Winter is when Hendricks County gets cozy. The leaves are down, Christmas lights start appearing around town, and communities from Brownsburg to Danville begin filling their calendars with holiday traditions.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy the season without making the drive into downtown Indianapolis. You can watch a Christmas parade, browse a local holiday market, take in a drive-through light display, catch a live performance, or spend an evening exploring one of the county’s downtown districts.
Whether you’ve lived in Hendricks County for years or you’re considering making it home, here’s a look at holiday events and seasonal activities happening around the county in November and December 2026.
Event dates and times should be confirmed with the organizers before heading out.
Christmas in Brownsburg
Brownsburg has several ways to celebrate the holidays, from its signature downtown celebration to smaller community activities.
Christmas Under the Stars
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 4–8 p.m. | Downtown Brownsburg
Christmas Under the Stars – Brownsburg Parks
Christmas Under the Stars is one of Brownsburg’s biggest holiday traditions. The downtown celebration brings together local vendors, holiday activities, Santa, and a lighted Christmas parade.
The planned activities include:
- A winter market featuring local vendors
- Santa’s reindeer and family activities
- Santa’s Workshop crafts through the Brownsburg Public Library
- A lighted Christmas parade along Main Street
- The community Christmas tree lighting
- Photos with Santa
The event is centered around Town Hall Green at 61 N. Green Street. Check the official event page for the final schedule and activity details.
Holiday Lights Around Brownsburg
You don’t necessarily need a scheduled event to enjoy the Christmas season in Brownsburg. Town Hall and local parks are worth checking out for seasonal decorations and holiday lights.
Arbuckle Acres Park is another familiar community gathering spot. If you’re already downtown for Christmas Under the Stars, it’s worth making an evening of exploring the area.
For seasonal announcements and park programming, visit Brownsburg Parks and the Town of Brownsburg.
Holiday Activities at Brownsburg Public Library
The Brownsburg Public Library is another place to watch for seasonal family programming. Holiday craft sessions, children’s activities, and special visits are often part of the library’s programming calendar.
Check the Brownsburg Public Library events calendar for November and December activities.
Danville and the Rest of Hendricks County
Danville offers a different kind of holiday atmosphere. The historic courthouse square, locally owned businesses, and community events make downtown a natural place to spend an evening during the Christmas season.
Christmas on the Square
Friday, November 27, 2026 | 4–7 p.m. | Downtown Danville
Christmas on the Square is a longtime holiday gathering in downtown Danville. The celebration traditionally includes seasonal music, a live Nativity, Santa, and the lighting of the community Christmas tree.
The courthouse square provides a nice setting for an evening of holiday activities. Consider making dinner plans at one of the nearby downtown restaurants before or after the festivities.
Check the Downtown Danville Partnership for the confirmed 2026 schedule.
Winterland Holiday Light Show at Ellis Park
November 20–December 27, 2026 | Danville
If Christmas lights are at the top of your holiday list, put Winterland on your radar.
This drive-through holiday light display at Ellis Park has been promoted as one of the area’s larger seasonal attractions, with more than a million lights featured in the display.
It’s a convenient option for families who want to enjoy the decorations without spending the evening walking outdoors in December temperatures.
Check the event organizer’s current listing for admission prices, operating hours, holiday closures, and any restrictions on repeat trips through the display.
Holiday Fest at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds
Friday, December 4, 2026 | Danville
Holiday shopping doesn’t have to mean heading to a shopping mall. Local craft and vendor events offer another opportunity to find gifts while supporting small businesses and area makers.
Holiday Fest at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds is included on this season’s event calendar. Check with the organizers for the confirmed hours, participating vendors, and admission information.
Hendricks County Holiday Market & Food Festival
December 18–19, 2026 | Hendricks County Fairgrounds
A holiday market is a good opportunity to pick up last-minute gifts, browse handmade items, and enjoy food from local vendors.
The advertised event includes craft and gift vendors, food booths, Santa, and children’s activities. Because event details can change, confirm the 2026 dates and vendor information directly with the fairgrounds or event organizer before planning this trip.
Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds
Holiday Events in Avon
Avon is another good place to look for community Christmas activities. Its parks and public spaces provide locations for seasonal celebrations, and the town’s event calendar is the best place to find the latest announcements.
Avon Christmas Tree Lighting
Saturday, November 28, 2026 | Avon Town Hall Park
Avon’s community tree lighting is another opportunity to enjoy the holiday season close to home. Check the Town of Avon calendar for the confirmed start time, entertainment, and other activities.
More Seasonal Activities in Avon
Also keep an eye out for:
- Holiday craft and vendor markets
- Seasonal activities at Avon parks
- Santa visits and family programming
- Local business holiday open houses
The Town of Avon and Visit Hendricks County are good starting points for finding additional announcements.
Holiday Entertainment in Plainfield
If you would rather spend an evening enjoying live entertainment, Plainfield has a couple of options worth exploring.
Hendricks Live!
Located in downtown Plainfield, Hendricks Live! is a 600-seat performing arts venue that brings concerts, comedy, and other live performances to the area.
The November and December 2026 lineup in the original event calendar includes:
- November 7: Dave Matthews tribute band
- November 13: Hannibal Buress
- November 20: The Smithereens
- December 9: Jim Brickman – A Christmas Celebration
Check the official Hendricks Live! calendar for current ticket availability, performance times, and any schedule changes.
Light Up Main Street
Plainfield traditionally celebrates the holidays with Light Up Main Street, a community event featuring seasonal decorations and a tree lighting around Bicentennial Plaza.
It’s another reason to visit downtown Plainfield during the holiday season. Confirm the 2026 date and schedule through the Town of Plainfield.
Santa at The Shops at Perry Crossing
For families planning holiday shopping, Perry Crossing is another place to watch for seasonal activities.
Santa visits, holiday photo opportunities, and special shopping events are commonly part of the holiday season. Check the shopping center’s event calendar for this year’s schedule and reservation requirements.
More Places to Find Holiday Events in Hendricks County
Not every holiday activity makes it onto the larger community calendars. Smaller markets, church events, local business celebrations, and neighborhood gatherings often have their own announcements.
Here are a few additional resources worth checking throughout November and December:
- Visit Hendricks County – Countywide events, seasonal attractions, and visitor information.
- Town of Brownsburg – Community announcements and local events.
- Brownsburg Parks – Holiday programming and seasonal activities.
- Downtown Danville Partnership – Downtown events and local business activities.
- Town of Avon – Community events and seasonal announcements.
- Town of Plainfield – Local events and holiday programming.
- Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds – Fairgrounds and Extension-related community activities.
A Few Tips for Enjoying the Holiday Season
A little planning can make a big difference when attending community events during the busiest time of the year.
- Arrive early. Popular parades, tree lightings, and holiday markets can draw sizable crowds. Give yourself time to park and explore.
- Dress for the weather. December evenings in Indiana can get cold quickly, especially when you’re standing outside for a parade or light display.
- Bring some cash. Some independent vendors and food trucks may accept cash only.
- Check the schedule. Weather, event logistics, and organizer decisions can affect dates and times.
- Support local businesses. Holiday shopping is a great opportunity to visit the locally owned shops, restaurants, and businesses throughout Hendricks County.
Thinking About Making Hendricks County Home?
One thing I’ve appreciated after more than 30 years of selling real estate throughout Hendricks County is how much character each community brings to the area.
Brownsburg, Danville, Avon, and Plainfield each have their own downtown traditions, parks, local businesses, and community events. The holiday season gives you a chance to experience some of those differences firsthand.
If you’re considering a move to Hendricks County, don’t limit your research to home prices and property listings. Spend some time in the communities you’re considering. Visit the parks, explore the downtown areas, grab dinner locally, and see what the area has to offer throughout the year.
And if you’re thinking about buying or selling in Hendricks County, I’d be happy to help you understand the local market and your options.
Integrity Real Estate of Indiana
Serving Brownsburg, Avon, Danville, Plainfield, and communities throughout Hendricks County.
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