December is a wonderful time to explore Indiana. From small towns draped in lights to big-city celebrations, the state comes alive with festive events, holiday displays, and family-friendly fun. Whether you want to see dazzling lights, enjoy classic traditions, or make new holiday memories, there are plenty of great activities to enjoy.

Here are five standouts from our Hoosier Holidays guide to help you celebrate the season.

1. Winterlights – Newfields (Indianapolis)

Winterlights transforms the expansive Newfields gardens into a breathtaking holiday wonderland. Walk winding paths lined with glowing trees, illuminated sculptures, and dazzling light tunnels that pulse to holiday music. Guests can warm up with hot chocolate, cider, or signature Winterlights cocktails, and enjoy seasonal snacks like handcrafted holiday cookies. With millions of lights and carefully designed displays, it’s one of Indiana’s most stunning holiday experiences. It’s perfect for romantic date nights, families, or anyone who loves festive scenery.

2. SPARK Holidays on the Circle – Monument Circle (Indianapolis)

Held in downtown Indianapolis every Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 22, SPARK Holidays on the Circle is a timeless tradition. The Soldiers & Sailors Monument is strung with over 4,000 lights to create a towering, tree-shaped display standing 284 feet tall. Visitors can stroll the Circle, listen to themed musical performances, enjoy hot cocoa and coffee from the Container Café, and see Santa. The area feels lively and full of holiday spirit, making it a great activity to pair with dinner downtown or a visit to other seasonal attractions.

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

Conner Prairie delivers an immersive historical holiday experience that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the 1800s. The outdoor living history museum glows with lanterns and festive garlands as costumed interpreters tell stories, sing carols, and guide visitors through holiday traditions of the past. Families can visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, ride the Kringle Carousel, warm up with handmade treats, and zoom down the 150-foot Polar Bear Plunge tubing hill. With a mix of nostalgia, interactive activities, and beautiful settings, it’s a highlight for families wanting a magical and educational holiday outing.

4. 50 Days of Lights – French Lick Resort (French Lick)

French Lick Resort becomes a showpiece of holiday grandeur during its 50 Days of Lights celebration. Guests are greeted by elaborate indoor displays, towering Christmas trees, themed decor, and glowing fireplaces. Outside, a seasonal nighttime projection show brings the hotel’s historic exterior to life with colorful animations and music. Visitors can enjoy holiday carriage rides, special dining events, festive cocktails, Santa visits, and beautifully decorated lobby spaces that make for unforgettable photos. Whether you stay overnight or just visit for the evening, it’s one of Indiana’s most charming and elegant holiday destinations.

Check out our full French Lick travel guide for more things to do in the area.

5. Christmas at the Zoo – Indianapolis Zoo (Indianapolis)

Christmas at the Zoo is one of the country’s longest-running holiday zoo celebrations, and it gets better every year. The zoo is transformed after dark with sparkling light displays that illuminate animal exhibits, pathways, and trees. Families can enjoy caroling, hot chocolate, carousel rides, and cozy indoor animal houses to warm up between light displays. Santa’s Village offers photos, treats, and themed activities, while many animals – including cold-weather species – are active and easy to spot in the cooler evening temperatures. It’s a family favorite that combines festive charm with wildlife encounters.

Want more holiday inspiration?

Browse our Hoosier Holidays page for festive events all season long, or check out our French Lick travel guide if you're planning a Southern Indiana getaway.