There’s No Place Like My Hometown of Indianapolis for the Holidays

Fun fact: There are many wonderful Christmas towns in Indiana, and all of them are special in their own unique ways. That said, you can't go wrong with the classics: Indianapolis, for example, turns into an amazing winter wonderland each and every year as soon as the first snow falls and temperatures drop below freezing. As (one of) my honorary hometowns, I cannot express enough just how special this city becomes once the days are nice and short.

I mean, sure, it's special year-round, but there's just something about a layer of lights and snow that turns everything from cool to hot, so to speak, and the holiday season around these parts is hot-hot-hot (metaphorically speaking; obviously, it gets pretty chilly here). What makes Indianapolis at Christmastime so special? Oh, goodness, all kinds of things. Where to begin?

To kick off all the wintertime traditions the holiday season brings, Indy starts with The Circle of Lights, a.k.a. the world's coolest tree-lighting ceremony, right in the heart of downtown. It takes place the day after Thanksgiving, without fail, and it's a must for any and all Hoosiers.

Of course, that's just the beginning: Indianapolis is jam-packed with all sorts of holiday fun and shenanigans for those who love the holiday season (personally, I'm guilty as charged.) Once the Circle of Lights is through, there are a million other events and festivals that I'd say are must-dos for anyone living in or visiting Indy. Next up, check out the Festival of Trees, which runs until January 4; it's a glimpse into a winter wonderland in the form of 80 or more gorgeous, fully decorated holiday trees at the Indiana Historical Society. Lovers of all things decorations will adore this one, and the kids will find the lighted hallway of trees to be nothing short of absolute magic.

Then, check out other family-friendly must-do delights, like Christmas at the Zoo, Winterlights at Newfield, the Carmel Christkindlmarkt, and so much more. The kids will love all the lights and merriment, and the grown-ups will love the warm, fuzzy holiday atmosphere. There's something romantic about it, isn't there? At least I think so!

If you love the cold (same), you can also do some truly charming outdoor activities, like holiday farmers markets, ice skating at Center Green, and more. Keep an eye out for parades and parties, too! Christmas in Indianapolis is a very special time, and I can't wait for you to experience it.

If you're planning to visit Indianapolis this holiday season and are wondering what to bring, check out our epic ultimate winter packing list. Remember to stay warm this winter! It'll be a chilly one, but with all the goings-on, you should be able to swing it either way.