Celebrate the Magic of Indianpolis' Christmas Lighting Ceremonies

One of my favorite parts of the Christmas season is watching the Christmas lights being turned on for the first time. Even though I am no longer a spring chicken, I can still see magic in those colorful lights. That is why every year I make it a habit to go down to Monument Circle located in downtown Indianapolis on the Friday following Thanksgiving to see the lighting of what has been touted to be the world's largest Christmas tree. Actually, it isn't a tree at all. It is the Soldier and Sailor's Monument decorated with 4784 lights that is lit.

This year the festivities will be held on November 27^th. They begin with live entertainment starting at 6:00pm. The actual lighting takes place at approximately 7:45 pm. The streets that form the spokes of the Circle will be blocked off. There are plenty of parking lots and parking garages nearby. Street parking is limited but it is free after 6pm. I suggest that if you decide to share in the magic of the lighting ceremony on Monument Circle, you get there early and dress warmly. More information about this event can be found at http://www.indydt.com

Another exciting Christmas light display can be seen at the Indianapolis Zoo located at 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46222. Christmas at the Zoo is a spectacular event that begins December 4 and runs through December 30. The Christmas activities begin at 5:00pm and are free to zoo members. The fee for non-zoo members is $8.50 for adults, $6.50 for people over the age of 62 and children 2-12. The Christmas light exhibit is well worth the price. Children can also give their wish list to Santa Claus. You can visit with him at Santa's village located in the North Pavilion. New this year is the showing of a special 4d film based on the Warner Bros film the Polar express. Be sure and pick up your timed tickets for this special attraction. It requires three tickets that can be picked-up at the box office. The film lasts 20 min. Enjoy some Christmas magic with the animals this Christmas season. Information about this and other zoo programs can be found at http://www.indyzoo.com

On December 12, you can visit Broad Ripple village located at 6311 Westfield Blvd, Indianapolis, IN
You can do your Christmas shopping and enjoy a full day of activities. Beginning at 11:00 am, enjoy complimentary refreshments offered by the local businesses. A 1:00 pm the children's activities begin. They include face painting, cookie decorating and ornament making. There will be live entertainment strolling through the streets all day long. Free horse drawn carriage rides will also be offered. Santa makes his big entrance at 6 pm. At 6:45 pm, the 21 foot Christmas tree will be lit up. At 7:00 pm, you can enjoy a free cup of hot chocolate while your children visit with Santa at the dayroom in the firehouse. What an exciting time can be had by young and old alike. More information can be found at http://www.broadripplelightsup.com/about

Christmas is a magical time. If you are living in or visiting Indiana during this time, be sure to include these free and exciting activities.