Festival of Trees returns to the Indiana History Center

Videographer/storyteller Barney Wood's tree reflects his "Out and About with Barney" TV stories about people, places and pets.

The Indiana Historical Society has opened its popular 2025 Festival of Trees, which runs through Jan. 3 at 450 W. Ohio St., Indianapolis 46202. The annual exhibition features over 80 themed trees, special programs, scavenger hunts and expanded dining and shopping options throughout the season. 

Visitors can vote for their favorite tree in the fan-favorite contest and take part in scavenger hunts for The Elf on the Shelf or for 10 hidden traditional German pickle ornaments scattered throughout the building. Guests also can pose inside an interactive display inspired by the movie “A Christmas Story.”

Back this year are Twilight Tuesdays, offering after-hours viewing from 5-8 p.m. on Dec. 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18 and 23.

Admission includes holiday performances, programs and seasonal treats at the Stardust Terrace Café by Jonathan Byrd’s, which will extend its hours and offer specialty beverages and holiday-themed menu items.

The Basile History Market will feature Indiana-made gifts, décor and holiday merchandise for sale.

Several special events will complement the exhibit:

• Nov. 25: The Gingerbread Architecture Workshop invites families to learn about Hoosier architectural styles before designing and building a gingerbread structure.

• Dec. 6: The annual Holiday Author Fair will bring more than 60 authors to the History Center from noon to 4 p.m. Admission is included with general entry.

• Dec. 13: The Dance Refinery will present vignettes from “The Nutcracker” at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., both included with admission. A ticketed morning program, “The Sweet Experience,” will offer crafts, sweets, story time, a photo opportunity with Clara and the Nutcracker, and VIP seating for the 1 p.m. performance.

  
  

Festival of Trees hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, and noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Select Tuesday evenings will have extended hours of 10 a.m.-8 p.m. The IHS will offer special hours of 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Dec. 22.

For tickets, click here: https://9550a.blackbaudhosting.com/9550a/tickets?tab=3&txobjid=0a293f8f-298a-406f-a373-764f98e2e3ad

Phil Sanchez

WISH-TV

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