Indiana is dressed to impress this holiday season with glittering colors spotting the landscape. Christmas lights have come back to the Hoosier state and have brought along seasonal magic to match their cheery glow.
Whether bundling up to see the Christmas lights is a family tradition, or if you’re excited to start a new one with your loved ones we’ve made sure to include all the best light displays across the state. Find the one closest to you this year to start the season off cheery and bright!
Indianapolis "Christmas at the Zoo"
Indiana isn't new to creating Christmas magic. In 1967 the Indianapolis Zoo held the nation's first holiday lights event. Year after year it continues to rank as one of the "Best Zoo Lights" in the nation.
The event continues to develop offering new exhibits, friendly characters, and plenty of savory and sweet food to try throughout the evening.
Tend to get overwhelmed? Join the zoo in sensory friendly evenings. Lights and stimulation will be lowered so everyone has a chance enjoy the twinkling light displays!
Hours of Operation:
November 23rd - January 5th
Closed: Nov. 28th, Dec. 24th, 25th, 31st, and Jan. 1st
Friday thru Saturday: 5pm - 10pm
Sunday thru Thursday 5pm - 9pm
Cost of Admission:
Adults: $30.75 - $34.75
Children 12 and Under: $27.75 - $31.75
Shipshewana "Lights of Joy"
Despite a population of only 850 Shipshewana brought in over 15,000 cars last year to their Lights of Joy Drive-Thru. After visiting ourselves, we completely understand why. Despite only 8 years of experience, the 2 miles of sparkling lights absolutely stun with a rotating display and new lights every year to keep the magic alive every season.
It's no wonder the display is named "one of the best holiday parades in the nation" by USA Today and placed second place in the "10BestReaders" Choice awards 2024.
The 2 mile drive thru features nativity scenes, animatronics, multiple light arches and festive shadow boxes complete with animated characters like Santa's reindeer, or our favorite, the penguin villages.
Make sure to tune into 105.1 for festive tunes that will instantly put you into the Christmas spirit.
Hours of Operation:
November 22nd - December 31st
Closed: Thanksgiving and Christmas
Friday thru Saturday: 6pm - 10pm
Sunday thru Thursday 6pm - 9pm
Cost of Admission:
Sunday thru Thursday: $20
Friday thru Saturday: $30
Grant County "Walkway of Lights"
If you live in Northern Indiana, make sure to take a stroll through Grant County's "Walkway of Lights." The two mile display features a picturesque lit suspension bridge from where you can see animated lights and animals. If you prefer to stay warm you can also drive thru the light displays of Christmas City, USA or even get a seasonal pass to revisit again and again!
Hot chocolate cookies and local artists and vendors will also be available for any last minute Christmas shopping!
Hours of Operation:
November 29th - December 31st
6pm - 10pm
Cost of Admission:
Single Car: $5
Season Pass: $25
Indianapolis "Circle of Lights"
The lighting of Monument Circle marks the official start of the Holiday season in downtown Indy. Live music and shows alongside free admission are one of the many reason so many people gather to watch the circle be lit up each year.
If you spend an evening in one of the many local businesses restaurants and shops that fill up downtown Indy make sure to take a stroll around the circle and admire the nutcrackers, brightly lit trees and lively colors that make the chilly nights feel warm.
Hours of Operation:
November 29th- Mid January
Cost of Admission:
Free Viewing
Evansville " Ritzy's Fantasy of Lights"
Already sugared out from the holiday season? Trade in your cookies and hot chocolate for a running bib during the "Ritzy's Fantasy Bright Lights 5k." Garvin park is dressed to impress each year brining new exhibits and over 90k lightbulbs. Keep your eyes peeled for Andy, the "Elf in the Park", to win a special prize after soaking in all the Christmas colors.
Hours of Operation:
November 28th - January 1st
Friday thru Saturday: 5pm - 10pm
Sunday thru Thursday: 5pm-9pm
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: 5pm-10pm
Cost of Admission:
Vehicle with 1-6 passengers: $7
Vehicle with 7-4 passengers: $10
Vehicle with 15 or more passengers: $25
Carriage rides also available when wheather permits: $30
What other light displays do you eagerly anticipate each Christmas seaon throughout Indiana? Let us know in the comments below.
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Sending love from Indiana and Merry Christmas,
Kaitlyn
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