MAGAZINE
DECEMBER 2020
The Show Must
Go On
The Center for the Performing Arts Continues Winter Programming Through COVID-Safe Events
GIFTS FOR ANGELS
Central Indiana Angel Tree Program Makes the Holidays Special for Youngsters
OUTDOOR MERRIMENT
A Merry Prairie Holiday Returns to Conner Prairie
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Tips for a Healthy Holiday Season
Celebrate Virtually Limit Travel Avoid In-Home Gatherings Speak To Contact Tracers Stay Home If You’re Sick
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STRONGER TOGETHER GOOD SAMARITAN NETWORK PROVIDES HELP AROUND THE HOLIDAYS
Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided
Each year the Good Samaritan Network of Hamilton County (GSN) strives to ensure that the holiday season is a joyful one for families struggling financially. The staff at the 501(c)(3) organization conducts an annual Holiday Assistance Program for those who qualify. Led by Founder and Executive Director Nancy Chance, GSN also works to coordinate the efforts of multiple local groups and agencies that aid the underserved. The group was officially organized in 1995, but its activity began in 1980. Chance was well known in Hamilton County due to her work with abused children and her resourcefulness at securing donations for needy families, especially during the holiday season. At the time, she also served as a trainer speaking on the subject of child abuse for various county organizations. “Firemen from Carmel, Fishers and
Noblesville asked if I would put together a centralized database of all the people served by them and other Hamilton County entities,” Chance says. “Nothing like that existed and I was glad to say yes. It has helped with consistency, and cut down on double and even triple dipping, so there are enough resources for everyone who needs help. GSN is a data depository and sort of a best-kept secret. We started off with 390 families. In 2019 we ended up with about 40,000. We are an umbrella that tracks activities of over 268 agencies, 47 pantries, 280 churches, 69 schools and nine township trustees.”
Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, Inc. reports that Hamilton County has a 5% poverty rate.
Besides the organization’s signature holiday programs conducted at both Thanksgiving and Christmas, other types of assistance are provided throughout the year. GSN addresses the need for food, utility payments, shelter and medical assistance. The group also coordinates inkind donations, plus education along with its many partners.
This year’s GSN Christmas distribution will be held December 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Llama Barn at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds in Noblesville. To participate, an application must be pre-submitted and approved. GSN leaders prefer that applications be accessed and submitted on the organization’s website, but individuals can call the office as well.
6 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2020 / atCarmel.com
“This will be my 40th year organizing a Christmas assistance program,” Chance says. “There are families out there that are just getting by. The need will be even greater this year because of COVID. People were already struggling and working two or three jobs. Then people who worked in places like barber shops or restaurants were laid off for months. They can barely pay their bills, so they don’t have money for Christmas expenses.”
New this year is a pre-event called Holiday Share Days. On Thursday, December 10 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday, December 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., gently used clothing, toys, baby items and household goods will be available at the same location as the Christmas distribution. Inventory will be restocked for the second day, but visitors can only choose one day to attend. “We started collecting things for this year’s Holiday Assistance last January,” Chance says. “Donations are kept in various storage facilities. We still need new clothes, socks, underwear and toys for children fiveyears to teens. We also need volunteers to receive donations. Many people are needed December 8 through the 11 to sort through stuff at the Llama Barn.” During this time of COVID-19, GSN has a no-contact donation process. Donations will not be received in the office or lobby area. Instead, on Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., individuals can drive directly to the back of the building and proceed to the warehouse garage door. Donors should remain in their car with a mask on. Honk if the garage door is closed, or call 317-842-2603, extension 200. Volunteers can sign up via the organization’s website by clicking on the iVolunteer link. Face masks, social distancing practices and temperature checks are required. Individuals 16 years and younger are welcome to volunteer, but must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers must agree to participate at their own risk, and not to hold GSN liable if COVID-19 is contracted. GSN leaders pride themselves on strong connections developed with community partners. Under the GSN umbrella, participating organizations are stronger together than alone. This dedication continues to make Hamilton County a place where all individuals feel supported. Good Samaritan Network is located at 12933 Parkside Drive in Fishers. For info, visit GSNLive.org or call 317-842-2603. atCarmel.com / DECEMBER 2020 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / 7
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CEO Jeffrey McDermott
The Show Must
Go On
The Center for the Performing Arts Continues Winter Programming Through COVID-Safe Events
atCarmel.com / DECEMBER 2020 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / 9
Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided by The Center for Performing Arts & Kelli White
For Jeffrey C. McDermott, the world flipped on its axis on March 12, the day Governor Holcomb’s first executive order came out to shut things down in Indiana due to the pandemic.
