White River State Park is full of holiday cheer that you don’t want to miss! Check out these five festive events for the whole family!
Enter a locomotive wonderland!
Jingle Rails | Eiteljorg Museum | Nov. 15 – Jan. 19
Experience masterfully crafted scenes created from natural materials and adorned with festive holiday decor. Follow eight G-scale trains as they travel through landscapes and landmarks of Indianapolis and the American West. Be sure to catch the newest addition, Route 66! This year at Jingle Rails enjoy extended evening hours on select days and explore the return of the Winter Markets featuring local artists.
Learn more about Jingle Rails.
A stroll through twinkling lights!
Christmas at the Zoo | Indianapolis Zoo | Nov. 22 – Jan. 4
Explore a wild winter wonderland unto itself. Sip hot cocoa and stroll through twinkling lights as you visit scampering red pandas, playful penguins, whiskered walrus and the graceful arctic fox. And, of course, visit Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves at Santa’s Magic Cottage. On Dec. 4, join the Zoo in celebrating World Wildlife Conservation Day, with half-price admission!
Learn more about Christmas at the Zoo.
All aboard the Snowfall Express!
Indiana State Museum | Nov. 28 – Jan. 4
Santa kicks off this signature holiday event in style on Nov. 28 when he arrives via helicopter to light the 92 country tree! Throughout the holiday season visitors can meet Santa in his fanciful house and kids can play in Santa’s Front Yard and Reindeer Barn. Catch a ride on the Snowfall Express, a magical train ride through a snowy forest filled with music, movement and wonder. Don’t miss performances by local choirs and ensembles at Holiday Sounds, see the original Santa Claus Express train and animated window displays from the downtown Indianapolis L. S. Ayres store and more.
Learn more about Celebration Crossing.
To the North Pole, of course!
IMAX Theater Indiana State Museum | Dec. 6-11
A holiday classic returns to the IMAX for a limited time! Take an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole and embark on a journey of self-discovery that show the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Don’t forget the hot chocolate!
Get your tickets today!
The perfect holiday breakfast!
Victory Field | Dec. 6
Celebrate the holiday season with Rowdie! Enjoy a pancake breakfast, face painting and more! Tickets for kids 14 and under include a 2026 Knot Hole Kids Club membership for even more fun during the 2026 Indianapolis Indians season!
Get your tickets today!
