Festival of Trees

It’s the most magical time of year at the History Center!

Celebrate the holidays all season long in a winter wonderland at Festival of Trees Nov. 17 through Jan. 6. This year we have 80 beautifully themed trees plus a 30-foot show-stopper in Eli Lilly Hall – you have to see it to believe it! You can vote for your favorites, but it will be a tough choice.

This year, we have more special programs as well as old favorites. Bring the kids and grandkids to the Sugarplum Breakfast to meet characters from The Nutcracker, imbibe craft brews at Good Beers and Ugly Sweaters and channel Ralphie at A Christmas Story Day. On Dec. 2, the Holiday Author Fair is sure to round out your gift-giving list. And, of course, Santa, Elf on the Shelf and Twilight Tuesdays will make even the Grinch in your life full of holiday spirit.

Holiday Hours

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday through Saturday
10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday
Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday

Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day

Daily Programs

Elf on the Shelf – Where is the History Center’s Elf on the Shelf today? Tell our Welcome Center you found him and get a little prize.

Holiday Sing-Alongs – Join us in the Cole Porter Room as a singer leads you through holiday-themed songs.

Where is the Weihnachtzgurke? – Find 10 pickle ornaments we have hiding in different trees all over the building.

Weekly Programs

Twilight Tuesdays – Enjoy the beauty of the trees at night and enjoy local talent presenting the music of the season.

Nov. 21 | Dickens Carolers
Nov. 28 | Indianapolis Children’s Choir
Dec. 5 | Indianapolis Women’s Chorus
Dec. 12 | Circle City Chamber Choir
Dec. 19 | Castlewood Singers
Dec. 26 | The Cole Porter Room Singers
Jan. 2 | White River Jazz Band

Vintage Santa – Every Saturday and Sunday from Thanksgiving to Christmas, Santa strolls through the History Center to hand out special treats to children of all ages from 1 to 4 p.m.