into low gear for awhile,” McDermott says. They dubbed themselves the “Hatch Committee” because they were constantly hatching new ideas. “That’s how creative, artistic people are wired. They think, ‘This is a problem to solve, not bemoan.’”
When it became clear that it wasn’t going to be safe to gather crowds for live performances for a good stretch of time, “We literally had a military band loading the Center decided to invest in high-end in for a free concert,” says McDermott, cameras and technology so that they President & CEO of The Center for the could do live streaming and live recording Performing Arts. “More than 1,600 people in order to be able to feature local and were coming to watch, and in the middle of regional artists. the afternoon we had to tell them to start loading back into their trucks.” “We decided that as part of our mission it was important to continue to offer these Left and right, concerts, sporting events things and be relevant,” McDermott adds. and plans of all kinds were getting canceled all over the country. To a certain degree, it Another reason they made the investment felt like life had been canceled, but instead in technology is because the Center for the of shuttering, staff at The Center for the Performing Arts is home to the affiliated Performing Arts began brainstorming Great American Songbook Foundation. ingenious ways to fulfill their mission to Each year, high school students from engage and inspire the Central Indiana across the country audition to be selected community through enriching arts to participate in the weeklong Songbook experiences. Academy. Typically, mentors such as Melissa Manchester and Michael Feinstein “We felt it was important to keep the share their talents. The week culminates engine running even if we had to put it 10 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2020 / atCarmel.com
with the 40 students performing to a soldout crowd of 3,500. This year the entire academy had to be done virtually. “Frankly, it was a herculean effort on the part of our staff and the Songbook Foundation to convert to virtual, but the degree of creativity and ingenuity really paid off as the kids had a wonderful experience,” McDermott says. Though the students missed out on the in-person experience, the upside was that instead of an audience of 3,500 watching live, more than 100,000 people watched the students perform online. That experience taught McDermott a lesson moving forward. When the pandemic is over, he expects that live streaming will continue because, while nothing will ever replace experiencing music and art live in person, they have been able to reach a huge audience virtually. “We will always have some component of virtual or live streaming available because we are reaching way too many people not to do so in some fashion,” he says. Plus, post-pandemic, there will likely be
those who are reluctant to go back to the theatre initially, not to mention those who are physically challenged or don’t have the ability to travel.
people cannot be matched, the Center has proven that it’s still possible to deliver the arts in a variety of ways during a pandemic.
“This way they can still enjoy the show as we bring it to them rather than them coming to us,” McDermott says.
“It’s been gratifying and humbling, the way the community has rallied around us,” McDermott says. That support started immediately last spring when the Center had to contact those who had already purchased tickets to events to let them know they were canceled.
The Center, which provides space and support services for six resident companies (Actors Theatre of Indiana, Carmel Symphony Orchestra, Central Indiana Dance Ensemble, Civic Theatre, Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre and Indiana Wind Symphony), has launched a number of innovative programs since the pandemic hit. These include live online Q&A sessions with performing arts professionals, interactive online workshop presentations, informal discussions and table readings and virtual field trips to explore the arts. Many of the events and presentations are offered free of charge. Though the communal experience of watching the arts in person with other
“Rather than asking for a refund, we had thousands of dollars of tickets donated because folks realized that there are literally thousands of worthy nonprofit organizations, many of whom are dealing with health care and hunger and things like that, so the fear is that the arts might slip down the list of priorities.” McDermott shares the quote that’s been attributed to Winston Churchill when, during the war, the defense minister suggested cutting funding for the arts in favor of the war efforts and Churchill atCarmel.com / DECEMBER 2020 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / 11
We will always have some component of virtual or live streaming available because we are reaching way too many people not to do so in some fashion. -jeffrey mcdermott-
responded, “Then what the hell are we fighting for?” “Those who care about the arts have stepped up for us in meaningful ways,” McDermott says. “That’s really appreciated.” The Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1 Carter Green, Carmel. To make a donation to the Center or to learn more, call 317-843-3800 or visit thecenterpresents.org. To view the lineup for upcoming events, visit thecenterpresents.org/tickets-events.
