Travel Indiana Holiday Issue 2022

ANDERSON 94

BLOOMINGTON 80

BROWN COUNTY 30

CARMEL 35, 39, 44

CARROLL COUNTY 18, 38

CASS COUNTY 67

CHESTERTON 28, 37, 53

COLUMBUS 87

CULVER 28

DUBOIS COUNTY 31, 97

FRANKLIN COUNTY 29

Telling the Stories of Authentic Indiana

HOLIDAY 2022

See past issues and plan your weekend getaway at travelindiana.com

FEATURED COMMUNITIES

FRENCH LICK 26, 50

FULTON COUNTY 23

HANCOCK COUNTY 83

HARRISON COUNTY 88

HENRY COUNTY 99

JAY COUNTY 91

JENNINGS COUNTY 99

KOKOMO 19, 31

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY 14

LAGRANGE COUNTY 36, 58

LA PORTE 68, 29

PRESIDENT Jeff Brown

PUBLISHER + EDITOR Stephanie Nicol

OPERATIONS + DIGITAL MANAGER Andrea Pearce

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Jan Hoffman

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Amy DeLong

DESIGN + PRODUCTION CONSULTANTS Mediaworks Julien Design Studio

COVER DESIGN MyersCroxton Group

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julie Campbell Elizabeth Granger Glenda Winders

outdoor

LAKE COUNTY 4, 34, 78

LAFAYETTE-WEST LAFAYETTE 76 MADISON 2

MARION COUNTY 17, 54

MARSHALL COUNTY 47

MONTGOMERY COUNTY 86

MORGAN COUNTY 84 MUNCIE 30, 100

NOBLE COUNTY 24, 28

PARKE COUNTY 102

PERRY COUNTY 24

PERU 24

PULASKI COUNTY 82

RICHMOND 66

SCOTT COUNTY 48, 65

SHELBY COUNTY 89

STEUBEN COUNTY 60

VALPARAISO 34, 46

VINCENNES 29

WABASH 52

WASHINGTON COUNTY 86

WHITING 34

FOR COMMENTS OR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: travelindiana

500 Franklin St. Columbus, IN 47201

make payments to: Travel Indiana LLC PO BOX 1472 Columbus, IN 47202

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PUBLISHED BY TRAVEL INDIANA LLC

All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced or duplicated without the written permission of the publisher.

Publication Date: October 2022

Indiana’s

Our “Holiday Shopping Guide” pages are filled with great ideas on how to plan a weekend trip around a favorite pastime…shopping! You’ll see listings featuring locally-owned boutiques, small town charm, warehouse sales, toy shops, and other spots that will help round out your holiday shopping adventures.

Publisher’s Letter

Starting a new tradition of any kind just takes a wee bit of imagination, inspiration, and a little motivation. We hope our cover story will give you all three, as we’ve laid out some of the state’s top experiences to help make the holidays extra special.

We’ve included lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, live performances, and more. You’ll read about some time-honored traditions like the “Circle of Lights” in downtown Indianapolis, and some newer events like Peru’s Christkindlmarkt, which just started in 2019.

Our “Holiday Shopping Guide” pages are filled with great ideas on how to plan a weekend trip around a favorite pastime… shopping! You’ll see listings featuring locally-owned boutiques, small town charm, warehouse sales, toy shops, and other spots that will help round out your holiday shopping adventures.

In our “Sweetest Treats” story, you’ll learn about Gilbert’s Candy & Confections in Chesterton, a locally-owned candy shop that’s become a true destination. We’ve covered lots of other sugary stops around Indiana, including Martinsville Candy Kitchen where you can see candy canes being made on-site.

We wanted to give our readers some new ideas on how to enjoy the autumn season. So, our “History With Mystery” feature will send you on some “ghostly” adventures…all in good fun, of course. You’ll read about ghost tours, haunted buildings, and some special events fit for the whole family.

And as always, be sure and check out our website, travelindiana.com for even more trip ideas.

ON THE COVER

“A Christmas Story” Comes Home in Hammond.

PHOTO: South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority

Happy and safe travels!

Stephanie Nicol, Publisher + Editor

Telling the Stories of Authentic Indiana

of sorts, has been drawing in crowds for more than 35 years. And you can’t miss The Nutcracker, performed by the Indianapolis Ballet at the Murat Theatre at Old National Centre. This iconic holiday classic runs December 16, 17, and 18. For an abbreviated version of this Tchaikovsky masterpiece, check out the Nutcracker Sweets, the holiday tradition you know and love, deliciously

bite-sized. It’s performed at The Toby at Newfields December 9, 10, and 11.

The Jacobs School of Music in Bloomington will also be presenting The Nutcracker at the Musical Arts Center. This year’s performances will be December 1, 2, 3 at 7:30, and December 3 and 4 at 2 p.m.

Another logical place to start your trek might be the town of Santa Claus While it celebrates Christmas all year long, some of its December traditions include chestnuts roasting on an open fire at Santa’s Candy Castle, Christmas dinner with Santa at Santa’s Lodge and

TOP TO BOTTOM:

The Nutcracker will be performed at the Jacobs School of Music in Bloomington.

PHOTO: Jacobs School of Music

The musical comedy, “Our Christmas Dinner,” at the Blue Gate Theatre.

PHOTO: Blue Gate

Derby Dinner Playhouse presents “White Christmas.”

PHOTO: Derby Dinner Playhouse Paramount Theatre in Anderson.

PHOTO: Dale Pickett

...Candy Kitchen in Martinsville, where visitors can watch the seasonal treats being made...

the Santa Claus Christmas Parade. If you decide to stay over, bunk in at Santa’s Lakeside Cottages, Rudolph’s Christmas Cabins or Santa’s Lodge.

Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights at Wellfield Botanic Gardens in Elkhart.

PHOTO: Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau

A Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie.

PHOTO: Conner Prairie

Wherever you set out, be sure to make a stop in Bloomington, where the Courthouse Square sparkles under a Canopy of Lights created from miles of bulbs and switched on by none other than Santa himself. In nearby Brown County, where shopping for artistic and unusual gifts is a year-round attraction, a new tradition begun last year is the Christkindl Market , where artists and other vendors will make shopping fun and easy at the three-day event in Coachlight Square.

Choosing gifts is a nighttime affair in Columbus at the annual “Not So Silent Night.” This is an event where stores stay open late and shoppers enjoy carolers, food and rides in a horse-drawn carriage. In the city’s architecturally significant City Hall one central Christmas tree reflected in a semicircle of windows makes it seem to multiply.

One tradition in Morgan County is the Candy Kitchen in Martinsville, where visitors can watch the seasonal treats being made and then sample them. The tree lighting here is part of the Bobby Helms Jingle Bell Rock Christmas Music Spectacular. Helms, who wrote and performed the original song, lived in

CLOCKWISE:

The Candy Cane Express in Tell City.

PHOTO: Perry County Convention & Visitors Bureau

SUMMER YOU-PICK

This winter, come immerse yourself In the spectacular Forest of Lights, Illuminating a one-mile wooded nature trail at Fair Oaks Farms. Cozy up by the fires, indulge in the food and enjoy the fun on the all-ages Ice skating rink and Ice slide!

AT THE FAIR OAKS FARMS ORCHARD

Forest of Lights: November 18-January 1, 2023

Sunday-Thursday 5-8pm CST

Friday & Saturday- 5-9pm CST *closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve Day and Christmas Day

Ice Skating & Slide: November 18-March 5, 2023

Sunday-Thursday 12-8pm CST Friday & Saturday 12-9pm CST

Martinsville, and his brother organizes the event. In addition to live music will be holiday characters, carriage rides and a train on which kids can take an excursion.

Another tasty happening in Martinsville is the Cookie Stroll, where hundreds of volunteer bakers donate their wares. Participants buy a “passport” that entitles them to a cookie from each stop, usually about 30. A visit to Santa in the Park at Waverly Park will yield stories, refreshments in the historic church, and demonstrations by a blacksmith, a tinsmith and more -- all for free. In nearby Mooresville, this year is the 33rd year of the Victorian Christmas Celebration, with characters in costume, artisan booths, street vendors and a shuttle to transport visitors around town.

In Kokomo the Seiberling Mansion takes the holiday spotlight. While it is

open all year for tours, decorating it for the holidays has been a local tradition since 1991-- the home’s 100th birthday. Visitors enjoy a stunning collection of beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, garlands and thousands of twinkling lights -– both inside and out. Decorations are created on a theme that changes each year.

“There isn’t a more elegant place to celebrate the holiday season than the Seiberling Mansion,” says Sherry Matlock, manager of the Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau. “The Seiberling Mansion is exquisitely decorated for the holidays and is definitely worth a visit.”

Nearby Peru’s third annual Christkindlmarkt , kicks off November 18 at 4 pm on Courthouse Square downtown, and shopping, ice skating and dining at the Christmas Village will open, with German folk dancing at 8 p.m. Throughout the

The Indianapolis Ballet performs The Nutcracker at Old National Centre.

PHOTO: Sonja Clark, Moonbug Photography

CLOCKWISE:

At Holly Days in Valparaiso, you can drop off a letter to Santa and shop for gifts at retailer open houses.

PHOTO: Valparaiso Events

Christmas at the Seiberling Mansion.

PHOTO: Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau

The Ruthmere Mansion in Elkhart gets decked out for the holidays.

PHOTO: Elkhart County Convention & Tourism Bureau

weekend there are Santa train rides, a Christmas open house, refreshments, live entertainment and a Christmas Parade.

Speaking of Chistkindlmarkts, don’t miss the one in Carmel, which truly brings the charm of a long-standing German tradition to Central Indiana. This open-air holiday market runs during special hours November 19-December 30. Here you’ll find a blend of traditional German foods, drinks, and gifts sold from small wooden huts.

While you’re in Carmel, check out The Cake Bake Shop, which becomes a winter wonderland during the holidays.

Cruis’n the HoliJay Lights at the Fairground in Portland is a new tradition begun last year. A true community project, this drive-through light display is a collaboration between citizens and local businesses. The Jay County Chamber holds its Winterfest here, providing a walk-through experience that includes carriage rides, cookie and ornament decorating, and a 4-H Petting Zoo. Santa will be there some days, too.

In Madison, you find nearly 900 individually-decorated trees at the annual “Festival of Trees,” which premieres Thanksgiving weekend and runs through Christmas day. The 123 Mill Street cellar

Decorating Seiberling Mansion for visitors has been a local tradition since 1991.

is bejeweled in holiday splendor, and forest of glittering, gleaming trees towers over guests.

Experience the joys of a Victorian Christmas in the heart of Huntingburg’s downtown historic district during the Christmas Stroll, November 6-13. The inviting decorated storefronts along the street are filled with everything you need to complete your holiday shopping.

Held the third full weekend in November annually, the Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt features more than 200 lavishly-decorated booths spilling over with quality hand-created items, Christmas wares, antiques, art, delicious regional food and wine, live entertainment, and more.

From the moment you arrive until the moment you leave, your trip on the in Tell City will be

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F R E N C H K N O T . C O M

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S U S T A I N A B L E , V I N T A G E - I N S P I R E D

K N I T W E A R , G I F T S A N D H O M E D E C O R

an all-out festive celebration. During the train ride, you’ll visit with Santa and other Christmas characters, enjoy scenery and outdoor displays along the route, and much more.

In Newton County the Forest of Lights is back at Fair Oaks Farms with a half-mile trail through the woodland past creative and artistic lighting scenes. Bonfire pits in the middle of the trail make an ideal setting for s’mores and hot chocolate as well as the Forest Pub that provides fun adult concoctions. New this year is an ice-skating rink, with skate assist for children and adults and skate rentals provided as well as an ice slide.

Elkhart County glows during this special time of year.

Winter Wonderland

Holiday Lights is an annual event at the Wellfield Botanic Gardens, one of the true gems of this area, which lights

its gardens with some 1.5 million lights. The Ruthmere Museum decorates its historic mansion in themes to reflect the Christmas season that are playful, fun and consistent with the classic Beaux Arts style architecture and styling of the home.

Nearby Shipshewana’s Lights of Joy is a lighted drive-through event on the grounds of the Shipshewana Flea Market that draws carloads from all around the area. And in the run-up to Christmas, the Blue Gate Theatre here will host performances of “Our Christmas Dinner,” “A Very Electric Christmas,” “Salute to the Stars: Country Christmas,” “Lee Greenwood Christmas,” and more.

For even more festive holiday shows, check out the Derby Dinner Playhouse in Clarksville where you can see Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and Santa Claus The Musical.

LEFT: Meltdown Winter Ice Festival is held every January in Richmond.

