About This Festival

Newburgh Celebrates Christmas is an annual holiday event held in downtown Newburgh, Warrick County, Indiana, showcasing a vibrant festive atmosphere with a variety of activities for all ages. The 2025 event is scheduled for Saturday, December 6th, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM CST, offering free admission.

Surrounding Area and Vibe:
The event takes place in the historic downtown area of Newburgh, known for its charming streets, well-preserved architecture, and community-focused atmosphere. The vibe is warm and festive, bringing together families, locals, and visitors to enjoy holiday tradition in a small-town setting. The downtown's historic character is highlighted through the decorations and the involvement of Historic Newburgh, Inc., which emphasizes preservation and economic vitality. The holiday spirit is palpable with Christmas lights, joyful music, and friendly community interaction.

Activities at Newburgh Celebrates Christmas Include:

  • Trolley Rides: Visitors can enjoy scenic trolley rides around the downtown area, adding to the nostalgic and festive experience.

  • Photo Opportunities: Santa Claus and the Grinch are present for photo sessions, making it popular among families with children.

  • Food Trucks: Various food trucks offer seasonal treats and snacks, enhancing the festive mood with diverse culinary options.

  • Local Shopping: Numerous vendors set up booths showcasing holiday wares and crafts, encouraging support of local businesses and artisans.

  • Gingerbread Houses: Displays of intricate gingerbread houses are part of the event, often attracting admiration for their creativity and holiday spirit.

  • Historic Home Holiday Tour: Tickets are available for a guided tour of some of the best-decorated historic homes in Newburgh, offering insight into the community’s holiday traditions and historic preservation.

Rough Schedule and Locations:

  • Event runs primarily from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM CST downtown.
  • Trolley rides operate throughout the event hours.
  • Santa and Grinch photo ops are positioned centrally within the downtown vendor area, popularly around Preservation Hall.
  • Food trucks and vendor booths line the downtown streets, creating a festive market environment.
  • The Holiday Home Tour typically takes place in the late afternoon, starting around 4:00 PM CST, covering decorated historic homes in the surrounding neighborhoods.

History and Founding:
Newburgh Celebrates Christmas is organized and sponsored by Historic Newburgh, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the historic and economic vitality of downtown Newburgh. The event aims to combine holiday cheer with community engagement and historic preservation awareness. While specific founding year details were not mentioned, the event has become a staple seasonal tradition, growing in scale and community involvement over the years.

Accessibility:
The event is handicapped accessible, ensuring that people with disabilities can participate comfortably.

Contact Information:
For more details, including participation and vendor inquiries, Historic Newburgh, Inc. can be reached at (812) 853-2518, and information is available on their website.

Overall, Newburgh Celebrates Christmas offers a rich holiday experience combining traditional Christmas cheer, historic charm, community spirit, and lively local commerce in a scenic riverfront town setting.