Every year (for the past 12 years!) Haute Happenings has put together a calendar of holiday and Christmas events in Terre Haute and the Wabash Valley to be sure no one misses the fun.  We want you to have a holly, jolly Christmas, a festive holiday season, and a very happy New Year!

If you like what you see, would you share with a friend? We need your help to spread the word!

December and Christmas Events in Terre Haute and the Wabash Valley

Volunteers Needed to help at Community Theatre of Terre Haute!

Featured event! The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at Community Theatre of Terre Haute.

December 5-December 14. In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids – probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won’t believe the mayhem – and the fun – when the Herdmans collide head-on with the story of Christmas! This delightful show is adapted from the bestselling Young Adult book, and has become a holiday staple for groups across the United States. The crowd-pleasing comedy features plenty of great roles for children and adults, a few favorite Christmas Carols, and lots of laughs. 

Friday, December 12. 3D print night at VCPL West. Learn how to take your ideas from concept to creation at 3D Print Night! At this interactive demonstration of the West Branch Library’s 3D printer, you’ll journey through every phase of designing a print—from the inception of an idea to a polished product.

Friday, December 12. Maker Hour at VCPL West.

Friday, December 12. Home for the Holidays at The Red Barn. Ages 12 & Up:

Featured Event! Friday, December 12. A Bazaar of Owls: A Knight Owl Storytime and Craft hosted by the Vigo County Public Library.

Ages 5–11: At A Bazaar of Owls, your child can join Owl on two grand adventures! In Christopher Denise’s Knight Owl, Owl’s dream of being accepted into Knight School has come true, but can he outwit a hungry dragon? In the sequel Knight Owl and Early Bird, Early Bird wants to learn to be a brave knight like Owl, but his constant questions interrupt Owl’s sleep! Can the two of them work together when danger threatens the castle? After storytime, your child can create their own owl using yarn, feathers, markers, and recyclable materials. 

Saturday, December 13. Free STEAM workshop: Botanical dyeing. The Swope’s December STEAM workshop will be a natural dyeing workshop and demonstration at The White Violet Center for Eco-Justice. Participants will learn the basics of natural dyes using immersion baths and a variety of natural materials, some of which were grown and gathered at White Violet Center for Eco-Justice. Participants will be able to take sample fabric swatches home with them.

Saturday, December 13. The First Christmas Parade and Festival in West Terre Haute.

Saturday, December 13. Photos with Krampus (and his helpful assistants) will be visiting The Madam’s Curiosities once again this December! Bring your cameras and snap a photo while the legend himself is in the neighborhood! Then take a stroll around Twelve Points to check out the other businesses and their takes on other classic holiday traditions!We’ll have TWO photo areas set up,(one inside, one outside) and special Krampus merchandise available!This year, we have MULTIPLE characters visiting the shop, including Krampus, Frau Perchta, and Cookie McGinger!This is a free event, welcome to all. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Leashed pets are also welcome. This is a rain or shine event. The line starts at the backdoor, and goes through the alley. Cookie McGinger will show you the way!

Saturday, December 13. Special Needs Day with Santa at First Presbyterian Church in BRAZIL, IN.

Saturday, December 13. Read to Rover at VCPL Main. All Ages: Share a book with a furry friend from Love on a Leash. These good-natured therapy dogs are eager to listen to your child practice reading aloud in a stress-free setting, complete with cuddles, belly rubs, and ear scratches!

Saturday, December 13. Meet the Grinch & Santa at the Exotic Feline Rescue Center. Animal tours and treats!

Saturday, December 13. Experience VR at VCPL Main.

Featured Event! Daddy Daughter Dance at the Terre Haute Children’s Museum.

Saturday, December 13. Enjoy themed experiments, photos, tasty treats, dancing, and activities to celebrate the season!

Saturday, December 13. Christmas Fun at the Woods. The holiday tradition is back! Celebrate the coming of Christmas with the Sisters of Providence at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. Guests of all ages are invited to the Providence Spirituality and Conference Center for an afternoon full of fun for the whole family, including crafts, alpaca visits, wagon rides, storytelling, face painting, bake sale, cake walk and much more. There may even be a special visit from Santa himself! Our sisters cherish this event and enjoy sharing the fun of the season with the community. We welcome a suggested donation of $5 per car for this event. No pre-registration is needed.

Saturday, December 13. 2nd Annual Cory Country Christmas. Santa, Silly Safaris, festive cheer! Canceled due to weather conditions.

Saturday, December 13. Christmas Dinner Theater in MARSHALL, IL. We will be partnering with the American Legion and hosting our first Christmas Dinner Theater. We would love for you to join us! Tickets are free, but reservations are required.

