Warmest wishes, Indy. We’re taking a pause on newsletters to spend time with our loved ones. We’ll see you back in your inboxes daily at 6 a.m., starting Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025. In the meantime, peruse our archives.
Culture
🎄 Yule be the judge
If you’re picking up a tree at Dull’s Tree Farm, don’t forget to grab a mug of hot chocolate too. | Photo by @dullstreefarm
Holiday traditions evoke warm and fuzzy feelings of nostalgia, gratitude, and togetherness. But for all the joy that traditions inspire, they also tend to spark something else: very strong opinions.
This year, we’re stepping in to settle classic holiday hot takes. After all, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without a few friendly debates.
Real tree or fake tree?
Is cutting down a fresh spruce part of the magic, or does an artificial tree make more sense? Psst... if you’re team real tree, these local lots + farms may still have a tree for you.
Big night out or stay home on New Year’s Eve?
Can a couch countdown by the television beat a sequin–filled night on the town? For those looking to go out, peruse our events calendar for the best parties.
Should you leave festive decorations up past the holiday?
When is it time to un-deck the halls and say goodbye to the garland?
Is eggnog festive and flavorful or absolutely foul?
Don’t get us started on whether it should be served warm or cold. But the nog at Trader’s Point Creamery is one of our faves, especially when paired with a housemade cinnamon roll.
Do you still send and receive holiday cards?
Is this tradition fading or holding strong in your household? Snail mail isn’t dead yet: It’s not too late to pick up some cute stationery from Semantics Paper Goods.
Take the poll to put in your two cents — then stay tuned for the final results in an upcoming newsletter.
Oricle Hearing aids can be charged wirelessly. | Photo courtesy of Oricle Hearing
Incredible advancements in hearing aid technology are now more accessible than ever.
Oricle Hearing offers the Rolls-Royce Of hearing aids, designed for comfort and discretion so users can hear clearly without the bulk of traditional models.
Users rave about the sound quality, which rivals that of more expensive models, helping them regain confidence and reconnect with loved ones.
Discover how Oricle is redefining hearing aid accessibility without the hassle of appointments or extensive fittings.
The Indianapolis Local Education Alliance approved a plan to create a new Public Education Corporation, which could significantly change how IPS schools operate. The Indiana General Assembly still has to approve the proposal. Learn more. (WTHR)
Announced
Let’s talk about da Bears... da Indiana Bears? Chicago’s NFL team is looking for a new stadium site, and northwest Indiana is in the running. (WTHR)
Sports
Speaking of the NFL, Colts QB Anthony Richardson has been cleared to return to the field after two months out on injury. Find out how he’ll fit into the team’s current strategy. (IndyStar)
Community
Exciting upgrades are happening across Indy Parks. Franklin Township Community Park’s renovation is part of dozens of projects adding playgrounds, courts, trails, garden repairs (and more) to greenspaces citywide. Learn more about what’s coming next.*
Tech
Ever wonder what it looks like behind the scenes at the largest electric power company in the US? Watch a walkthrough of Duke Energy’s central Indiana control center. (WTHR)
Featured Deal
Give the gift of great taste this holiday season. Now through December 31, earn a 20% bonus gift card with every $125+ gift card purchase at Huse Culinary restaurants. Grab yours online or at St. Elmo, Harry & Izzy’s, The HC Tavern + Kitchen, or 1933 Lounge — traditional and e-gift cards available.*
Try This
If you didn’t win our recently-closed Hotel Carmichael Giveaway, don’t worry. From exceptional culinary experiences to a cabaret-style venue featuring an exciting lineup of live entertainment + luxurious accommodations, Hotel Carmichael offers something for everyone in the heart of Carmel.*
Eat
Reader’s Digest released a list of the most popular chain restaurants in each state, and First Watch took the No. 1 spot in Indiana. We’re always down for some million dollar bacon, but Indy is also home to a strong lineup of locally owned brunch spots worth supporting.
The Word
Merriam-Webster has announced its word of the year for 2025: Slop. It’s defined as “digital content of low quality that is produced usually in quantity by means of artificial intelligence.” A trip to one of Indy’s museums will certainly provide a higher quality experience.
Pets
Your dog’s wagging tail hides more than love — it hides a world of genetic information. Uncover their ancestry, genetic traits, and potential health risks with 50% off Basepaws Dog DNA Test, now on sale for the holidays.*
Shop
Nirvana awaits with this multi-shape vibrator that hits all the right spots. Reignite the fire of your most electrifying encounters with sublime sensations that intensify arousal. Get 35% off this award-winner today + an extra 15% off with code H4PPY15.*
The Buy
The Buy team here. We’ve recommended a lot of items this year, from home organization staples to wardrobe must-haves. Here are the top-shopped products:
Happy holidays, Indy. I’m grateful for another year of sending you good news and fun stories each morning. If you’ve got any suggestions on what I can do better next year, say hi.
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