Thanksgiving in Indianapolis is a vibrant time, with events for all ages to kick off the holiday season. Even if you’re in the midst of working with one of the real estate professionals at the Yosha Snyder Group, take some time to engage with family and friends–and your community. Here’s a roundup of popular family-friendly happenings around the city that homeowners and their families can enjoy, from festive light displays to community-centered charity events.
1. Circle of Lights
A cherished Indianapolis tradition, the Circle of Lights at Monument Circle transforms the city center into a winter wonderland. Sponsored by Downtown Indy, thousands of LED lights cover the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, creating a dazzling holiday tree that’s over 200 feet tall. This free lighting ceremony, usually held the Friday after Thanksgiving, includes live music, performances, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. It’s a wonderful event for families and marks the start of the holiday season in downtown Indianapolis.
2. Holiday Markets
Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to explore local holiday markets, where homeowners can find unique gifts and seasonal decor. The Indy Winter Farmers Market, typically located at The Amp at 16 Tech, features local artisans and small businesses offering everything from handmade crafts to specialty foods. This market often runs from November through the winter months, providing plenty of opportunities to shop for holiday gifts and festive treats while supporting local vendors.
3. Charity Run
The Drumstick Dash, held on Thanksgiving morning in Broad Ripple, is a popular charity run where participants can run, jog, or walk for a good cause. Proceeds benefit Wheeler Mission, which supports Indianapolis’ homeless population. With options for a 4.5-mile or a 2.75-mile course, this event is great for families who want to start Thanksgiving Day with exercise and community involvement. Plus, participants often wear fun turkey-themed costumes, making it a memorable and lighthearted experience for all ages. Check the website link for registration details.
4. Indianapolis Zoo’s Christmas at the Zoo
Christmas at the Zoo kicks off in late November, offering a magical experience for families looking to enjoy holiday lights and animal exhibits. The Indianapolis Zoo transforms with holiday lights, special displays, and seasonal treats, allowing guests to explore the grounds after dark. Kids will enjoy seeing Santa’s reindeer and participating in holiday-themed activities throughout the zoo. Since the event is open on Thanksgiving weekend, it’s a perfect outing to continue the festivities into the holiday season.
5. The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Festival of Trees
Held at the Hilbert Circle Theatre, the Festival of Trees showcases more than 100 beautifully decorated trees, each with a unique theme. This annual event is an enchanting experience for families, as children can visit the Snowflake Stage and marvel at the themed decor, including a stunning tree that reaches over 30 feet tall. The Festival of Trees often begins in late November, allowing homeowners to get into the holiday spirit immediately following Thanksgiving.
6. Feast of Plenty
For families looking to give back to the community, the Feast of Plenty is an memorable event that provides free Thanksgiving meals to Indianapolis residents in need. Organized by volunteers and supported by local charities, this community meal is served at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds in nearby Noblesville. Those interested can volunteer their time, donate food items, or simply spread the word to help ensure all residents can enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving meal.
7. Newfields Winterlights
Newfields, the Indianapolis Museum of Art’s cultural campus, kicks off its Winterlights display in late November. This immersive light show illuminates the grounds with more than a million twinkling lights, offering families an enchanting walk-through experience. Highlights include the Landscape of Light and interactive areas where children can explore glowing tunnels and light-up art installations. Winterlights is a ticketed event and often sells out quickly, so homeowners interested in this festive experience may want to book tickets in advance.
8. Indiana Historical Society: Festival of Trees
This year’s Festival of Trees will feature a winter wonderland of 80 trees representing individuals, families, and companies from around Indiana. The seven-week annual holiday extravaganza includes special programs and enhanced dining and shopping options. Twilight Nights, back by popular demand, showcases Twilight Tuesdays and Twilight Thursdays and will offer special extended hours (5-8 pm) for those who wish to see the trees by night. “Twilight Tuesdays and Thursdays” are great options for a date night or an after-work team outing on December 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, and 19. Check the website for details.
9. A Bach Harvest: Cantatas and Courtly Dances
Ready to take a pause and feed your soul? Consider the Indianapolis Baroque Orchestra at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on November 17 at 4 p.m. Savor this music and sample a plentiful harvest of Bach’s glorious music.
10. Starbase-Indy
Ready for an adventure of a different kind? Consider joining Star Trek fans as they engage in this yearly post-Thanksgiving adventure filled with Star Trek activities and conversations as they recharge and check their ur headings –to boldly go where no one has gone before
Final Thoughts
Indianapolis offers a range of Thanksgiving events for families, from the traditional to the festive and charitable. Whether enjoying the Circle of Lights, shopping at a holiday market, or running in a charity race, homeowners in the area have many ways to celebrate Thanksgiving and start the holiday season in a fun and meaningful way. And if you don’t find anything that fit your interests, try Visit Indy’s calendar for even more options.