Birds eye view of the top of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument with lights during sunset | Photo via @greglipps
In just three days, Soldiers and Sailors Monument will transform into a gigantic Christmas tree to kick off the holiday season. But how much do you know about the monument beneath the dazzling lights?
Here’s the history of one of Indy’s most recognizable landmarks.
The history
Soldiers and Sailors was constructed in 1902 using gray oolitic limestone sourced from Owen County. It serves as the official memorial for Hoosiers who died in the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Mexican War, Civil War, Frontier Wars, and Spanish-American War.
The symbolism
The monument’s iconic design is courtesy of German architect Bruno Schmitz, whose proposal won out over 70 other submissions, and was brought to life with the help of Austrian artist Rudolf Schwarz.
Fun fact: Circle of Lights utilizes 4,784 multi-colored lights to turn Soldiers and Sailors into a grand Christmas tree.
Photo by Visit Indy
One major feature of the monument is the Army astragal, which depicts war with images of cannons, horses, flags, fallen soldiers, eagles, and bison heads. At the top of the monument sits “Victory,” which was designed by George W. Brewster and acts a symbol of justice, civilization’s light, and freedom.
There’s something for everyone at the rink this season. | Photos provided by Holliday Park Foundation
Lace up your skates — the Ice Rink at Holliday Park is bringing Hoosiers a winter wonderland starting this Friday, Nov. 28, and running until Sunday, March 1, 2026.
The season also brings a variety of programs and events, from skating lessons with the Winter Club of Indianapolis and free hockey classes with Our Hockey House to recreational pond hockey and curling leagues for adults.
Plus, weekly promos like half-price student night on Fridays and couples skate on Saturday nights make it easy to join in on the fun all winter long.
Are we about to have our coldest Thanksgiving since 2014? Keep up with the forecast, which is predicting “snowglobe” weather. (WTHR)
Transit
If over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house you go for Thanksgiving, consider taking the bus. IndyGo is offering free rides all day this Thursday. Check out other upcoming free fare days.
Outdoors
As the nights get longer, you can embrace the beauty of nature after dark on the Lilly Lake Lantern Walk, hitting the trail at at Eagle Creek Park on Sunday, Dec. 14. Here are some tips on crafting your lantern for the free annual event.
Watch
Have you watched the latest season of “Squid Game: The Challenge” yet? If so, you may remember Chris Herrera, a contestant from Fishers who made it to the top 10. Read about Player 318’s experience. Spoiler alert: No one dies. (Current)
Eat
Sourdough is the best overall bread to use for stuffing, according to the foodie experts at Food & Wine, who appreciate its versatility and texture. If your starter’s on the fritz, don’t worry — there are plenty of great loaves in Indy.
List
While we’re on the topic of Thanksgiving ingredient shopping, keep in mind that many national retailers will be closed on the big day. Bookmark this list of stores that will be open for when you discover the turkey hasn’t defrosted in time. (WTHR)
Holiday
Celebrate the season at St. Nick’s Lodge at Harry & Izzy’s Northside. This cozy, adults-only escape offers festive cocktails and nostalgic cheer, November 28-December 21, Thursday to Sunday. Sip on bright, sparkling drinks or warm up with spiced creations to add some winter magic to your evening.*
Sports
Prepare for a weekend of non-stop fun, Indianapolis. Big Ten Fan Fest presented by Dr Pepper takes over the Indiana Convention Center next Friday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 6, with 200,000+ sqft of games, giveaways, and more. Want in on the action?Grab tickets.*
Listen
Missed yesterday’s Pacers vs. Pistons matchup? Catch up on the highlights with Locked On.
Featured Deal
Athleta’s full site is 30% off for Black Friday, happening right now through Saturday, November 29. From sunrise workouts to Sunday strolls, these are the pieces you’ll reach for on repeat. Grab 30% off today.*
The Buy
Amazon’s Black Friday Week sale features thousands of deals. Don’t spend hours sorting through them — we already did that for you. Here are three you can’t miss:
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Speaking of sourdough, I just got some starter from a friend — and didn’t realize I’d have to have Walter White-levels of chemistry knowledge to keep it alive. Please share your tips and recipes with me so I don’t have to embarrass myself and ask him for more.
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