PHOTO: Richmond Wayne County Convention & Tourism Bureau

ABOVE: The Enchanted Luminaria Walk at Minnetrista in Muncie.

PHOTO: Minnetrista

In Valparaiso, marvel at ice skating demonstrations and the magnificently decorated 38-foot Central Park Plaza tree (with over 26,000 lights) at Valpo Parks’ annual Winter Fest & Tree Lighting on November 26. Also make plans for their Holly Days event December 2 and 3.

In Hammond they celebrate with “‘A Christmas Story’ Comes Home.”

This holiday tradition showcases seven animated window displays, each depicting a scene from the classic holiday movie. Hammond was the home of the author, Jean Shepherd, and where the movie was set. Visitors can relive their childhood memories of Santa and that long-soughtafter Christmas present while strolling through the exhibit, admiring the decorated Christmas trees, shopping in the gift shop or visiting with Santa.

Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure is a locomotive wonderland at the Eiteljorg Museum. PHOTO: Eiteljorg Museum

Cruis’n the HoliJay Lights at the Jay County Fairgrounds. PHOTO: Jay County Visitors & Tourism Bureau

Porter County offers good shopping, too. An outdoor market in Chesterton where vendors and artisans focus on holiday gift-giving downtown is followed by the Christmas tree lighting in the park and the holiday parade. Mistletoe Market on another Saturday is an outdoor market for all things Christmas. And as long as you’ve come for the markets, the downtown merchants would love a visit to stores that offer everything from antiques, fine jewelry, women’s clothing and accessories to toys, floral arrangements and home decor.

When the holidays are over and January rolls around, the fun isn’t finished yet. Much more is yet to be had

TOP TO BOTTOM:

The Cake Bake Shop, with locations in Broad Ripple and Carmel, becomes even more special during the holidays.

PHOTO: The Cake Bake Shop

The Eos sculpture welcomes visitors to Columbus during the holiday season.

PHOTO: Columbus Area Visitors Center

The Christmas Parade in the town of Santa Claus always takes place the second Saturday in December.

PHOTO: Santa Claus Visitors Bureau

Indianapolis is home to the largest Christmas “tree” in the world, the 284-foottall Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

in Richmond when they hold the Meltdown Winter Ice Festival, their biggest event of the year. You’ll be able to judge competing ice carvers, play in an interactive ice park with an array of games created entirely from ice, take carriage rides and follow a frozen fairy trail. Watch a live musical performance, have a snack from a food truck and enjoy a frosty mug pub crawl while you wait for the fireworks that cap off the evening. It makes for the perfect way to start off the new year.

PERU, INDIANA

Come to Peru, Indiana and enjoy our 3rd annual Christkindlmarkt, Friday, November 18 through Sunday, November 20.

This German-inspired festival includes food, drink, a skating rink, wagon rides, a live reindeer, German music¸ and a lot of great shopping!

Go to Facebook: Peru, IN Christkindlmarkt for more information.

Downtown Indianapolis’ Circle of Lights is the city’s most time-honored tradition.

PHOTO: Downtown Indy, Inc.

FRENCH LICK RESORTHolidays at

If you’ve visited French Lick Resort during the holidays, you know it’s an experience like none other. If you haven’t, put it at the top of your 2022 wish list.

And if you’re the type who loves putting up holiday decorations early and leaving the tree up a few weeks beyond Christmas, French Lick and West Baden are your holiday spirit animal. The magic of the season always lasts a little longer here.

Tree Lighting Ceremonies & Christmas Season

If there’s one day all year that’s a gottasee type of experience at French Lick Resort, it’s the tree lighting ceremony. With two historic hotels on property each with their own tree lightings, you’ve got two chances to catch it.

West Baden Springs Hotel’s tree lighting is Saturday, November 12 and French Lick Springs Hotel follows on Saturday, November 19. Both hotels fill up well in advance for the occasion, so you’ll want to make reservations soon to witness all the

Throughout the rest of the holidays, the little ones can get a picture with Santa on weekends, write a letter to St. Nick with a reply sent home, or make a stuffed buddy at Santa’s toymaker workshop. There’s also story time and cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus.

Even just admiring all the dazzling holiday decorations (which stay up until the second week of January) could be a trip unto itself. From the holiday village and famous gingerbread house on the upper level of the Event Center, to the dozen Christmas trees and half-million holiday lights resort-wide, this winter wonderland is a sight to behold.

Thanksgiving

No cooking. No dishes. No, you’re not dreaming.

It’s all feasting and all relaxing when you spend Turkey Day at French Lick and West Baden. If you’re in the market for a destination Thanksgiving, French Lick and West Baden have you covered with impressive spreads — both slightly different; each loaded with dozens of tasty options just like you’d have at grandma’s house. Take all that holiday cooking off your plate, and maybe start a new holiday tradition in the process.

There’s more to enjoy, too: Tom the Turkey Run to get your appetite worked

up, and Bounce Bash for the kids featuring bounce houses and video games all weekend. And don’t forget Family Photography Weekend, an ideal opportunity to score that professional family photo for the Christmas cards.

New Year’s Eve

When’s the last time you really celebrated New Year’s Eve in style?

Whether it’s a date night for two or more of a party with the whole crew, both of French Lick Resort’s Rio-themed New Year’s celebrations are a spectacle not to be missed. Ditch the PJ’s for the formalwear, and treat yourself to a rock-star New Year’s for once.

Tree Lighting ceremony and activities.

festivities: the lighting of the 40+ foot tall trees, the treats, activities, music, and all the other little surprises that get you in the spirit. (West Baden’s ceremony is exclusive to guests staying at the hotel that night, while French Lick’s ceremony is open to the public.)

At French Lick Springs Hotel, ring in 2022 with a Brazilian-inspired menu, live entertainment and a Champagne toast at midnight. West Baden Springs Hotel’s gala under the iconic dome includes live music and dancing, and a mini dessert buffet before the traditional midnight Champagne toast ushers in the new year.

Plus, while the grown-ups have their fun, kids age 6-17 have their own party to enjoy with food and supervised games and entertainment.

Check out the full lineup of holiday offerings at frenchlick.com

ABOVE: Christmas tree under the dome.

RIGHT: Bring the family to see Santa on the weekends.

PHOTOS: French Lick Resort

PHOTO: French Lick Resort

West Baden Springs Hotel has a wonderful New Year’s Gala under the iconic dome.

PHOTO: French Lick Resort

FIFTH THIRD BANK

RAILS

THE GREAT WESTERN ADVENTURE NOV 19 – JAN 16

Enter a locomotive wonderland at this one-of-a-kind holiday adventure. This year, the Indiana State Fair scene is expanded to include the Glass Barn.

parking in the underground garage.

NOV 5 – FEB 5

Also see the exhibition Snow Days, centered on the theme of winter. Featuring beautiful paintings, pottery, textiles and other works of art.

Oscar Edmund Berninghaus (American, 1874-1952)

Night of the Dance, before 1925, oil on canvas, 30 x 40 inches

Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. Bequest of Kenneth S. “Bud” and Nancy Adams. 2015.8.17

SPONSORED BY:

BY:

The Sunrise Foundation, a fund of the Indianapolis Foundation

HOLIDAY EVENTS TRADITIONS

CULVER HOLIDAY WEEKEND

819 E Lake Shore Drive • Culver findculver.com/events/culverholidayweekend

FRIDAY DECEMBER 2

Cookie Decorating, Tree Lighting, Town-Wide Caroling, & Meet Santa Beach Lodge/Train Depot 6-8 PM

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3

Holiday Hop-Shop & Dine around town with a punch card and enter to win a gift card basket!

“A CHRISTMAS STORY” COMES HOME

7770 Corinne Dr. • Hammond achristmasstorycomeshome.com

This holiday tradition showcases animated window displays; each depicting a classic scene from the holiday movie, “A Christmas Story.” Relive your childhood memories of Santa and that longsought-after Christmas present while strolling through the exhibit, admiring the decorated Christmas trees, shopping in our gift shop and visiting with Santa atop Santa’s Mountain.

CHESTERTON HOMETOWN HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

NOVEMBER 26 • 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Downtown Chesterton dunelandchamber.org/events/details/ hometown-holiday-celebration

Join us for downtown retail open houses, Holiday Outdoor Market, Visit with Santa, 22-foot-tall tree lighting ceremony and the annual Twilight Christmas Parade.

NOBLE COUNTY WINDMILL WINTER WONDERLAND

DECEMBER 2-4 & DECEMBER 9-11 Mid-America Windmill Museum in Kendallville

Noble County’s largest outdoor light display returns to the MidAmerica Windmill Museum at 732

S. Allen Chapel Road. The public can enjoy walking through the displays – nestled among the windmills – for a $4 admission fee. Ample parking is available. The display will be open Friday – Sunday, Dec. 2-4 and Dec. 9-11 from 5:30 to 8:30 PM. Children 12 and younger are free.

Plan your next road trip around the state’s best holiday events and traditions

METAMORA CHRISTMAS WALK

NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 18

Franklin County metamoraindiana.com

Celebrate the holidays in Metamora, Indiana’s Canal Town. Christmas Walk is the prettiest time of the year to make family memories with decorations and evening lights, lanterns glowing along the Whitewater Canal, Santa and carolers. This quaint village, established in 1838, goes all out with its award-winning Christmas décor. Families return year after

LA PORTE SANTA PARADE NOVEMBER 26

Lincolnway • Downtown La Porte livinthelakelife.org

Santa Claus is coming to town –downtown, that is! Held annually on the last Saturday in November, the City of La Pore’s Santa Parade is a longtime favorite among residents and visitors alike. Get into the holiday spirit with dozens of Christmasinspired floats, and don’t forget to get your picture with Santa back at his chalet!

89TH ANNUAL PURDUE CHRISTMAS SHOW

DECEMBER 3-4

Elliott Hall of Music • Lafayette

As they say in show business, “the show must go on!” Purdue Musical Organizations is thrilled to announce that the 89th annual Purdue Christmas Show will return live and in-person this year!

After two years of virtual productions, the PMO students and staff are excited to perform for a live audience in the Elliott Hall of Music this December 3-4, 2022.

year to share the joy of the season, and find unique gifts in the many specialty shops. Cozy Bed-and-Breakfasts offer overnight accommodations and local eateries serve meals and snacks to busy visitors. Beginning the Friday of Thanksgiving weekend and continuing for three weekends after, the shops are open until 10pm on Fri. & Sat. evenings. Visit our town website metamoraindiana. com or check out all that Franklin County has to offer at franklincountyin.com

While in Franklin County, check out the German village of Oldenberg, just a few miles south of Metamora on SR 229 where they celebrate Holiday Under the Spires the first weekend in December. Or travel north to Connersville and catch a ride on the Polar Express™ (get your tickets online, these rides sell out quickly whitewatervalleyrr.org )

CHRISTMAS AT GROUSELAND DECEMBER 2

Grouseland – Wm H. Harrison Mansion and Museum

3 West Scott Street • Vincennes visitvincennes.org/event/christmas-atgrouseland-2/

View the elegant William Henry Harrison Mansion, Grouseland, by candlelight and decorated for Christmas. Experience the holiday as the Harrison family did over 200 years ago! Each year the festivities carry a new theme with period reenactors portraying characters from the territorial period.

Since its inception in 1933, the annual Purdue Christmas Show has become a family favorite holiday tradition. Currently in its 89th year, this magical, lyrical campus miracle welcomes nearly 18,000 visitors to the Elliott Hall of Music for the annual performance.

All PMO ensembles perform in the Christmas Show, including the All-Campus & Community Chorale, Heart & Soul, the Purdue Bells, the Purdue Varsity Glee Club, the Purduettes, and University Choir.

Audience members will enjoy familiar highlights of Christmas Shows past, along with some inspiring new additions this year. As a special guest appearance, the PMO students will be joined on stage by Voctave, a professional a cappella group based in Central Florida.

Tickets for the Christmas Show are on sale now. Reserve your seat by visiting purdue.edu/pmo/christmas-show

We look forward to welcoming you back live and in-person to celebrate the holiday season this year!

CHRISTMAS AT THE SEIBERLING

NOVEMBER 26-DECEMBER 31

1200 W. Sycamore Street • Kokomo

VisitKokomo.org/ChristmasinKokomo

The Victorian elegance of the Seiberling Mansion in Kokomo is a perfect setting to celebrate the holiday season! Explore the stunning collection of beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, garlands and holiday décor among thousands of Christmas lights – both inside and out. Open Tuesday-Sunday 1-4 p.m. and select evenings from Nov. 26 – Dec. 31.

