktail. Pair it with a seasonal cocktail at Spoke & Steele, where the bar menu brims with handcrafted holiday drinks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Favorites <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Lights <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For a bucket-list-worthy holiday experience, visit the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway<\/a> for the Lights at the Brickyard. Drive through a mesmerizing display of over 500 holiday-themed light installations across a unique 2-mile track. Where else can you mix the thrill of a racetrack with the joy of Christmas?\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Eiteljorg Museum\u2019s Jingle Rails <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A true gem during the holidays, Jingle Rails offers an intricate model train display running through a breathtaking recreation of American landmarks and landscapes. Beyond the stunning craftsmanship, this exhibit cleverly weaves in Indianapolis landmarks, giving tourists an extra reason to visit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fountain Square Sparkle <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fountain Square transforms into a festive village during the holiday season, complete with Christmas markets, local pop-up shops, and twinkling LED lights lining the area. The retro holiday aesthetic will charm visitors, and the friendly neighborhood vibe adds an authentic touch to your tourism experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Soldiers\u2019 & Sailors\u2019 Monument Photos <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Lastly, no trip to Downtown Indianapolis is complete without capturing the perfect photo at the Soldiers\u2019 & Sailors\u2019 Monument, particularly when it\u2019s dressed up for the Circle of Lights display. This is your \u201cInstagram-worthy\u201d moment\u2014be sure to share it to spread a little Indy holiday sparkle with your friends back home!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Insider Tips for a Memorable Weekend\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Want to make the most of your holiday weekend in Downtown Indianapolis<\/a>? By planning ahead and taking these tips to heart, you\u2019ll avoid stress and enjoy more time experiencing the city. Here are a few practical tips from locals who know the city best:<\/p>\n\n\n\n