NOVEMBER
2026
HOLIDAY TRAVEL DESTINATIONS MEMBERSHIPS, TICKETS & PASSES: THE GIFTS THAT KEEP ON GIVING
T H E # 1 S OU R C E FO R I N DY PA R E N TS
FREE
FIND THE RIGHT MUSICAL INSTRUMENT FOR YOUR CHILD
HOLIDAY CHEER YOUR GUIDE TO
IN INDY
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contents
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features That Keep Giving This 14 Gifts Holiday Season Looking for a gift the whole family can enjoy? Family memberships make the perfect presents.
Guide to Holiday Cheer in 2026 16 Your A sneak peek at some of the festive fun happening around Indy.
the Right Instrument 20 Choosing for Your Child Learn how to choose an instrument that fits your child's age, interests and developmental stage.
Foster Parent Starter Guide 24 The Three important things to know before saying yes.
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departments In Every Issue
Special Needs
06 Letter from the Editor
28 When Emergencies Happen
07 Indy's Kids 08 News + Notes
Sponsored Content
09 Our Cover Kids
18 Jingle Rails at the Eiteljorg
Around Town
26 What Foster Care Really Means
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Getting Real at The Children's Museum
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Local Spotlight: Let Them Talk
Travel 12 Holiday Travel Destinations
Resources & Calendars 30 School + Education Guide 32 School Open House Guide 34 Things to Do in November 39 Fun & Wacky Calendar
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FOUNDING PUBLISHER
Barbara Wynne barbara@indyschild.com
PUBLISHER + SALES
Mary Wynne Cox mary@indyschild.com EDITOR
Nicole Sipe, nicolesipe@indyschild.com MARKETING COORDINATOR
Emily Kirchmann emily@indyschild.com
DIGITAL PUBLISHER + EVENTS
Wendy Hasser wendy@indyschild.com
LET TER FROM THE EDITOR
Giving Thanks W O R D S B Y NICOLE SIPE
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Katie Clark katie@indyschild.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Richard Chachowski, Samantha Kupiainen, Michelle Mastro, Jennifer Thompson, Jessica Willits BILLING
hat are you thankful for this November? The other day, I realized that I was especially thankful for carpooling.
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They say that it takes a village to raise a child, and I’ve been feeling that lately as my children get older and more involved in activities and need to be driven everywhere. The daily marching band practice and late-night competitions. The meet-ups with friends. The birthday parties. The basketball games. It seems like there is always somewhere to go. Thankfully, I have a small village of parents to help with all of this driving around. We take turns shuttling our kids to and fro, so that we aren't full-time taxi drivers … just part-time taxi drivers. This has come in handy especially during marching band season, when the practices seem to multiply each month. Marching band parents, I know you feel my pain.
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Feeling thankful for carpooling is one of those small things that is actually a big thing. My quality of life as a busy parent is so much better because of the cooperation and help of other busy parents. I’m incredibly thankful for this village helping to raise my child, even in just this tiny way.
billing@indyschild.com CALENDAR OF EVENTS
calendar@indyschild.com
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER
GC Photography
It’s always good to reflect on our blessings all year long, but this month is an especially good month to do that. (Hello, Thanksgiving!) Whether your list of thanks is big or small, I hope you take time to count your blessings!
Indy's Child Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2026 by Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein.
indy's kids WE LOVE SEEING YOUR PHOTOS OF LOCAL KIDS LIVING THEIR BEST LIVES AROUND INDY! HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITE SUBMISSIONS WE RECEIVED THIS MONTH.
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2 1. Amira (1) at Lark Ranch
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2. Sahas (2) at Holliday Park
3. William (10) and Charlotte (8) at
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Conner Prairie
4. Dutcher (5) at Prather Park
5. EJ (8) at school 6. Stella (3) at Johnson County Public Library
7. Shea (2) with grandma at the Indianapolis Zoo
8. Samuel (7) at Tuttle Orchard
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Want to see your cute kids on this page? Email your photo (with child’s first name, age and location/activity) to editor@indyschild.com, and your photos might appear in our December issue!
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news + notes OUR MONTHLY ROUNDUP OF NEWS YOU CAN USE
Shop for a Cause:
55th Annual Holiday Mart Kick off your holiday shopping on November 19-21 at the Junior League of Indianapolis’ annual Holiday Mart, taking place at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Holiday Mart is the JLI’s largest annual fundraiser, raising vital funds for community projects and programs. Shop from local and small businesses selling everything from clothing, jewelry and handbags to food, art and children’s items. For tickets, event hours and more info, visit jlindy.org/holidaymart.
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That’s the percentage of water that makes up a typical pumpkin.
The New Indy’s Child Online Calendar Is Here! Our online calendar has a fresh new look and more family-friendly events than ever! There are nearly 300 things to do in the next 30 days, including free events, themed storytimes, festivals and lots more. Finding your next outing is easier, too. Search by keyword or filter by category, your kids’ ages or your part of town. Browse free, sensory-friendly or rainy-day indoor picks, or jump straight to what’s happening today or this weekend. Save
your favorites with the heart icon, share events with friends or add them to your calendar. Check out our calendar of events at indyschild.com/indianapolisfamily-calendar.
Did You Know? “Jingle Bells” is known as a Christmas song, but it was originally written for Thanksgiving by James Lord Pierpont. 8
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OUR COVER KIDS
Meet: Margaret, Beau & George!
MARGARET Age: 7 years old
BEAU Age: 4 years old
My favorites:
My favorites:
COLOR / Teal
FOOD / Chicken & french fries
BOOK / The Smart Cookie
MOVIE / The Lion King
RESTAURANT / Pucchini's
SUPER HERO / Iron Man
SCHOOL SUBJECT / Art
SNACK / Cereal
My favorite place to go in Indy:
When I grow up, I want to be:
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
A veterinarian!
GEORGE Age: 5 years old My favorite thing to do with my family: Go on vacation!
My favorites: FOOD / Ketchup SPORT / Football ICE CREAM / Chocolate SUPER HERO / Hulk
Cover Photo by GC Photography / gcphotography.com
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AROUND TOWN
Getting Real at The Children’s Museum W O R D S B Y M AT T T O D D, T H E C H I L D R E N ' S M U S E U M O F I N D I A N A P O L I S
created for children ages 5 and younger, also gives your young child an opportunity to explore rocks, plants, fossils and other items from the natural world while using tools designed just for them.
here’s nothing wrong with a little screen time, but children also need to see, touch, hear and experience the real thing. That’s when curiosity and imagination take over. At The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, your family can come faceto-face with real fossils, meet real experts, discover real stories and so much more!
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Experience Live Theater
Explore Real Artifacts and Objects When you step into the Dinosphere® exhibit, you enter a world full of real fossils — several of which were discovered, dug up, and prepared by the museum’s own paleontologists. You can even touch a real dinosaur fossil in the working prep labs. But the real objects and artifacts don’t stop in Dinosphere. With pop culture items, hidden treasures, geological samples, a control panel that helped send astronauts to the Moon, and everything in between, The Children’s Museum has a vast collection of more than 130,000 items. Real objects lurk around every corner of the museum, sparking curiosity and inspiring imaginations every day.
Meet Real Experts Every year, the museum invites exceptional artists with Indiana ties to publicly present and teach their work. These Visiting Artists regularly host handson workshops where you can
to them about what they’re working on. They love answering questions and sharing their dino discoveries with you.
Encounter Real Stories
meet, learn from, and be inspired by real artists. The museum also hosts the Eli Lilly and Company Visiting Scientist every year, showcasing successful women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) as positive role models. You can talk to, explore with, and learn from real scientists who are conducting real work in the world of science. The museum’s staff of paleontologists is also busy cleaning, preparing, and studying the fossils they discovered in Wyoming—and you can talk
Sponsored content brought to you by
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The museum is bursting at the seams with real stories about real people. Learn about the real families featured in Take Me There®: Peru, discover the powerful stories of Anne Frank, Ruby Bridges, Ryan White, and Malala Yousafzai, and explore ancient stories in National Geographic Treasures of the Earth. These stories can challenge, inspire, and encourage your child to explore the world around them and help to make it a better place.
Conduct Real Experiments The STEMLab offers regular guided exploration of many topics, including astronomy, biology, physics and chemistry. The museum’s Discovery Lab
Watch real actors bring stories to life onstage in Lilly Theater. Upcoming shows include The Princess Adventure (Winter 2026), Chasing the Sky, based on the book The Journey of the Nobel Gnarble (Spring 2027), and How I Became a Pirate (Winter 2027).
Giving the Gift of Real Experiences You can’t wrap a dinosaur fossil, a conversation with an artist, or the thrill of experiencing a live show. But you can give the gift of a museum membership and provide a full year full of real adventures, real encounters and real discoveries to share!
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TRAVEL
Holiday Travel Destinations Make memories this winter break with these festive family getaways. W O R D S B Y RICHARD CHACHOWSKI
s winter break nears, families are eagerly planning their holiday getaways. Here are some winter adventures to start planning for now that will create lasting memories this winter break.
