With winter’s arrival just around the corner and the holiday season nearing, it’s time to bring on the festive cheer and Southern Indiana cozy traditions! From charming downtown strolls to twinkling lights, there’s no shortage of holiday spirit. Grab a hot cocoa while strolling downtown Huntingburg’s historic district or watching the annual candlelit Christmas Parade ending with a visit to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus at the North Pole. Southern Indiana offers a wealth of magical experiences like the sold-out Polar Express Train Ride making you feel like you stepped into your favorite Christmas movie. So make your list, check it twice, and get ready to star in your own festive story this holiday season.
Shopping
There’s nothing better than starting off the festive season with some holiday shopping. Immerse yourself in the seasonal magic while you hunt for some unique gifts and enjoy the seasonal cheer!
Nov. 3 - 10 Start the holiday experience with the Annual Huntingburg Christmas Stroll. Take a stroll through the historic district while immersing yourself in a Victorian Christmas setting like no other. Explore specialty shops and cozy eateries, where you can discover unique gifts for loved ones—or treat yourself!
Nov. 7 - 10 Check out the Jasper Merchant Open House Weekend in downtown Jasper and kickstart your Christmas shopping for the season. With children’s stores, fashion boutiques, specialty shops and home decor stores, there’s something for everyone on your list!
Nov. 16 - 17 You can’t forget about the annual Ferdinand Christkindlemarkt celebrating 27 years of holiday tradition. With more than 200 stalls full of handmade goods and 40+ booths filled with beautiful antiques, this market is perfect for a unique gift for a friend, family member or even yourself!
Santa Visits
Christmas isn’t complete without Santa Claus making a visit, and luckily, he’s stopping by Southern Indiana to join in on the holiday excitement!
Nov. 1 - Dec. 23 All aboard The Polar Express Train Ride presented by French Lick Scenic Railway as it embarks on a magical journey this holiday season! While tickets for the 2024 adventure are already sold out, you’ll soon have the chance to secure your spot for next year’s festivities. On this 80-minute journey to the North Pole, guests are greeted by Santa and his helpers and receive a magic silver sleigh bell all while drinking some hot chocolate and listening to the beloved children's book. It’s never too early to start dreaming about the next holiday season, so be sure to grab your tickets in advance for 2025!
Dec. 6 - 8 At Jasper O'Tannenbaum Days, you can have a donut with Santa himself! Visitors can enjoy carriage rides, special performances and immerse themselves in the cheerful atmosphere. With so much to do in such a short time, be sure to include this event on your must-do list.
Dec. 7 Become a part of the magic at A Christmas Journey: Annual Candlelit Christmas Parade. Experience beautiful Christmas caroling and follow Mr. and Mrs. Claus through a candlelight walk to the Salem Church where you’ll witness a Starry Night in Bethlehem. After talking with Mary and Joseph, you can head over to the North Pole where Mr. and Mrs. Claus are waiting to meet you.
One-of-a-Kind Experiences
Looking for something truly unique this holiday season? Southern Indiana offers magical moments and unforgettable experiences that will make your winter celebrations extra special.
Nov. 9 For just one day, head over to the North Daviess Christmas Craft Show and browse more than 180 booths showcasing hand-crafted items, homemade candies, cookies and more. This event also provides a complimentary breakfast and lunch for all guests.
Nov. 15 On this magical night at Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt Eve, witness the Christmas angel as she captivates everyone with her harmonious voice while children light her path and trumpeters echo throughout the market. At the end of the night, don’t forget to feed your sweet tooth with the sisters of St. Benedict’s Monastery baked goods sale.
Nov. 16 - Jan. 6 French Lick Resort’s 50 Days of Lights brings the holiday spirit to life with two grand tree lighting ceremonies, half a million sparkling lights, dazzling decorations and firework shows. The light show takes place every night, while weekends are filled with special holiday experiences like the Dickens Carolers, photos with Santa, cookies with Mrs. Claus and a life-size gingerbread house.
Dec. 7 A Broadway favorite and multiple award nominee Norm Lewis joins Southern Indiana for the night with The Norm Lewis Christmas Show where he helps celebrate the holiday season with songs from his best-selling Christmas album and a few Broadway favorites, too.
Whether you're shopping for unique gifts, visiting with Santa or enjoying one-of-a-kind events, there's no shortage of holiday magic to discover. Gather your loved ones and make memories that will last a lifetime in Southern Indiana this festive season. For a full list of holiday events, click here.
With all the fun to experience across Southern Indiana, we're offering two lucky winners a prize pack chock full of places to go and things to do. Choose from a couples’ package for a sweet retreat for two, or enjoy a family-friendly package sure to create lasting memories—or try your luck at both! Enter to win here!
