The beloved Indiana tradition is back Dec. 2-23. | Photo provided by Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
Think winter in Indy is boring? Think again. Mark your calendar for these festive, fitness-focused, or family-friendly events that will make your heart grow three sizes that day.
Krazy Krampus 5K | Friday, Dec. 5 | 5-6 p.m. | Pike Red Devil Cross Country Course | $25 | Outrun the mischievous Krampus who seeks to drag you to the underworld.
After finishing the Glühwein Gallop, participants get a complimentary serving of beer, glühwein, or hot chocolate.
Butler Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker” | Friday, Dec. 5-Saturday, Dec. 6 | 8 p.m. | Clowes Memorial Hall | $36+ | Rediscover the beloved holiday ballet presented by talented students.
Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Yuletide Celebration | Friday, Dec. 5-Tuesday, Dec. 23 | Times vary | Hilbert Circle Theatre | $36+ | Stars Ashley Brown and Curtis Bannister serve as co-hosts of the 39th annual celebration.
Sankt Nikolaus Festival | Sunday, Dec. 7 | 1-4 p.m. | Athenaeum Indy | Free entry | Add your child’s name to St. Nikolaus’ book to score them a visit with + small gift from the Christmas icon.
Broad Ripple Lights Up Festival + Parade | Sunday, Dec. 7 | 3-6 p.m. | Broad Ripple | Free | Tour the Wonderland Village, visit with Santa, and watch the Twilight Parade.
Fact: Indy set two daily snowfall records in November. If that triggered you, you might not want to see the winter weather the rest of this week holds. (WTHR)
Civic
Speaking of snow, Indy rolled out its new snow removal policy. Here’s when your street will be cleared — and just how long you have to shovel your sidewalk before you get fined. (Mirror Indy)
Sports
The Hoosiers are set to face Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship Game this Saturday, Dec. 6. Locked On determines the odds of victory.
Concert
This news might bring you to life. Evanescence will perform at Ruoff Music Center on Thursday, July 9. Tickets go on sale Friday, Dec. 5 at 10 a.m. (WTHR)
Today Is
Giving Tuesday, an opportunity to cap off the holiday season’s biggest shopping weekend by giving back to our communities.
Browse volunteer opportunities to help you get started, or you can donate to local orgs virtually with Indianapolis Gives.
Travel
Bonus round: Today is also Travel Tuesday, with airlines, hotels, cruises, and more offering big discounts. You’ll need our guide to IND after you book your tickets. (Condé Nast)
Announced
Fishers is in a pickle. Two and half years after announcing a forthcoming location in Fishers, pickleball chain Chicken N Pickle has called off its plans, citing a revised investment strategy. Good thing you have plenty of other places to play. (IBJ)
Try This
“Emerging Current,” the 2025 Eiteljorg Contemporary Art Fellowship exhibition, is now open through Feb. 22, 2026, featuring bold, immersive works by five contemporary Native American or First Nations artists. We got a sneak peek, and trust us, you’ll want to see this one in person.*
Featured Deal
Get in shape while learning self defense skills at KruFit, central Indiana’s award-winning Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym. For a limited time, sign up for a free trial class and score a discounted new member package when you mention INDYtoday. Snag the deal.*
Try This
Hosting a party soon? From intimate gatherings to festive holiday parties, Clancy’s Hospitality Private Events are chic and sophisticated. Their in-house culinary and event teams provide customers with an unforgettable experience. Planning a private event? Let them help you find the perfect space.*
The Buy
The perfect two-piece sweater set for winter. It features a long sleeve crew neck top paired with a split hem midi skirt. We love that it’s cute, comfy, and warm, and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Bonus: It’s available in some great seasonal colorways like almond white + red white.
Ready for the party of the century? The Children’s Museum is hosting its 100th Birthday Bash on Saturday, Dec. 6. The event is included with museum admission and will feature party games, magicians, dance parties, animal meet and greets, and much more.
Museum mascot Rex will be leading the festivities at the birthday bash.
}})