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GIFT GUIDE
Mosaics Garden By Nancy Keating $15 off Perfect Gift for Wine Lovers $398 High Frequency Arts $35.00
Revolving wine decanter and glass set on reclaimed barn wood. This handcrafted, Midwest artisan-made set is the ultimate giftgiving for wine lovers and home entertaining this holiday season. We offer curbside pick-up! Hub & Spoke Design Center, 8100E, 106th Street, Fishers IN 46038 highfrequencyarts.com/shop
Mosaic Kit and on line course. Everything you need to learn and create a glass mosaic mandala At Home. Free pick up at Carmel Art on Main Gallery. Shipping available. 317-501-4652 | MosaicsGarden com
This 18�x18� linen/cotton/poly blend throw pillow features a vintage map of Hamilton County. Our small-batch artisan-made in the USA pillow is our favorite home accent and gift-giving item this holiday season. We offer curbside pick-up! Hub & Spoke Design Center, 8100E, 106th Street, Fishers IN 46038 highfrequencyarts.com/shop
Rangeline Chiropractic $250 9 Day ChiroThin Weight loss program-perfect for the holidays and to help get off Covid weight gain. Lose 10-15 lbs and get on track again. 11422 Keystone Way | 317-575-1115 rangelinechiropractic.com/chirothin-weight-loss
CoasterStone $39.99 Grab your new favorite Indiana Themed Gift Set from CoasterStone! Featuring an exclusive 17 oz. stainless steel barista tumbler and matching set of 4 coasters! The perfect gift for anyone on your list! 317-704-8130 | coasterstone.com
Goodness Gracious Buy a $50 gift card and receive a $5 gift card. Buy a $100 gift card and receive a $10 gift card IU Commemorative Glassware Singles $20 or 4 Pack $49.95
Plan ahead for a unique and heartfelt experience! Get your gift cards now for the 2021 picnic season! We drop off and pick up, hand crafted, wholesome food, in a picnic basket! 100% compostable. ilovegoodnessgracious.com
Exclusive IU Archived Logo Glassware 1921, 1924, 1950, 1976 atCarmel.com / DECEMBER 2020 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / 13
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
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Hydro C Multivitamin Cream is a powerful antioxidant that stimulates the collagen production and helps to reduce signs of aging by repairing the damage done by free radicals and the sun. The result - brighter and firmer skin, fewer lines and wrinkles! 312-730-0402 | eldanus.com
Holiday Measuring Tumbler Tumbler with Holiday Recipe Card $14.39 with 10% Coupon Code Imagine making one change to an existing product that could add value to your daily life! MiLiOZ (short for Milliliters & Ounces) is a unique measuring system, designed inside each tumbler, that’s a simple and functional way to make your life easier. The tumbler comes with a recipe card that includes recipes for one adult beverage and one kid-friendly beverage. Plus, each tumbler is individually boxed and ready to gift. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion! milioz.com. 10% Coupon Code for the entire site: Towne10 good through Jan 1, 2021
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Get Christmas all wrapped up, with our seasonal teas to sip on, and scones with clotted cream for sweet treats between feasts. Lift the lid on your perfect festive gift box! 3rd Floor Saks Fifth Avenue Keystone Fashion Mall | 317-340-4911
Midwest Balloon Rides $239 (normally $269)
Rosie’s Gooey Butter Cookie Tin and Rosie’s Coffee Pack Give the gift of sweets this holiday! Rosie’s ships cookies and coffee anywhere in the US. A tin of Gooey Butter Cookies makes for a perfect gift over the holiday season! Your family and friends will be delighted to receive the best cookies all the way from Indiana. Order a dozen gooey butter cookies or Rosie’s coffee with a mug and two gooey butter cookies online! rosiesplace.net 68 N. 9th St., Noblesville downtown
Jan’s Village Pizza Buy a $25 gift card get $5 free Buy a $50 gift card get $10 free
Make your 2020 holiday gift the best gift possible by giving that special someone a Hot Air Balloon Ride! midwestballoonrides.com
14 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2020 / atCarmel.com
INDIANA ARTISAN GIFTS & GALLERY 22 N Rangeline Rd 317-964-9455 | indianaartisan.org
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Season someone’s day. Handsome and handy, cherry salt grinder/ pepper mill set adds flavor in style. Lee Ellis, Fishers
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Bakers love these. So sharp, the Yukon Bread Knife slices bread, even right out of the oven, practically crumb-less. Pair it with a bread board. Harry Gigous, Warsaw.
