About This Festival

Christmas in BoonVillage is an annual holiday event held in downtown Boonville, Indiana, centered around the Town Square in Warrick County, typically spanning a weekend in early December. It features the lighting of Christmas decorations, Santa visits in the park, horse-drawn carriage rides, and an extended shopping experience. The highlight is the longest running Christmas parade in Indiana, held on the first Sunday of December, featuring over 100 entries from local businesses, churches, nonprofits, and scouting groups[1][2].

The parade historically starts at 2:00 p.m., with participants gathering around 1:00 p.m. at the staging area near Boonville High School (300 North First Street). Its tradition spans over 70 years, making it a significant community event and a state record for continuous Christmas parades[1][4].

The event's atmosphere is festive and family-friendly, with a focus on community spirit, holiday cheer, and local participation. Previous themes have included popular cultural icons, such as a Charlie Brown-themed celebration in 2024, and seasonal favorites like Whoville from How the Grinch Stole Christmas, which included ice skating, Santa and Mrs. Claus meet-and-greets, and photo opportunities[2].

Activities and Schedule (typical for the event):

  • Friday & Saturday (December 5-6, 2025):

    • Lighting of Christmas decorations in the Town Square and other downtown areas.
    • Santa Claus appearances in the park to meet children.
    • Extended shopping at local merchants with holiday sales and specials.
    • Horse or carriage rides through the decorated town streets.

  • Sunday (December 7, 2025):

    • The Christmas Parade at 2:00 p.m., featuring floats, marching bands, local organizations, and themed entries reflecting the parade’s theme for the year.
    • Other downtown festivities may include holiday markets, craft vendors, and community gatherings.

Surrounding Area and Vibe:
Boonville's Town Square and historic downtown create a picturesque and cozy small-town holiday setting. The streets are lined with festive lights, decorated porches on historic homes (often featured in the Parade of Porches tours), and vendors offering seasonal treats and crafts. The vibe is warm and welcoming, drawing locals and visitors who seek a traditional, intimate holiday experience imbued with community pride[2][3].

Founding and History:
The Christmas parade component of Christmas in BoonVillage is notably the longest continuously running Christmas parade in Indiana, sponsored and organized by local groups such as the Boonville Kiwanis and the Boonville Merchant's Association. It has been held annually for over 70 years, emphasizing the town’s commitment to holiday traditions and community festivities since its inception[1].

Overall, Christmas in BoonVillage offers a classic holiday experience blending festive decorations, community traditions, local culture, and extensive holiday activities for all ages, centered around the historic and accessible Town Square area of Boonville. The event is fully handicapped accessible and caters to families and visitors from the southern Indiana region.