Discovery

Winter Wonders: Exploring East Central Indiana’s Magical Winter Activities

December 20, 2023

As the cold winds and snowflakes blanket East Central Indiana, there are lots of fun things to do during winter. Embrace the chilly air with friends and family and enjoy activities together throughout the region.

Delaware County

Light Up DWNTWN

Enjoy music & light shows at 6, 7, 8, and 9 pm every Thursday-Sunday in December at Canan Commons.

Holidays at Gresham

Buckle up for a free drive-thru light show with over 1 million lights. The light show takes place during the weekends of December, with the last show on December 25.

Betty’s Cabin Activity: NYE Countdown to Noon!

If you—or the kiddo in your life—just can’t wait until midnight, visit Betty’s Cabin for their Countdown to Noon event! Enjoy refreshments and play games as you get a jump start on ringing in the New Year on Sunday, December 31, 2023. Free community event; registration not required.

Grant County

Walkway of Lights

Be prepared to be dazzled and experience over two million lights illuminate the night along Marion’s Mississinewa Riverwalk, leading into Matter Park. This annual holiday celebration runs through December 31 each evening from 6pm-10pm. $5 per car per visit donation appreciated.

Fayette County

First Day Hike: Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary

Welcome 2024, with a new tradition and a healthy way to start the new year. The event offers a chance to get outside, meet fellow Sanctuary hikers, enjoy nature and perhaps work off a few holiday calories. There will be a hike, covering approximately 1.5 miles of trails, with an assortment of healthy snacks and drinks as well as coffee and cocoa by the Brooks Hall fireplace on January 1.

Jay County

HoliJay Lights

Enjoy a drive-thru lights display through the Jay County Fairgrounds. Open every Friday & Saturday (November 17-December 23) and Thursday, December 21st! Free-will donations are accepted at the gate.

Randolph County

A Community Christmas

Go see a 60-acre drive-thru light show in Union City. Open now till December 31^st, they have a Christmas village, 48 foot mega pixel tree, and a decorated tank in honor of the brave men and women who have served our country.

Wayne County

Cambridge City Celebration of Lights

Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday night take a drive through the park aglow with thousands of holiday lights. Free Admission. Through the end of December.

Candlelight Tours

On Friday, January 12, see the Levi and Catharine Coffin home by candlelight and engage with stories that highlight the experience of the freedom-seekers who chose to risk everything to escape slavery. Recommended for ages 8+. Registration required by 5 p.m. day of tour.

Meltdown Winter Ice Festival

Watch as professional ice carvers and artists transform over 20,000 pounds of ice into amazing ice sculptures throughout Richmond’s city center. There will also be a competition between two teams of ice carvers. This free festival on January 26-27 has activities for all ages!

So, bundle up and prepare for a season of winter-filled fun in East Central Indiana.