About This Festival
Holidays Under The Spires is an annual holiday event held in the historic village of Oldenburg, Indiana, typically on the first Saturday of December. In 2025, it is scheduled for December 6th and takes place throughout the Oldenburg village area, including at the Oldenburg Town Hall. The event is family-friendly and handicapped accessible.
The event features old-world style entertainment, notably including performances by a chime choir, creating a festive and traditional holiday atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy fresh baked cookies and explore various craft venues, highlighting local artisans and holiday crafts. The village, known for its distinctive historic spires, creates a charming backdrop evoking an old-world holiday vibe.
During the day, families can dine, shop, and enjoy a variety of holiday activities that fill the entire village, encouraging a stroll through Oldenburg’s small shops and cozy surroundings. This event aims to instill the holiday spirit in a setting that feels both historic and community-centered.
The village of Oldenburg itself is a historical "Village of Spires," known for its quaint, German-style architecture and close-knit community feel. The Holiday Under the Spires event reflects this heritage and has been a beloved tradition for over two decades, with the 2025 event marking at least its 22nd year. The event’s long history draws visitors who appreciate a nostalgic, small-town holiday experience.
Typical activities and schedule highlights include:
- Performances by the chime choir (times held at various spots in the village, often near or inside churches or the Town Hall)
- Access to craft vendors offering holiday gifts and artisanal items throughout the day
- Sampling of fresh baked cookies at multiple venues, enhancing the festive mood
- Shopping opportunities in the village’s unique shops, many decorated for the holidays
- Enjoying various forms of old-world entertainment, such as period music or demonstrations of traditional crafts
The exact schedule may vary year to year, but the event usually runs during daytime hours on the Saturday it is held, often from mid-morning through early evening, allowing ample time to explore the village and engage in the festivities.
Context about Oldenburg and the event:
Oldenburg is located in Franklin County in South Central Indiana and is famous for its strong German Catholic heritage, which influences the architecture and community events. The “Village of Spires” nickname comes from its many church steeples visible throughout the town.
The Holidays Under The Spires event was created to celebrate this heritage and bring the community together during the holiday season. It integrates entertainment, shopping, and social gatherings within the charming village environment, making it a unique seasonal destination in Indiana.
For contact and more details about the 2025 event, the official website and Facebook page provide up-to-date information. The event is typically held at the Oldenburg Town Hall and throughout the village streets, making it accessible and welcoming to all visitors.