CARMEL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA HOLIDAY POPS

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4, 3PM & 7PM

The Palladium • Carmel Tickets: CarmelSymphony.org

Carmel Symphony Orchestra under Artistic Director Janna Hymes gives you not one but two opportunities to celebrate, with matinee and evening performances of CSO’s Holiday Pops! Music, dance and plenty of cheer is our holiday gift to you, with vocalists Josh Kaufman and Leah Crane, NZtapz Dancers and Indianapolis Children’s Choir.

Experience olde world charm with Christmas events found exclusively in DUBOIS COUNTY.

TRIM-A-TREE FESTIVAL

Markland Mall

1114 S. Seventeenth Street • Kokomo

VisitKokomo.org/ChristmasinKokomo

Businesses, organizations, and clubs annually choose a fun theme and beautifully decorate Christmas trees and wreaths. All stay on display in Kokomo’s Markland Mall for 2 weeks and then are auctioned off to the highest bidder. See the trees on display from Oct. 31 – Nov. 13 and vote for your favorite! Proceeds benefit We Care, a local non-profit.

NOVEMBER 5-13

Huntingburg Christmas Stroll

Stroll Huntingburg’s Historic 4th Street. Enjoy unique specialty shops and eateries as you experience all the joys of the holiday Season. Event highlights include fashion show, tree lighting, sips and bites, Dickens visits 4th street, horse drawn carriage rides, home tours, and more. Be sure to come back on December 3 for “A Christmas Journey” parade and ice rink.

NOVEMBER 19-20

Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt

Located in six markt locations throughout Ferdinand, enjoy handmade treasures, primitives, antiques, delicious regional food and wines, and over 200 booths in a festive setting. Other highlights include live glockenspiel performances, marionette theater, free shuttle service, tours of the Monastery, and Evansville Philharmonic “Sounds of the Season” Concert.

DECEMBER 2-4

Jasper O’Tannenbaum Days

Enjoy holiday shopping and activities centered around the colossal Christmas tree and throughout this quaint city. Highlights include artistan demonstrations, Santa Claus, carriage rides, Holiday Bazaars, and cookie walks. Be sure to enjoy the live entertainment as well with “Rockapella Christmas” on December 4 and “It’s A Wonderful Life: Radio Play” on December 1 and 2.

For more information see page 91.

BEST HOLIDAY HOPPING INDIANA’S

We have your ticket to a memorable moment between you and yours! Give the gift of quality time with plans to attend an upcoming show at the historic Buskirk-Chumley Theater in downtown Bloomington. Conveniently buy tickets online or shop ornaments, gift cards, and more at the Bloom Box Office at the BCT.

SUBURBAN INDY HOLIDAY SHOW

NOVEMBER 23-25

Grand Park Events Center • Westfield suburbanindyshows.com/holiday/

From the former producer of the Christmas Gift & Hobby Show, this new Suburban Indy Holiday Show will be a holiday shoppers paradise at a fraction of the entry cost! Online tickets are only $5 and parking is FREE at the modern Grand Park Events Center in Westfield! Bring your friends, family or yourself to get a head start on holiday shopping for decor, clothing, unique gifts & more!

FRENCH KNOT WAREHOUSE SALE

525 Wabash Ave • Lafayette 765-400-8634

SATURDAYS

DEC. 3RD & 10TH Hours: 10am - 4pm frenchknot.com •@myfrenchknot

A once-a-year event, artisan made hats, hand accessories and gifts. Up to 75% off samples, seconds and overstocks. As seen in Anthropologie, Sundance, QVC and other major retailers.

French Knot works hand in hand with over 1000 women artisans in Nepal to skillfully hand-knit our products using fair trade practices. Our mission is to create beautiful accessories that are responsibly sourced, long lasting and celebrate timehonored craftsmanship.

PRAIRIE ARTS COUNCIL’S HOLIDAY SHOW & SALE

Lilian Fendig Gallery

Rensselaer

301 N Van Rensselaer St.

Join us for our 28th Annual Holiday Show and Sale. Presenting original art, fine crafts, and artisan foods from local artisans.

Sale Dates:

Thursday Nov. 10, 4:00pm – 7:00pm

Friday Nov. 11, 9:00am – 7:00pm

Saturday Nov. 12, 9:00am – 4:00pm

Boutiques, wineries, specialty shops, and downtown shopping districts— they all combine to make this year’s holiday shopping a fun adventure. Check out some of Indiana’s best shopping spots.

THE STERLING BUTTERFLY

96 E Morgan St. Martinsville 765-318-2159 thesterlingbutterfly.com pam@thesterlingbutterfly.com

Hours: Tues-Friday 10 am- 5 pm Sat 10 am – 4 pm And By Appointment

The Sterling Butterfly is a gift shop and art studio featuring local and regional artisan crafted products, including artisan jewelry by Pam Hurst. Her creations have been featured on the television shows and award show gift bags such as Jane the Virgin and The Academy Awards.

LEGENDARY BOUTIQUE SHOPPING

French Lick, West Baden Paoli, Orleans

visitfrenchlickwestbaden.com/ shopping

Enjoy unique and eclectic boutique shopping while in Orange County.

HEN PECKED PRIMITIVES

469 South Maple Street Suite 102 • French Lick 812-936-4705

Located off The Green in downtown French Lick. Enjoy a unique shopping experience of primitive furniture, home decor, and gifts. Specializing in handcrafted furniture, up-cycled jewelry, hand-painted signs, custom candles, leather work, graphic-T’s, as well as other home decor

From stylish clothing, hand-made accessories, shoes, handbags and more. Our lovely communities are the perfect backdrop for strolling shop to shop, visiting with friends and family all while treating yourself too.

Downtown Martinsville Historic District

Rediscover Martinsville invites you to shop independent boutiques in a charming downtown setting during this holiday season. If you haven’t been to downtown Martinsville recently, it’s time to take another look. With recently renovated historic buildings and a beautiful red brick courthouse, downtown Martinsville is the perfect place to enjoy fall getaways and seasonal holiday shopping.

Shop Local

Locally-owned boutiques carry a wide variety of carefully selected apparel, jewelry, re-imagined furniture, home décor, works from local artisans and more. There’s even an award-winning independent book shop! Dine at local restaurants, ranging from chef-inspired flavors to casual diner fare.

Holiday Magic

Visit the iconic Martinsville Candy Kitchen, a 100-year-old candy shop known for handmade holiday treats and watch as they create holiday magic with traditionally crafted candy canes.

Extend the Fun

Extend your visit with an overnight getaway at Brickhouse Loft, an all-suite lodging option. Book a room, or all eight suites for a larger friend or family group. Pamper yourselves at the local day spa.

Special Events

FRENCH LICK WINERY & SPIRITS GIFT SHOP

8145 W. Sinclair Street West Baden 812-936-2293

frenchlickwinery.com

The winery features a large gift shop where you will find winerelated gifts, including souvenirs, apparel, wine gadgets and gift baskets, as well as gourmet food items. Wonderful selection of coffee too. Shop, wine and dine all in one location.

Enjoy the festive holiday atmosphere with special events throughout the season including open artists’ studios on the second Friday of each month and shopping events on the third Thursday of each month. Join us for our larger holiday events such as: the Bobby Helms Christmas Music Spectacular and Tree lighting, the Martinsville Cookie Stroll and the Martinsville Small Business Saturday Event. We look forward to celebrating the holidays with you!

More Info

For more information on upcoming events and things to do in downtown Martinsville and all of Morgan County, go to visitmorgancountyin.com and follow Rediscover Martinsville and Visit Morgan County, Indiana on Facebook.

CITY OF WHITING

Grab your holiday shopping list and spend a day in the City of Whiting, Indiana’s quaint and cozy downtown business district. With walkable shops and eateries galore, 119th Street offers handcrafted, homemade products that embody the holiday spirit. While exploring Whiting this holiday season, be sure to take a cheerful stroll or drive through our historic downtown to view the City’s holiday light displays. The many city lights and decorated business windows create a colorful, holiday ambiance the entire family will love. Spread the cheer, savor the season, and share the warmth of gift giving all holiday season long in Whiting, Indiana. whitingindiana.com

GOOD NEWS VINTAGE

613 Franklin St. • Michigan City 219-256-9963

Welcome to Good News Vintage, located in the historical Staiger Hardware building, in beautiful downtown Michigan City! We take pride in offering you hip, hand-picked curated collections of original vintage finds! Featuring a closet FULL of sustainable fashion…walls covered in mid century art and 2000 sq. ft. of vintage, vintage…and MORE vintage! Check Facebook and Instagram for current shop hours.

SHOP VALPO

Shop Local. Shop Small. Shop Valpo this season for all your gift-giving and holiday celebration needs! Find one-of-a-kind items at the many specialty shops and stores in historic downtown Valparaiso and beyond, and consider celebrating at or purchasing gift cards from the excellent local restaurants in Valpo. For a list of stores and eateries, visit valparaisoevents.com

UNSALTED NO SHARKS ®

523 Franklin St. • Michigan City, IN 20 N. Whittaker St. • New Buffalo, MI nosharksgear.com

Unsalted No Sharks ® is a shopping destination to look forward to offering unique finds, gifts and more. It’s lakeology; fresh water, sweet life. Stop by one of our locations today to get Unsalted. 10% donated annually to clean water initiatives. Rhythm, Lucky Brand, Carve Designs and More!

SOUTH SHORE GIFT SHOP

7770 Corinne Drive • Hammond alongthesouthshore.com

From “Made in Indiana” products and souvenirs to year-round ‘A Christmas Story’ memorabilia including the infamous leg lamp, our unique gift shop has something for everyone. Stop in to check out the collection of South Shore Line Posters or simply grab some delicious Albanese candies for the road.

Carmel Holiday SHopping

Check out this year’s Christkindlmarkt where you’ll find an array of Germaninspired food and gift items, from holiday ornaments to nutcrackers, and more. The market will be open Thursdays from 4 to 9 p.m. and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Nov.19 through Dec. 30. Ice skating at The Ice at Carter Green will open on November 19.

MIDTOWN PLAZA

317-571-2494

midtownplazacarmel.com

Midtown Plaza is a vibrant revitalization of Carmel’s old industrial area and brings its own unique urban atmosphere, distinct from its adjacent districts, the Arts & Design District and City Center. Don’t forget to include Midtown Plaza’s shops and eateries when you plan your shopping adventure.

ALL THINGS CARMEL

110 West Main Street Carmel 317-564-8732 allthingscarmel.com

Carmel, Indiana has consistently been ranked among America’s best places to live and All Things Carmel has plenty of items to show your local pride.

Located on West Main Street in the Arts & Design District, you’ll find hundreds of items that celebrate Indiana’s premier community including branded apparel, glassware, keepsake items and unique works of art. All things Carmel is committed to supporting local artists and artisans and also serves as a wealth of information for visitors and guests.

CARMEL CITY CENTER

720 South Range Line Road 866-892-8990 carmelcitycenter.com

With the appeal of a neighborhood and the vibrancy of a downtown, Carmel City Center is an international and intergenerational marketplace of independently owned shops, restaurants and

entertainment options where friendliness and extra personal touches keep visitors coming back again and again. More than a dozen businesses offer a bit of everything, from toys and home décor, to ladies boutique wear and unique gifts. Plan your shopping trip around lunch and dinner at one of City Center’s incredible restaurants, ranging from ethnic cuisine to desserts!

CARMEL ARTS & DESIGN DISTRICT

317-571-ARTS carmelartsanddesign.com

The Carmel Arts & Design District is located along Main Street, and is home to interior designers, art galleries, showrooms, specialty shops and restaurants. Here you’ll find shops specializing in art,

antiques, books, fashion, home décor, jewelry and much more. For foodies, there are specialty food shops and an array of restaurants serving everything from Egyptian fare to coastal cuisine. The Carmel Arts & Design District has more than 200 businesses and hosts a variety of festivals and public events every year.

DOWNTOWN SHIPSHEWANA

Cozy shops that line Harrison and Morton Streets give visitors the experience of finding hidden treasures. From boutiques to antiques there are surprises around every corner. With plenty of parking, you can walk from store to store seeing what our makers have created from unique pottery to original artwork on slate, windows, old milk cans and more.

YODER’S RED BARN SHOPPES

yodersredbarn.com

Located in the heart of Amish Country - Shipshewana’s “Red Barn” features nine stores showcasing Amish handcrafted furniture,

home accents, clothing for the whole family, custom scented products, books, candy, and a variety of food, along with a tea drinkers dream shop full of specialty item and teas. Come experience Shipshewana at the “Big Red Barn.”

DAVIS MERCANTILE davismercantile.com

The Davis Mercantile is home to over twenty truly great stores under one roof.

