About This Festival

Light Up Corydon is an annual holiday event held in historic downtown Corydon, Indiana, celebrated on Saturday, November 29, 2025, from approximately 10 or 11 a.m. to 8 or 9 p.m. The event transforms downtown Corydon into a festive wonderland illuminated with thousands of Christmas lights, creating a vibrant holiday atmosphere for the community and visitors alike.

The area surrounding the event is Historic Downtown Corydon, centered around the town square and Main Street, including the vicinity of 310 N. Elm St. This area is known for its charming small-town ambiance with unique local shops, eateries, and historic streets that come alive with holiday spirit during Light Up Corydon. The vibe is family-friendly, warm, welcoming, and full of community cheer, making it an ideal place for creating holiday memories.

Activities and attractions at Light Up Corydon include:

  • Thousands of Christmas lights illuminating the town square and surrounding streets, offering a magical visual experience.
  • Live entertainment throughout the day, including music and performances at various downtown locations.
  • Holiday shopping with local merchants open for unique seasonal gifts.
  • Carriage rides allowing attendees to enjoy the festive streets in a classic, horse-drawn style.
  • Visits and photo opportunities with Santa Claus and a special appearance by the Grinch.
  • Christmas parade adding a traditional festive flair to the day's events.
  • Food trucks and vendors offering a variety of holiday treats and crafts.
  • Free kids' activities to engage younger attendees in holiday fun.
  • The event is handicapped accessible, ensuring all visitors can comfortably participate.

Rough schedule for November 29, 2025 (times approximate):

  • 10:00 or 11:00 a.m.: Event begins with downtown merchants open and festivities starting.
  • Midday: Live entertainment and kids’ activities in various locations downtown.
  • Afternoon: Carriage rides available along Main Street.
  • Evening (around dusk): The official lighting of thousands of Christmas lights on the town square.
  • Evening until 8:00 or 9:00 p.m.: Continued entertainment, shopping, food vendors, and parade.
  • Visit and photo sessions with Santa and the Grinch take place intermittently throughout the day.

History and founding:

Light Up Corydon is a cherished annual tradition that marks the start of the holiday season in this historic town. While exact founding details are scarce, it has become a community staple designed to promote downtown shopping, celebrate local culture, and bring residents together. It reflects Corydon’s commitment to preserving small-town community spirit and fostering holiday joy. Over the years, it has grown to include an expanding list of activities and entertainment, firmly establishing itself as a highlight of the local calendar.

Overall, Light Up Corydon offers a festive, vibrant, and family-oriented day where downtown Corydon becomes a joyful haven of holiday sights, sounds, and activities, reinforcing community pride and holiday traditions.