Even though the air is colder and the nights are longer, there’s plenty of fun around town to stay busy through the winter! Our Winter Bucket List has some of the best activities and events happening around town that’s perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for something fun and exciting, or warm and cozy, this list has got you covered.
Get in the Holiday Spirit
Twinkling lights, gifts, and Santa Claus, oh my! The holiday fun kicks off with Brownsburg’s 20th annual Christmas Under the Stars on December 6. Beginning at 4 pm, shop the winter market or make your own crafts at Santa’s workshop. The Winter Parade begins at 6 pm, featuring businesses and organizations across town, and our Jr. Grand Marshal of the year. Then, join the Jr. Grand Marshal for our tree lighting ceremony, and snap a photo with Santa Claus inside Town Hall. This event is sure to get even the biggest Scrooges in the holiday spirit!
You can also check out our Christmas Lights Drive-Thru in Arbuckle Acres Park, starting December 6. Brownsburg Town Hall will also have a synchronized display; tune your car radio to 88.5, and watch the lights dance across Town Hall from your car window! Be sure to send letters to Santa through Santa’s mailbox located on the greenspace at Town Hall through December 14. Include an address for a response from Santa!
On December 12-13, Santa will be back in town with Brownsburg Kiwanis to take pictures and wishes for this Christmas season. Stop by Brownsburg Town Hall, 61 N. Green St.) from 5 -8 pm and say hi! Photos are free to take, but donations to Riley Children’s Hospital are requested.
‘Tis the Season of Giving
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, and there’s plenty of opportunities available in the winter months. Grab your gardening gloves and sign up for weekend Weed Wrangles, a nationwide effort to eliminate invasive species in our parks.
Connect with Nature
Our trails are still available for use during the winter months, so our guided hikes can last all year long. Start the year on the right foot with the Luminary First Day Hike, and learn some Brownsburg history on the way. If you’d like to spot some wildlife, try your hand at bird-watching on a Morning Bird Hike. These hikes are free to attend, and it’s a great opportunity to tap back into nature!
If you’d like to take a self-paced hike of your own, check out our trails. During winter, park staff keeps the trails clear of snow as resources are available, depending on the need of high-priority areas. Be cautious of ice or black ice on the ground, and have a cell phone with you in case of emergencies.
Staying Warm
Jack Frost nipping at your nose? There’s lots of entertainment waiting indoors! Pinheads offers bowling, an arcade, Alley’s Alehouse, and more to keep everyone happy.
Slick City Action Park is another great option, with adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions. Their programs like Family Day and Adults-Only Night allows everyone to have a good time.
If you want to dial it down, Books and Brews offers a cozy environment, books to read, and games to play with friends or family. Their daily events like trivia night or live music keeps things even more entertaining.
Excitement on a Budget
Having fun doesn’t have to cost money! The Hideout, an indoor play place offers free play every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Explore their play structures or try your hand at games like foosball or air hockey.
The Brownsburg Public Library offers free programming for all ages. Looking to get out of Brownsburg for a day? The library also offers 7-day free pass checkout to exciting museums including:
- Eiteljorg Museum: admission for four (4) adults + children 17 and under, free parking in the White River State Park garage while spaces last; 15% discount on purchases at the Eiteljorg Museum Store; 10% discount at the Eiteljorg Museum Cafe
- Indiana Historical Society: entry for two (2) adults and four (4) children, free parking (lot off New York Street), and 10% discount at the Basile History Market and the Stardust Cafe
- Indiana State Museum: 4 complimentary general admission tickets to the Indiana State Museum. Additional special exhibition or programming fees may apply. $5 parking is available in the White River State Park parking garage located directly beneath the museum
- Kurt Vonnegut Museum: access for 2 adults and all under age 18 in same household; 10% discount in KVML gift shop
Get the Right Gift
There’s no need to leave Brownsburg for your holiday shopping! Ella Mae’s Boutique has a wide selection of women’s apparel, with sizes from small to 3XL.
Top off your purchases with accessories from Going Golden. They offer customizable jewelry like bracelets or rings, and permanent jewelry for a fun night out!
For home decorating, Mary & Martha Home has everything you need, from artwork to end tables.
Be sure to stop by Country Harmony Home & Garden for seasonal décor, home gifts, and plants that are sure to bring new life to any home!
Filling Up
Grabbing a bite to eat is a perfect way to spend a snowy afternoon. Try Best Friends Coffee and Bagels for warm drinks and conversation. Their menu goes beyond their titular staples, with smoothies, meals, and a kids menu.
So Italian has something for everyone, with pizza, salads, and sandwiches, all accompanied with gluten-friendly or keto-friendly options.
Looking for a sweet treat, but too cold for ice cream? Try Hilligoss Bakery’s assortments of donuts made fresh daily. It’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
