About the Event Holidays Under the Spires is a cherished December celebration that transforms the historic village of Oldenburg into a winter wonderland brimming with old-world charm and festive spirit. This beloved community event honors the town's deep German and Catholic heritage while creating a magical holiday experience for visitors of all ages. The festival captures the essence of a traditional European Christmas, complete with quaint shops adorned in period decorations, the warmth of caroling voices, and the simple pleasures of handmade treats and artisan goods. What makes this event truly special is its intimate scale—it celebrates the village's authentic character rather than overwhelming it, allowing visitors to experience the holidays as they might have been celebrated generations ago in a small German village. Free admission and parking make it an accessible and welcoming celebration for everyone. ## The Surrounding Area Oldenburg is one of Indiana's oldest communities, settled in 1817 by Catholic German immigrants from the Cincinnati area. This charming village of fewer than 700 residents has earned the nickname "The Village of Spires" due to its remarkable concentration of church steeples that punctuate the skyline—a testament to the community's strong religious roots and architectural heritage. The entire town exudes old-world character, with street signs in both English and German, historic stone and wood buildings dating back to the 1800s, and tin-facade structures that transport visitors back in time. The village is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and about 80 of the roughly 115 homes in the historic district were constructed before 1900. Beyond sightseeing, visitors can explore several unique shops including the Kutschenhaus antique gallery, the Schwestern Gallery of Arts, and the Golden Turtle Trading Company. The Brau Haus restaurant serves authentic German cuisine, offering specialties like pepper-fried chicken and sauerkraut balls. The Sisters of St. Francis, who arrived in 1851, continue to be an important part of community life and operate the Oldenburg Academy of the Immaculate Conception and the Franciscan Center. ## Activities & Attractions The festival features a delightful array of holiday traditions and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy traditional Christmas caroling that fills the streets with festive melodies, a chime choir performance, and horse-drawn carriage rides through the picturesque village. The vendor market showcases local artisans and craftspeople, while the quaint shops throughout town offer unique holiday shopping opportunities. Home-baked goods and traditional treats are available, allowing visitors to taste authentic German holiday fare and other seasonal delicacies. Wine tastings celebrate the season in style, and the old-world decorations throughout the village create an enchanting atmosphere perfect for holiday photos and creating lasting memories. ## Schedule & Logistics Holidays Under the Spires takes place on December 5, 2026, centered at Oldenburg Town Hall. The event offers free admission and free parking, making it an economical choice for holiday celebrations. While specific start and end times for individual activities aren't detailed in available information, the festival typically features daytime and early evening activities that allow visitors to enjoy both the natural beauty of the decorated village and the festive evening atmosphere. ## History & Heritage The festival celebrates Oldenburg's distinctive German Catholic heritage that has been carefully preserved for nearly two centuries. The community's commitment to honoring its roots while welcoming visitors is evident in how Holidays Under the Spires highlights the village's deep cultural traditions. The event allows the community to share its authentic character and invite others to experience the warmth and hospitality that define this special place. By celebrating the holidays in traditional fashion, Oldenburg ensures that visitors experience not just a festival, but a genuine connection to the village's living history and enduring sense of community.