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Pigeon Forge, TN While we always enjoy celebrating a honky-tonk trip to Nashville, Pigeon Forge offers a family-friendly getaway every age group can enjoy come December. Above all else, the Eastern Tennessee city is home to the world-famous theme park Dollywood, owned and operated by the late great Dolly Parton throughout her lifetime. Frequently hailed as one of the best theme parks in the world, Dollywood comes equipped with over 50 attractions that cater to a wide array of prospective visitors. Thrill seekers might test their courage aboard high-speed roller coasters like Lightning Rod and Thunderhead, while families with younger kids might journey aboard the 20-minute steam train, the Dollywood Express. Along with the park itself, Pigeon Forge is also home to several
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other attractions related to the world of Dollywood, including Dolly Parton’s Stampede, an equestrian stunt show that comes with a Southern-style dinner. (Think of it almost as a Southern Medieval Times.) Not only that, but Dollywood also heavily leans into the holiday season every winter, redecorating the park with a festive light display, holiday-themed shows, and other unique experiences.
Similarly, the Winter Lights display at the NC Arboretum invites guests to walk past over one million holiday lights along well-maintained garden paths. For those in the mood to skate, the Holiday Ice Rink at Asheville Yards is also worth considering, even if it’s just to enjoy a cup of steaming cocoa while listening to catchy Christmas carols.
New York City, NY
Harrison County, Indiana Asheville, NC Among the more underrated cities on the East Coast, Asheville is also known for hosting some of the most exciting holiday attractions anywhere in the U.S. As part of the city’s Christmas at Biltmore, visitors can step foot in George Vanderbilt’s historic mansion and behold thousands of ornaments, wreaths, holiday trees and candles. At the National Gingerbread House Competition, attendees will be able to see some of the most spectacular (and completely edible) gingerbread houses ever made by human hands.
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Take in some history with a visit to Harrison County and Corydon. Established in 1808, the town of Corydon served as Indiana’s first state capitol from 1816 to 1825, and is centrally located in Harrison County. This history is palpable when you walk downtown Corydon’s storied streets, with most of the buildings dating to the 1800s. Historic highlights include the Constitutional Elm, Indiana’s First State Office Building, Governor Hendricks’ Headquarters and the Porter Law Office. The Corydon Capitol State Historic Site tours include the capitol building and governor’s headquarters.
Sure, it’s a bit of ride from central Indiana, but when it comes right down to it, is there anything better than celebrating the holidays in the largest city in the U.S.? Along with classic NYC bucket-list items like standing atop the Empire State Building or attending a Broadway show, more holiday-minded visitors can marvel at the iconic Radio City Rockettes or take part in Macy’s Holiday Celebrations at their flagship Herald Square store. For extensive dining options, you can take your party to the Union Square Holiday Market or the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, interacting with plenty of small vendors selling delicious meals, snacks, and novelty holiday items. Of course, no visit to NYC during the winter season is complete without also stopping by the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree — without a doubt the most festive Christmas tree you’ll be able to see anywhere in the Big Apple.
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GIFTS THAT KEEP GIVING this holiday season Looking for a gift the whole family can enjoy? Family memberships make the perfect presents.
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oys, clothes, gadgets and games can be exciting to receive around the holidays. But as the years go by, sometimes the gifts your kid remembers most aren't always the ones that were wrapped. Instead, they usually remember the experiences, like driving to see Christ14
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mas lights, visiting a favorite museum or spending an afternoon doing something special with you. That’s why memberships and experiences can make especially meaningful holiday gifts. They give your family a chance to spend time together, try something new and create traditions that last long after the season ends. Bonus:
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Memberships and experiences also support the local community, making them a gift that gives on multiple levels.
MEMBERSHIPS TO LOCAL HOT SPOTS A membership to a local museum, zoo, aquarium, wildlife center or activity center can give your family a whole year of fun.
Museums Museum memberships are especially useful for families with young children. Whether it’s to a children’s museum, art museum, historical museum or science museum, an annual membership lets families visit throughout the year without feeling like they have to see everything all at once. Have an hour to spare on a rainy afternoon? Stop by the museum. Look-
ing for something to do during a snowy weekend? Go again. Need a place to burn off energy before a nap? You get the idea! Many museums also offer member discounts and reciprocal admission benefits at other museums. Visit the Association of Science and Technology Centers (astc.org) and the North American Reciprocal Museum Association (narmassociation. org) to see if any of your museum memberships qualify for reciprocal admission to other places around the country.
Zoos + Aquariums For animal lovers, memberships to local zoos, aquariums and wildlife centers can also offer unlimited visits, plus special perks like member-only events, animal encounters, classes, camps and behindthe-scenes experiences.
Gyms + Recreation Centers
THE GIFT OF DOING
And don’t forget gym memberships as gifts. A membership to a gym, recreation center, gymnastics facility, trampoline park or other activity center can give energetic kids a place to move throughout the year. Some facilities offer open play, while others provide structured programs like gymnastics, ninja, parkour, dance or sports. It can be a gift for both the kid and the parent who needs to get a rambunctious kid out of the house!
Classes and lessons are another great way to give an experience. What is your child interested in? Dance, swimming, music, art, cooking and sports are just a few ideas!
Theatres + Performances For older children and adults, consider memberships or season tickets to local theaters, concert halls and sporting venues. Depending on the organization, these can include perks like priority seating or special activities.
You can choose something your child already loves, or use the gift as a chance to introduce them to something completely new. Or even better, find an activity you can do together. A parent-child cooking class or art workshop can turn a simple gift into quality time. For babies and toddlers, experiences can be especially memorable. A parentand-me class, tickets to a holiday breakfast with Santa or an indoor waterpark can be great gifts for little ones.
EXPERIENCES FOR EVERYONE Gifts of experience don't have to be elaborate or expensive. A family outing to see holiday lights, a special dinner at a favorite restaurant, or even a family snow day can be just as memorable as anything else. The important thing is being intentional about spending time together. This holiday season, consider giving a membership, a class, tickets or just a planned day together. These are gifts that don’t have to be returned, outgrown or put away in a closet. They give families something even more valuable: time together and memories to cherish for years to come.
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Your Guide to
Holiday Cheer
in 2026
A SNEAK PEEK AT SOME OF THE FESTIVE FUN HAPPENING AROUND INDY.
Winterlights at Newfields discovernewfields.org
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t’s time to get into the holiday spirit! Indianapolis is packed with holiday events for the whole family. So make your list, check it twice, and explore our guide to what’s happening around town this season.
Christmas Nights of Lights christmasnightsoflights.com Enjoy dazzling new light displays from the comfort of your vehicle during Indy's largest synchronized light show! Visit Indiana State Fairgrounds from November 6-December 31 and see more than 1 million lights synchronized to traditional and rocking Christmas music played through your car stereo. Pack your vehicle full of friends and family to enjoy the show. Online reservations are required, so visit the Christmas Nights of Lights website before heading out.
Festival of Trees
Returning for another festive year at Newfields, Winterlights runs from November 20-January 3, 2027. Bundle up and enjoy the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s special rendition of The Nutcracker, Yuletide Celebration, and favorite holiday hits, all recorded for a dancing display of 300,000 LED bulbs on the Twinkling Trail.
Jingle Rails eiteljorg.org Enter a locomotive wonderland at this one-of-a-kind holiday adventure! Jingle Rails is making tracks from November 21January 18, 2027 at The Eiteljorg, and will get you into the holiday spirit. View eight working model trains that wind through a stunning miniature landscape. The exhibit features miniature versions of local treasures of downtown Indianapolis, as well as the national parks of the American West. Each scene is masterfully crafted from natural materials and adorned with festive holiday decorations and twinkling lights, creating a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
indianahistory.org One of Central Indiana’s biggest holiday traditions is back from November 13-January 2, 2027. Witness a winter wonderland at the Indiana Historical Society with more than 80 elaborately decorated trees representing individuals, families and organizations from around Indiana.
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol irtlive.com Indy’s holiday tradition is back at the Indiana Repertory Theatre! From November 14-December 26, A Christmas Carol shines a light on the power of kindness and love in this uplifting tale of one man’s journey to redemption.
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Christmas at the Zoo indianapoliszoo.com Make the most of the merry season at the Indianapolis Zoo’s annual Christmas at the Zoo. From November 21-January 3, 2027, watch the Zoo transform at sunset, when the warm glow of twinkling lights fills the night sky. Families will love Santa’s Magic Cottage, where kids can take a journey to the North Pole to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and be fully immersed in the holiday spirit. Pose with your family and friends near one of the many holiday displays, see Santa’s sleigh and some of his reindeer, enjoy holiday treats and drinks, and much more.
Holiday Productions at Beef & Boards beefandboards.com Get into the holiday spirit with two holiday productions at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre this season. From November 27-January 3, enjoy Holiday Inn, based on the classic musical featuring a parade of hit Irving Berlin songs, including White Christmas.
Then from December 4-22, see A Christmas Carol, a one-hour adaptation of the Charles Dickens holiday classic with traditional carols.
ence the way the ballet is meant to be seen and heard with the timeless score played live with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra.
A Merry Prairie Holiday
Butler Ballet presents Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker
connerprairie.org Central Indiana's beloved holiday festival returns to Conner Prairie on November 27 and 28, plus Fridays through Sundays December 4-21, Monday through Wednesday December 21-23, and Saturday through Monday December 26 and 28. Surround yourself with thousands of lights and celebrate the holidays in Prairietown with Historic Holidays.
Indiana Ballet Conservatory presents The Nutcracker indianaballetconservatory.org The classic holiday tradition returns November 28-29! Join Indiana Ballet Conservatory at Payne & Mencias Palladium in Carmel to experience The Nutcracker, an iconic holiday classic. Experi-
butlerartscenter.org Butler Ballet’s family tradition returns once again in 2026 with this student production of The Nutcracker at Clowes Memorial Hall. Join the celebration on December 3-6, and revel in the spectacle of live ballet, spectacular dancing, beautiful costumes, glorious scenery and pyrotechnical magic. The brilliance of Tchaikovsky’s music will be brought to life by the Butler Ballet Orchestra and the Indianapolis Children’s Choir.
AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration indianapolissymphony.org Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Yuletide Celebration lights up the stage this December 4-23 at
Hilbert Circle Theatre! This year, multi-genre performer Curtis Bannister will host the 2026 AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration, continuing one of Central Indiana’s most beloved holiday traditions, now celebrating its 40th anniversary. Enjoy musicians of the ISO as they perform new holiday music and beloved favorites, plus cirque artists, high-energy choreography and beloved traditions audiences return for year after year.
Metropolitan Youth Ballet presents The Nutcracker ballettheatreofcarmel.org Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker: the classic story of a girl and her beloved nutcracker doll that comes to life! Join the Metropolitan Youth Ballet’s pre-professional ballet company on December 18-20 in the heart of downtown Zionsville at STAR Bank Performing Arts Center. This is a family-friendly production with plenty of preand post-show activities to get everyone into the holiday spirit.
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SPONSORED CONTENT
Jingle Rails at the Eiteljorg
here’s something about a miniature train that makes everyone stop and watch. At the Eiteljorg Museum, that fascination becomes a holiday adventure unlike any other attraction in town. Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure is a miniature train wonderland where iconic Indianapolis landmarks and the American West share the same tracks.
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Eight G-scale model trains ramble over more than 1,200 feet of track past more than 30 scenes, from the Soldiers and Sailors Monument and Lucas Oil Stadium to the Grand Canyon and the Golden Gate Bridge. Every landscape is made entirely of all-natural materials like twigs, nuts and bark. Step back and it’s a skyline. Lean in and it’s walnut shells, pinecone scales and cinnamon sticks. That makes the whole display a scavenger hunt. Kids can pick a train to follow, spot landmarks they know, wait for Old Faithful to erupt and pose with a nearlife-size train engine built from nature. Afterward, the museum’s interactive family
area keeps the exploring going. Invite grandparents along, gather the cousins or make it an outing with just the kids. Jingle Rails has been an Eiteljorg tradition since 2010, and with countless small details, there’s always something new to find on a return trip. Families who plan to come back can look into an Eiteljorg membership, which includes free admission during regular museum hours. This one-of-a-kind experience belongs on every family’s holiday bucket list.
Plan Your Visit Dates: Nov. 21, 2026, through Jan. 18, 2027 Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Where: Eiteljorg Museum, 500 W. Washington St., Indianapolis Admission: Included with museum admission; free for members Tickets: Eiteljorg.org/JingleRails
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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
Let Them Talk This Indy organization is focused on creating safe spaces for youth, families, and communities. W O R D S B Y SAMANTHA KUPIAINEN
early four years ago, Indianapolis-based visionaries and leaders Anthony Battle, Daniel Mills and Heather Savage came together with their shared interest in behavioral health and equipping youth with the tools they need to succeed. The product was Let Them Talk, a youth-centered nonprofit that’s creating safe spaces for youth, families, and communities to connect, grow and thrive through authentic engagement and purposeful partnership.
Let Them Talk also has community-based and youth-focused programming, as well. One of its programs includes the Let Them Talk (LTT) Club, which serves as a safe space for youth.
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Creating Safe Spaces “When we originally started Let Them Talk, we felt like something was missing,” says Heather Savage, executive director and co-founder, along with Battle and Mills, of Let Them Talk. “We all come from a background of working with kids. We felt like something was missing and a lot of the data that was portrayed didn’t represent our youth and didn’t represent the families that we serve. We wanted to create something that gave them that access, gave them those resources, gave them those spaces where they can see themselves in.” The original idea behind Let Them Talk was to have a conference for youth and family to show more representation, but after running some things past their targeted populations, they shifted gears and ultimately decided to
create safe spaces for youth to thrive, grow and connect. “That’s really how we ended up building Let Them Talk,” Savage says. “We allowed them to really tell us what they needed and what they wanted.”
Serving Indy’s Youth Currently, Let Them Talk has a variety of programming and services, ranging from schoolbased, community-based, and behavioral health services. Let Them Talk predominantly serves youth ages 13-17 years old. “In the summertime, we'll slide down to 12-years-old because we wanna catch those kids that are coming out of elementary and going into middle school,” Savage says. “We're also expanding into some elementary youth as well, because we've been getting a lot of requests for some elementary schools to have some programming and so that's our school-based program.”
Targeting Help According to Need Within local schools, such as the partnership it has with Warren Township, Let Them Talk can partner with schools on violence prevention, socialemotional learning, civic engagement, and more. “We really listen to what the school is saying about what they need,” Savage says. “It’s like, ‘Hey, we’re seeing a lot of bullying or we’re seeing vaping. Can you come in and add some of this to your programming?’ And so we’ll deliver that.”
“We also have our community-based portion, which is youth-focused but also community-based, as well,” Savage says. “With our community-based clubs, those are also our Let Them Talk clubs. We normally just host those one Sunday a month and that is a city-wide program. It doesn't have to be these kids at this specific school. Any kid from across the city can come to our clubs on Sunda's and those are more life skills. We're having our kickback conversations, like fireside chat with the kids, figuring out what they're dealing with, what's going on. What do they need adults around them to know? We teach them how to advocate for themselves.”
Learn More Additional behavioral health services include individual counseling, family counseling, prevention programming and more. To learn more about Let Them Talk and its offerings or how to get involved, visit letthemtalkindy.com.
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CHOOSING THE
RIGHT INSTRUMENT FOR YOUR CHILD
Learn how to choose an instrument that fits your child’s age, interests and developmental stage. W O R D S B Y JENNIFER THOMPSON
H
ave you seen a child’s eyes light up when a song is played? Or a toddler shake their little body to a joyful song? Music moves us, and that starts at a young age. Music makes an impact — even in utero. Music brings joy to not only the listeners, but also the musicians. And the good news is that there are lots of ways to get your child involved in music.
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WHEN TO GET STARTED One of the things to consider when choosing an instrument is not only what your child enjoys, but also where they are developmentally. Between the ages of 3-5, the focus isn’t on complex technique. Instead, it’s on learning the basics, such as rhythm, beat and pitch.
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Between the ages of 6-8, children have better handeye coordination, and typically are able to sit still for longer periods of time. As they grow, so will their size and lung capacity. These are all things to consider when choosing an instrument for your child.
WHICH INSTRUMENT IS BEST? A great thing about music is that a person can learn multiple instruments in their lifetime. You can start down one path, and then find another instrument you enjoy. Many people play guitar and have beautiful vocals. Lots of children learn to play the piano when they
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are young, and then go on to join the marching band when they are older. The love of music you instill in them at a young age is something that they can carry with them throughout their entire lives. As you are choosing what instrument for your child to play, here are some things to consider.
PI A N O When people think of learning an instrument, more than likely piano comes to mind. Learning the piano at a young age can foster a love of music that will be carried for all of their years. Some things to consider are: Does your child know the alphabet from A to G and the numbers 1 through 4? These are what will be used for musical notes. Also, can they wiggle their fingers individually and press the keys without their wrists collapsing? Due to attention span and hand-eye coordination, many feel the sweet spot to begin learning piano is between the ages of 6-8.
S TR I N GS Stringed instruments like violin and guitar might not be instruments that you would consider for young children, but the early start for violin can happen as soon as ages 3 to 4, and 6 to 7 for guitar. For violin, the style often used for young children is called the Suzuki Method, which teaches music through listening and imitation, much like learning a native language. If you don’t feel your child is ready to start that young, the ages of 5 to 7 is often considered
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the sweet spot for the violin because of a child’s attention span, ability to sit still and their fine motor skills. Guitar requires finger strength, coordination and a decent attention span. Kids ages 6 to 7 are usually ready for basic, fun-focused, shorter lessons on a smaller ¼ or ¾ scale guitar. It is also recommended that the guitar have nylon strings that won’t bother your child’s fingertips. The sweet spot for guitar lessons is ages 8-12 because of the child’s hand size, cognitive focus, finger strength and fine motor control.
PE RC USS I O N The drums may cause some anxiety when you first think of them, but before you shut them out completely, it’s good to know that they are great for early music exploration. From the ages of 2 to 4, children can start experimenting with hand drums, shakers or a single practice pad. This stage is focused on learning beats, having fun and moving to the music. When a child is 4-5, they can start introductory single drum lessons, as long as they have good physical coordination. The optimal start is ages 6-8 because at this time, they are able to count, reach the pedals and cymbals, and move their limbs with more coordination.
B R A SS Brass instruments, such as the trumpet, trombone and French horn, are another wonderful way for children to explore music. These instruments use buzzing lips to create sound, which requires a different set of skills than playing the piano or strings. Younger
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children can begin exploring brass instruments through music classes that focus on rhythm, listening and making sounds, while traditional brass lessons are often a better fit around ages 8-10.
is that the parent participates with the child, which is good not only for the parent/child relationship, but also for the parent to see how to incorporate music more into their child’s life at home.
VO I C E
The good news is that if you choose an instrument for your child and it’s not working, they can try something else. The hope is that, by introducing your child to the joy of music-making at a young age, they will have found something that will bring them (and others!) happiness throughout their entire life.
