Celebration Crossing & More Holiday Fun

Indiana State Museum’s Celebration Crossing is open Nov. 27-Jan. 3, 2027 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. *daily. Visitors can meet the jolly old elf daily in his fanciful house and children can play in Santa’s Front Yard and Reindeer Barn. The Snowfall Express is a must for all ages and offers a magical train ride through a snowy forest filled with music, movement and wonder. Elsewhere in the museum, visitors can enjoy performances by local choirs and ensembles at Holiday Sounds, see the original Santa Claus Express train and animated window displays from the downtown Indianapolis L. S. Ayres store and more. *Closed Dec. 25.

The magic continues at our state historic sites where families will find a mix of unique holiday events. With locations that stretch north to the shores of Sylvan Lake, south to the banks of the Ohio River and many places in between, you’re sure to find something for all ages and interests.

Indulge in a special holiday lunch in the iconic L.S. Ayres Tea Room, located inside the museum. Lunch reservations are available from Nov. 27–Jan. 3, 2027 with seating at 11 and 11:15 a.m., 12:30 and 12:45 p.m. Reservations will open in September.

Santa will be at the museum during Celebration Crossing from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily through Dec. 24. Bring family and friends and have your picture taken with the man in red inside Santa’s House and share your wish lists! Please check the *Santa Schedule ahead of your visit to see who will be here that day.

*The 2026 Santa Schedule will be available in September.