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Cookie-baking time Pottery batter bowls are ready to make your favorite winter or holiday recipe. Mary Thomas Firestone, Lafayette
Pure whimsy. Gourd fairies might bring luck, certain to bring smiles TeriLu Adler, Madison
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Winter sparkle. Glass snowflake necklace never melts, always glistens. Fran Carrico, Pendleton
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Let it snow. Miniature clay snow people trimming the tree – sure to become a winter favorite. Sue Scamihorn, Wabash
atCarmel.com / DECEMBER 2020 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / 15
Hoosier pride. Indiana ornament is handpainted silk framed in a glass orb. Carrie Wright, Muncie
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Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided
Five years ago the Salvation Army Indiana Division began hosting the Central Indiana Angel Tree, through which donors adopt children (“angels”) from newborn to age 12, providing them with personalized gifts to help make the holidays special. Prior to the Angel Tree program, the Salvation Army hosted a Toy Shop where toys were placed on tables, and parents would select gifts. The organization’s leaders switched to the Angel Tree program to allow for a more a personalized experience. Christmas is a time of happiness and celebration for many, but that’s not always the case for those who come from unstable homes. “We want to give these children the same opportunity that every other child is getting,” says Captain Brianne Bowers, Divisional Candidate and Youth Secretary for the Salvation Army Indiana Division. Often when parents come in to register their child for the program, they are upset because they don’t know how they are going to provide gifts for their kids at Christmas. This year is especially challenging due to COVID-19. “We have no idea what these families have been going through, so we want to be that support and that encouragement to empower them to make Christmas memorable,” Bowers says.
GIFTS FOR ANGELS
CENTRAL INDIANA ANGEL TREE PROGRAM MAKES THE HOLIDAYS SPECIAL FOR YOUNGSTERS atCarmel.com / DECEMBER 2020 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / 17
This year the Central Indiana Angel Tree will serve 5,000 angels. This number is lower than in past years, but the staff felt the number was plausible given the economic difficulties facing many people in 2020. Each angel will receive a bag of goodies valued at $50. The Salvation Army leaders ask that each bag contain something the child wants, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. “It could be a couple of books or an entire outfit, depending on how the donor shops,” Bowers says.
ANGEL TREE IS WHAT PROVIDES CHILDREN WITH CHRISTMAS GIFTS, BUT REALLY WHAT ALLOWS US TO DO SO IS THE RED KETTLE.
The number-one ask for this year has been a Fire tablet, which can be helpful with the recent increase in virtual learning due to the pandemic. With many libraries being closed, the ability to check out a library book using an e-reader is a helpful alternative. In the past, Angel Trees have been displayed at both the Castleton Mall and the Fashion Mall in Indianapolis, but due to COVID-19 that will not be the case this year. Instead, Salvation Army leaders are relying heavily on online adoptions and encouraging donors to use Amazon. For those who prefer to drop gifts in person, they may do so at the Eagle Creek or Fountain Square locations. Through the years, community response to the program has typically been strong. “Awareness is important,” Bowers says. “The more we’ve been able to communicate and bring an understanding of what Angel Tree is about to our volunteers and donors, the more we’ve seen an increase in participation.” In past years, bicycles and beds have been donated. Unfortunately, this year coronavirus restrictions make such donations difficult.
