From local neighborhoods to downtown’s many shimmering lights, here’s a guide for those in search of a luminous wonderland.
Go for a stroll
Christmas at the Zoo | Indianapolis Zoo | Now through Friday, Dec. 30 | Price of admission | See the zoo transformed into a winter wonderland with a chance to meet Santa + visit Mrs. Claus’ kitchen. Did you know: the Indianapolis Zoo was the first zoo in the country to have a holiday lights event back in 1967?
Winterlights | Newfields | Now through Sunday, Jan. 8 | Ticket prices vary | For the sixth year in a row, you can explore over a million and a half glittering lights at Newfields. Enjoy a holiday treat like a warm chocolate chip cookie + hot cocoa as you stroll under the glow of the gleaming bulbs. Pro tip: Make sure you check dates and times in advance. This event sells out.
A Merry Prairie Holiday | Conner Prairie | Now through Thursday, Dec. 22 | $11 for members, $22 for non-members | Explore the grounds for a memorable winter light stroll. You can also enjoy activities like Frosty’s Skating Rink, Kringle’s Carousel, and a 150-ft Polar Bear Plunge tubing hill.
Take a drive
Christmas Nights of Lights | Indiana State Fairgrounds | Now through Sunday, Jan. 1 | $30+ per car | Pack your vehicle + enjoy over a million lights synchronized to holiday music through your car’s stereo. Pro tip: Online reservations are required. Cash or credit will not be accepted at the ticket booth.
Magic of Lights | Ruoff Music Center | Now through Sunday, Jan. 1 | $30 per car | Drive through themed displays using LED technology + digital animations like the Blizzard Tunnel, in addition to returning favorites like 12 Days of Christmas.
Budget-friendly
Circle of Lights | Monument Circle | Now through Jan. 1 | Free | If you missed downtown Indy flip the switch, you can still visit the Circle for a perfect family photo-op. Tell the kids to bring their letters to Santa — his mailbox is on the Circle.
Log Run Lights | 9209 Log Run Dr. S., Clermont | Now through Jan. 1 | Free
A family tradition for over 17 years, this home on the west side decks their halls with a light display that takes three weeks + a team of more than 25 people to set up.