One instrument that you may not have thought of is your child’s voice! Does your child love belting out their favorite song? Consider placing your child into a music class, or once their attention span is long enough, into vocal lessons. A great place that introduces children to vocals and more is Kindermusik. Kindermusik is a research-based early childhood music and movement program that is designed specifically for children from the ages of birth to 7 years. Kindermusik combines singing, dancing, instruments and storytelling with classes suited for a child’s developmental stage. Another great thing about Kindermusik
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WORDS BY MICHELLE MASTRO
The Foster Parent
Starter Guide
Three important things to know before saying yes.
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hinking about becoming a foster parent? Before saying yes to fostering a child, there are some important things to know. From the emotional realities and practical responsibilities to the support, training and preparation you’ll need to get started with confidence, here’s what you should consider.
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1. This Will Likely Be a Tough Transition for the Child Not every child will be ready for fostering. In fact, the experience will probably be tough on the child, and they might act out. But child behavior often serves as basic communication, especially when children go through major transitions, says Samantha Ridout, a board certified behavior analyst at Alpaca Health.
It’s important to understand that trust should be earned by foster parents — trust shouldn’t be expected right away. Many foster children have experienced trauma, so your willingness to shoulder emotional and psychological demands is essential. Be patient and expect the child to have a tough time in the beginning. “The success of a placement is not based on being an ideal parent, but rather on being consistent, curious and willing to make adjustments,” Ridout says. Having these in mind as you begin the process will likely create better realities about what each of your children can expect from their caregivers.
2. State Regulations Differ Training, certification and licensing requirements, availability of services, and regulations regarding local agencies will differ depending on where you live, says Ridout. In general, you must be at least 18 years old to foster a child, have a stable income, stable living situation, and pass criminal background checks. “It is essential that prospective foster parents have knowledge of their state and agency’s rules, so they can prepare themselves appropriately to meet both the needs of the child and their own responsibilities,” says Ridout.
3. Fostering to Adopt May Not Always be Possible Fostering to adopt is different from simply fostering. Typically, the goal of fostering is the eventual reunification with birth families. The basic emotional support and care of children in fostering to adopt and simply fostering are basically the same, says Ridout. In both, you should have stable routines to provide a sense of stability for the fostered children, says Ridout. And be sure you have access to reliable support networks as a foster caregiver or parent. However, as far as what is expected from a foster parent on a day-to-day basis, there will be differences. When fostering, be prepared for ongoing training in either situation, case management visits, and potential changes in placement. When fostering to adopt, bear in mind that a court must terminate the biological parents’ rights, either voluntarily or through a contested hearing, and that adoption is not always guaranteed. Becoming a foster parent can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with emotional challenges, practical responsibilities and uncertainty. Taking the time to understand your state’s requirements, prepare for a child’s unique needs and build a reliable support system can help you feel more confident as you begin the journey. Most importantly, remember that fostering is about providing a safe, stable and supportive environment for a child, even when the path forward is uncertain. With patience, flexibility and a willingness to learn, you can make a meaningful difference in a child’s life.
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SPONSORED CONTENT
What Foster Care Really Means hildren enter foster care most often because of abuse, neglect or unsafe home environments. While foster care provides protection, it can also bring big changes to a child’s life. Separation from parents, siblings, friends, pets and familiar surroundings can leave children feeling afraid, confused and uncertain about the future.
C
“Children do not enter foster care because of something they have done. They are often responding to circumstances that are outside of their control,” says Cathy Felton, executive director at Debra Corn Foster Care, with locations throughout Indiana.
The Foster Family’s Role Foster families play an important role in helping children navigate these challenges. Along with providing food, shelter and a safe home, foster parents give kids consistency and reassurance. “Stability does not happen overnight. It is built through repeated experiences of having adults who are present, dependable and supportive,” Felton says. Foster parenting also involves advocating for a child’s needs. Foster parents work closely with case managers, schools, therapists, biological families, and other professionals to ensure children receive appropriate care. They must also recognize that a child’s biological family is an important part of their identity. Supporting family connections allows children to feel loved without being forced to choose sides.
“Foster parents can love and care deeply for a child while also recognizing the importance of that child’s biological family,” Felton says.
Understanding the Challenges Despite its rewards, foster care can be challenging for both children and families. Trauma, grief, behavior difficulties and uncertainty about a child’s future can create emotional strain. Access to training, mental health resources and respite care helps foster families meet these challenges. “Foster care works best when foster parents understand they are not alone,” Felton says. “It truly takes a team to support a child and a foster family.”
Resources to Help At Debra Corn Foster Care, supporting foster families is central to the organization’s mission. The agency works alongside foster parents, children, biological families, the Department of Child Services (DCS), and community partners to offer guidance throughout the foster care journey. The agency recognizes that every child and family has unique needs and strives to provide individualized support to help foster parents feel prepared and confident. “Foster parents are not simply providing a home. They are helping a child navigate one of the most difficult periods of their life,” Felton says.
Sponsored content brought to you by
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SPECIAL NEEDS
When Emergencies Happen Safety resources for neurodivergent children and their families. W O R D S B Y JESSICA WILLITS, NEURODIVERSIT Y CONNECTION
Smart911: Preparing Before You Call
really tried not to submit this article at the eleventh hour. But here we are, and honestly, this piece would have looked a lot different if I’d written it a week ago.
I
When you’re in the middle of an emergency, remembering every detail you want a dispatcher to know can be difficult. Smart911 gives families a way to prepare ahead of time by creating a free safety profile with information such as medical conditions, medications, communication needs, and emergency contacts.
My family experienced a medical emergency this week. Thankfully, it wasn’t something we’d been through before, and everyone is home and recovering. But my husband had to call 911. There were flashing lights, EMS in my house, and a whole lot of fear and uncertainty. It was scary. As a parent of children with complex support needs, emergencies come with an extra layer of worry. You know your child best. You know their medical history, how they communicate, what overwhelms them, and what a first responder might need to know to help them. But in the middle of an emergency, communicating all of that isn’t always easy. While we can’t prepare for everything, there are a few Indiana programs worth knowing about before you need them.
Project Lifesaver: When a Child Wanders For families whose children are at risk of wandering, Project Lifesaver can provide an additional layer of support. Participants wear a small radio transmitter that trained public safety teams can use to help locate them if they become separated from their caregivers.
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Hamilton County offers the program at no cost to participating families. To learn about eligibility and enrollment, visit the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office website and look for Project Lifesaver. Families elsewhere in Indiana can contact their local law enforcement agency to ask whether Project Lifesaver is available in their community.
The Blue Envelope Program: Making Communication Easier A traffic stop can be stressful for anyone, but unexpected interactions can be especially challenging for people with communication differences or sensory sensitivities.
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The Carmel Police Department recently launched its Blue Envelope Program to help make traffic stops and other law enforcement interactions more comfortable and effective. The envelope holds important documents and provides officers with helpful information that may support communication during an encounter. Participation is voluntary. Carmel residents can pick up a Blue Envelope at the Carmel Police Department, located at 1000 S. Rangeline Road, during normal business hours. Families can also contact the department directly for more information.
When someone calls 911 from a registered phone number, the profile may be available to dispatchers in participating communities. Families can visit Smart911.com to create a profile and check availability in their area. None of these programs can prevent every emergency or guarantee that everything will go smoothly. But they can help bridge the gap between what a family knows about their child and what first responders need to know. This week was a reminder I didn’t need, but one I’ll carry with me. We can’t always know when we’ll need help. Sometimes, the best we can do is take a few small steps ahead of time and hope that when the unexpected happens, those steps make things a little easier.
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SCHOOL + EDUCATION GUIDE CARMEL
INDIANAPOLIS – NORTH
Starting Line Preschool, The Right Start for A Lifelong Love of Learning! Our strong academic-based curriculum prepares and encourages your child to succeed in school while discovering learning is fun! All of our classes focus on an introduction to colors, number and letters with exciting art and science projects. Math, social studies and sight words are taught in the older classes.Develop Social Awareness & Friendships, Build Confidence and Master Academic Skills for Kinder- garten. 110 Third Ave NE,
A Children’s Habitat Montessori As Indianapolis’s longest running Montessori school, A Children’s Habitat Montessori provides an excellent educational opportunity for students 18-months through 6th grade in a warm, nurturing environment. Steered by our mission: “Enriching minds and building community, guided by the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori,” A Children’s Habitat Montessori provides a top-rate educational experience that recognizes the unique characteristics and capabilities of each child. 801 W. 73rd
Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Diane Atkins, Phone: (317) 753-9397, Email: dkatkins22@ msn.com, startinglinepreschool.com
DOWNTOWN
IU Indianapolis Center for Young Children offers childcare and early childhood education for children ages six weeks to five years old and believes children learn through play, experiences, and interaction with their environment and peers. 321 Limestone St.,
Indianapolis, IN 46202, Phone: (317) 274- 3508, Childcare.indianapolis.iu.edu
St. Richards Episcopal School education provides students aged 3 through grade 8, a transformational experience through our engaging and challenging curriculum while developing global citizens who love learning, embrace diversity and live Episcopal values. Students thrive with small class sizes and personal attention from outstanding faculty as they learn knowledge and values for a lifetime.
