Portage Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Embark on a festive journey through Sunset Hill Farm County Park's enchanting Winter Lights Drive-Through. This beloved annual tradition transforms the park into a wonderland of synchronized light displays and holiday music, all enjoyed from the warmth and convenience of your vehicle. Drive the scenic loop past beautifully decorated sponsor...

Experience the magic of Winter WonderLights, Northwest Indiana's premier drive-thru holiday light attraction. Journey through over half a mile of dazzling displays, giant characters, and twinkling trees, all set to your favorite holiday music. It's a captivating and joyful spectacle perfect for all ages, designed to ignite your holiday spirit.

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Celebrations of Lights & Santa's Workshop. This enchanting event offers a chance to visit Santa's Workshop and marvel at a spectacular display of festive lights. It's a perfect opportunity for families to create lasting holiday memories.

Step into the world of "A Christmas Story" at the Indiana Welcome Center's captivating exhibit. They feature six dazzling animatronic window displays, originally from Macy's, that bring beloved scenes to life. Children can enjoy craft tables and write letters to Santa, while families can capture cherished memories with photos alongside...

The Michigan City Festival of Lights Celebration is a beloved annual event that ushers in the holiday season with a spectacular display of lights. This festive occasion brings the community together to mark the start of winter festivities.

Michigan City welcomes the holiday season with its beloved Festival of Lights. This enchanting event features a traditional parade followed by a spectacular drive-through light display in Washington Park. Millions of lights transform the park into a dazzling wonderland, showcasing a variety of festive and eye-popping designs.

Step into a magical winter wonderland at the Christmas Tyme Lights walk-through. This mile-long trail at Harvest Tyme Family Farm is illuminated by millions of dazzling lights, all set to classic holiday tunes. Meet beloved characters like The Grinch and Olaf, and warm up with festive treats including gourmet hot...

Step back in time on the 2025 Christmas Candlelight Tour, a beloved La Porte tradition. Visitors can explore seven historic buildings, including charming homes and significant landmarks, all beautifully decorated for the holidays. Experience the festive spirit with live musical entertainment at various locations and enjoy a romantic Victorian carriage...

Experience the magic of Homewood's Holiday Lights event, a cherished tradition that captures the season's joy. Witness Santa illuminate the tree, enjoy a dazzling ice sculpture demonstration, and be captivated by an antique car parade. Local shops offer unique gifts and festive treats, making it a perfect evening for all.

Step into a global holiday spectacle at the Museum of Science and Industry's 'Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light.' This cherished annual exhibit transforms the museum into a winter wonderland, featuring over 50 trees and displays that celebrate diverse cultural traditions and seasonal festivals of light from around...

All aboard for a magical Christmas experience at Santa's Candy Cane Express! This event offers a nostalgic journey on a real steam engine, where children can meet Santa Claus in an authentic railroad caboose. Warm up with hot cocoa at Doc's Soda Fountain and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The Hesston...

Discover a festive holiday shopping experience at the Christmas Craft Show. Browse unique gifts from local crafters and vendors, enjoy magical carriage rides, and let the kids create at the kiddie craft area. Live music and food trucks add to the festive atmosphere. Don't miss the Christmas Parade and Tree...

Experience the magic of the holidays at the Hometown Holiday Celebration! This festive event features a bustling outdoor market with unique gifts and delicious food, enchanting carriage rides, a spectacular tree lighting ceremony, and a dazzling Twilight Parade. Cap off the evening by meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus, making it...

Experience the magic of Holly Days, a cherished downtown Valparaiso holiday tradition. This festive celebration features live entertainment, dazzling holiday lights, enchanting ice sculptures, and the joyful sounds of carolers. Children can visit Santa, and everyone can enjoy Candy Cane Lane and a special Holiday Express Train ride. Local retailers...

Get into the holiday spirit at the Valpo Holidaze Craft and Vendor Show, returning to the Porter County Expo Center. This popular event features over 200 vendor booths offering everything from handmade crafts and gifts to pet supplies and festive treats. Families can enjoy free photos with Santa Claus and...

Get ready for the 7th annual Crafts at the Crossroads Handmade Craft Show - Holiday Edition! This indoor event on Saturday, December 13th, 2025, is the ultimate destination for finding beautiful, handcrafted gifts. With over 75 vendors, delicious food trucks, and free raffles, it's the perfect place to complete your...

