About This Festival

Christmas at Grouseland & Christkindlmarkt is a festive weekend event held December 5-6, 2025, in Vincennes, Indiana, centered around the historic William Henry Harrison Mansion, known as Grouseland. It combines a historic holiday experience with a traditional German-style Christmas market (Christkindlmarkt), offering a rich atmosphere for seasonal celebration.

Event vibe and setting:
The event takes place at Grouseland, an early 19th-century mansion built in 1803 by William Henry Harrison, the former Indiana Territorial Governor and 9th U.S. President. During this time of year, the mansion and grounds are decorated to evoke a warm, historic holiday ambiance. The atmosphere is intimate and nostalgic, with candlelit tours led by re-enactors portraying period characters, carriage rides that add a charming old-world feel, and festive refreshments to enhance the visitor experience.

Activities and schedule overview:

  • Friday Evening (December 5):

    • Tours of the William Henry Harrison Mansion by candlelight featuring re-enactors in period dress who bring history to life.
    • Carriage rides around the estate add a festive, picturesque component.
    • Seasonal refreshments are served, creating a cozy holiday environment.

  • Saturday (December 6):

    • The Christkindlmarkt, a German-style Christmas market, opens with a variety of local vendors selling crafts, gifts, and holiday foods.
    • A holiday parade adds a community celebration element.
    • Food offerings, including traditional treats, are available supplementing the vendor marketplace.
    • The event continues with the Frosty Mug Pub Crawl, integrating the local pub scene for festive fun.

Additional details:

  • The Christmas Candlelight Open House is part of the weekend festivities and includes extended hours for visitors to enjoy the historic site and holiday decorations by candlelight.
  • The event is family-friendly with a focus on rich local history and community celebration.
  • Grouseland’s historic nature provides an immersive setting, blending educational tours with festive holiday spirit.

History and founding:
Grouseland, built in 1803, is one of the oldest homes in Indiana and served as William Henry Harrison’s residence while he was the Territorial Governor. This annual Christmas event leverages the mansion's historic significance, showcasing it as a cultural and seasonal centerpiece for Vincennes. The pairing with the Christkindlmarkt draws on German traditions to create a cultural holiday marketplace, enriching local holiday festivities.

This combined event is designed as a weekend adventure blending history, culture, and community holiday celebration, making it a unique seasonal draw in the South Central region of Indiana.