After the fun frights of October fade away, it’s time to wind down and cozy up. Southern Indiana becomes a cozy wonderland of festivals, twinkling lights, and community celebrations that capture the season’s spirit. Come discover all the experiences there are to enjoy this November and beyond!
Chandelier Barn Market: Country Christmas
In Daviess County, the Chandelier Barn Market Country Christmas is back with an exciting new look and location! This year, the market joins downtown Washington as part of the Holiday Trail, celebrating its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony in a Main Street storefront. Visitors can explore over 100 makers and vendors showcasing handmade jewelry, home decor, and one-of-a-kind creations from local artisans. When your shopping bags are full and your hands are cold, warm up with a cup of cocoa or a delicious seasonal treat while enjoying holiday music. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and find something special for everyone on your list. Make sure to collect stamps at both locations for a chance to win a $200 Chandelier Barn Market gift card! The Holiday Trail runs November 6-8, so be sure to mark your calendar and don’t miss the chance to shop in style.
Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt
If you’re ready to dive headfirst into the Christmas season, the Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt in Dubois County is a must-visit. Taking place November 15-16, this has been a Southern Indiana tradition for 28 years. Modeled after the famous German holiday markets, Ferdinand’s festival features over 200 booths of vendors selling everything from antiques and art to regional food and wine. Visitors can meet a reindeer, visit with Santa, go ice skating, or catch a performance by the Melchoir Marionettes. With its festival glow and welcoming spirit, it makes it easy to imagine you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie.
New this year is the First Night Celebration, where the market is introducing the Ferdinand Christmas Pyramid, a 32-foot-tall structure inspired by German architecture. The celebration begins on November 2 with a special lighting ceremony, making the pyramid’s grand debut. Guests can also enjoy a ticketed German-themed buffet dinner, along with festive snacks and treats served from the nearby gazebo.
French Lick Resort: Season of Lights & Tree Lighting Ceremonies
To truly feel the Christmas spirit come alive, head to the French Lick Resort for the annual Season of Lights and Tree Lighting Ceremonies, taking place at both historic hotels, the West Baden Hotel on November 15 and the French Lick Springs Hotel on November 22.
The Season of Lights runs from November 15-January 6, featuring nightly light shows that illuminate the exterior of the French Lick Springs Hotel. Each evening, visitors can enjoy holiday-themed stories brought to life through vibrant lights and music that capture the sights and sounds of the season.
The Tree Lighting Ceremonies are nothing short of breathtaking. In the atrium of the West Baden Springs Hotel, a towering Christmas tree shimmers beneath the iconic domed ceiling, surrounded by thousands of twinkling lights. Guests gather in anticipation as cocoa is served, music fills the air, and laughter echoes through the halls. Whether you’re staying at the French Lick Resort for the weekend or simply stopping by to see the glow of lights, it’s an experience full of holiday cheer.
Looking Ahead: More Holiday Magic
If one Christkindlmarkt isn’t enough, Brown County’s Christkindl Market offers another chance to bask in holiday magic. Now in its fifth year, this event captures the traditional European market spirit with a local twist. Taking place December 6-7, it leaves you plenty of time to plan and add it to your calendar! There are so many local businesses to support with decorated booths and handmade crafts, arts, and ornaments. Throughout both days, live holiday music fills the air, wrapping visitors in a festive atmosphere. It’s a great opportunity to support artists, shop local, and enjoy the magic of the season.
Jasper O’Tannenbaum Days
For three days each year, from December 4-6, downtown Jasper transforms into the O’Tannenbaum Days, a celebration where small-town holiday spirit truly comes alive. Storefronts are filled with festive window displays, The Polar Express plays at the Astra Theatre, and streets are bustling with holiday joy. Carolers dressed in Victorian attire, festive horse-drawn carriage rides, and Santa Claus even makes an appearance to greet children and families. The O’Tannenbaum Days are a reminder that the best holiday moments are often the simple ones shared together.
Caroling in the Cave
For a truly unique experience and something unforgettable, venture below the surface for Caroling in the Cave at Marengo Cave. Here, the season’s beloved carols echo off the cave walls, creating a serene yet hauntingly beautiful sound and an experience that you can’t find anywhere else. Above ground, the festivities continue with a silent auction, bake sales, and markets offering treats and handcrafted goods. This is a one-day event on December 14 and an incredible way to experience nature with tradition.
A Season to Savor
From tree lighting ceremonies beneath a historic dome to holiday markets and festivals brimming with handcrafted treasures, Southern Indiana is nothing short of magical at the start of the cozy holiday season. Bundle up, slow down, and savor these special moments with family and friends.
