Illustration of a santa visit scene (Holly Days)
Other Christmas Activities

Holly Days

Downtown Valparaiso fills with seasonal cheer featuring holiday lights, carolers, live entertainment, and ice sculptures. Families can visit Candy Cane Lane, ride the Holiday Express Train, meet Santa, and see a live nativity hosted by Grace Chapel. Local retailers also host open houses alongside charming downtown dining options.

What to Expect

Downtown Valpo holiday tradition featuring ice sculptures, Santa, and a train.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown Valparaiso

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Valparaiso Events

Food & Drink

The event page invites visitors to enjoy a meal at one of downtown Valparaiso's restaurants.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive and family-friendly

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

Free

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Location

Downtown Valparaiso
Valparaiso, IN

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Free.
  • Hours: 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Tips & Advice

  • Use the downtown parking map to choose a parking area before arriving, since the event takes place throughout downtown Valparaiso.
  • Dress warmly for the outdoor downtown celebration, especially while watching entertainment or viewing the ice sculptures and holiday lights.
  • Allow time to walk between event features and retailer open houses; the celebration takes place across downtown rather than in one indoor venue.
  • Consider arriving near the 3 p.m. start so you have time to enjoy the train, Santa, and other listed attractions before the event ends.
  • Plan a meal at a downtown restaurant if you'd like dining as part of your visit; the event page recommends local restaurants.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Downtown shops hold open houses with special holiday offers.
  • Live nativity hosted by Grace Chapel.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Holly Days good for families?

Yes. Kids can meet Santa, walk Candy Cane Lane and ride the Holiday Express Train.

What is there to see?

Downtown has holiday lights, ice sculptures, carolers and live entertainment, plus a live nativity hosted by Grace Chapel.

Is there shopping?

Yes. Downtown shops hold open houses with special holiday offers.

Where can we eat?

Downtown Valparaiso's restaurants are open, so you can make dinner part of the evening.

Tags

Santa visitsice sculpturesholiday lightscarolstrain ridesfamily friendlyfree eventseasonal activitiesholiday traditioncommunity celebration

More Christmas Events Near Valparaiso

More Christmas Events near Valparaiso

Open the map around Valparaiso →

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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team