Saturday, December 13. Grinchmas with THN. Come celebrate the holiday season with the Terre Haute North Cheer Team! We will be hosting a Christmas Cheer clinic on December 13th, from 11:00am-2:00pm. Your child will be learning a dance and a chant that will be performed during halftime at the boy’s basketball game that night on December 13th. Please plan on being there at 7:00pm, game starts at 7:30pm. We will also eat pizza, do a few crafts, and have Christmas fun! This is a great way to start off the holiday season! The cost is $40, which includes the cost of the shirt, the pizza, and crafts. If the shirt is worn to the December 13th game, the child ONLY will get into the game for free! In order to be guaranteed a shirt, please sign up before December 8.

Saturday, December 13. Last-minute shopping event at The Meadows.

Saturday, December 13. Christmas at the Clay Plant. Shop a large selection of handmade pottery! Including mugs, tumblers, bowls, planters, soup bowl mugs, and more for sale.

Sunday, December 14. Breakfast with Santa at the Terre Haute Convention Center. Treat your family to a delicious pancake breakfast, and enjoy a special visit from Santa Claus! Capture the moment with a photo and create unforgettable holiday memories with your loved ones.

Sunday, December 14. Meet the Grinch at Bear’s North. 2-5pm and get your pictures taken with the Grinch. After head over to The Moonlite Drive-In Theater for a FREE showing of The Grinch! Gates will open at 5pm and the show will start at 6pm. Please bring in a canned good donation.

Sunday, December 14. Ritz Kids Christmas Show by the Parke Players at the Historic Ritz Theater in ROCKVILLE, IN.

Sunday, December 14. Frosty the Snowman Skate. Photo opportunity, meet and greet with frosty, free frosty plush toy at Hot Wheels Skate and Event Center.

Monday, December 15. Scrabble at 12 Points at VCPL 12 Points.

Tuesday, December 16. Create at Snow Globe at VCPL 12 Points. Ages 3–6: Your little one can hold a glittery blizzard in their hands at Create a Snow Globe. Use simple craft items, water, and a bit of magic to create a personal winter wonderland to take home.

Tuesday, December 16. Duplo Designers at VCPL Main. Ages 2–5: Give your child the chance to build, create, and explore with DuploⓇ bricks at DuploⓇ Designers. Whether they follow the monthly theme or free-build, each session encourages hands-on learning and self-expression while they practice problem-solving, hand-eye coordination, and early planning skills.

Wednesday, December 17. Clue mystery at the Ohio Building.

Wednesday, December 17. Last-Minute Handmade Gifts at VCPL Main. Ages 13 & Up: Do you need a quick gift for a friend or a quirky present for your Secret Santa? At Last Minute Handmade Gifts, you can create a custom gift that will last beyond the holidays using sublimation printing! Bring your own sublimation blank and any digital photo or image to learn how to permanently transfer an image onto a surface using special ink and a heat press.

Wednesday, December 17. Coloring for Adults at VCPL 12 Points. Coloring isn’t just for kids—it’s a great way for you to relax, destress, and express your creativity without pressure. Spend an afternoon coloring preprinted pages and socialize with others as you enjoy your artistic endeavors. Coloring materials will be supplied.

Thursday, December 18. Tinkercad basics at VCPL Main.

Friday, December 19. Erasure Poetry at VCPL 12 Points. Try a new form of creative expression at Erasure Poetry. Use a marker to redact a printed page, revealing only the words that speak to you and shape a unique poem. No writing experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to play with language.

Featured event! Friday, December 19. Grinchmas at VCPL West.

Celebrate the holidays like they do in Whoville! Drop in to enjoy Grinch-inspired treats, crafts, and activities, watch the Grinch create mayhem in the 2018 animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ classic story, and take a photo with the Grinch.

Saturday, December 20. Sphero Mini Golf at VCPL Main. Ages 4 & Up: Tee-up to visit the Land of Lands, an exciting nine-hole mini-golf course where you and your family will travel from Candyland to Wonderland to the mysterious I-land. Overcome hazards and see how many holes-in-one you can get by navigating remote-controlled Spheros through these colorful worlds. Call to register a group of up to six members for thirty minutes of Sphero Mini Golf. Four Spheros and iPads will be available for play.

Saturday, December 20. Cozy Crafts: Fabric Friendship Bracelets at VCPL Main. Ages 10-18: Combine patterned fabric and letter beads to make a unique bracelet you can share with your friends at Cozy Crafts.

