Free Holiday Activities in Indy

All of the following Christmas and Holiday events are Free.  These could make a great start to holiday traditions.  Are there any family traditions you enjoy this time of year?

IMA Winter Solstice

• Circle of Lights @ Monument Circle

Nov. 23

More than 100,000 spectators are expected for the FREE Circle of Lights® presented by the Contractors of Quality Connection and Electrical Workers of IBEW 481 ceremonial lighting and holiday kickoff on that Friday.  Live entertainment, chosen from statewide auditions and national acts, begins at 6 p.m. with the televised show running from 7 – 8 p.m.  The actual Monument light-up will occur at approximately 7:45 p.m

• Santa’s Arrival 2012 @ Indianapolis International Airport

Nov. 24

Did you know Santa practices his route every year to make sure his reindeer are ready for the main event? It’s true. And as part of his travels around the world, he’s making a special stop at the Indianapolis International Airport on November 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Target Free Family Night @ the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Dec. 6

Sponsored generously by Target, the first Thursday of each month The Children’s Museum opens free of charge from 4 to 8 p.m. Learn about winter traditions from all over the world, the people who celebrate them, and the toys that help to make them special. Take a ride on the Yule Slide and visit Jolly Days.

• City Sidewalks on Georgia Street @ Downtown

Dec. 7-9

FREE outdoor ice skating, local artisans, holiday performances, a live nativity scene, fresh-cut Christmas trees and Santa all come to Georgia Street!

• Christmas @ Garfield Park

Dec. 8

Oh what fun it is to visit the Conservatory to meet Santa and see Conservatory Crossing, the holiday train and poinsettia show.  Jingle all the way to the Arts Center to make toys with Santa’s elves.  You can also dash through the snow to the Burrello Family Center where Mrs. Claus will have some tasty treats.  All activities are free.

• Rowdie Claus Holiday Party @ Victory Field

Dec. 8

Rowdie will have art projects and crafts for kids from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m inside
Victory Field suite level.  Enjoy festive food and drinks and get a free photo with Rowdie Claus.

• Santa Comes to Fountain Square @Fountain Square Library

Dec 8.

Families are invited to PNC Bank in historic Fountain Square for carriage rides, photos with Santa, and a craft program at the Fountain Square Branch.

• Holiday Classical Concerts @ IMCPL

Dec. 8, 9, 12,15

Individuals of all ages are invited to enjoy their favorite holiday classics and carols performed by a chamber ensemble of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

• Receive a letter from Santa @ Monument Circle
  

Nov 14 – Dec 13

Little boys and girls send a letter through Santa’s Mailbox on the Circle! Each year, this holiday mailbox is placed for children of all ages to drop off their letters addressed to Santa. From the North Pole, Santa himself will personally answer each letter with a return address… faster than Rudolph the reindeer can fly! Note – it’s very important that each letter has a return address so Santa can send his reply. (A self-addressed, stamped envelope is also appreciated.)

• Winter Solstice @ IMA

Dec. 20

Celebrate the season with IMA’s annual Winter Solstice celebration. Step outside for an ice carving demonstration, art-making, and music. Warm up in the Lilly House with historic holiday decorations music, then finish up your shopping at the Greenhouse and Museum. Cozy up to the bonfire with hot chocolate and holiday treats available for purchase from Nourish Café. Free parking.

• Museum Special Days @ Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Dec 24

Enjoy free admission and holiday activities on this special day at the museum.

• Winterfest 2012 @ Indiana Historical Society

Dec 26-29

Enjoy family-friendly crafts and activities, face painting and special performances each day from jugglers, magicians, dancers and musicians.

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