There’s nothing like a sparkling holiday light display to kick off the Christmas season in Indiana. From drive-through spectaculars to enchanting walk-through garden experiences, Indiana shines bright with festive cheer all winter long.

Whether you're looking for family fun, a magical date night, or a holiday road trip destination, here are 10 of the best Christmas light shows worth adding to your Hoosier Holidays plans this year.

1. Christmas Nights of Lights – Indiana State Fairgrounds (Indianapolis)

Held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, Christmas Nights of Lights is one of the state’s most talked-about holiday drive-through attractions. Guests tune their car radio to enjoy synchronized music while driving through more than a million LED lights, tunnels, displays, and oversized animated features. It’s a tradition many families return to year after year.

Get more info here: Christmas Nights of Lights  

2. Winterlights – Newfields (Indianapolis)

Winterlights transforms the gardens and grounds of Newfields into a glowing wonderland with nearly 2 million twinkling lights. Guests stroll through breathtaking displays, sip seasonal treats, and enjoy magical installations like the “Landscape of Light,” all designed to immerse you in the holiday spirit. It’s one of Indiana’s most elegant Christmas experiences.

Get more info here: Winterlights | Newfields 

3. A Merry Prairie Holiday – Conner Prairie (Fishers)

A favorite for families, A Merry Prairie Holiday blends holiday charm with historical storytelling. The 19th-century Prairietown streets glow under lanterns and festive décor, offering immersive activities, live performances, and a nostalgic atmosphere that transports visitors straight into Christmas past.

Get more info here: A Merry Prairie Holiday 

4. SPARK Holidays on the Circle – Monument Circle (Downtown Indianapolis)

An Indianapolis tradition for the last 63 years, Circle of Lights turns the Soldiers & Sailors Monument into a towering Christmas tree each year. The lighting ceremony takes place on Black Friday, but the display shines all season long and is completely free to enjoy. Be sure to visit on Saturdays and Sundays for SPARK Holidays on the Circle. It’s especially magical for a downtown evening stroll or holiday family photos.

Still have gifts to buy? Browse our Indiana Holiday Shopping Guide for local ideas.

Get more info here: SPARK Holidays on the Circle

5. Glimmer Lights – Piney Acres (Fortville)

At Piney Acres Tree Farm, guests board a holiday train and ride through sparkling displays, festive décor, and golden-lit trees. Visitors can enjoy cocoa, Christmas treats, and special visits from Santa, making it a fun and cozy outing for younger families. Explore more in nearby Fortville.

Get more info here: Piney Acres Farm

6. Winterland Light Show – Danville

Set in Ellis Park, this drive-through display offers classic Christmas charm with animated scenes, tunnels of lights, and a synchronized lighted tree all set to radio tunes. It’s affordable, easy to access, and perfect for staying warm in the car on a snowy evening.

Get more info here: Winterland Light Show 

7. Nights of Lights – Mounds State Park (Anderson)

For a rustic and peaceful holiday experience, head to Mounds State Park. The park and campground transform with glowing displays and decorated sites, creating a simple but beautiful drive-through event. It’s the perfect low-key winter outing to enjoy from the comfort of your vehicle.

Get more info here: Nights of Lights 

8. Winter WonderLights – Merrillville

Located in northwest Indiana, Winter WonderLights offers a drive-through experience filled with illuminated tunnels, oversized holiday characters, and music-synced scenes. It’s great for families looking for a big Christmas light show outside the Indianapolis metro.

Get more info here: Winter WonderLights

9. Lights of Joy – Shipshewana

With more than two million lights and fully animated scenes, Shipshewana’s Lights of Joy is one of northern Indiana’s brightest and most impressive holiday attractions. Families drive through a mile-long course filled with themed displays all set to Christmas music broadcast right to your car.

Get more info here: Shipshewana's Lights of Joy

10. Winter Wonderland – Wellfield Botanic Gardens (Elkhart) 

This walk-through event turns Wellfield Botanic Gardens into a glowing nighttime winter garden. Beautifully lit paths, reflections across the ponds, and towering installations make this a serene and magical outing perfect for date nights, photography, and family memories.

Get more info here: Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights 

Plan Your Indiana Holiday Adventure

From bustling city displays to enchanting small-town setups, Indiana offers Christmas light shows for every mood and every family. Grab a thermos of hot cocoa, pack the car, and make this holiday season unforgettable.

Looking for even more seasonal fun? Browse our Hoosier Holidays hub or discover something unexpected on our Hidden Gems directory.