It’s time to celebrate. The winter holidays are in full swing around town, giving Hoosiers of all backgrounds and belief systems opportunities to gather with their loved ones and observe meaningful traditions.
Here’s a helpful guide to a few events that can help you get into the Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Yule spirit.
Hanukkah
Community Chanukah Lighting | Thursday, Dec. 7-Thursday, Dec. 14 | Times vary | Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis, 6705 Hoover Rd., Indianapolis | Free | Members of congregations and groups across the city will come together each night to light the candles of this community menorah.
Latkes and Lights at Winterlights | Sunday, Dec. 29 | Times vary | Newfields, 4000 Michigan Rd., Indianapolis | $20-$49 | Join the annual Winterlights Chanukah celebration, when the windows of Lilly House will be lit up with menorahs and music from Songs of Freedom: A Celebration of Chanukah will fill the air.
Conquer the (potentially) cold weather at Latkes and Lights by indulging in hot food and drinks or ducking inside the beautifully decorated Lilly House.
Photo by @newfieldstoday
Menorah Aflame | Thursday, Dec. 14 | 6-7 p.m. | Carmel Christkindlmarkt, 10 Carter Green, Carmel | Free | Witness the lighting of a giant menorah in celebration of Hanukkah — and grab a delicious dinner or snag holiday gifts from the dozens of market vendors.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa Today, Tomorrow, and Forever: A Soulful Celebration | Saturday, Dec. 9 | 1 p.m. | Center for Interfaith Cooperation, W. 42nd St., Indianapolis | $20 | From enlightening discussions to captivating performances, this celebration promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with food, fun, and activities with giveaways. Don’t forget to bring books to donate to School 42.
Kwanzaa Claus Visits Indy Reads | Sunday, Dec. 17 | 1-3 p.m. | Indy Reads, 1066 Virginia Ave., Indianapolis | Free | Celebrate the season by taking a photo with Kwanzaa Claus. Each child will also be able to take home some surprise Indy Reads goodies.
Umoja Village Celebration | Tuesday, Dec. 26 | 1-6 p.m. | The AMP at 16 Tech, 1220 Waterway Blvd., Indianapolis | Free | Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Kwanzaa and experience the power of togetherness with live music, dance performances, delicious food, and engaging activities for all ages.
Light a candle and sing along at the Indy Winter Solstice Celebration.
Photo by @zemlinphoto
Yule
Indy Winter Solstice Celebration | Friday, Dec. 20-Saturday, Dec. 21 | 7 p.m. | Unitarian Universalist Church of Indianapolis | Free, donations welcome | Celebrate the return of the sun with a night of songs + storytelling, concluded by a delicious potluck feast. Plan ahead: The event tends to hit capacity, so show up as early as 6 p.m. to mingle in the lobby and make sure you get a seat.
We know we’ve probably missed some exciting events — tell us about them.