33 East 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205, Phone: (317) 926-0425, Contact: Kim Napier, Director of Admissions, Email: knapier@ sresdragons.org, sresdragons.org
The Oaks Academy is a Christ-centered school (Pre-K through 8th grade) that exists to provide a rich, classical education to children of diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds, preparing them to succeed in a rigorous secondary educational program and to demonstrate spiritual, social and emotional maturity. Multiple locations; Contact: Jody Barbour, Phone: 317-6100880; Email: admissons@theoaksacademy. org; theoaksacademy.org
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Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Phone: (317) 726-5584, Grades: Toddler-6th Grade, Childrens-Habitat.org
Children’s Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool is a fully inclusive early childhood program with an emphasis on Christian values and learning through play. It is designed to offer children ages 9 months to 5 years a positive and developmentally appropriate first school experience in the care of experienced and loving caregivers. We play and learn! Classes are offered Tuesday through Friday from 9 am to 2:30 pm during the school year. We also offer both a Fall and Spring soccer league for young children ages 3-8. Please call, e-mail or visit our website for further information and registration forms. 5500 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, Phone: (317) 253-0472, cdi@meridianstreet.org, meridianstreet.org
International School of Indiana is a non-profit, independent school that offers the International Baccalaureate curriculum to all preschool through grade 12 students on our newly unified campus. With lessons taught in English, French, Mandarin, and Spanish, our curriculum helps students excel academically while learning to become responsible citizens and effective leaders. ISI also offers a wide range of sports, clubs, and arts programs for students of all ages. High school students participate in a comprehensive four-year college counseling program, leading to a 100% college acceptance rate. 4330 N. Michigan Rd.; Phone: (317) 923-1951, ext. 334; email: admissions@isind.org; isind.org
The Orchard School, an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school, emphasizing experiential learning. Orchard teachers engage the natural curiosity of children, develop academic excellence, and provide leadership experience through well-rounded education. Orchard’s
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diverse community and commitment to multicultural education inspires responsible, global citizenship. Founded in 1922. NAIS, ISACS, NAEYC accredited. 615 W. 64th St., Indianapolis,
IN 46260, Contact: Jessica Aiyasami, Director of Admissions, Phone: (317) 713-5717, Fax: (317) 254-8454, Email: jaiyasami@orchard. org, orchard.org
Sycamore School, Indiana's only accredited, independent, private school for Preschool - 8th grade gifted students, teachers trained in gifted education deliver a curriculum designed to challenge and engage gifted learners. Art, music, Spanish, physical education, technology, extensive field trips, athletics, financial aid, and after school activities are offered. 1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Duane Emery, Director of Enrollment Management, Phone: (317) 202-2500, Email: emery.duane@ sycamoreschool.org, sycamoreschool.org INDIANAPOLIS –NORTHEAST
MSD of Lawrence Township is located in the northeast corner of Indianapolis, Lawrence is a residential suburban community of 95,000+ and home to Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park and Geist Reservoir. With families from widely diverse cultural, racial, and socio-economic backgrounds, the Lawrence community values and embraces diversity as one of its greatest strengths. Lawrence Township strives to be the district of destination, a reputation built over the years based on the district's awardwinning staff, accomplished administrators, high-achieving students, supportive community, and innovative educational programs. 5720 Wheeler Road, Indianapolis, IN 46216; Phone: (317) 423-8200; Email: danaaltemeyer@msdlt.k12.in.us, LTschools.org
Heritage Christian School desires to partner with Christian families to provide a Christ-centered education with strong, college-prep academics and intentional discipleship of preschool – 12th-grade students. Our extraordinary teachers, coaches, and staff are committed to creating a secure and loving learning community where a student’s educational experiences prepare and equip them for wherever the Lord leads them. 6401 E. 75th Street, Indianapolis, (317) 849-3441, heritagechristian.net
INDIANAPOLIS – SOUTH
Beech Tree House Center for Child Development, Inc. At Beech Tree House Center for Child Development, Inc., including Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy, our exceptional team of caregivers and teachers offer loving infant and toddler care, an academic and structured preschool curriculum, and a stateaccredited exemplary-rated elementary school. Our mission is to provide stimulating programs that support children’s emotional, social, intellectual, physical, and spiritual development while nurturing each child’s potential as a strong, productive, and compassionate member of society. 7850 South Emerson Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46237, Phone: (317) 882-8636, BeechTreeHouse.com
Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy, the elementary school program of Beech Tree House Center for Child Development, Inc., promotes the emotional, physical, intellectual, social, and spiritual development of each child. Our exceptional teaching staff is dedicated to presenting a challenging and enthusiastic learning environment that recognizes each unique learner. With a dedication to personal excellence, all members of our school family are challenged to practice and exhibit love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in daily life. State-accredited with exemplary ratings. Preschool to 3rd Grade, cwpsa.com / 7850 South Emerson Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46237 / (317) 882-8636 / Email: kmeguschar@cwpsa.com SPECIAL NEEDS
Easterseals Crossroads offers comprehensive disability services for people of all ages. Early Intervention, Autism Services, PT, OT, Speech Therapy, Feeding/ Swallowing issues, Augmentative Comm-unication, Assistive Technology, Multi-sensory Therapy Rooms, Summer Camps, Life/ Social Skills Groups, Deaf Community Services, Autism Family Resource Center. 4740 Kingsway Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46205, Phone: (317) 466-1000, Email: info@ easterseals crossroads.org, eastersealscrossroads.org
Interested in being in our monthly guide? Email Mary@indyschild.com for more details.
*Sponsored Listings
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2026 CONSIDERING A NEW SCHOOL FOR YOUR STUDENT?OUR AREA HAS PLENTY TO CHOOSE FROM! FIND THE RIGHT MATCH BY VISITING AN UPCOMING OPEN HOUSE TO GET ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED.
A CHILDREN’S HABITAT MONTESSORI SCHOOL
childrens-habitat.org (317) 726-5584 801 W. 73rd St., Indianapolis Open House: November 14 and February 6, 2027, 1-3:00 PM
Middle and High School Open Shadow Day: November 3, February 9, March 16
brebeuf.org/visit (317) 524-7050 2801 W. 86th St., Indianapolis
Open House: To sign up for a Shadow Day or explore enrollment opportunities, please visit the website or call school directly.
CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL
gocathedral.com (317) 542-1481 5225 E 56th St., Indianapolis Visits: Schedule a campus tour or student shadow visit through the school’s website.
LEGACY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
LegacyChristianSchools.org (317) 776-4186 470 Lakeview Drive, Noblesville Open House: Thursday, November 5
MSD OF LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP Lawrence Central High School lawrencecentral.ltschools.org (317) 964-7400 7300 East 56th Street, Indianapolis Visits: Contact the school or complete its online shadow-request form to arrange a visit.
HERITAGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
heritagechristian.net (317) 849-3441 6401 E. 75th Street, Indianapolis Campus Tours: Visit the school’s website to schedule a tour for your student’s grade level.
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THE ORCHARD SCHOOL orchard.org isind.org (317) 251-9253 (317) 923-1951 615 W 64th St., Indianapolis 4330 N Michigan Rd, Taurel Building, Open House: November 18, 8:30Indianapolis 10:00 AM Lower School Info Sessions: November 5, December 3, January 7 Upper School Info Sessions: November 19, January 14
BREBEUF JESUIT PREPARATORY SCHOO L
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INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF INDIANA
Lawrence North High School lawrencenorth.ltschools.org (317) 964-7700 7802 Hague Road, Indianapolis Visits: Contact the school or complete its online shadow-request form to arrange a visit.
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PARK TUDOR
parktudor.org (317) 415-2700 7200 North College Avenue, Indianapolis
Parent Mornings: Jr./Sr. Kindergarten: Nov. 19 & Jan. 12, 8:30–10 AM Grades 1–5: Nov. 10 & Jan. 26, 8:30–10 AM Grades 6–8: Nov. 5, Jan. 14 & Feb. 11, 8:30–10:30 AM Grades 9–12: Nov. 12 & Jan. 21, 8:15–10:30 AM Parents only. Register online.
