The holiday season in Indianapolis brings a festive field of markets and festivals where you can shop for unique gifts, soak up local culture, and enjoy family-friendly activities. Whether you’re browsing artisan stalls or sipping mulled wine beneath twinkling lights, there’s something for everyone.
Top Holiday Markets
Carmel Christkindlmarkt–This German-style open-air market features more than fifty wooden vendor huts offering imported handcrafted items (nutcrackers, music boxes, ornaments) alongside traditional German fare like bratwurst, raclette, and stollen. Entrance is free and the market is open daily from November 22 through December 24, 2025. During the market, you’ll also find German mulled wine (Glühwein) and a true “old-world” holiday atmosphere.
Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt –Held at the historic Athenaeum Building in the Mass Avenue Arts District, this market features “vendor huts” with local handcrafted goods, German food, live entertainment and themed celebrations (e.g., Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Hanukkah) across weekends. The market is open Friday-Sunday. More intimate than some larger venues, this is a great place for artisan gifts and downtown exploration.
Junior League of Indianapolis Holiday Mart –The 54th annual edition runs November 20-22, 2025, at the Agriculture & Horticulture Building of the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis. This large-scale market brings dozens of merchants selling clothing, jewelry, art, children’s items and food. The mart is a good choice when you want one-stop shopping for gifts and accessories in a festival setting.
Indy’s Global Village Holiday Bazaar –Scheduled for December 13, 2025, at 4233 Lafayette Road, this one-day event is free. This bazaar emphasizes local artisans and global culture, with family activities and free parking. The bazaar is great for supporting local creators, diverse gift options, and enjoying a shorter event format.
A short video from 2024 Carmel Christkindlmarkt, from Living in Carmel Indiana
Bonus Festive Events & Tips
- The city’s official holiday events calendar via Visit Indy lists “Holiday Markets, festive light displays, family-friendly events” across the Indianapolis area.
- For best shopping experience: go early in the day to beat crowds, bring a tote or reusable bag, and plan for parking—especially at downtown markets.
- Combine your market visit with nearby holiday offerings (lights, music, food trucks) to make an outing of it.
- Markets like Carmel’s may offer special hours on Fridays/Saturdays or special themes; check the market website for updates to ensure you catch any new features.
- If you’re shopping for gifts especially, note that some markets highlight local artisans making unique items—ideal for gifts that stand out.
With these seasonal markets and festivals in the Indianapolis area, 2025 offers ample opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit, find meaningful gifts, and enjoy quality time with family and friends.