In Hamilton County, feel the magic of the season at the award-winning Christkindlmarkt, at festive performances at the Center for the Performing Arts, and in the brightly lit town squares. Experience more magic at Conner Prairie’s A Merry Prairie Holiday, on thrilling winter adventures at Koteewi Run, and on the Nickel Plate’s Reindeer Express. In Hamilton County, Indiana, holiday magic is everywhere.
Carmel Christkindlmarkt
Experience the old-world charm of Christmas in Germany right here in Indiana at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt. This open-air holiday market brings authentic German experiences. Do some holiday shopping and check out the authentic products imported from Germany, like wooden toys, nutcrackers, music boxes and ornaments. Don’t miss the collectible items like the boot mug and Bierkrüge for adult beverages.
While you’re shopping, sip a hot mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot cocoa. Come hungry to enjoy a German pretzel, Bratwurst, Lebkuchen (German cookie), Raclette (melted cheese served on bread) and Stollen (dried fruit bread).
Make sure to reserve your time for skating on the Ice at Center Green.
A Merry Prairie Holiday
Celebrate the season with A Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie, Indiana’s most beloved holiday festival. There is something for everyone to enjoy. Enjoy acres to explore, surround yourself amongst thousands of lights and capture that perfect moment with family and friends
Enjoy a 3D projection holiday show on the William Conner Home, historic holiday experiences and of course, Elf selfies. Don’t miss a ride on the Kringle’s Carousel or get a rush zooming down the 150-foot Polar Bear Plunge tubing hill.
Be sure to check out Conner Prairie’s other signature holiday experience, Breakfast with Santa.
Nickel Plate Express
All aboard the Nickel Plate Express for a fun-filled train excursion this holiday season. Offering both family and adult-only excursions.
Get in the holiday spirit with a festive 21+ train ride aboard the Holiday Cheers train ride! Enjoy a holiday sweet treat and festive music aboard a historic 1956 dining car. Each ticket will include a special holiday cup to take home.
Looking for a holiday family experience? Look no further than the Reindeer Express. Enjoy an hour and fifteen-minute ride with Santa himself! This magical journey takes passengers on a round-trip ride from Noblesville to Arcadia while enjoying a sweet treat and a chance to see Santa and write a him a personal letter, all while enjoying festive holiday music.
The train is festively decked out in Christmas lights.
Holiday Shows
Experience live music like no other, with plenty of toe-tapping shows on the calendar this holiday season. Get your tickets for performances of “A Motown Christmas,” “Indiana Ballet Conservatory: The Nutcracker,” “Elf the Musical” and so much more. The Center for the Performing Arts and resident companies offer non-stop performances that will elevate your holiday season.
For a full list of holiday events and festivities, go to VisitHamiltonCounty.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