OUR FRONT PORCH & GLOW A CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE

shipshecasuals.com glowbookstore.com

YODER SHOPPING CENTER

yoderdepartmentstore.com

Unique experiences under one roof! Visit Yoder Department Store and Hardware where you will find items your grandparents used to own. Our guests find a unique blend of quality, hard-to-find items like Birkenstocks footwear. Rest in one of our rocking chairs while you sip of a fresh cup of coffee or grab a bite in the deli. Search through the region’s largest selection of fabrics, quilting and sewing supplies at reasonable prices. Our quilters will love the popular Cotton Corner.

This is your one stop shop destination from fabrics to kitchenware. Grab an inspirational book and a coffee while relaxing at the coffee shop and then browse the Shopper’s Paradise! Area’s largest selection of Shipshe Casuals apparel; purses, watches, Minnetonka footwear, John Deere merchandise, candy, quilts, statues, toys, and kitchen items.

You will find an oldfashioned toy and candy shop, roof top dining, specialty coffees and hand-made soft pretzels, ladies’ fashion and home décor, a music store, and loads of fabric. You are sure to find something for everyone! Take the family up to the third floor and enjoy a ride on the 1906 Dentzel Carousel featuring hand-carved farm animals. A beautiful attraction for people of all ages!

CHeSterton Holiday SHopping

• Beautiful historic downtown

• Lots of unique boutiques and shops

• Home to Indiana Dunes

National Park & Indiana

Dunes State Park

THREE MOONS FIBERWORKS

402 Broadway • 219-841-5387 threemoonsfiberworks.com

Three Moons Fiberworks LLC is a unique fiber arts studio, store, and school, conveniently located in northwest Indiana.

Come visit our gift gallery brimming with one of a kind fiber creations from local artists, explore yarn for your next project among the veritable rainbow of hand-dyed yarn or hand-spun yarn produced by local artists, and see our extensive selection of weaving yarn in a wide variety of fiber types and sizes.

While you are here, take time to explore our studio, which has one of the most diverse collection of looms in the Midwest, including over thirty floor looms, table looms, triangle looms, inkle looms, and more. All of the equipment in our studio is available for use – including spinning wheels and stainless-steel dyeing stations.

Have a few hours in your schedule? Arrange a one on one no-experience necessary weaving class where firsttime weavers can create their own rug or similar project! Already a weaver? You can reserve time on a loom – enjoy some quiet time weaving in front of our full-length windows with a view of charming downtown Chesterton. We will even warp up your project so you can focus on weaving – contact us for cost and availability.

CHESTERTON TOYS

201 S. Calumet Rd. • 219-728-3030 chestertontoys.com

Chesterton Toys believes that an active imagination is the key to a successful childhood. Our shop is a wonderland of classic and wooden toys, as well as unique, modern playthings, all with a strong focus on “kid powered” entertainment. Our goal is for children to grow their minds while actively engaging in play, without the need for batteries and computers. Just like the good ole days!

CONFECTIONS

1050 Broadway Suite 17 219-55-CANDY gilbertscandy.com

Starting in 2020 to bring joy to the community during an uncertain time, we’re honored to now be a family favorite destination in the Duneland area.

CHELLE’S BOUTIQUE & GARAGE

211 Broadway • 219-928-3001 chellesonline.com

At Chelle’s we believe in being socially conscious. The shop is full of handpicked pieces from manufactures that are leading the way with conscious purchase in mind. Here you’ll find local artists wares, women’s apparel and accessories, intimates, home furniture and décor, beauty and gifts, paint and paint accessories. Creating an experience is what we are about at Chelle’s, the atmosphere is fun and inviting and all our customers are treated as friends.

As a family-owned business, we focus on delicious candy and confections you typically won’t find anywhere else, including chocolates, toffee, nostalgia candies, craft sodas, and so much more. Our handmade favorites include our Root Beer Float and Dark Chocolate Coffee bars along with a variety of regular and sugar-free boxed chocolates and our Peppermint Crunch bar for the holidays. You can sample those and so much more from our sample wall, take a chance at one of our candy challenges, or participate in one of our frequent craft soda tastings. We also ship nationwide through our website. With every candy we make or carry in the store, our goal is to make life a little sweeter.

Carroll County Holiday SHopping

• Small town charm

• Unique shopping experience

• Discover the historic heartland of Carroll County Indiana

• Enjoy the scenery at Wabash and Erie Canal Park, Adams Mill or The Delphi Opera House carrollcountychamber.com

URBAN CHIQUE BOUTIQUE

211 S. Washington St. • Delphi 765-414-8081

Walking through the doors, you are greeted with a friendly associate introducing you to the layout of the shop. We carry sizes small-3XL plus a large selection of jewelry and accessories. So, when you’re looking for that perfect outfit, check out Urban Chique Boutique. “We would love to see you!”

HOMETOWN SHIRTS AND GRAPHIX

103 S Washington St. • Delphi 765-564-3066 hometownshirts.com

Hometown Shirts and Graphix offer a wide variety of home decor, seasonal decor, custom signs, custom ornaments, personalized gifts such as apparel, custom jewelry, cups, and more! We even have specialized gift opportunities for dogs and infants! Be sure to visit our website and our facebook page for more details and information regarding customized holiday gifts.

KATEY ROTH PHOTOGRAPHY

16 E. Columbia St. • Flora 765-490-3379 kateyrothphotography. mypixieset.com

Traveling all across the midwest, Katey Roth Photography captures families, seniors, engagements, weddings and more. Katey Roth Photography is known for a unique editing style, flexible payments, quick return time, and a fun atmosphere. Schedule a session for a unique holiday gift!

EMPIRE CONSIGNMENT

105 S. Washington • Delphi 765-201-8689 empireconsignment.com

A unique boutique style consignment store offering designer and brand name women’s clothing and accessories. Step out of your fashion comfort zone and into your One of a Kind Style!

NOBLE OWL & CO

705 S Michigan Rd • Burlington 574-398-2517

Noble Owl & Co is a Veteran owned and operated Gift Shop/ Boutique specializing in custom made gifts, decor and jewelry. We are a unique shop and have over 10 local artists featured throughout the store. Be sure to check out our Facebook page for new items and gift ideas!

FLOWERS & FRIENDS

12 W Columbia St. • Flora 574-967-3022

More than your local florist. Find unique, chalk painted furniture. Select a creatively designed silk arrangement, wreath, or lantern. Fill your home with scents from our candle lines. Pick a gift from our wall and table decor and signs. Or pick a day to treat yourself! Find us on Facebook!

Carmel Christkindlmarkt and The Ice at Carter Green

FFrothy hot chocolate, savory, gooey raclette cheese on perfectly crusty bread, shimmering salty pretzels and warm, spiced Ghlüwein await you! The Carmel Christkindlmarkt, voted again as USA Today’s No. 1 Best Holiday Market in North America, opens November 19 and this year, will remain open until December 30.

Now in its sixth year, the City of Carmel is excited to welcome back the Christkindlmarkt and the outdoor Ice at Carter Green skating season. Guests can shop for authentic German-made or inspired holiday gifts and grab tasty treats. Adults can stay warm sipping the signature, spiced mulled wine called Ghlüwein at the first “Tower of Ghlüwein” in America, which stands three stories high in the center of the Market.

Nestled in the heart of Carmel’s downtown, the Christkindlmarkt and The Ice at Carter Green offer spectacular views of the Palladium concert hall, Tarkington theater building and the stars above Carmel. It’s the perfect destination for groups of friends, family or a romantic date night spot after dinner at nearby restaurants like The Cake Bake Shop at

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Sights and sounds for all ages at the Christkindlmarkt.

Traditional German horns.

Live performances in the Winter Pavilion.

Traditional holiday ornaments.

CLOCKWISE: Teams enjoy friendly competion at the Carmel Winter Games 2022.

Skaters of all ages love the Ice at Carter Green.

Carmel City Center or the French restaurant, Vivante, located inside the adjacent Hotel Carmichael.

It is not uncommon to see visitors in formal wear as they emerge from the Palladium after a performance and take a stroll through the old-world charm of the market. Bonus points are earned if it’s snowing!

After being canceled in 2020 due to COVID, the Christkindlmarkt returned with a bang in 2021, attracting more than 400,000 visitors during its 25 days of operation. Last year the market also unveiled its new Winter Pavilion; a 34-foot by 70-foot open-air pavilion at the east end of Carter Green, near the Monon Greenway. The Pavilion is an ideal setting for live holiday entertainment on stage and grabbing a seat under the roof to enjoy food and drinks. For

young visitors, the market even features a Kinderecke or kids’ corner with crafts, games and special guest appearances.

Not to be overlooked is the large, authentic ice-skating rink that is built into the middle of the Market for the holiday season and can hold up to 250 skaters at a time. Skaters of all ages and talents have the opportunity to be on the ice under the crisp winter skies at The Ice at Carter Green.

After the Christkindlmarkt ends on December 30, The Ice at Carter Green’s season continues through the end of February. Winter-time activities there

include special events such as the Festival of Ice featuring professional ice carving competitions and the Carmel Winter Games with friendly team competition on the ice.

For more information on the Christkindlmarkt, visit CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com

For more information about the Ice at Carter Green, visit TheIceAtCarterGreen.com

FOR

Holiday Festivities & Traditions

story by KATIE ABEL

As the crisp, bright leaves of fall give way to the first snowflakes of winter, festive cheer and seasonal fun is waiting for you in the heart of Northwest Indiana. Delight in old traditions and create new memories at the many holiday events and activities in Valparaiso this season.

Is pumpkin spice and peppermint on your mind? Discover tasty treats throughout historic downtown Valpo at the first annual Autumn Promenade on Saturday, Nov. 12. Your tastebuds will thank you as you collect fall and holiday-themed delectables from participating retailers and businesses. This ticketed event will sell out fast, so visit valparaisoevents.com now to stroll along.

After getting your fill of savory and sweet, celebrate the opening of the ice rink in Central Park Plaza with First Skate. Be the first on the ice in 2022 with tickets to this family-friendly event that benefits the Valpo Parks Foundation. And if you can’t make it on November 12, there’s plenty of opportunity to show off your ice-skating skills this season - the ice rink opens to the public on Monday, November 14 and runs

well into the New Year.

At the end of November, marvel at ice skating demonstrations and the magnificently decorated 38-foot Central Park Plaza tree (with over 26,000 lights!) at Valpo Parks’ annual Winter Fest & Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 26.

Kick off December by celebrating all things festive at Holly Days on Friday, December 2 and Saturday, December 3. Drop off a letter to Santa (will he reply?!) and shop for gifts at downtown retailer open houses. Then head over to Candy Cane Lane at the courthouse square to ride the Holiday Express train before popping over to Central Park Plaza for pictures with

Santa, ice sculptures, carolers, and much more.

Spread cheer at the Santa & Sirens Toy Drive on Saturday, December 10. Enjoy a display of emergency vehicles at Foundation Meadows Park and donate new, unwrapped toys to Toys for Tots to help fulfill the holiday wishes of children in the Valparaiso community.

And finally, don’t miss the chance to enjoy some holiday theater this season! ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas will run from November 25 to December 18 at Chicago Street Theater, and Elf the Musical, Jr. will be performed at the Memorial Opera House from December 9 to December 18. Visit chicagostreet. org and memorialoperahouse.com, respectively, for tickets and details.

For more information on Autumn Promenade, Holly Days, and letters to Santa, visit valparaisoevents.com. For more information on ice skating, Winter Fest & Tree Lighting, and Santa & Sirens Toy Drive, visit valpoparks.org.

PHOTOS CLOCKWISE: Kids play at Candy Cane Lane at the courthouse square during Holly Days.

Skaters take to the ice at Urschel Pavilion in Central Park Plaza.

Grace Chapel church hosts a live nativity, complete with live animals, during Holly Days. Artist Lou Cella’s Orville! statue, located in downtown Valpo, is feeling festive with a Santa hat.

Live ice sculptors create Cinderella’s carriage at Holly Days in Central Park Plaza.

Experience the Holidays in Wabash County

story by BIZ BISHOP

If you want to shop local and gift local for the loved ones in your life, consider starting your holiday gift-buying in Wabash County. In Wabash County you can visit Wabash, North Manchester, Roann, and Lagro, four quaint towns tucked between Fort Wayne and Indianapolis. Wrap up your gift-buying excursion by grabbing a bite to eat, a glass of wine, and rest your feet by watching a holiday-themed live show.

You will have no trouble checking everyone off your list at the locally owned shops in Wabash County. Help stay under your budget by taking advantage of Black Friday and Small Business Saturday by shopping sales and special offers.