Saturday, December 20. A Very Merry Girls’ Night In at WaterTower Estates Winery. Get ready for A Very Merry Girls’ Night In! Join us for a cozy, festive evening filled with holiday fun inside the beautiful 1921 Barn. Wear your cutest Christmas PJs and settle in for a night of gingerbread decorating, sweet treats, and holiday magic.

Sunday, December 21. Christmas food basket giveaway.

Monday, December 22. Haute Create at VCPL Main. Ages 9 & Up: Head into the mines for resources, create a redstone-powered trap, craft tools, and fight off Creepers at the Minecraft Club! Join other players in Haute Create for co-op play, or enjoy your own game while you chat with people who share your interest. Bring your own device to play or use one provided in Haute Create.

Monday, December 22. Preschool Play and Learn at VCPL 12 Points. Ages 3–6: Help your child build the skills they need for school through play with themed stations that encourage creativity, curiosity, and social connection while preparing your child for early learning success. Each session offers a new theme with hands-on activities designed to spark imagination and confidence. 

Wednesday, December 24. The First Leon by Maple Avenue Theatre.

Featured Event! Wednesday, December 31. New Year’s Noon at the Terre Haute Children’s Museum. The biggest party of the year is BACK! Come celebrate the New Year at the Terre Haute Children’s Museum.
This is a special event; previously purchased daily museum tickets and Access Passes are not valid.
Special Event Tickets are $10
Members FREE
Tickets are limited.
We will countdown to Noon and then drop hundreds of balloons from the ceiling!

December 31. New Year’s Eve Party at Sassafras Ridge in MARSHALL, IL.

Recuring events:

Sundays. Shattered glass classes at Makers Studio Twelve Points.

Mondays. Crafternoons at West Vigo Public Library. Grab your yarn and crochet hooks, your fabric and sewing supplies, or even your junk journal and washi tape for a relaxing afternoon at Crafternoons.

Tuesdays. Art Start at the Vigo County Public Library.

Tuesdays. Baby Lap Sit Storytime at VCPL West. Ages 0–1: Strengthen your bond with your little one through songs, stories, and bounces at Baby Lap Sit Storytime. Baby Lap Sit Storytime will help your child learn new sounds and words, recognize pictures, shapes, and colors, and encourage their imagination and creativity.

Wednesdays. Campfire Storytime at VCPL West.

As always, typos happen and event details change! Please confirm details with hosting organizations before finalizing your plans.

We are continually grateful to our featured sponsors. Their partnership helps to keep Haute Happenings free for readers like you! Please help us thank them by attending their events and supporting their businesses.

Our calendar of December Christmas events is just the beginning of the holiday fun! In our holiday guide homepage, we have meals with Santa, Santa pictures, holiday markets, holiday parades, holiday trains, and so much more!

Click HERE for the 2025 Guide to Christmas Events and Holiday Fun in Terre Haute and the Wabash Valley!

The fun has ended for these great events: 

Sunday, December 1. Bridgeton Country Christmas in Parke County, Indiana. Join us in Bridgeton for our Christmas celebration with unique gifts, handmade crafts, original artwork, decorations, lights, live music, food and fun. Santa will be in the 1822 Log Cabin 1-3 p.m. both Saturdays and Sundays. Vendors and shops open and full of gifts. Two big 3-day weekends of fun and festivities.

Sunday, December 1. Wine & Cookies at WaterTower Estates Winery. A balanced diet is a cookie in one hand & a glass of wine in the other! We’re bringing back your favorite wine & cookies class! Join us Sunday, December 1st at 4 pm! Tickets are $35 and include a glass of wine, 6 cookies, and an instructional decorating class by Cookie Chaos!

Sunday, December 1. Breakfast with the Grinch. Join on December 1st for Terre Haute Convention Center’s very first Breakfast with the Grinch! It’s a one-of-a-kind celebration that’s sure to delight both young and old!

Monday, December 2. A Very Electric Christmas at Indiana State University.

Wednesday, December 4. FREE public concert by the Terre Haute Children’s Choir. If your child would ever consider choir, come watch this group perform to get a taste of what it looks like to sing together! 6:30 pm. Landini Recital Hall.

Friday, December 6. 12 Points Christmas Tree Lighting. Shop for Christmas gifts at local businesses, watch the THN dance team perform, watch Mayor Sakbun light the tree, and visit SANTA at Magpies!

100 Holiday and Christmas Events in Terre Haute and the Wabash Valley!

Every year (for the past 12 years!) Haute Happenings has put together a calendar of holiday and Christmas events in Terre Haute and the Wabash Valley to be sure no one misses the fun.  We want you to have a holly, jolly Christmas, a festive holiday season, and a very happy New Year!