“It doesn’t mean we don’t still want to meet those needs,” Bowers says of larger items like beds. “We just have to be a little more creative by using social services or working through our other partner agencies.” Each year there are invariably a handful of children whose tags aren’t adopted, but according to Bowers, as soon as she and her colleagues spread the word about the need for a few more donors, community members immediately rise to the occasion. “To see the generosity of the community and how they have stepped up to make sure that kids have a good Christmas has amazed me every single year,” Bowers says. “Sometimes parents shop with their child for an angel who is the same age. It’s teaching their kids how to share the love and how to give back in their community. It’s teaching the younger generations how to be generous with what you’ve been given.” The Salvation Army has a pool of longtime volunteers, but can always use extra sets of hands to help with setup, distribution and cleanup. For those who don’t have the time but do have the means, a financial contribution is also appreciated. In addition, Bowers encourages folks to 18 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2020 / atCarmel.com
check out the Red Kettle program, as the two programs go hand in hand. “Angel Tree is what provides children with Christmas gifts, but really what allows us to do so is the Red Kettle,” says Bowers, noting that when the Salvation Army meets its Christmas goal, the organization is not only able to provide kids with gifts, but also resources needed for its two community center locations that provide year-round youth and family programs. The Angel Tree program has been successful because it not only provides tangible items, but also creates feelings of joy and promise. “We aren’t trying to give anybody a bandaid to cover the problem,” Bowers says. “We are wanting to provide hope in a time where parents may feel hopeless, because we know there are circumstances outside of the parents’ control.” The Salvation Army Indiana Division is located at 6060 Castleway West Drive in Indianapolis. To learn more about Central Indiana Angel Tree, call 317-937-7000 and go to centralusa.salvationarmy.org/ indiana/angeltree.
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LIGHT IT UP NEWFIELDS HOSTING FOURTH ANNUAL WINTERLIGHTS EVENT
Jonathan Wright, Deputy Director for Horticulture & Natural Resources
20 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / DECEMBER 2020 / atCarmel.com
Writer & Photographer / Michael Durr
The only thing better than the silent majesty of a winter’s morning is a holiday evening spent at the Winterlights event at Newfields. 2020 marks the fourth year for what has quickly become one of Indy’s favorite holiday traditions. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you might be thinking that it’s Christmas and we’re all in misery, but fear not - this year’s Winterlights have undergone a few tweaks and you can keep your expectations high, as the Newfields team members have once again shown they know best when it comes to exterior illumination. Jonathan Wright, deputy director for horticulture and natural resources, leads
the charge for this year’s Winterlights event. Timed tickets, a mask mandate and a one-way flow are just a few of the steps being taken by Wright and his team to ensure the health and safety of all the attendees and staff members. What exactly goes into making the Winterlights event such an incredible holiday spectacle?
the highest branches, with a single tree having as many as 60,000 individual lights illuminating it. The wrapping of those trees can start as early as August, and finishing touches are typically completed leading up until the final days before the start of the show.
“The big joke among our staff is that we spend half the year putting the lights up and half the year taking the lights down,” Wright says.
With more than a million-and-a-half lights glowing throughout the property, it’s not surprising that this endeavor takes months of meticulous planning, preparation and bulb checking. Between staff members and volunteers, there are hundreds of people involved in putting the show together.