Celebrate the start of the holiday season at the Hyde Park Holly-Day, a FREE family-friendly event on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Explore multiple festive locations including Harper Court, The Promontory, and the Hyde Park Shopping Center Courtyard for a day filled with holiday cheer. Enjoy live ice carving, ice skating,...

Experience the magic of Indiana Ballet Theatre's "The Nutcracker," a timeless holiday classic. This beloved ballet, set to Tchaikovsky's iconic score, transports audiences to a fantastical land of snow and sweets. Follow young Clara on her enchanting journey as she encounters the Rat King and is captivated by diverse international...

The South Holland Master Chorale presents 'Holiday Joy & Fanfare,' a beloved Christmas tradition. This festive concert features beloved holiday favorites, sing-alongs, and the acclaimed Chicago Gargoyle Brass ensemble, accompanied by organist Mark Sudeith. It's a grand celebration of the season designed to bring the community together in joyous song.

Experience the magic of Ruth Page's The Nutcracker, a cherished holiday family classic and a piece of Chicago history. This full-length production features international guest artists and the Ruth Page Civic Ballet, bringing Tchaikovsky's score to life with stunning costumes and imaginative settings. Local dance students join the cast, making...

Ring in the New Year with Grammy Award-winning reggae icon Shaggy at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana's Hard Rock Live. This exclusive New Year's Eve performance promises a night of unforgettable hits and festive celebration. Your ticket includes an open bar, featuring cocktails, beer, and wine, ensuring a truly all-inclusive...

Ring in the New Year with the highly anticipated Pierogi Drop in Whiting, Indiana! This unique celebration, voted one of the best New Year's Eve drops in the USA, features a spectacular midnight descent of a 10-foot illuminated pierogi into a boiling cauldron. Enjoy an indoor party with live entertainment...

Get ready for the magical Crown Point Santa Parade! Witness Santa's spectacular arrival by helicopter at Pointe Plaza before he heads to the historic Lake Country Courthouse. This beloved event marks the joyous start of the holiday season, bringing festive cheer to families.

Embark on a whimsical journey aboard Santa's Candy Cane Express for a truly magical holiday experience. This festive event promises enchanting moments as you ride with Santa and his cheerful helpers, surrounded by dazzling holiday decorations. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in the spirit of the season.

Visit Santa atop Santa's Mountain, a replica from 'A Christmas Story,' for a memorable photo opportunity. Children can also enjoy sliding down the iconic red slide. This special holiday event takes place at the Indiana Welcome Center.

Lace up your running shoes for the Santa Run & Walk 5K/2K, a festive event for everyone! Choose between a timed 5K or a non-timed 2K run/walk through Crown Point. Participants receive finisher medals, and awards are given to top performers. After the race, enjoy hot cocoa, Christmas treats, and...

Embrace the holiday spirit at the Schererville Tree Lighting Ceremony. This cherished annual event marks the official start of the festive season, bringing the community together to witness the dazzling illumination of downtown holiday trees. It's a magical evening filled with community cheer and the heartwarming glow of the season's...

Kick off the holiday season with the Flying Turkey 5K/2K Run/Walk in Crown Point! This fun event, inspired by a classic TV episode, offers a chip-timed 5K and a non-timed 2K walk. Participants can look forward to finisher medals, donuts, live music, and a best costume contest, all while supporting...

Join the Michigan City community for the spectacular Festival of Lights Celebration. The event kicks off with a dazzling parade through the Uptown Arts District, followed by a lively chili cook-off and other festivities downtown. It's a perfect way to usher in the holiday spirit.

La Porte's annual WinterFest returns for a three-day celebration of winter fun in January 2025. This vibrant festival offers a range of activities, from free ice skating at the Downtown La Porte Ice Rink to exciting events like ice sculpting demonstrations and an Eagles tribute concert. Families can enjoy a...

South Chicago Heights invites families to a magical 'Breakfast With Santa' event. This special occasion offers a catered breakfast, engaging entertainment, and a cherished gift for every child aged 11 and under. It's a wonderful opportunity for young ones to share their holiday wishes directly with Santa Claus in a...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the South Chicago Heights Tree Lighting Ceremony. This cherished annual event, now in its 37th year, invites the community to gather as the Mayor and Village Board of Trustees illuminate the Christmas tree. Following the ceremony, children can anticipate a delightful visit...