Winter break is the perfect time to put academic responsibilities aside and recharge for next semester. Brave the cold and see what local activities Indianapolis has to offer this winter season.
Winter thrills
Pokagon State Park Toboggan Run
Take a shot at tackling the toboggan track at Pokagon State Park’s annual Toboggan Run. Sleds are first-come, first-served. No reservations or holds. Gloves required.
Event details
Nov. 24, 2023–Feb. 25, 2024
Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
$20/toboggan per hour.
Park entrance fees: $7 for in-state cars, $9 for out-of-state cars.
Holliday Park Ice Rink
Enjoy ice skating with friends and family at this newly updated rink. This year will be the first year that the rink is real ice and not synthetic!
Event details
Nov. 24, 2023–Feb. 29, 2024
Hours vary. $14/ticket with skate rental included.
Sledding
Sledding is a winter classic. Enjoy free fun at any of these hills located across the Indianapolis area. Don’t forget to bring your own sled!
Top sledding locations
- Rhodius Park, 1720 W Wilkins St
- Simon Moon Park, 3044 E 171st St
- Fort Harrison State Park, 59th and Post Road
- Garfield Park, 2450 S Shelby St
- Flat Fort Creek Park, 6141 E 101st St
Holiday festivals and activities
Carmel Christkindlmarkt
Enjoy a classic European tradition local to Indianapolis. The market includes vendors, so don't forget to bring money for delicious treats, drinks, ice skating and hand-crafted gifts.
Dates and hours
Now–Dec. 24
Monday and Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday and Thursday: 4–9 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: Noon–9 p.m.
Sunday: Noon–8 p.m.
Festival of Trees
Walk through a winter wonderland of 78 elaborately decorated trees at the Indiana Historical Society’s 10th annual Festival of Trees. Be on the lookout for Eli Lilly Hall’s massive centerpiece tree and an interactive display from the iconic "A Christmas Story" film.
Event details
Nov. 10, 2023–Jan. 6, 2024
Tuesday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Sunday: Noon–5 p.m.
Tickets are $5 for students and $15 for adults. Purchase tickets online to save $2 per adult.
Christmas at the Zoo
Step into a world of holiday whimsy as you stroll through the magical lights and sounds of the Indianapolis Zoo’s Christmas at the Zoo. Meet Santa and his reindeer, and try the event’s delightful offerings of seasonally-themed treats.
Event details
Now–Dec. 30
Sunday–Thursday: 5–9 p.m. | Friday–Saturday: 5–10 p.m.
Ticket prices vary depending on date.
Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure
Follow miniature trains as they traverse through beautiful landscapes covered in festive lighting and decor.
Event details
Nov. 18, 2023–Jan 15, 2024
Monday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Sunday: Noon–5 p.m.
Ticket prices vary. Tickets available at the door and online and are not required for members.
Light displays
Winterlights
Prepare to be in awe of the dazzling assortment of holiday lights and festive music at Newfields’ Winterlights.
Event details
Nov. 19, 2023–Jan. 7, 2024
Hours of operation: 5–9 p.m.
Ticket prices vary. Students can receive member pricing after setting up a free student membership with their CrimsonCard.
Dasher’s Lightshow
Gather a group of friends and load up the car for a 20-minute festive, drive-thru light show.
Event details
Now–Dec. 31
Operating daily from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
$29.95/vehicle. Purchase tickets online.