Some of the 100-year-old trees located throughout the historic garden are wrapped from the ground to the tips of
“We couldn’t put on this show without the incredible team of dedicated garden volunteers who help throughout the year,
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creating some of the components, stringing lights and making ornaments,” Wright says. This year, Wright and his team are excited to unveil some incredibly bright, robotic flood lights that will allow for some breathtaking illuminated backdrops as attendees stroll through the garden. “The show is going to be bigger and brighter than it ever has been, and about 25% of the show will be entirely new,” Wright says. Also new this year is Indianapolis-based Huckleberry Funk’s cover of Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas,” which will be added to the Landscape of Light alongside last year’s “Nutcracker.” “The Landscape of Light is over 465 panels, and each one of those panels needs to be programmed to the eighth of a second to sync with the music,” Wright says. “It takes weeks and weeks of nothing but programming by our lighting designer, who has the incredible ability of translating the music visually.” Abundant lights, a beverage selection and new features will put a smile on the faces of all who attend. Warm chocolate chip cookies and Just Pop In! popcorn will be available for purchase, along with Sun King Brewing’s Electric Reindeer ale, West Fork Whiskey Co.’s cider, as well as hot cocoa. It might be a bit nippier out this year with fewer indoor activities, so come prepared to be outside this season, and enjoy a safe and socially distanced moment of togetherness. The show this year runs from November 21 through January 3, and is sure to be one of the highlights of the holiday season for anyone living in or around the Indianapolis area. Advanced tickets are required for all guests and members. Newfields is located at 4000 North Michigan Road in Indianapolis. For tickets or additional information, call 317-9231331 or visit discovernewfields.org.
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A Little Holiday Magic Clay Terrace Welcomes Socially Distanced Visits With Santa Through Dec. 24 Story & Photos Provided by Clay Terrace
Even in the midst of this uncertain time, nothing can stop the magic of the holidays and one of the season’s most cherished traditions – a visit with Santa Claus. Now through Thursday, Dec. 24, families can safely meet and greet Santa at Clay Terrace in his NEW location located across from Bath & Body Works next to solidcore and Village Clock Shop, 14311 Clay Terrace Blvd, Suite 160 Carmel. This year’s holiday season kicked off with a day full of holiday cheer at the Annual Santa Arrival and Tree Lighting event Nov. 27 at Clay Terrace. Clay Terrace welcomed Santa home to his new location with a welcome parade. Guests lined down the sidewalks of Clay Terrace to welcome Santa back this Holiday season. Festivities don’t end there, though. The visits with Santa will have a strong focus on health and safety, while allowing for a fun and memorable experience for children and families. Children will have the opportunity to engage in a socially distant conversation and safely pose for a picture with Santa during their visit to the Clay Terrace North Pole. Advance registration is strongly encouraged in
order to promote social distancing and contactless payment for photo packages. Walk-up visits will be permitted as space allows. In addition to in-person Santa visits, Clay Terrace will also offer a variety of exciting digital experiences with Santa this year. These virtual options will bring the magic of Santa Claus to life remotely while allowing families to enjoy holiday traditions. More information is available at clayterrace.com. “Visits with Santa are such a nostalgic part of the holiday season for so many children and families in Carmel,” says Jennifer Jones, General Manager at Clay Terrace. “We’re thrilled to be able to bring a bit of normalcy and holiday magic to our community, while keeping health and safety as our top priority.” Santa will be on site to visit with families from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Monday – Saturday and 11 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sundays until Dec. 24. Guests can book their reservation time in advance at cherryhillprograms.com. Clay Terrace remains focused on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. In the continued need to address COVID-19, the town center has
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proactively implemented additions to the Code of Conduct, effective until further notice. These additions include the following guidelines: • Practice social distancing and stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people • Covering your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover in accordance with state and local guidelines • Do not gather in groups • Adhere to each individual tenant’s COVID-19 policies • Adhere to all federal, state and local regulations, recommendations and mandates regarding COVID-19 Clay Terrace’s already rigorous disinfectant and cleaning practices will also continue many times per day, including periodically disinfecting areas most susceptible to the spread of germs. Alcohol based hand sanitizer dispensers are located in highly trafficked areas and walkways for public use. Specifically, social distancing guidelines will be in place around the Santa set, as well as in all queue lines. For updated information, visit Clayterrace.com or call 317-818-0725.