ST. RICHARD’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL
sresdragons.org (317) 926-0425 33 East 33rd Street, Indianapolis Open House: November 9:00 - 10:30 AM
4,
SYCAMORE SCHOOL sycamoreschool.org (317) 202-2544 1750 W 64th St., Indianapolis Open House: January 22, 2027, 9:00-11:00 AM
UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL
universityhighschool.org (317) 733-4475 2825 W. 116th St, Carmel Open House: Sunday, Nov. 8, 2-4 PM and Sunday May 2, 2027, 2-4 PM
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November 2026 THINGS TO DO
FRI–SUN, NOVEMBER 20-22 RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY CIRCUS at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Discover Your Backyard: Mammals Families explore mammals through hands-on activities at the Trailhopper, Zionsville Parks’ mobile nature center. Drop in anytime during the two-hour program. Location: Overley-Worman Park, Shelter A, Time: 2-4 pm, zionsvillein.myrec.com *F
First Thursday at Newfields Visitors pay what they wish, including nothing, to see the Indianapolis Museum of Art and The Garden, with live music, open studio hours and gallery conversations. Advance tickets recommended. Location: Newfields, Time:
SUN 01
Day of the Dead Story Celebration Children hear a story about Día de Muertos and make a sugar-skull craft. Location: Noblesville Library, Time: 2-3 pm, hamiltoneastpl.org *F
MON 02
Family Funday Monday Families with children ages 5 and older gather for crafts, basketball, pool and board games. Also Nov. 9, 16, 23 & 30. Location: Christian Park Family Center, Time: 3 pm, indyparks.org *F
Elmo’s Got the Moves Elmo and his Sesame Street friends get children and parents dancing, stretching and playing along to “Sunny Days” and “Letter of the Day,” with moves from yoga to silly dance steps. Location: Old National Centre, Time: 2 pm, livenation.com
Messy Munchkins Children ages 2-5 hear a story, then dig into sensory bins and messy play. Location: Fishers Library, Time: 10 am, hamiltoneastpl.org *F
TUES 03
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra performs the film's score live while Harry's second year at Hogwarts plays on the big screen. Location: Hilbert Circle Theatre,
Pajama Storytime Young children and their caregivers are invited for bedtime stories, songs and fun activities that build a love of reading and learning. Children are welcome to wear their pajamas and bring their favorite stuffie. Location:
Time: 2 pm, indianapolissymphony.org
Irvington Branch Library, Time: 6:30 pm, indypl.org *F
Open Gym with Fishers Parks Families drop in for basketball, pickleball and volleyball. Closed-toe shoes required. Also Nov. 8, 15, 22 & 29. Location: Fishers Junior
Teen Gourmet: Dinner Rolls Teens in grades 6-12 make dinner rolls from scratch. Registration required. Location: Noblesville Library,
High School, Fishers, Time: 1-5 pm, fishersin.gov *F
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Time: 5:30-7 pm hamiltoneastpl.org *F
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10 am-5 pm, discovernewfields.org *F
WED 04
Curiosity Lab Children ages 3-8 and their grown-ups experiment together at hands-on science stations. Location: West Perry Branch Library, Time: 11:15 am, indypl.org *F
Small Wonders: Explosive Art Preschoolers ages 3-5 make messy art with real tools during this hour-long class. $13 per child; not included with museum admission. Also Nov. 14. Location: Indiana State
Museum, Time: 10-11 am, indianamuseum. org
Teen Build It Teens build a planter box with Deeply Ingrained, learning to measure, mark wood and use tools safely. Materials provided; registration required. Location: Glendale Branch Library, Time: 4:30 pm, indypl.org *F
THURS 05
Critter Tales Toddlers and preschoolers hear stories, sing songs and meet a live animal. Location: Holliday Park, Time: 10 am, hollidaypark. org *F
First Thursday Night at The Children’s Museum Admission drops to $6 per person from 4 to 8 pm on the first Thursday of the month. Tickets required. Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 4-8 pm, childrensmuseum.org
Holiday Wreath Workshop Participants ages 14+ make a 20-inch fresh wreath with greenery, ribbon and decorative accents. Location: COhatch, Zionsville, Time: 6-8 pm, zionsvillein.myrec. com
Math Mania Kids ages 8-14 tackle math problems and puzzles on their own and in groups. Location: Michigan Road Branch Library, Time: 4:30-5:30 pm, indypl.org *F
Neurodivergent Teen Hangout: Game Nights Neurodivergent teens in grades 6-12 play games and socialize. Registration required. Location: Noblesville Library, Time: 6-7 pm hamiltoneastpl.org *F
*F = FREE FOR FAMILIES
*SN = SPECIAL NEEDS FRIENDLY
FRI 06
Campfire Cooking Park naturalists help participants of all ages cook a snack over a campfire. $3 per person; advance registration required. Location: McCloud Nature Park,
Time: 4-5:30 pm, hendrickscountyparks.org
Digital Media Lab 10th Anniversary Reception The Carmel Library's Digital Media Lab marks 10 years with a gallery of community-made work, live music and food. Location: Carmel Clay Public
Library, Time: 5-7 pm, carmelclaylibrary.org *F
Family Fun Friday Families with children ages 6+ drop in for board games, basketball and crafts. Also Nov. 20. Location: Brookside Park Family Center, Time: 4 pm, indyparks.org *F
First Friday at the Harrison Center New exhibitions open across eight galleries during the monthly evening gallery opening. Artists' studios in the historic church building are open, too. Location: Harrison Center, Time: 6-9 pm, harrisoncenter.org *F
Little Sprouts Preschoolers build a miniature terrarium and learn about plants. Dress for a mess. Registration required. Location: Wayne
Branch Library, Time: 2-2:45 pm, indypl.org *F
FRI 06–SUN 08
Cinderella featuring Indianapolis Ballet and the ISO Indianapolis Ballet dances the fairy tale with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra playing live. Location: Clowes Memorial Hall, indianapolissymphony.org
SAT 07
Military Day Kids get up close to a Huey helicopter, see uniform displays and a POW memorial, and try historical simulations and hands-on activities. The 38th Infantry Division Band plays a WWII-era social, and author Brad Taylor speaks. Location: Johnson County Armory, Time: 10 am-5 pm, pageafterpage.org *F
November Fall Birding A naturalist helps participants ages 12+ identify resident birds and fall migrants. Location: Carpenter Nature Preserve, Time: 9-10 am, zionsvillein.myrec. com
Smashin’ Pumpkins Pumpkins get a second act with smashing, composting and a fire-truck pumpkin drop. Location:
Mulberry Fields Park, Time: 11 am-1 pm, zionsvillein.myrec.com *F
Teddy Bear Concert: The Big Note Join musicians from the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra as they introduce instruments from the symphony orchestra through stories. Young children will have the opportunity to move with the music, play real violins, and interact with ISO musicians at each 30-minute program. Location: Mooresville Public Library, Time: 11 am, indianapolissymphony.org *F
SUN 08
Heroes from the Heartland Visitors see military artifacts, talk with the museum's history curator and try hands-on activities. The Indianapolis Municipal Band's Veterans Day concert starts at 3 pm. Included with museum admission. Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am-4 pm, indianamuseum.org
Indy Fuel: Toy Story Family Fun Day The Fuel wear Toy Story jerseys against the Cincinnati
Cyclones, with special guest appearances and a kids-eat-free promotion. Location: Fishers Event
Center, Time: 4 pm, indyfuelhockey.com
Tadpole Time: Turkey Talk Children ages 2-5 explore turkeys through a book, craft and habitat hike, weather permitting. Location: McCloud Nature Park, Time: 10-11 am, hendrickscountyparks.org
Turkey Trails Indianapolis Runners choose a kids dash, a one-mile run or a longer race, with pie at the finish. The dash for ages 10 and under is free without swag; other fees vary. Location: Riverside Park, runsignup.com
MON 9
Kids Craft at MashCraft Teachers and parents lead children through crafts and learning activities, snacks included, while adults eat and drink nearby. $5 per child. Location: MashCraft, Greenwood, Time: 6:30-8 pm, festivalcountryindiana.com
Monday Night Occasion Families spend an hour playing together; activities rotate among art, board games, play dough and small-world building. Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch Library, Time: 6:30 pm, indypl.org *F
WED 11
Art Adventures Jeremy South of Ripple Mobile Arts helps children ages 3-6 create with clay and other materials, using picture books for inspiration. Dress for a mess! Location: East 38th Street Branch Library, Time: 11-11:45 am, indypl.org *F
Sunshine Storytime Babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their families will enjoy a traditional library storytime with books, felt boards, movement activities, and a hootenanny-style song sing. Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch Library, Time: 10:30 am, indypl.org *F
WED 11–SUN 15
Christmas Gift + Hobby Show Shoppers browse gifts, decor and handmade goods from hundreds of vendors. Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds, christmasgiftand hobbyshow.com
TUES 10
Crafty Teens: Leaf Luminaries Teens in grades 6-12 turn autumn leaves into luminaries. Registration required. Location: Noblesville Library Time: 6-7 pm, hamiltoneastpl.org *F
Family Storytime Families with babies, toddlers and preschoolers are invited for stories, songs, engaging activities and much more. Location: Wayne Branch Library, Time: 10:30 am, indypl.org *F
Mystery Science Children ages 6-11 examine laboratory clues, predict what an experiment will do, then test their ideas. Location: Noblesville Library, Time: 3-4 pm, hamiltoneastpl.org *F
THURS 12
Justin Willman: One for the Ages Tour The creator of Magic for Humans performs an interactive magic and comedy show. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Location: Clowes Memorial Hall, Time: 7 pm, butlerartscenter.org
Play & Learn with Gymboree Babies and toddlers ages 6-36 months and their caregivers try sensory play and songs with a Gymboree instructor. Location: Pike Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11 am, indypl.org *F
Bargersville Veterans Day Celebration The town honors veterans with music, military vehicles and children's activities. Location:
World Cultures Club: Haiti Students in grades 3-6 explore Haiti's culture, traditions and history.
Home Depot Kids Workshop Children and their grown-ups build a dump truck (Nov. 7) or a Christmas car ornament (Nov. 21) and take home an apron, pin and certificate. Register with a participating store; supplies are limited. Location:
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1 ELMO'S GOT THE MOVES
Umbarger Plaza, Time: 10 am-noon, festivalcountryindiana.com
Location: Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Time: 4:30-5:30 pm, hmmpl.org *F
at Old National Theatre
Participating Home Depot stores, Time: 9 am, homedepot.com *F
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THURS 12–SAT 14
Bands of America Grand National Championships High school marching bands from across the country compete for the national title. Location: Lucas Oil Stadium, marching.musicforall.org
FRI 13
Fishers Gallery Hop Galleries around downtown Fishers open for an evening of art and live music. Location: Fishers Library and downtown galleries, Time: 5-9 pm, fishersartscouncil. org *F
Owl Prowl Participants ages 6+ learn about Zionsville's owls, then hike with a naturalist to look for them. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Location: Carpenter Nature Preserve, Time: 5:30 pm, zionsvillein.myrec. com
Toddler Trek: Squirrels & Chipmunks Children ages 4 and under explore squirrels and chipmunks outdoors with a caregiver. Location: Starkey Nature Park, Time: 10-11 am, zionsvillein.myrec.com
Waterway Exploration Kids ages 6-12 build bridges and dams, design a boat and take on river-themed engineering challenges with the Indiana State Museum.