Jump start your shopping spree at Bellazo Revived Style, where you will find vintage and upcycled clothing, art, decor, fragrances, local t-shirts, stickers, comical socks, and books. If you still can’t decide, ask them to make you a “Goodie Bag” that will take into consideration the likes of the recipient. Log Cabin Antiques has lots of vintage and antique treasures waiting to be found to be gifted to the loved one who loves collecting treasures.

The Visit Wabash County Welcome Center has carefully curated works from over 45 local merchants and artisans all in one storefront. Shop for locally-made candles, soaps, notecards, postcards, maple syrup, jewelry, art, funny shirts, hand-crafted coffee mugs, and more unique gifts.

Kitchens Plus Country Store is also filled with wonderful surprises that range from primitive decor and wall-hanging art to ornaments and stocking stuffers. Cottage Creations Floral and Gifts is a full-service florist and gift shop with jewelry, handbags, plants, and seasonal decor. At the Rhinestone and Roses, you’ll find a size-inclusive fashion boutique, dog toys, and accessories as well as small gifts such as coffee mugs and cute key chains. Still stumped? Delight your loved one with a bouquet of flowers.

Brighten the homes of those on your list

with premium soy wax candles with unique containers at JoJo’s Olfactory and Co. Or sign up the crafters in your life for a class to make their own candles with custom scents. The readers in your life will love presents from Mostly Books, a used book emporium and gift shop. You’ll love browsing through the endless selection of books from every genre, along with paintings, movies, and much more.

Tickets, which go on sale Nov. 1, are $6 per person and free for those under 12 months old. Buy your tickets soon, they sell out fast.

Don’t forget to take time for yourself, take a break to stop in The Wine and Cheese Shop at Charley Creek Inn for a light snack of wine and gourmet cheeses. For a full meal, try Harry’s Old Kettle Pub & Grill for a burger and a beer. If Mexican food is your thing, take your pick from Habanero Grill and Cantina, Mi Pueblo or El Mezquite. Or grab a pizza from Pizza King, Goodfella’s, or 950 Speakeasy Bistro

PHOTO: Visit Wabash County

A Charlie Brown Christmas Live at the Honeywell Center.

PHOTO: Honeywell Center

Take the kids on a unique experience to Wabash County on board Trolley No. 85. The Jolly Trolley Tour will be Saturday, Dec. 10, with tours leaving every half hour between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. and will last about an hour. Join Mr. & Mrs. Claus on the trolley for story time as you travel to your next stop about 10 minutes away for more holiday fun. Enjoy a puppet show, crafts, cookies, a hot cocoa bar, and photo opportunities with Santa himself.

Treat yourself to a nice sit-down dinner at Eugenia’s in the Honeywell Center before you see a live performance. One show that is partially popular is Cirque Dreams Holidaze which combines a Broadway-style musical with contemporary circus artistry. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19. and 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 20. Or get tickets for the A Charlie Brown Christmas on Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18, enjoy A Mannheim Steamroller Christmas. Another possibility is a movie or live entertainment at the recently renovated Eagles Theatre, which has now been completely restored to its original 1906 glory.

Before you head home, have an ice cream treat from Chillz. Or visit Modoc’s Market for a coffee, hot chocolate, or fresh baked goods. It’s the perfect way to wind up a visit to Wabash County.

For more information, go to www. visitwabashcounty.com

Cottage Creations Florist & Gifts is a great place to find unique gifts for the holidays. PHOTO: Manchester Alive

The Jolly Trolley tour is a wonderful opportunity for your kids to visit with Santa.

Celebrate Autumn & the Holidays in Chesterton

Autumn is a rustling, murmuring time. In no other season of the year are we more likely to be surprised by nostalgia. In its mellow golden days and chill cozy nights our imaginations drift like woodsmoke, the past like some marvelous spice seems to seep into the present, and the line between now and once-upon-a-time—between here and very-far-away—is never thinner, more prone to dissolving.

In the autumn we reminisce, we dream, and we tell tales. Here in Chesterton, Indiana, the Gateway to the Dunes, hard by the shoreline of mysterious Lake Michigan, people still speak of the woman sometimes seen swimming in the surf or running along the beach. No woman, though, but a specter, the ghost of Alice Mabel Gray—nicknamed

Diana of the Dunes by the press—who escaped a world too much with her in Chicago to live a recluse’s life in a shack on the beach, until her death in 1925.

One needn’t believe in ghosts, of course, to learn something from them. Ghost stories are folk memories, and when told well, on the very site of the spiriting, they conjure a long-ago time and place as haunting as any spook. This autumn come to Chesterton and hear its secret history. Chesterton Ghost Tours (www.Chesterton www. chestertonghosttours.net) and Chaos Haunted & Historical Tours (www. chaostrips.com) will lead you through the old neighborhoods where some residual presences may yet tarry at the scene of the crime or passion’s last gasp.

There’s no finer place in Northern

Indiana to spend an Indian Summer’s day than Chesterton and celebrate the ripeness and plumpness of the season. On Saturdays through October, enjoy fall’s bounty abounding at the European Market in Downtown Chesterton, the preeminent farmers market in Indiana. On Wednesday afternoons through October, sample the best Northwest Indiana‘s farmers and food artisans have to offer, at the Coffee Creek Farmers Market

On Sundays, stroll the Upsadaisy Market , beneath the scarlet and gold of Chesterton’s Thomas Centennial Park, and take your pick of wares handmade and tooled by local craftspeople

Visit Chesterton this autumn, where the past is closer than you think.

Experience Holiday Magic in Downtown INDY

The Downtown Indianapolis winter wonderland returns this season with an impressive list of events and festivities. From familiar favorites to new surprises, there’s plenty for all to enjoy in the heart of Indiana. Visit this premier destination for one-of-a-kind experiences to keep you and your loved ones occupied all season long! And plan to dine your way through Downtown, which boasts of more than 350 restaurants, plus scores of unique retail stores and shops to enjoy – all dressed in holiday style. And did we say events? Read on!

CIRCLE OF LIGHTS®

PRESENTED BY IBEW 481

Downtown Indy Inc.’s Circle of Lights® presented by IBEW 481 - Indy’s most time-honored holiday tradition –celebrates its 60th anniversary on Friday, Nov. 25, the day after Thanksgiving. The festive lighting celebration features a made-for-TV show exclusively on WTHR Channel 13 in unison with the live, inperson event starting at 7 p.m. Gather around Monument Circle for live music, special holiday activations, festive food and beverages, and more while awaiting the arrival of Santa and flip of the switch shortly before 8 p.m.

Stretching from top to bottom, the Soldiers & Sailors Monument will showcase its iconic 52 garland strands with 4,784 LED colored lights while Victory stands tall and proud as the “tree” topper. The Monument will also be surrounded by 26 larger-than-life toy soldiers and sailors and 26 peppermint sticks. The lights on Monument Circle, activated on Nov. 25, will remain a permanent installation throughout the holiday season until they come down on Jan. 13 with help from IBEW 481.

Monument Circle will also incorporate lighting exhibits, video projections and holiday music every evening as part of the multi-million dollar Shining A Light on

Arts and Culture program on the Circle. A diverse array of video presentations will highlight the season’s religious and secular holiday celebrations, along with the nightly “Signature Salute” honoring Indiana military veterans. These immersive videomapped displays transform Monument Circle into a captivating snow globe visitors can explore and get lost in!

Travelocity named the Circle of Lights® one of the top five “must-see Christmas trees” in the nation. USA Today also listed the Circle of Lights® as one the “10 Best Holiday Attractions.” It’s a must see!

DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY EXPERIENCES CONNECT FRIENDS AND FAMILY

Throughout the season, enjoy Downtown Indianapolis with festive activities, sights and experiences! There’s so much to do Downtown, plan on bringing an itinerary!

Brand new to Downtown Indy this season is The Athenaeum’s inaugural Christkindlemarkt, spreading holiday cheer starting Nov. 25 through Dec. 18 in the Rathskeller Biergarten. Shop ‘til you drop at 12 unique and authentic vendor huts throughout the space, each with their own holiday-trinkets, local goods and gifts! Attendees can also enjoy German food, live entertainment, an exclusive beer with

Sun King Brewing and more! Keep an eye out for St. Nicholas and Krampus while you’re visiting!

Christmas at the Zoo opens Nov. 19 and continues through Dec. 30. Enjoy the warm glow of more than a million twinkling lights, stroll through Santa’s Village under the Bicentennial Pavilion

and say hello to the animals that will be out-and-about enjoying the briskness of the season. Meet friendly penguins up close, witness the beauty of dolphins, walruses, sea lions and more!

Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure returns to the Eiteljorg Museum Nov. 19 and continues through Jan. 16. Explore this model train wonderland and see iconic local and national landmarks including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Circle of Lights ®, Mt. Rushmore, the Golden Gate Bridge, Aspen and more – all made of natural materials.

Don’t miss Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, which comes to life this season at the Indiana Repertory Theatre from Nov. 19 to Dec. 24. Follow the nostalgic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge as he visits the spirits of Christmas past, present and future on the OneAmerica Mainstage.

Plan ahead for tickets to these holiday favorites in Downtown Indy:

• Yuletide Celebration with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at the Hilbert Circle Theatre

• Festival of Trees at the Indiana Historical Society

• Celebration Crossing at the Indiana State Museum

Other exciting activities are still being planned. Visit downtownindy.org for a complete list of events. #DowntownIndy

Seasonal Fun in LaGrange County

Plan a “color tour” with LaGrange County’s “Off the Beaten Path” selfguided trail and discover unique backroad treasures through the tranquility of the Amish countryside. Autumn’s crisp air and beautiful bright colors inspire travelers to enjoy the splendor of a country drive. Cooler weather is ideal for a self-guided trail where you can admire the fall foliage. Fall is also harvest season which is an ideal way to experience the Amish culture, including the collecting of hay to feed their livestock over the winter.

Barn quilts celebrate tradition in the Amish and Mennonite culture. Originated in Pennsylvania by Pennsylvania-Dutch farmers, barn quilts and primitive stars were believed to protect the farm and bring good fortune. In LaGrange County, barn quilts can be seen on barns, homes, and businesses all around our towns and countryside. The trail will guide you to each barn quilt while enjoying picturesque autumn leaves.

Stay a while, enjoy the sights, and walk or ride your bike along the Pumpkinvine Trail. Take the family to the Pumpkinvine trailhead located at North Park in downtown Shipshewana. The paved trail will be in full autumn bloom while you enjoy the sights and experience more of the beautiful countryside.

As the cooler air approaches and fall turns to winter, turn your attention to the area’s upcoming holiday events. Plan to be in Shipshewana the first Saturday of November for the Lighting of Shipshewana Parade and Ceremony

Christmas lights displayed in a mile-and-ahalf-long symphony of colorful lights scenes for this upcoming holiday season.

The trail will take you to backroad shops and barn quilts throughout LaGrange County. Pick up a map at the Shipshewana Visitors Center or print your own copy from their website. Make it a new seasonal tradition and drive out to the many Amish cottage shops sprinkled along the trail. You’ll be surprised to find candles made with honey, hand weaved baskets lined with fabric, and handmade leather belts, handbags, and wallets. Enjoy the sights and smells of homemade breads and cinnamon rolls, or snack on fresh cheese curds along the way.

See the whole town get together to celebrate the wonder of the holiday and get in some Christmas shopping—the downtown shops stay open until 9 p.m.

Experience Shipshewana’s Lights of Joy. This holiday tradition for the whole family includes a drive-through light display experience which home to two million LED

Plan to stay in one of LaGrange county’s seasonally-decorated hotels and enjoy “Noel” A Celebration of Christmas at the Michiana Events Center MEC. Two hours of nonstop Christmas excitement for the whole family, this amazing show features beautiful horses with talented riders from all around the world. See Noel singers and dancers perform. Take part in one of the largest living nativities with live townspeople with their sheep, goats, donkey and cow.

The LaGrange County Convention and Visitors Center provides free visitor guides and coupon books with 60 deals throughout Shipshewana and LaGrange County. You can find them at 350 S Van Buren Street in Shipshewana, or go online at visitshipshewana.org

TOP: Start your adventure on the Pumpkinvine Trailhead located in Shipshewana.

MIDDLE: Enjoy the taste and smells of honey and other hand-made items along our Off the Beaten Path trail.

BOTTOM: Experience Mennonite and Amish Home Style Cooking.

Discover the unique self-guided tour of our backroad shops and barn quilts trail.

Lights of Joy is a holiday tradition with a drivethrough light display experience.

