The Best Children's Holiday Celebrations in Indianapolis

Christmastime is magical for children all over the world, but there is something extra special about being in Indianapolis during the holidays. The city has the perfect combination of twinkling lights, family atmosphere, and chilly weather to help build family memories that last a lifetime. Here are some of the very best children's Christmas activities to check out in Indianapolis.

Circle of Lights
The Circle of Lights is Indianapolis' version of the community Christmas "tree". Formed by stringing huge strands of light from the top of the Soldiers and Sailors monument to the building's base, Indy's ersatz tree serves as the centerpiece for an enchanted downtown circle complete with horse-drawn carriages, carolers, vendors, and scenes from the nativity. Lit each year shortly after Thanksgiving, the Circle of Lights is a Hoosier holiday staple not to be missed!

Christmas at the Zoo
From its location just west of downtown, the Indianapolis Zoo provides a convenient escape for Indy residents looking for a little holiday cheer. Decked with breathtaking light displays, the zoo's landscape comes to life each holiday season and forms the perfect backdrop for nighttime strolls through paths leading to Santa's workshop and a 3-D adventure ride on the Polar Express. The backdrop of the nearby city skyline only adds to the ambiance of the zoo's celebration, which runs daily through the month of December from 5-9 pm ET. Normal zoo admission prices apply.

Children's Museum Jolly Days
Each year in December, the Indianapolis Children's Museum is transformed into a winter wonderland, where children can explore ice castles, slip down a huge two-story slide, and, of course, spend a little time with Santa himself. Besides the holiday-themed attractions, the entire museum is always available for exploration by inquiring little minds. Jolly Days begin shortly after Thanksgiving and runs through the first week in January. Normal museum hours and admission prices apply.

Conner Prairie Gingerbread Village
Located just outside the I-465 beltway on the northeast side of Indianapolis, Conner Prairie provides visitors with the opportunity to explore an authentic 1836 homestead and working farm. During the holidays, focus turns to the Christmas and Hanukkah traditions of the mid-19th century, adding an enchanted walk through a gingerbread village,filled with confectionery edifices built by local amateur and professional bakers. Check the Conner Prairie web site for schedule and admission information.

Duke Energy Yuletide Celebration (Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra)
Each year, Duke Energy sponsors the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's Yuletide Celebration, an onstage combination of dance, voice, and instrumental entertainment that captures the holiday spirit like nothing else. Pulling from a library of children's favorite holiday songs, the celebration features dancing Santas, flying reindeer, and a cornucopia of enchanted creatures to delight young and old. Schedules and ticket information is available at the ISO's web site .

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Indianapolis families don't need to travel far in order to soak in the wonders of the holiday season. The Circle City provides ample opportunities, both indoors and outdoors, to enjoy the lights, sounds, and spirit of December while building wonderful family memories. Children of all ages will absolutely love these festive celebrations!