Location: Beech Grove Branch Library, Time: 4-5 pm, indypl.org *F
SAT 14
A Christmas Carol: SensoryFriendly Performance Dickens' holiday story plays with lower sound and light levels, house lights partly up and the freedom to move or step out. Recommended for grade 3 and older. Location: Indiana
Christmas in Pendleton Downtown shops, food and holiday activities fill the day, with a snowball fight, a 5:30 pm parade and the tree lighting after dark. Location: Downtown Pendleton, Time: 10 am-6:30 pm, mainstreetpendleton.com *F
Holiday Craft Fair Local artisans sell handmade crafts and original products throughout the Pavilion Center. Location: Washington Township Park, Time: 9 am-3 pm, washingtontwpparks.org
Intro to Wildlife Track & Sign Participants ages 12+ learn to identify animal tracks indoors, then practice outside with experienced trackers. $10, plus park admission. Location: Eagle Creek Park, Time: Noon, indyparks.org
Kids’ Leaf Art Banner Workshop Kids make a fall leaf banner and learn why leaves change color and drop. Supplies provided; first come, first served. Location: Wasson Garden Center, Time: 10 am, wassonnursery.com *F
LibraryCon! Fans get an artist alley, workshops, Jedi activities, comics and games. Location: Fishers
Library, Time: 11 am-3 pm, hamiltoneastpl. org *F
Lowe’s DIY Workshop: Holiday Engine Children and an adult build a holiday train engine. Register with a participating store. Location: Participating Lowe's stores, Time: 10 am-1 pm, lowes.com *F
Repertory Theatre, Time: 2 pm, irtlive.com *SN
Cereal Cinema: The Nightmare Before Christmas A morning screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas comes with a cereal breakfast. $7, cereal included. Location: Basile Theatre at the Athenaeum, Time: 10 am-noon, athenaeumindy.org
Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 10 am, childrensmuseum.org I N DY S C H I L D.CO M
Noon, indyparks.org
We Call it Ballet: Sleeping Beauty Dance and Light Show Experience Sleeping Beauty like never before, as dancers in glow-in-the-dark costumes bring this classic tale to life on stage. Location: Hendricks Live, hendrickslive.org
SAT 14–SUN 15 Go Wild 2026: Pokémon GO Wild Area Global Shiny Hunters of Noblesville hosts two days of Pokémon GO play, face painting, a hidden Poké Ball hunt and prize drawings. The first 100 trainers each day receive a free survival kit. Food vendors are on-site. Location: Forest Park, Time: 10 am-6:30 pm, inshinyhunters. com *F
Heritage Farm Artisan Christmas Market Families shop handmade goods, meet alpacas, take a wagon ride and visit Santa, with children's activities throughout. $10 per vehicle. Location: Heritage Farm in Flora, heritagefarmevents.com
SUN 15
Circle City Toy Show Dealers fill 14,000 square feet with toys from every era, vintage to modern. Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Time: 10 am-4 pm, indianastatefair.com
Hoosiers 40th Anniversary Screening with Q&A A 40th-anniversary screening of Hoosiers is followed by a Q&A with filmmakers and cast members.
Location: Payne & Mencias Palladium, Time: 3 pm, thecenterpresents.org
Sensory-friendly Afternoon at the Indiana State Museum The museum lowers the lights and reduces distractions from 3 to 5 pm, with sensory bags and social narratives at the ticket counter. Included with museum admission. Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 3-5 pm, indianamuseum.org *SN
Chemistry Day Chemists and chemistry students from local universities and companies run hands-on demonstrations all day. Guy Hansen's Chemistry is a Blast show plays the Lilly Theater at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm. Included with museum admission. Location: The Children’s
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Painting Workshop: David Cusick Painters ages 12+ study Indigenous artist David Cusick's work, then create a painting inspired by it. $15. Location: Broad Ripple Park, Time:
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 WE CALL IT BALLET: SLEEPING BEAUTY DANCE & LIGHT SHOW at Hendricks Live
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Family Game Night at Haughville Families drop in for board games and puzzles, all provided. Location: Haughville Branch Library, Time: 5:30-7 pm, indypl.org *F
Sensory Storytime Babies, toddlers and preschoolers share a storytime built for children who do better with less noise, light and stimulation. Location: Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library, Time: 5-5:30 pm, plainfieldlibrary.net *F *SN
Simple Science for Preschoolers Preschoolers ages 3-6 try coding basics through short demonstrations and hands-on activities. Location: Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Time: 10:30 am, hmmpl.org *F
TUES 17
Game Night at World Sports Park Families bring their favorite card, board or yard games for a drop-in evening of play. Location:
Indianapolis World Sports Park, Time: 5 pm, indyparks.org *F
Nature Discovery: Tracks and Trails Children ages 7-12 investigate animal tracks and make a related craft. Location: W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, Time: 3-4 pm, hendrickscountyparks.org
Pumpkin Science Children ages 6-11 investigate pumpkins through hands-on experiments.
Location: Noblesville Library, Time: 3-4 pm, hamiltoneastpl.org *F
Wild World of Nature: Dinosaur Discoveries Families touch real fossils, design and name a dinosaur and play the Species Survival Game with The Children's Museum of Indianapolis. Location: Washington Township Park, Time: 5:30-7 pm, washingtontwpparks.org *F
WED 18
After-School Nature Club: Junior Naturalists Children ages 6-12 go behind the scenes at the nature center and help care for resident animals while learning about a naturalist’s work. Location: Zionsville Nature Center, Time: 3-4 pm, zionsvillein. myrec.com
Ceramic Leaf Plate Workshop Participants ages 14 and older sculpt a leaf-shaped ceramic dish, add details and glaze it.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 HOLIDAYS IN CARMEL KICK-OFF
Location: Garfield Park Arts Center, Time: 5 pm, indyparks.org
Little Ones Children ages 12-24 months and their caregivers share a short, active storytime with songs.
Location: Carmel Clay Public Library, Time: 9:30 am, carmelclaylibrary.org *F
Marvelous Magnetic Bookmarks Kids ages 6-12 design magnetic bookmarks and learn how magnets work. Registration required. Location: Franklin Road Branch Library, Time: 4:30-5:30 pm, indypl.org *F
THURS 19
Bilingual Storytime Young children will enjoy books, songs, and games in this bilingual storytime in English and Spanish! Location: Nora Branch Library, Time: 10:30 am, indypl.org *F
Kids Pottery: Holiday Decorations Kids ages 5-15 hand-build ornaments and throw a Christmas tree on the pottery wheel. Location: Pecar Nature Center, Time: 6:30 pm, washingtontwpparks.org
THURS 19–SAT 21
Holiday Mart Small-business merchants sell clothing, jewelry, food, art and children's items at the Junior League of Indianapolis' holiday shopping fundraiser. Location: Indiana
at Carter Green & other Carmel locations showtime. Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, ringling.com
SAT 21
Fall Campfire Participants ages 3+ take a sunset wildlife walk, then roast marshmallows. Location:
Carpenter Nature Preserve, Time: 5-6:30 pm, zionsvillein.myrec.com
Fall Pond Cleanup Volunteers ages 6+ pull litter, debris and invasive plants from Krannert's pond. Location: Krannert Park, Time: Noon, indyparks.org
Friday Night Campfire Families roast a campfire treat, then take a guided night hike. Location:
Holliday Park, Time: 6:30 pm, hollidaypark. org
Story Time on the Reservoir Children ages 2-7 hear a nature story, then explore stations with puppets, crafts, games and animal visits. Included with park admission. Location: Eagle Creek Earth Discovery Center, Time: 10 am, parks.indy.gov
FRI 20–SUN 22
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Flying trapeze artists, acrobats balancing on moving bicycles and teeterboard performers share the arena with special guest Bello Nock. A DJ-led preshow dance party starts 30 minutes before
TUES 24
Gravy Chase Runners choose a two- or four-mile route in Zionsville or a 5K in Lebanon to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County.