ATTENTION WANDERERS:

Parke County’s Peaceful Backroads Beckon to You

story by MARILYN CULLER photos by INDIANA DNR

Looking for an easy place to explore for an afternoon? Parke County’s backroads, waterways and vistas are a wanderer’s paradise. GPS will help find Rockville or Marshall. But if you’re up for a little adventure, turn off the GPS and explore!

Take in the view as you drive across the dam at  Cecil M. Hardin Lake/ Raccoon SRA . Picnic. Fish off the dock. Launch a kayak or boat at one of the many boat ramps. Visit historic  Mansfield – even in the rain, the view of the dam and mill from the covered bridge takes a traveler back in time.

Discover Portland Mills Covered Bridge. Horizontal white siding and Burr arch trusses highlight the remote beauty of this 1856 structure. Discover

“Under the Arch” restaurant in Marshall. Fried bologna sandwich on the menu? Wow – back to childhood! Happen upon out-of-the-way antique shops. Drive by Amish farms. Stop at roadside markets. Drop in on Amish bulk food stores and greenhouses (not open on Sundays).

Parke County has 31 covered bridges and describes itself as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World.” Other interesting bridges, great for hiking, include the suspension bridge at Turkey Run State Park (top).

Skirt by the Narrows Covered Bridge at  Turkey Run State Park Up the hill, the Lusk Home and its kitchen garden offer a glimpse into a bygone era along Sugar Creek.

The expansive views from High Bridge lead into the richness of the 1,300-acre Sugar Creek Conservation Area. Wander into hillsides covered with white oak and hemlock trees. Explore canyons and cliffs. Hunt mushrooms in the spring and squirrel, turkey and deer

in season. Fish along the shoreline of Sugar Creek. A variety of birds, waterfowl, river otters, beavers and other mammals offer glimpses into the wild side of Indiana.

Easy views await at every turn in  Parke County. Whether from the car window or a quick step outside, this gorgeous landscape carved out by glaciers, creeks and humans is worth wandering. Right or left – there are no dead ends! Happy trails!

The Montezuma Railroad Bridge (right) was recently restored and is popular with hikers and bicyclists. The State Sanatorium Bridge, located east of Rockville, was built in 1913.

* story by CATHY SHOUSE

SeT ouT on an Indiana ghosT adventure ThIs Season for Some Scary, and noT-So-Scary, fun.

That chill you feel in Indiana’s au tumn air is probably just a change in the seasons…or is it more? For years, history buffs and curious travel ers have set out on “ghost” adventures throughout the state, enjoying a light hearted spin on mixing “history with mystery.”

One of Indiana’s oldest bed and break fast inns, the Story Inn in Nashville, has a long and “storied” history. So it’s no surprise that there have been claims of unexplained experiences. “We‘ve had sightings listed in the guest book since the ‘80s,” said Rich Hofstetter, who runs the inn. “There have been smells, doors open and shut, and lights come on. We have people who smell tobacco. We might say there are spirits here. Some people say they have proof, but I’m skeptical.”

The Story Inn has been called one of the Midwest’s premiere inns and restau rants, and the entire town is an historic district. In the sawmill, there are heated tile floors and a hot tub. Food from their on-site garden is served in the restaurant.

For those who dare, book a stay and ask for the “Blue Lady” room, where past guests claim to see a lady roaming around in a blue gown.

At the Roads Hotel in Atlanta, just north of Noblesville, you can take part in public or private paranormal investiga tions, all for a good cause. Proceeds go to the Lost Limbs Foundation, which was started in 2014 and provides financial assistance to the families of amputee children who are in need of medical and prosthetic assistance.

Built in 1893, the Roads is a two-story, rectangular, Queen Anne style frame building featuring a two-story front porch

and cross gable. Owned at that time by Newton Roads and his wife Clara, it was a popular stop for Al Capone and John Dillinger, and was even a speakeasy for a short period of time during prohibition. Between the infamous gangsters and the tragic deaths of the hotel owner’s family, sightings of ghosts have “run rampant.”

“It’s not a functioning hotel,” Mike Couch, who operates the hotel and is founder of the Lost Limbs Foundation, said. “We have public paranormal inves tigations as well as private investigations. One Saturday a month we hold a public investigation from 6 p.m until 2 a.m. for $40 a person, limited to ten people. Peo ple new to it may bring a camera and turn on the mike on their Apple phone.”

In Sullivan County, Brenda Cook gives tours in the tiny town of Merom, pop ulation 191. She’s been a paranormal investigator for 15 years and also goes on tours herself. One of the highlights is the Merom Livery House. “It’s a haunted house that used to be a boarding house,” says Brenda. “There have been a lot of paranormal instigations at the house.” During her tours, guests can use digital cameras, EMF detectors, “sprit boxes,” and flashlights.

In the early 1800s, the state of Indiana was required to provide residence for the poor and disabled. The building in which the Scott County Heritage Center and Museum is housed was built in 1892 for this specific purpose. The building would remain at capacity until 1973, when the last inmate was moved out.

The building then became county of fices and court while the courthouse was under renovations. The building sat empty until the Preservation Alliance took pos

LEFT: The Headless Horseman Festival at Conner Prairie. PHOTO: Conner Prairie

ABOVE, TOP TO BOTTOM: The annual ZooBoo at the Indianapolis Zoo. PHOTO: Carla Knapp, Indianapolis Zoo The Story Inn. PHOTO: Story Inn

session of the building to be used as the present-day Scott County Museum. Since the early 1970s people working in the building have reported hearing footsteps, voices call out their names and even a few actual full-bodied apparitions. Today, the museum conducts paranormal investigations on Friday and Saturday nights. Cost is $10 per person. Six-hour investigations are also offered for $200.

Greg Steffe, the Director of the Kosciusko County Historical Society, has been a part of the Old Jail Museum team for over three years and previously led the Spirits of Warsaw Ghost Tours in downtown Warsaw. “In the 17 years I’ve been doing this I’ve investigated some of the most haunted locations in the United States,” Steffe said. “Some of the most active locations I’ve ever seen have been right here in our own community.” Spots include the jail, Barbee Hotel, and “Devils Backbone.”

At the Indiana Dunes National Park, the ghost of “Diana of the Dunes” has reportedly been seen running along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Diana was a 1920s-era Dunes advocate who lived in the park. Today, you can take the “Diana of the Dunes Dare,” a trail route that follows along the West Beach Dune Succession Trail.

To enjoy some more lighthearted fun for the whole family, mark your calendar for these popular not-so-spooky events:

ZooBoo at the Indianapolis Zoo runs October 5 through October 31, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays (open until 9 p.m. Friday ad Saturday). There are Halloween activi ties, amazing animals, and pumpkins galore. October weather means active animals, colorful foliage, and a new season to explore. Com bine that with engaging, hands-free activities, spooktacular costumes and trick-or-treating, and you’ve got an unforgettable family tradition.

At Conner Prairie, the annual Headless Horseman Festival runs Sundays through Thursdays October 6-30. During the festival, you can take the iconic haunted hayride through Conner Prairie’s grounds and see if you encounter the horseman himself; enjoy a barrel train ride for little ones; dive into the legend of Amsel Farm and explore the cursed ground of the Haunted Maze; see spooky shows; and more.

Don’t miss the 17th annual Haunted Woods Trail on the Fulton County Historical Society grounds, four miles north of Rochester on U.S. 31, October 21-22 and October 28-29. Hours are 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. or until the crowd is done. Free tram rides are available from museums and park to the haunted area. There will be spooky scenes in the woods with many different themes, and food will be available.

You can take part in public or private paranormal investigations, all for a good cause. proceeds go to the lost limbs foundation...

TOP: The Roads Hotel in Atlanta, just north of Noblesville .

PHOTO: Roads Hotel

BOTTOM: The Scott County Museum.

PHOTO: Scott County Visitors Commission

64 traveliN Holiday 202264 traveliN Fall 2022 DESTINATION

OLIDAY EVENTS

Check out events close to you! Live music, food, magic shows, parades, find amazing hand-made items from vendors and more!

NOV. 10

Fall Concert Series

Ruthmere Mansion ELKHART ruthmere.org/FallConcert-Series

NOV. 18-20; NOV. 25-DEC. 31

Shipshewana’s Lights of Joy SHIPSHEWANA visitshipshewanain.com

NOV. 26

La Porte Santa Parade

DOWNTOWN LA PORTE livinthelakelife.org

DEC. 2 & 3

Holly Days

DOWNTOWN VALPARAISO valparaisoevents.com

DEC. 2

Holiday Stroll

DOWNTOWN ROCHESTER fultoncountyindiana.com

DEC. 3

Canal Christmas

WABASH & ERIE CANALDELPHI carrollcountychamber.com

Fall and winter fun for everyone

In the City of La Porte, the fun doesn’t stop when the weather gets cold – we’re Livin’ the Lake Life™ all year round!

The turning of the leaves means primetime for a lot of fresh fruits and veggies. Swing by the La Porte Farmers Market in Downtown La Porte. Then spend an afternoon picking apples at Garwood Orchards, a 6th generation farm just outside city limits - don’t forget the apple cider and donuts!

Take in the crisp autumn air and fall foliage on a stroll around beautiful Stone Lake or on a bike ride down the Chessie Trail. Then treat yourself to a pumpkin spice latte at any one of our local coffee shops or cafes

Looking for some spooky fun? Hitch a ride through haunted woods on the Ghost Train at the Hesston Steam Museum. Afterwards,

true crime fans should head over to the La Porte County Historical Society Museum to learn more about the infamous Belle Gunness murders.

Ready to gobble ‘til you wobble? Make some extra room for Thanksgiving turkey at the 9th Annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot 5K. After resting up on Black Friday, do some shopping around Historic Downtown La Porte for Small Business Saturday. Then get in the holiday spirit at the La Porte Santa Parade

Get your collector’s tin and enjoy some sweet treats from the Annual Downtown Cookie Walk. Sing along to your favorite Christmas carols at La Porte County Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday at the Pops

After the holidays have come and gone, kick-off the New Year with high school

hoops like you’ve never seen before at the AXE NIBC Series: La Porte Invitational

Later that January, bundle up for a weekend full of outdoor activities at La Porte’s WinterFest.

Regardless of the season, there’s never a shortage of fun to be had in the City of La Porte. Learn more about these events and attractions as well as others at livinthelakelife.org.

Stone Lake

INDIANA DUNES COFFEE & SWEETS TRAIL

story by ELIZABETH GRANGER

It was 2020. Like so many others, David Gilbert found himself at home much of the time. And more than a little bored. So he learned how to make hard candies.

And then he and his wife Jennifer put together a jigsaw puzzle of an oldfashioned candy shop. Their daughter stood looking at it and said, “Wouldn’t it be cool if we opened a candy store?”

So they did. In December 2020 it opened for pick-up.

Gilbert’s Candy & Confections, in Chesterton, is now a brick-and-mortar store that offers a variety of items not found in many stores. There are the Gilberts’ handmade chocolate bars in a variety of flavors that include the root beer float bar and dark chocolate coffee bar, along with freeze-dried Skittles called Freetles. There are also not-sotypical items that include CrackCorn, Hammond’s bars, and Endorfin Foods. Kids’ candy is vetted by the Gilberts’ kids; think juvenile humor that means Sour Flush and Shark Bite. Dog treats are taste-tested by Wyatt, the family dog.

“We gravitate toward nostalgia,” David said. There are circus peanuts, Necco wafers, Charleston Chews. Many items have been suggested by customers.

Free samples are available. So, too, is a spinning wheel challenge called Bean Boozled with which customers take a chance. They’ll get one of two flavors of jelly beans – for example, peach or barf, juicy pear or booger, tutti-fruitti or stinky socks – and not know which flavor until they taste it. Jennifer says the notso-tasty flavors are “terrible.” And yet, spinning the wheel is wildly popular.

“No matter what’s going on in the world, chocolate makes things a little better,” she adds.

McCord’s Candies in Lafayette, a city staple for decades, echoes that sentiment. Owners Angie and Billie Pattengale – new owners as of June 2022 – say their mission is “serving smiles.” Here, a trip down memory lane includes McCord’s hand-pulled candy canes during the holiday season.

Candy canes are big at Martinsville Candy Kitchen, too. Candy cane pour

times in November and December are gotta’-go-to events.

Another favorite with more than a century of history is Tell City Pretzels It, too, underwent changes in ownership, in 2009; and in location, just last year. The age-old recipe moved from Tell City to Jasper, where they added a pretzeltwisting machine as well as soft pretzels in the new Pretzelville lineup. When the holidays approach, there are chocolatecovered pretzels in red canisters.

