Our list of the top holiday arts events is a bit of a gift from P&A to you! Now that we are (hopefully) winding down with work and getting ready to jingle all the way (because no one likes a half-assed jingler, according to a favorite tea towel), let’s get out there and make merry! After missing last year’s holiday traditions, we are thrilled to see the return of these events. Please, we urge you, wear your masks inside, and remember to check the venue’s website for other COVID protocols!
Yuletide with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: Thru December 23
If there is something as wonderful as the smells of the holiday season, we would have to argue that the sounds are just as delightful. The ISO’s annual holiday extravaganza features holiday
music “brought to life with Broadway-style showstoppers, the famous tap-dancing Santas, and more!” The show will once again feature the Grammy-award winning singer, Sandi Patty, and this year the ISO welcomes the addition of T.3, a trio of tenors who are competed this fall on America’s Got Talent. Tickets remain available, especially next week as families countdown to December 25. Added bonus: The “world’s largest Christmas tree,” aka the decked out downtown Circle.
An En Pointe Christmas: December 17 – 18
If the power of dance is more what gets you into the holiday spirit, we recommend attending En Pointe Indiana Ballet’s holiday show, An En Pointe Christmas. The show will feature classical ballet repertoire in the first act and once the curtains rise on the second act, be prepared to be dazzled by exciting contemporary jazz routines set to classic Christmas tunes. The show will run December 17-18 at Noblesville High School Auditorium so make sure you put this must see show in your calendar.
Newfield’s Winterlights: Thru January 2
There is something magical about gazing out a an array of Christmas lights, especially when there are a staggering 1.5 million of them. This winter season, Newfields (formerly known as the Indianapolis Museum of Art) promises to dazzle you and your family with a walk through a winter wonderland set outside in their sprawling gardens. They also offer warm and delicious treats that will bring a smile to any set of rosy cheeks. The magic begins on November 22, so reserve your spot soon.
The Indianapolis Repertory Theatre’s A Christmas Carol: Thru December 26
Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol is a story many of us know well, but to see it played live on stage is a gift all in itself. As the weather turns cold and dreary, taking to the warm and cozy seats of the theatre is the perfect way to warm the soul. An additional tip from us is if you want to experience an extra magical show, buy your tickets near the front of the theatre and you might just get to experience a white Christmas inside.
Jolly Days at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: Thru January 3
If you and your family are looking to experience the holidays in a way that is fun and interactive for children (and adults) of all ages, we suggest making a trip to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis for their annual Jolly Days Winter Wonderland exhibit. Laughter and joy is guaranteed as you glide around the ice rink, where your socks will work like shiny ice skates. Or explore the Ice Castle and meet extraordinary Jolly Day characters. We’ve even heard that a certain man in red might be making an appearance to find out what the good girls and boys of Indianapolis want for Christmas this year. So head over to the Children’s Museum and make holiday memories that you will cherish forever.
Indianapolis Art Center’s Winter Art Sale
Since it is the season of giving, attending the Indianapolis Art Center’s Winter Art Sale is a great way to find a treasure that will allow you to give the gift of art to someone special in your life. It is yet to be determined if the event will be hosted in person this year or through their online marketplace, but either way we are sure you will be able to find something that speaks to the joy of the holiday season.
The Indianapolis Children’s Choir presents Comfort and Joy: December 17 – 19
What better way is there to ring in the holidays than with the angelic voices of the Indianapolis Children’s Choir? With four nights of concerts sung by the different levels of choirs, there is no bad option if you are looking for good music. The concerts will take place in the historic Second Presbyterian Church, as well as being livestreamed so you can experience the comfort and joy of music without leaving the comfort of your home.
Elf the Musical at the Carmel Civic Theatre: Thru December 24
If you have not had the chance to see the Broadway version of the beloved Christmas movie, Elf, we highly recommend you head over to the Carmel Civic Theatre this winter. The charming story has been transformed with catchy songs and cheery costumes that will make the entire family want to spread Christmas cheer by singing loud for all to hear!
There is so much to see and do during the holiday season, especially within the world of the arts. We hope this list will help you find the perfect event for you and your family and will bring holiday joy and memories to last for many years to come.