Time: 4:30 pm, indypl.org *F
Fishers Community Chorus Holiday Concert The Fishers Community Chorus sings a holiday concert in the library's music series. Registration required. Location: Fishers
Drop-in Discovery: Turkeys Children and adults explore turkeys with nature center staff through seasonal crafts and activities. Location:
*F
Holidays in Carmel Kick-off Santa and his reindeer greet families on Christkindlmarkt's opening day, and the evening ends with the countdown and lighting of the city's holiday tree. Location: Carter Green and other central Carmel locations, carmel.in. gov *F
Zionsville Nature Center, Time: 2-4 pm, zionsvillein.myrec.com *F
Free Community Movie Series: The Last Waltz The Last Waltz documents The Band’s final concert. Doors open at 6 pm; no tickets required. Concessions are available for purchase. Location: Schrott Center for the Arts, Time: 7 pm, butlerartspresents.org *F
8-10 am, runsignup.com
Location: Downtown Zionsville and downtown Lebanon, Time: 8:30 am, runsignup.com
Turkey Day 5K Runners pick the 5K or the one-mile route. Location: Greenfield Christian Church, runsignup.com
Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash Runners and walkers take the 4.3-mile or 2.6-mile route through Broad Ripple to support Wheeler Mission. Location: Broad Ripple, Time: 9 am-12:30 pm, drumstickdash.org
State Fairgrounds, jlindy.org/holidaymart
FRI 20
Fishers YMCA Wishbone 5K Members and nonmembers run or walk a 5K, strollers and leashed dogs included. Location: Fishers YMCA, Time:
*F
Library, Time: 2-3 pm, hamiltoneastpl.org
THURS 26
Pet $ense Kids ages 6-12 adopt an imaginary pet and learn budgeting skills with a playful twist. Manage your allowance to buy pet supplies and tackle exciting challenges to create the best life for your new best friend. Location: College Avenue Branch,
Santa’s BIG Snowball Fight Santa arrives at the museum to Indy's biggest indoor snowball fight. Included with museum admission. Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 9:30 am, childrensmuseum.org
SUN 22
Gravity & Other Myths: Ten Thousand Hours Eight acrobats balance, flip and leap to live onstage drumming in Ten Thousand Hours. The hour-long show explores the practice and teamwork behind their skills. Location: Payne & Mencias Palladium, Time: 7 pm, thecenterpresents. org
MON 23
Nintendo Switch Game Night Teens in grades 6-12 drop in to play Nintendo Switch games. Location: Carmel Clay Public Library, Time: 4 pm, carmelclaylibrary.org *F
Teen Cuisine: Onigiri Teens choose a filling and make onigiri, Japanese rice balls, in Teen Central. Fish and soy are present. Location:
Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library, Time: 3:15-4 pm, plainfieldlibrary.net *F
WED 25
Arts for All Kids ages 16 and younger drop in to make an art project and take it home the same day. Location: Southeastway Park Activity
FRI 27
Celebration Crossing: Opening Day Santa lands by helicopter on the museum's front lawn to open the holiday season. Watching the landing is free; the tree lighting, Snowfall Express train ride and Santa visits inside are included with museum admission. Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am-5 pm, indianamuseum.org
Center, Time: Noon, indyparks.org *F
Meet the Animals Visitors drop in to meet the nature center's resident reptiles and amphibians. Location: Zionsville Nature Center, Time: 10-10:30 am, zionsvillein.myrec.com *F
’Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil Cirque du Soleil retells the holiday poem through acrobatics. Location: Old National Centre, livenation.com
Circle of Lights Live performances on the Circle lead up to Santa flipping the switch on the Soldiers and Sailors Monument's holiday lights. Location: Monument Circle, Time: 6 pm, downtownindy.org *F
SAT 28
Family Game Day Families, teens and children are invited to play board, card, dice and tabletop games. The Library will provide the games,
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but you are also welcome to bring your own games. Location: Garfield Park Branch Library, Time: 3-4:45 pm, indypl.org *F
A Lawrence Christmas A parade and tree lighting anchor the city's holiday gathering. Location: Lawrence Civic Plaza, Time: 2-6 pm, visitlawrenceindiana.com *F
Christmas in the Village Parade & Tree Lighting Santa arrives with the parade down Main Street, then lights the town tree at Main and Pine. Location: Downtown Zionsville, Time: 5-6:30 pm, zionsvillechamber.org *F
SAT 28–SUN 29
The Nutcracker with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra Indiana Ballet Conservatory dances The Nutcracker with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra playing live. Location: Payne & Mencias Palladium, thecenterpresents.org
ONGOING EVENTS Little Shop of Horrors Through Nov. 8. Actors Theatre of Indiana closes its run of the musical about a man-eating plant. Location:
The Studio Theater, thecenterpresents.org
Cats Through Nov. 22. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical leaps onto the stage in a dazzling celebration of song, dance, and imagination. Location: Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, beefandboards.com
Indy Fuel: Teddy Bear Toss Fans bring a stuffed animal and throw it onto the ice after the Fuel's first goal. The bears go to local charities. Location: Fishers Event Center, Time: 4 pm, indyfuelhockey.com
Santa’s Holiday Breakfast in the Great Hall Families eat breakfast with Santa in the museum's Great Hall. Separate tickets required.
Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 9-10 am, indianamuseum.org
MON 30
Break-In Box Challenges Teams decode clues, solve puzzles and open locks to break into a mystery box, with separate themed sessions for grades K-2 and 3-6.
Farm, pineyacresfarm.com
Carmel Christkindlmarkt Nov. 21-Dec. 24. Shoppers browse German holiday stalls and watch artisans at work. Location: Carter Green, carmelchristkindlmarkt.com
Christmas Nights of Lights Nov. 6-Dec. 31. Families drive through holiday light displays synchronized to music playing through their car radio. Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds, christmasnightsoflights.com
The Polar Express Train Ride Nov. 6-29. A 65-minute ride includes hot chocolate, cookies, a reading of The Polar Express and a visit from Santa. Location: French Lick Scenic Railway, frenchlicktrain.com
SUN 29
Glimmer Lights at Piney Acres Opens Nov. 15. Featuring a magical train ride to the North Pole, hop on the festive Piney Acres Express with a cup of hot cocoa and freshly made cookies to travel into the glimmering wonderland of twinkle light displays nestled on this Hancock County farm. Location: Piney Acres
Festival of Trees Nov. 13-Jan. 2, 2027. Decorated holiday trees fill the History Center in a building-wide exhibit, with displays created by sponsoring organizations. Location: Indiana History Center, indianahistory.org
A Christmas Carol Nov. 14-Dec. 26. IRT stages Dickens' A Christmas Carol for the holiday season. Recommended for grade 3 and older. Location: Indiana Repertory Theatre, irtlive.com
Reindeer Express Nov. 14-29. A 75-minute ride includes music, a cookie, a letter-to-Santa activity and a visit from Santa. Location: Nickel Plate Express, nickelplateexpress.com
Location: Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Time 3:15-4 pm, hmmpl.org *F
Make It: Hot Chocolate Bombs School-age children follow a recipe to make a hot chocolate bomb to take home. Location: Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library, Time: 5-5:30 pm, plainfieldlibrary.net *F
Meet a Reindeer Families meet a reindeer and other Silly Safaris animals, ask questions and take photos. Location: Warren Branch Library, Time: 6-7 pm, indypl.org *F
Carmel Holiday Trolley Nov. 21-Dec. 19. A free trolley links central Carmel shopping and Christkindlmarkt. Location: Arts & Design District, City Center and Christkindlmarkt, carmel.in.gov
Christmas at the Zoo Nov. 21-Jan. 3, 2027. Holiday lights cover the zoo for evening visits, with animals out and Santa in his cottage. Location: Indianapolis Zoo, indianapoliszoo.com
Jingle Rails Nov. 21-Jan. 18, 2027. Eight model trains travel past miniature Indianapolis landmarks and Western scenes, including the Grand Canyon and an erupting Old Faithful. Buildings and landscapes are made from bark, twigs, pinecone scales and other natural materials. Included with museum admission. Location: Eiteljorg Museum, eiteljorg.org
WinterFaire Opens Nov. 21. Kids play winter carnival games, try sock skating and climb and build in the Ice Cave. The Artisans Corner shows winter-inspired art from different cultures' celebrations. Included with museum admission. Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org
Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt Nov. 27-Dec. 20. German food, music and storytelling fill the historic Biergarten's outdoor market. Fridays-Sundays. Location: Athenaeum Biergarten, athenaeumindy.org
Conservatory Crossing Nov. 27-Dec. 27. Poinsettias, model trains and holiday lights fill the conservatory. Location: Garfield Park
Conservatory, garfieldgardensconservatory. org
Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn Nov. 27-Jan. 3, 2027. Dinner comes with a stage musical built on Irving Berlin's songs. Rated PG; ages 3 and older only. Location: Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, beefandboards.com
A Princess Adventure Nov. 27-Jan. 3, 2027. A hilarious, self-aware comedy for the whole family with real historical information about astounding princesses in history and a message of empowerment for young girls. Location: Lilly Theatre at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org
The Ice Rink at Holliday Park Nov. 27-March 1, 2027. Outdoor skating returns to the park. $14 per skater, skate rental included.
Location: Holliday Park, hollidaypark.org/ rink
A Merry Prairie Holiday Nov. 27-Dec. 28. Families can walk the grounds surrounded by thousands of lights and celebrate the holidays in Prairietown with Historic Holidays. Location: Conner Prairie, connerprairie.org
World of Trees Nov. 28-Jan. 16, 2027. Discover a forest of Christmas trees decorated by global community organizations and individuals. Location: Global Village Welcome Center, imcoalition.org
Tiana’s Joyful Celebration Through Jan. 3, 2027. Explore the art, food, dance, music and collaborative spirit of New Orleans alongside Princess Tiana. Use your own "special spice" to help her finish preparations for the Mardi Gras parade and create a joyful celebration! Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org
OPENS NOVEMBER 15 GLIMMER LIGHTS at Piney Acres
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FUN +
11.2026 CALENDAR by INDY'S CHILD
SUN
MON
1 DIA DE LOS MUERTOS
TUES
WEDS
2
LOOK FOR CIRCLES DAY
THURS
3 SANDWICH DAY
FRI
5
4 FOOTBALL DAY
CANDY DAY
SAT
7
6
SAXOPHONE DAY
BISON DAY
9
8
ART MUSEUM DAY
10 SESAME STREET DAY
TONGUE TWISTER DAY
FANCY RAT & MOUSE DAY VETERAN’S DAY
15 RECYCLING DAY
12
11
16 BUTTON DAY
TAKE A HIKE DAY
17
18 APPLE CIDER DAY
LOVE YOUR FRECKLES DAY
23
FIBONACCI DAY
29
24
SARDINES DAY
25 JUKEBOX DAY
14
PICKLE DAY
WORLD KINDNESS DAY
19
PLAY MONOPOLY DAY
22
13
20
NATIONAL CHILD DAY
26
21
GINGERBREAD COOKIE DAY
28
27
BUY NOTHING DAY
FRENCH TOAST DAY
30 MASON JAR DAY
JAGUAR DAY
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