The pretzel factory is open to the public, with tours that invite everyone to hand-twist a couple pretzels like they did in the past. It’s called the “tour, taste and twist experience.” “It’s been hugely successful,” says owner Brad Smith.

Another venture with more than a century of history is Schimpff’s Confectionery in Jeffersonville. See candy-making demonstrations as well as a candy museum. It’s like stepping back in time with the 1950s original soda fountain and old school candy jars. Take time for a tour. And check out their signature Cinnamon Red Hots.

ROUND PHOTOS LEFT TO RIGHT: Sharlette’s Fudgery and Candies.

PHOTO: Elizabeth Granger

Charlie’s Caramel Corn and Candy Shop.

PHOTO: Elizabeth Granger

Martinsville Candy Kitchen.

PHOTO: Martinsville Candy Kitchen

No matter what’s going on in the world, chocolate makes things a little better.

In Hagerstown, the newness at Abbott’s Candies is the bright pink paint. The caramels and chocolates are the triedand-true originals, beginning with William C. Abbott in 1890. Even the boxes retain the look of the past – because customers complained when Abbott’s tried to “update” them. “We’ll change our boxes when Coca-Cola changes the shape of its bottles,” says Jay Noel, owner since 2012.

The high point of a visit is a tour, especially of the pouring, cutting and wrapping of caramels. There’s even a candle that smells like caramels. A worker puts a stylish “A” for Abbott, by hand, on each piece of chocolate.

An “A” also goes on the belly of each gummi bear at Albanese Candy in Merrillville. On gummi worms, too, and jet fighters and sharks and … well, all of them. Crazy-popular are holiday gummies.

In Portland, a candy shop is centered around the fudge made by Sharlette Cole’s family when she was a child. “That’s what we did on the farm, in the wintertime, for entertainment,” she says. Malted milk balls and double-dipped peanuts are the biggest candy sellers at Sharlette’s Fudgery and Candies. With fudge, it’s chocolate/peanut butter. With cookies, sugar cookies.

Then there’s South Bend, home to Notre Dame University as well as the company that got its start making chocolates for the school. The South Bend Chocolate Company has been recognized as the fastest growing chocolate company in the nation with outlets not only in the Hoosier state but elsewhere. There’s a lively history lesson in the tours here that include … well, … chocolate surprises.

In Madison, Cocoa Safari Chocolates is an independent gourmet chocolate shop where they create chocolates and

confections in their on-site kitchen. Each one is hand-dipped and hand-decorated. Small batches ensure the freshest chocolates available using premium quality chocolate and ingredients.

Even more possibilities are listed on the Indiana Foodways Alliance “Sweet Temptations” trail. There are 51 suggested stops that include Ghyslain in Union City, Wolf’s Fine Handmade Chocolates in Attica, Charlie’s Caramel Corn and Candy Shop in Vincennes. A newbie is Uranus Fudge Factory in Anderson. An off-the-wall nobody-knowswhat-to-expect kind of entertainment venue that leads with fudge but includes dinosaurs, Zoltar the fortune teller, and –on the drawing board – a pollinator park.

Another sweet trail to check out is the “Coffee and Sweets Trail” in northwest Indiana, which includes local coffee and sweets shops near the Indiana Dunes National and State Parks. Each participating shop created a special Indiana Dunes-themed drink for customers to enjoy.

Also on the Sweet Temptations Trail is Indiana’s own Wick’s Pies Headquartered in Winchester, Wick’s has been making sweet treats—including their famous Sugar Cream Pie—for well over 70 years. Today, you can visit their  full service bakery cafe that makes 36 varieties of pie each day.

PHOTOS TOP TO BOTTOM: Abbott’s Candies.

PHOTO: Elizabeth Granger Gilbert’s Candy & Confections.

PHOTO: Gilbert’s Candy & Confections. McCord’s Candies.

PHOTO: McCord’s Candies

There’s a lively history lesson in the tours here that include … well, … chocolate surprises.

INDIANA FOODWAYS ALLIANCE™ SWEET TEMPTATIONS TRAIL

indianafoodways.com

Indiana Foodways Alliance™ is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to the celebration, promotion, and preservation of the authentic food culture of Indiana.

On their Sweet Temptations Trail, you’ll find nearly 50 sweet stops, all locallyowned, that specialize in ice cream, homemade chocolates, baked goods, donuts, and more. Be sure and check out the organizations other 20 food trails around the state.

COCOA SAFARI CHOCOLATES

CHOCOLATE TRAIL

Richmond 800-828-8414 • visitrichmond.org

For chocolate lovers, there’s no better way to see Richmond/Wayne County than through the tantalizing tastes and smells of local-made chocolate delights. This sweet trail is free and available year-round. With more than a dozen stops, the trail leads you to a 1890s candy factory, ice cream parlor, Amish market, bakeries, shops, and a winery. If you’re craving a sweet adventure, this delectable trail is for you.

KOKOMO SWEET TREATS

You’ll find plenty of sweet treats in Kokomo to satisfy any sweet tooth! Find handmade chocolates, jumbo cupcakes, gourmet caramel apples, cheesecake, loads of old-fashioned bulk candy and much more.

J. EDWARDS GOURMET

2106 W. Sycamore St. • Kokomo jedwardsgourmet.com

If you love sweets, you’ll absolutely fall in love with J. Edwards Gourmet. Baked fresh daily, they offer jumbo cupcakes and specialty cakes in dozens of flavors, assorted handmade chocolates (regular and sugar-free), gourmet caramel apples, cheesecake, caramels, pumpkin rolls, chocolate-covered strawberries, toffee, fudge and more.

OLDE THYME MERCANTILE

118 W Main St.

Madison 812-273-8800

•

Cocoa Safari Chocolates is an independent gourmet chocolate shop where we create our chocolates and confections in our on-site kitchen. We make our chocolates in small batches to ensure that you have the freshest chocolates available. We use premium quality chocolate and the highest quality ingredients. All of our chocolates are handmade, hand dipped and hand decorated.

2905 S. Washington St. • Kokomo 765-513-7591

Take a step back in time during a visit to Indiana’s largest old-fashioned candy store! Shop from rows and rows of candy with many items sold in bulk, including taffy, old-fashioned candy sticks, jelly beans, chocolates and more. The shop also sells jams, salsa, honey, and syrups, as well as antiques and vintage treasures.

Explore VISITKOKOMO.ORG

Plan your next road trip around the state’s best spots for sweet treats.

ABBOTTS CANDY

48 E Walnut St. • Hagerstown 877-801-1200

3744 E. 82nd St. • Indianapolis 317-578-7979

Since 1890, Abbott’s Candy has crafted handmade caramels and chocolates using the same classical recipe as the founder, William Clay “W.C.” Abbott. He fulfilled his lifelong dream to give candy lovers the best candy around. Three generations of the Abbott’s family and currently the Noel family have continued W.C.’s legacy making Abbott’s Candies the oldest candy company in Indiana.

URANUS FUDGE FACTORY AND GENERAL STORE

1423 W 53rd St. • Anderson 833-487-2687 • uranusgeneralstore.com

MRS. WICK’S PIE SHOP AND RESTAURANT

100 N Cherry St. • Winchester 765-584-7437 • wickspies.com

Most visitors to Winchester quickly find the local culture at Mrs. Wick’s Pie Shop (it sits just next to Wick’s Pie Factory). Wick’s made the sugar cream pie famous and when the state of Indiana named the sugar cream as the state pie, it also named Winchester as its pie capital.

Abbott’s offers caramels, chocolates, fudge, truffles and sugar-free candies so there is something for every sweet tooth. During the holidays, Abbotts makes a variety of novelty hand-decorated confections. They offer many gift options to give family, friends and business associates. Abbott’s makes it easy to have a special box gift-wrapped and ready for pick-up when you arrive or, when given a list, Abbotts will conveniently ship all the gifts for you, anywhere in the world.

Everyone loves receiving a delicious Indiana favorite no matter what the occasion. These confections, along with many gift items, are available at their store locations in Hagerstown and Indianapolis. They are also sold in several shops around the country. Stop by the Hagerstown store and factory to see how the sweet creations are made. For more information and to find Abbott’s Candy near you, visit abbottscandy.com

The world famous Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store is a must-see stop on Historic Route 66 in Missouri and now off I-69 in Anderson, Indana! “Welcome to Uranus!” will greet you as you walk through the doors of this super-fun, funny tourist stop. The best fudge comes from Uranus, as you’ll soon see, if you sample some of their fresh fudge, made daily. Try a free sample when you stop by.

GILBERT’S CANDY & CONFECTIONS

1050 Broadway Ave Suite 17 • Chesterton 219-552-2639 • gilbertscandy.com

Gilbert’s is a family-owned business focusing on delicious candy and unique confections you won’t typically find anywhere else. While sweet treats are designed to taste good, they also know they’re more than just sugar. The right candy can brighten the best day and make even the worst day a little better. With every candy they make or choose to carry in their store, their goal is to make life a little sweeter.

Wick’s has been making delicious pies for more than 80 years, and at its production facility in Winchester they produce 10,000 pies and over 30,000 pie shells in an 8-hour shift.

Besides the famous sugar cream, Wick’s makes a variety of pies, including southern pecan, German chocolate, pumpkin spice, coconut cream, and more. The pie shop and restaurant make 36 varieties of pie each day. Open every day except Sunday, they also serve lunch and breakfast all day. While you’re there, be sure and check out the pie counter and retail outlet.

Check out these

Indiana Culinary & Brew Destinations

Zorn Brew Works

605 E. 9th Street • Michigan City 219-243-7157 zornbrewworks.com

24 Craft Beers, Sours, and Seltzers on Tap! Serving lunch and dinner 7 days/week @ 11am in our Gastropub.

Featuring In-House Smoked Brisket, Pulled Pork, Pork Chops, Wings, Salads, Award-Winning Beer Mac and Cheese, Burgers & More! Enjoy our DogFriendly Outdoor patio, live music and fire pits.

The Brewery Lodge & Supper Club

5727 N 600 W • Michigan City 866-625-6343 • brewerylodge.com

The Brewery Lodge is a 12-suite boutique hotel located on a 40 acre wooded tract filled with streams, ponds and wildlife. The main house was built in 1930, and has been recently updated to include a Zorn craft beer and wine bar, with great food and entertainment. With its hand-hewn timbers, fireplaces, and warm atmosphere, The Brewery Lodge & Supper Club is sure to relax the traveler in all of us.

Voted Indy’s best for over 20 years, featuring fresh made doughs, over 50 toppings, and a great selection of local craft beers and wines. Beautiful dining rooms, outdoor deck and rooftop seating!

Downtown Indy 329 Mass. Ave. 317-636-7662

Carmel 111 W. Main St. 317-848-4488

Broad Ripple

811 E. Westfield Blvd. 317-255-5711

www.Bazbeaux.com

Huber’s Orchard, Winery & Vineyards

19816 Huber Rd., Borden 812-923-9463 • huberwinery.com

This family owned and operated farm is seven generations in the making. Known as much for hospitality as they are for award-winning wine and spirits, Huber’s Orchard, Winery & Vineyards offers visitors a true farm-to-bottle experience. Wander almost 700 acres of farmland, savor a wines and spirits tasting, then stay for lunch at the Starlight Café.

Culver Farmers’ Market

Summer Location:

Culver Town Park, West Pavilion 819 East Lake Shore Drive MAY-OCTOBER

Saturdays 9am-1pm

MEMORIAL DAY-LABOR DAY

Tuesdays 5-7pm

Winter Location:

Culver Town Library107 N Main St. NOVEMBER-APRIL

Saturdays 10am-1pm

CulverFarmersMarket@gmail.com

Located on the shore of beautiful Lake Maxinkuckee, the second largest natural lake in Indiana, Culver Farmers’ Market offers locally and certified naturally grown produce, ethically raised meats and eggs, a wide variety of baked goods, artisan jewelry and other hand-crafted items year round.

Harris Sugar Bush

999 E County Rd. 325 N, Greencastle o 765-653-5108 c 765-301-0016 harrissugarbush.com

Signature, all-natural maple syrup produced on-site is packaged locally in unique gift jars. Also carrying maple cream, candy and delicious nut toppings, Indiana produced honey, BBQ sauce, jams, jellies and sorghum.

Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but call first to ensure we are in the shop.

Fall into the Holidays in Hancock County!

The best season is upon the State of Indiana with the beauty of fall followed by the Holiday Season. Visit Hancock County’s communities for the best of Fall and the Holidays. Start off the month of October with the largest 4-day craft festival in the state at the Riley Festival - celebrating the Hoosier Poet, James Whitcomb Riley. Visit Greenfield’s Tuttle’s Orchard, Lark Ranch and Fortville’s Piney Acres for the ultimate fall experience with pumpkin patches, corn mazes, apples and attractions.

