Indianapolis Christmas Gift + Hobby Show
Shoppers can browse hundreds of holiday vendors offering unique gifts, artisan finds, and autographed works from local authors. The event features appearances by Santa near a live Christmas tree, festive holiday tablescape design displays, and stage performances including seasonal music and dance. Guests can also participate in open mahjong play, view youth entrepreneur showcases, and sample seasonal beverages.
What to Expect
Long-running holiday marketplace featuring hundreds of vendors and festive entertainment.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Marketplace Events
Food & Drink
Seasonal beverages are available; on Nov. 11, veterans and active-duty military can get drive-through milkshake giveaways at the Dairy Bar from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Holiday shoppers, gift seekers, and families
Vibe
Festive and bustling
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Adults (at the door): $14.00; Adults (Advanced online only): $12.00 + $1 Service Fee = $13.00; Children (Ages 12 & Under): Free; Seniors (65 & older with ID - at the door only): $10.00; Girls Night Out (at the box office only, November 13, 4:00-7:00pm): $7.00. – Get tickets
- Parking: $10.00 per day, per car. Veterans and active duty military, police, fire, and first responders receive free parking on November 11, 2026.
- Accessibility: Building drop-off options are available with an ADA drop-off and pick-up area (turn on flashers upon arrival).
Tips & Advice
- Buy adult tickets online before opening day to get the discounted advance rate, since the online price goes up once the show opens.
- Pick up a discount coupon at a participating Ace Hardware store starting October 15 and show it at the box office to save on admission.
- Veterans, first responders, teachers and seniors should bring valid ID, because the free and senior admission offers all require it.
- Join the show's mailing list before you go to get a promo code for money off adult tickets.
- Register for Merry Money at the Show Information Booth as soon as you arrive, since a winner is drawn every hour across all five days.
Special Events & Promotions
- Hero Day (Wednesday, Nov 11): free admission and free parking for veterans, active duty military, police, fire and first responders with valid ID.
- Hero Day also brings a drive-thru milkshake giveaway at the Fairgrounds Dairy Bar for veterans and active military.
- Teacher Day (Sunday, Nov 15): free admission for teachers and school staff with valid ID.
- Girls Night Out: music, drinks and shopping with friends, with discounted tickets sold only at the box office.
- Hallmark Channel's Robert Buckley appears on the holiday stage on Friday.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can we find Santa?
Santa greets visitors and children throughout the show. He is in the center of the show near the live Christmas tree.
Which entrance do I use?
The show is in the West Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center, and the North Entrance is the only way in.
Is there somewhere to leave coats and shopping bags?
Yes. Volunteers from Marion County South Special Olympics run a coat and package check while you shop. All donations go to the nonprofit's training and programs.
Can I learn to play mahjong at the show?
Yes. Lucky Tiles Mahjong is new this year at Booth 388. It offers an introduction to the game, tables for open play, and accessories and classes for sale. Founder Lauren Price is also on stage every day of the show.
What is Merry Money?
Register at the Show Information Booth for a chance to win Merry Money. A winner is drawn every hour on all five days, and the prize can be spent at any one vendor at the show.
More Christmas Events Near Indianapolis
More Christmas Events near Indianapolis
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.