About This Festival

Christmas in the Village in Zionsville is a cherished annual event running from the weekend after Thanksgiving (starting November 29, 2025) through Christmas Eve (December 24, 2025), centered in downtown Zionsville. It celebrates the holiday season with a focus on supporting small businesses and includes a popular holiday parade and tree lighting ceremony[2][1].

Surrounding Area and Vibe

Zionsville’s charming downtown transforms into a festive winter wonderland reminiscent of a Hallmark movie set, with enchanting Christmas displays, horse-drawn wagon rides, and strolling carolers creating a cozy, small-town holiday atmosphere. The village streets are lively and welcoming, filled with shops, cafes, and local businesses participating enthusiastically. The vibe is warm, community-centered, and festive, ideal for families and visitors wanting an authentic holiday experience[1].

History and Founding

Christmas in the Village has become a Zionsville tradition deeply rooted in community pride. The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce organizes it annually, with support from the Town of Zionsville and Discover Boone County, aiming to boost local businesses through seasonal shopping events and festive activities that begin the weekend after Thanksgiving and continue until Christmas[2].

Activities and Events

The event features a variety of activities catering to all ages:

  • Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting: This highlight usually takes place the Saturday following Thanksgiving. The parade starts at 5:00 PM at Eagle Elementary and concludes around 6:00 PM at Old National Bank, where the enormous Christmas tree downtown is lit in a magical ceremony. Santa’s arrival is a major attraction. Spectators often bring lawn chairs and enjoy hot cocoa from local cafes[1][5].
  • Horse-drawn wagon rides: Offering rides through the decorated village, enhancing the nostalgic and festive feel[1].
  • Strolling Carolers: Singers roam the streets adding a live musical element to the ambiance[1].
  • Small Business Weekend: Special shopping events and business support opportunities during the weekends emphasize local crafts and seasonal offerings, encouraging visitors to shop locally across downtown stores[2].
  • Christmas Crawl: Visitors can stroll the village sampling seasonal beverages and small plate offerings from local eateries, creating a social, culinary experience[6].

Rough Schedule and Locations

  • Weekends (Nov 29 through Dec 24): Special shopping events and business promotions in downtown shops.
  • Saturday after Thanksgiving (Nov 29, 2025):
    • 5:00 PM – Christmas Parade starts at Eagle Elementary, proceeding through downtown.
    • ~6:00 PM – Tree Lighting Ceremony at Old National Bank downtown.
  • Throughout December: Horse-drawn wagon rides and strolling carolers regularly entertain in downtown Zionsville.
  • Christmas Crawl (specific dates during event period): Sampling events at various downtown restaurants and shops.

Additional Seasonal Community Events Nearby

Following Christmas in the Village, Zionsville's Winterfest runs from December through February, featuring winter markets, visits from Santa and his reindeer, luminary walks, and family-friendly outdoor activities, extending the festive atmosphere beyond the Christmas period[3].

This collection of activities, combined with the historic village charm and the support of local businesses, makes Christmas in the Village a memorable, community-focused holiday celebration in Zionsville.