For many, Christmas lights add warmth and joy to the holidays. You can drive through neighborhoods, but you may prefer to check out one of these dazzling displays around the state.
Ritzy’s Fantasy of Lights, Evansville
Garvin Park
Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day
5-9 p.m. (10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)
Cost is per vehicle, based on the number of people in the car
Another long-standing tradition, this light display in Evansville celebrates its 25th season this year. Proceeds benefit the Easterseals Rehabilitation Center; since its inception, the event has raised over $3 million. On November 28, the park is closed to vehicles and organizers will host a 5K run/walk. Weather permitting, horse-drawn carriage rides are available each night for an additional fee. Find more information on the Facebook page for Ritzy’s Fantasy of Lights.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BN24XHHDAON/
Fantasy of Lights, Ft. Wayne
Franke Park
Now through December 31, 2018
6-9 p.m. (10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays)
Cost is per vehicle, based on the type of vehicle
More than 100 displays are illuminated by 270,000 LED lights in this two-mile drive-through experience. The event raises money for Blue Jacket, a non-profit organization providing training and job opportunities for disadvantaged members of the community. Learn more at the Fantasy of Lights page on Facebook.
Christmas at the Zoo, Indianapolis
November 23-December 30, 2018
5-9 p.m. (10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays)
Included in zoo admission
Our zoo was the first zoo in the nation to host a holiday lights event in 1967, and they’ve become of the best; Christmas at the Zoo has been included in USA Today’s Ten Best Zoo Lights for three years in a row. In addition to the lights, visitors can chat with Santa and Mrs. Claus, see some reindeer and get up close and personal with penguins.
Lights at the Brickyard, Indianapolis
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Now through December 30, 2018
6-9 p.m. (10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays)
2018 marks the third year for this drive-through display of holiday lights. More than three million lights span a two-mile course through the infield and crossing the yard of bricks. Tickets can be purchased at IMS.com.
Winterlights, Indianapolis
Newfields (Indianapolis Museum of Art)
Now through January 6, 2019
5-9 p.m.
This year’s iteration of Winterlights includes 1.5 million lights in a walk-through display. Purchase special glasses and transform each light into a snowflake. Tickets are available online for discounted prices. Visit discovernewfields.org for more information.
Christmas City Walkway of Lights, Marion
Matter Park
Now through December 31, 2018
6-10 p.m.
Season passes are $5 per car
Spanning over two miles and featuring 2.5 million lights and 120 displays, the Walkway of Lights illuminates the Mississinewa Riverwalk in Matter Park. Before you leave, visit the gift shop for refreshments and crafts available for purchase.
Washington Park Festival of Lights, Michigan City
December 1, 2018-January 5, 2019
The largest free drive-through light exhibit in the Midwest, this Festival of Lights includes five million bulbs. Unlike other displays, this one is also on in the morning: 5-8:30 a.m. as well as 4:30-midnight.
Santa Claus Land of Lights, Santa Claus
Open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, November 23-December 9. Open nightly December 14-30. Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
5-9 p.m. CST
Cost is $15 per vehicle
This 1.2 mile display tells a story in lights and storyboards and every vehicle receives a free photo with Rudolph.