December kicks off the Christmas Season

as all of Hancock County communities have Christmas Celebrations. Whether you are touring Shirley’s Octagon House for their Christmas Walk; celebrating Santa at Winterfest in Fortville, or viewing the Christmas Light parade in Greenfield, you will find Santa making the rounds. There are also several Christmas programs featuring music, dance and live performances.

To find out more about how you can Fall into the Holidays in Hancock Countyvisit Hancock County Tourism’s website at visitinhancock.org

CLOCKWISE: The Riley Home is the boyhood home of James Whitcomb Riley, the Hoosier poet, where he wrote his first poem. Wilkerson Dance Studio Holiday Spectacular

M O R E

Visit family-friendly Morgan County

Just southwest of Indy, you’ll discover Morgan County, a place that’s full of friendly small towns, scenic backroads and secluded forest trails. With unexpected experiences, family-friendly festivals and the state’s only winery that’s also home to a brewery and distillery, Morgan County is more than you expect, and exactly what you need.

Come discover the gorgeous landscape created by long-melted glaciers. Create your own work of art, guided by a local artist. Visit a family farm to see how they produce honey, lavender or even wine! Enjoy shopping local in a picturesque Main Street setting. You can do it all just minutes from downtown Indianapolis.

In downtown Martinsvill e, you’ll shop independent boutiques featuring handpicked styles and works from local artisans, indulge in chef-inspired flavors or classic comfort food, and visit a 100-year-old candy shop.

Just up the road in Mooresville, you’ll stumble upon authentic Cajun flavors from Louisiana, yet-to-be- discovered treasures at local shops, hand-crafted ceramic creations and scrumptious desserts.

From fall festivals to traditional small town holiday celebrations, Morgan County has you covered as fall fades into winter and sparkling lights appear. Watch candy canes being made at the Martinsville Candy Kitchen and be sure to mark your calendar for the Bobby Helms Jingle Bell Rock Christmas Music Spectacular, the Victorian Christmas Celebration, Martinsville Cookie Stroll, Santa at Old Town Waverly Park and more!

Find additional information about things to do, places to eat, festivals to experience and more to discover in Morgan County at visitmorgancountyin.com

N M O R G A N C O U N T Y , I N D I A N A

Berries & Ivy

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE -

November 5, 10 am to 4 pm

Beautiful home decor items and local art. The store will be closed Friday the 4th as Santa’s elves are hard at work creating a Winter Wonderland. Sunday hours 12-4 thru the holidays after Open House.

28 N. Main St. • Martinsville, IN 765-342-7722

Facebook.com/berries& ivycountrystore

TUES-THURS 11-5 • FRI 10-5 • SAT 10-4

HOLIDAY HOURS: SUN 12-4

Hunter’s Honey Farm

A family-owned and operated farm featuring honey, beeswax, bee pollen, candles, honey soap, moisturizing cream, lip balm, gourmet food and much more. Tours available year round (reservations required).

6501 W. Honey Ln. • Martinsville, IN 765-537-9430

HunterHoneyFarm.com

MON-SAT. 9-6

Gramz Bakery and Coffee Bar

The place to go for a great cup of coffee and sweet treats in downtown Columbus, serving espresso drinks, pour-overs, and an extensive coffee brew bar and fresh baked goods.

409 Washington St. Columbus • 812-378-3046 Info@gramzbakery.Com

Discover iconic destinations like Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame and the gym where the movie

“Hoosiers” was filmed. Henry County also has visit-worthy restaurants and memory-making recreational experiences.

Spend part of your holidays watching some of the state’s best basketball talent at the Raymond James® Hall of Fame Classic in the New Castle Fieldhouse.

Girls Classic – Thurs., Dec. 29, 2022

Boys Classic– Fri., Dec. 30, 2022

The Season of Shopping

story by CHERYL SHANK

The holidays are a truly magical time. Heartfelt choices for those you love make gift-giving special for both the giver and those receiving. Madison County has many shops that offer unique items that will bring smiles to young and old alike. Here are just a few…

Magic is everywhere as you walk into Pendleton’s Magication Station, 126 W State Street. Proprietor Nathan Davis, AKA “Elfie” is quick to greet with a smile and a “trick” up his sleeve! Filled with products to spark creativity and imagination, you’ll find everything from fanciful dragons and unicorns to challenging puzzles and vocation-based toys.

Just down the block, at 108 West State

Street, is Apple Butter Barn Too. Since 2018 Joy and Toby Upton have combined their creative skills into a shop filled with handmade one-of-a-kind items certain to delight. November 2-4, the store will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland for their open house, “Country Christmas at Apple Butter Barn.” Special discounts, refreshments, door prizes and gifts with purchase will put the fussiest shopper in the holiday spirit.

One must visit Seasons of the Heart Gift Shoppe, 2115 E 67th Street, Anderson. Kathleen Hart and Gloria Dunaway-Harlett offer beautiful gifts that bring comfort and joy to those receiving. Everything from whimsy to the dramatic will capture your imagination. Celebrate

the “ Warmth and Coziness of Christmas,” November 10-12, when there will be lovely indoor and outdoor décor, mouthwatering tastings of cakes and pancake puffs, and special savings to stretch your shopping dollars.

Simple Goodness Soaps, purveyor of hand-crafted goat milk soaps and more, 5140 W 1550 N, Elwood will launch their holiday line of scents on November 1st. Take a trip through the country and be sure to visit “Christmas on the Farm,” November 11 and 12 to shop for soaps, bath bombs, facial creams, lotions and more. The “kids” will be happy to greet you!

MELT INTO INDIANA GLASS CULTURE

Artists and craftsmen have created work for more than a century to establish Indiana as home to remarkable, functional, and decorative glass. Connecting a trail of 7 counties, the Indiana Glass Trail links today’s artists and glass-related venues throughout Eastern Indiana, bringing together the tradition and beauty of glass art so you can experience it first-hand. From artist studios and blown glass demonstrations, to glass-focused festivals and glass museums and classes, to the oldest glassworks in the U.S., this family-friendly trail highlights it all. Glass lovers have plenty to see and do in Indiana, and the trail brings it all together!

ANDERSON/MADISON COUNTY

Glass, in its most basic, everyday form, is utilitarian, a commodity. However, when guided by skilled hands it becomes art, rare and beautiful. Whether a spiral lifting skyward, a treasure commemorating a loved one, or a dome of color, Madison County boasts some amazing examples at Carol’s Legacy Crystal, Anderson Museum of Art, Anderson University, and the annual Elwood Glass Festival. VisitAndersonMadisonCounty.com

IndianaGlassTrail.com

DUNKIRK/JAY COUNTY

The Glass Museum in Dunkirk has over 8,000 pieces of glassware from 110 factories around the world. Explore a variety of artifacts including pieces from the Sistine Chapel, leaded glass windows, hanging lamps, hundreds of handblown and hand-pressed glass creations, and a leaded glass mural. You will not want to miss the pink chandelier that Carole Lombard had in her home!

VisitJayCounty.com

KOKOMO/HOWARD COUNTY

Take a fascinating factory tour at Kokomo Opalescent Glass, America’s oldest art glass company, in operation since 1888. Experience art glass that is hand-ladled and rolled from a 2,500-degree furnace and watch artists make stunning blown glass creations. See over 2,000 pieces of glass on display at the Greentown Glass Museum and beautiful stained glass windows at the historic Seiberling Mansion.

VisitKokomo.org

RICHMOND/WAYNE COUNTY

Richmond is home to a collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass windows. The Reid Center (formerly Reid Presbyterian Church) boasts 62 Tiffany windows. Reid is thought to be one of only ten churches in the country which have all Tiffany windows. The Morrisson Reeves Library Tiffany windows are displayed overlooking The Reading Garden. They are excellent examples of Tiffany’s secret technique known as “Favrile Glass.”

VisitRichmond.org

FORT WAYNE/ALLEN COUNTY

The Fort Wayne Museum of Art announced the dedication of a new wing for glass sculpture, opening in July 2022. The museum’s collection of glass sculpture now numbers over 300, with major works from artists like Harvey Littleton, Martin Blank, Dale Chihuly, and dozens more. The new wing will showcase this collection of world class sculpture yearround, with selections changed intermittently.

VisitFortWayne.com

MUNCIE/DELAWARE COUNTY

Muncie has a rich history of glass, starting with the Ball Brothers whose “Ball Canning Jars” became a household name. Minnetrista has historical Ball Jars in their Heritage Collection. The Glick Center for Glass at Ball State offers glass curriculum for students, 3 glass furnaces, glass blowing, cold shop, and studios. Albany Glass Museum opened in 2018, housing pressed glass patterns from 1893-1903.

VisitMuncie.org/what-to-do/arts-and-culture/Indiana-Glass-Trail

WARSAW/KOSCIUSKO COUNTY

In 1911 Chicago’s Johnson-Carlson Cut Glass Company came to Warsaw because their factory could not keep up with demand. What started out with 55 glass cutters 110 years ago has dwindled down to one. The original line-shaft, leather belts, and stone wheels are still operational! Visit one of the last American facilities practicing the art of cutting glass. Shop in-store and online.

VisitKosciuskoCounty.org

ART

NORTH VERNON

Brown County Art Gallery

Brown County’s original art gallery, established in 1926, featuring many of Indiana’s finest contemporary and early art colony masters.

3 blocks East of Courthouse

Main St. & Artist Dr. Nashville, IN 47448 812-988-4609 • browncountyartgallery.org

MON-SAT 10-5, SUN 12-5

Hinshaw Rock’N Gems

Nationally and internationally know artisans, the Hinshaw family has been creating beautiful jewelry and decorator pieces since 1961. Unique jewelry designed and created by silversmith, Merrill Hinshaw. Named by Lapidary journal as one of the top ten stone polishers in the nation, the Hinshaws cut and polish stones by hand to create a work of art.

1232 S. County Road 650 W. French Lick, IN 47432 812-936-7255 • hinshawrockngems.com

DAILY 11-5:30 AND BY APPT. For visitor info 812-936-3418 or visitfrenchlickwestbaden.com

250 E. Hoosier St. North Vernon, IN 47265 812-346-4527 888-484-5277

Classic Stained Glass & Gift Gallery, Inc. classicstainedglassshop.com

Discover the beauty and craftsmanship of our custom stained glass creations for your home decor or anyone on your gift list. We also restore beautiful stained glass windows to enhance the beauty of your church, home or business. IU fans? We’re licensed to make customized IU stained glass. Classes and glass supplies are available for any DIY crafter.

ENCOUNTER? WHAT WILL YOU

Visit

Muncie INDIANA

Thanks to Muncie’s spotlight role as a setting in Close Encounters of the Third Kind, many people think a visit to the city means a chance encounter with an extra-terrestrial being. While we can’t promise aliens, we can promise many other awe-struck encounters. Enjoy an encounter with Bob Ross’s painting studio where he filmed The Joy of Painting. Head over to the Charles W. Brown Planetarium, where you’ll encounter a truly out-of-this-world show. Or zoom down to the Academy of Model Aeronautics, where you could encounter drone races, flight festivals, and model flight simulators. The sky’s the limit!

VisitMuncie.org | 765-284-2700

100 traveliN Holiday 2022 TUES-FRI 9-5, SAT 9-2, SUN-MON CLOSED

FRENCH LICK

Enchanted Luminaria Walk at Minnetrista

Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at this year’s Enchanted Luminaria Walk at Minnetrista. Enjoy sweet treats, winter crafts, enchanting lights, and holiday music in celebration of the season. Embrace the sounds and spirit of the holidays at this free community event.

Enjoy holiday shopping at The Orchard Shop and by visiting the Luminartists in Minnetrista’s Center Building.

The event takes place Saturday, December 2 and 3 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Each year, The E.B. and Bertha C. Ball Center hosts a Holiday Open House as a part of Minnetrista’s Enchanted Luminaria Walk. During this two-day event, you can tour the beautifully decorated Ball family home, listen to musicians, and see local artisans. The first floor features floral arrangements donated by local florists.

Many of the trees and rooms are decorated by members of the community. This is just one event that the center hosts to preserve the Ball family history and to recognize their contributions to the community. Hours are 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Minnetrista is your year-round gathering place. Born out of the Ball family legacy, the home of the Ball jar, Minnetrista connects people, encourages engagement, and improves their community. There’s always something new to discover at Minnetrista. From beautiful gardens, unique events, interactive exhibits, and engaging workshops, every adventure is unique and fun. For more information about Minnetrista, visit minnetrista.net