When the holiday season arrives, there’s no place like Hamilton County, Indiana – just north of Indy. Celebrate the spirit of the season and make memories with your loved ones with these things to do for the holidays.

1. Drive Through Magic of Lights at Ruoff Music Center.

Ruoff Music Center Lights, Holiday Season in Hamilton County

For the first time, Ruoff Music Center will host Magic of Lights, a family-friendly drive-through holiday lights display. Nearly a million lights sparkle along the route.

Purchase tickets for Magic of Lights.

2. Experience the Magic of the Carmel Christkindlmarkt.

Carmel Christkindlmarkt, Holiday Season in Hamilton County

Don’t miss this authentic German holiday market with free admission and free parking. Shop for unique gifts like wooden toys, nutcrackers, music boxes, and ornaments, along with collectible items like the boot mug.

Learn more about the Carmel Christkindlmarkt.

3. Take the Family to A Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie.

Merry Prairie, Holiday Season in Hamilton County

At A Merry Prairie Holiday, families can see the outdoor Reynold’s Christmas Lights display, grab a take-and-make gift from Santa’s elves in the North Pole Workshop, slide down a dry tubing hill, ride the carousel and take a Santa selfie.

Purchase tickets to A Merry Prairie Holiday.

4. Ride the Reindeer Ride Express.

Reindeer Express, Holiday Season in Hamilton County

The Reindeer Ride is an hour and fifteen-minute excursion through Noblesville, Cicero, and Arcadia with a brief stop at Santa’s workshop.

Purchase tickets for the Reindeer Ride.

5. See a Holiday Performance.

Palladium Crowd, Holiday Season in Hamilton County

Celebrate the season with holiday shows and performances at The Center for the Performing Arts and Civic Theatre.

Browse the concert schedule in Hamilton County.

BONUS: Stay Overnight in Hamilton County This Holiday Season.

Hotel Carmichael, Holiday Season in Hamilton County

Make it a weekend getaway and book an overnight stay! Hotels are offering discounted rates this holiday season to make your getaway even more affordable. Looking for a luxurious staycation or vacation? Book a room or suite at Hotel Carmichael, a Marriott Autograph collection luxury hotel, conveniently located steps from the Christkindlmarkt.

Browse a full list of holiday hotel deals in Hamilton County.

To learn more about things to do, dining, and lodging in Hamilton County, request a free copy of our Travel Guide. And, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see all you can do when you #VisitHC.