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OUTDOOR MERRIMENT A MERRY PRAIRIE HOLIDAY RETURNS TO CONNER PRAIRIE
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“IT’S AN INSTAGRAM LOVER’S DREAM.” Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided by Conner Prairie
L
ast year Conner Prairie launched its first-ever winter festival, A Merry Prairie Holiday, which offered magical winter evenings throughout the month of December featuring charming lights, fun storytelling, carnival games, festive treats, and quality time with Santa and Mrs. Claus. “We knew it would be something special, but it ended up being something really, really special and immediately became a new tradition for a lot of families, much like our Headless Horseman Festival we have in the fall,” says Christine DeJoy, director of public affairs for Conner Prairie. “People told us that they were eager to come back and do it again this year.”
in these festivals,” DeJoy says. The staff disliked the idea of stripping away those wonderful opportunities. Thankfully, Conner Prairie is largely an outdoor museum, and while this will likely change in the future, for now it’s a huge plus. “When we got the OK from the City of Fishers Health Department that we could put on the Headless Horseman, we knew we’d be able to do A Merry Prairie Holiday,” says DeJoy, noting that the staff followed state and city mandates for mask wearing, capacity limits and sanitation. “We always make sure we are in line with what the community wants.”
This year Conner Prairie is requiring advance ticket sales ($20 for guests 2 and older, and $10 for members). This way attendees can select the day they want to The Conner Prairie staff was excited to bring come, and enjoy a walking experience from back A Merry Prairie Holiday, but then 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. through the park. COVID-19 happened and questions were Buying tickets ahead of time means the staff raised about safety concerns. knows when they have reached capacity for the night, and keeps families from “We are a cultural institution that gives potentially being turned away at the gate. opportunities for a lot of families to come out and explore our grounds and participate A Merry Prairie Holiday starts on Black
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Friday, November 27, and runs through December 23. The biggest change from last year is that there is no longer a wagon ride through the lighted Winter Wonderland stations, each of which have a theme such as “The 12 Days of Christmas” and “Candy Cane Lane.” The change, which results from the difficulty in cleaning and sanitizing as guests would normally load and unload from the wagon, has its advantages according to DeJoy. “The thing about the wagon ride is that it’s easy to miss things that are situated on the other side from where you are seated,” she says. “Now when you walk through, you can take your time and take it all in. It’s an Instagram lover’s dream.” Families will have plenty to do during their four-hour stay. Activities include the 150-foot Polar Bear Plunge dry tubing hill, festive rides on the Kringle’s Carousel, and holiday shopping at the Conner Prairie Store. The Reindeer Games, which include Gingerbread House Chimney Toss, Hi Striker and more, have all been reconfigured to be COVID-safe. There are also performances by local musicians at Blitzen’s Bandstand scheduled, fire pits
situated throughout the grounds, and cool historic experiences such as “Letters Home: Holidays and the Civil War.” The event will also include holiday treats like hot chocolate from various vendors. Kids can enjoy watching Santa and his elves busy in their workshop making gifts, preparing for the big night. Instead of hopping onto Santa’s lap and getting a photo with the family gathered around, selfies with Santa will be offered - a safe way to keep this age-old holiday tradition alive. “We can’t risk Santa getting COVID,” DeJoy says. To help with social distancing, Conner Prairie will have markings on the ground as well as signage that encourages guests to be vigilant about keeping masks on and staying with their group. Given the various difficulties of the year so far, the community is grateful to have something to look forward to this holiday season. “We’ve gotten lots of positive comments, starting with the Headless Horseman,” DeJoy says. “People thank us for still doing these two festivals. In fact, they are even more excited about them than usual since so many things this year have gotten cancelled. They say, ‘We like having something to look forward to at the end of the year.’ ” Conner Prairie is located at 13400 Allisonville Road in Fishers. If you have questions about COVID-19 safety precautions at Conner Prairie or would like to purchase tickets to A Merry Prairie Holiday, visit connerprairie.org or call 317-776-6000.
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