If you like what you see, would you share with a friend? We need your help to spread the word!

December and Christmas Events in Terre Haute and the Wabash Valley

Monday, December 1. Santa’s Express Portraits in BRAZIL, IN.

Monday, December 1. Lego Lab at the Vigo County Public Library.

Monday, December 1. Christmas in the Park opening night at Deming Park. Please arrive by 5:30 pm!

Monday, December 1. Ornament decorating at Deming Park for ages 5-12. FREE while supplies last!

Tuesday, December 2. We Survived Book Club: Maribel Versus the Volcano at VCPL Main.

Wednesday, December 3. Decks, Dice, and Dominoes at VCPL West. Challenge friends and fellow enthusiasts to card, board, and tile games at Decks, Dice & Dominoes! Whether you’re a cunning tactician, a master bluffer, or a secret grandmaster, you can indulge in timeless traditional games like Euchre, chess, or dominoes, or discover new classics, including Settlers of Catan, Carcassonne, or Kingdomino!

Wednesday, December 3. Adventures in HeroQuest at VCPL Main.

Wednesday, December 3. Healthy and Easy Holiday Dishes at VCPL 12 Points. Your holiday meal doesn’t have to be calorie-laden to be indulgent. Join the Maple Center to learn how to create three delicious dishes that will complement your meal: a fall harvest salad, yams with an orange glaze, and chocolate chip no-bake cookies.

Wednesday, December 3. Crafting Cheer: Sublimating Personalized Ornaments at VCPL Main.

Volunteers Needed to help at Community Theatre of Terre Haute!

Thursday, December 4. Youth Craft: Keepsake Ornament at the BRAZIL public library. Create your own keepsake ornament at the Library at 6:00pm on December 4 . This program is for ages 6-12 only. Parents are welcome to attend to help their children, but supplies are limited. Registration is not required.

Thursday, December 4. Pokémon Creation at VCPL Main.

Thursday, December 4. Adult CPR/AED training.

Thursday, December 4. Winter Makers: Snowflake Geometry and 3D Design at Haute Create at VCPL Main.

Thursday, December 4. Meet and Greet with Santa and his reindeer at the VERMILLION county public library. Start the holiday season off right at the library! Come visit and snap some photos with Santa and a live reindeer from our friends at Silly Safaris! Enjoy free popcorn, hot chocolate, holiday music, and crafts.

Featured event! The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at Community Theatre of Terre Haute.

December 5-December 14. In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids – probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won’t believe the mayhem – and the fun – when the Herdmans collide head-on with the story of Christmas! This delightful show is adapted from the bestselling Young Adult book, and has become a holiday staple for groups across the United States. The crowd-pleasing comedy features plenty of great roles for children and adults, a few favorite Christmas Carols, and lots of laughs. 

Friday, December 5. Dueling Pianos at the Terre Haute Casino Resort.

Friday, December 5. Cozy Crafts: Build a Snow Globe at VCPL Main.

Featured Event! Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6. Miracle on 7th Street.

Get your festive fix this December with a vendor market, kids activities, live music, Santa + more!

Mark your calendar for Dec 5th (5-9 PM) & Dec 6th (12-6 PM).

Entry to Hulman Center is FREE!

This year there will be a extra support and a dedicated volunteer to lead the children’s activities!

Families can enter the children’s area for interactive activities and items to bring home! Families can also enjoy gingerbread house making thanks to the Terre Haute Children’s Museum.

The Light Your Way Parade will take place on December 6 at 6pm! 

Friday, December 5. You’re invited to our Holiday Open House at the History Center! Join us on December 5th from 3–7 PM for free admission, festive treats, kids’ activities, and the magical Festival of Miracle Trees. Come make holiday memories with us at the Vigo County History Center!

Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6. Fowler Park Christmas Walk. Step back in time this Christmas season at Vigo County Parks and Recreation Department’s Annual Christmas Walk at Fowler Park’s Pioneer Village! Enjoy FREE admission during this two-day event—Friday, December 5 from 6 to 9 PM, and Saturday, December 6 from 5 to 9 PM. Explore the 19th-century Pioneer Village, Shop handmade gifts at the Village Mercantile, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more! Plus, on Friday only, delight in festive carriage rides and a special visit from Santa’s reindeer. Feel the magic of the season at the Christmas Walk!

Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6. Shattered Nightmares Haunted House: A Christmas Nightmare.

Featured Event! Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7. Mouse House by Tri Kappa.

House of the Christmas Mouse is back! Join Terre Haute Tri Kappa for a magical holiday tradition filled with fun for the whole family! 

Where:

Benjamin Franklin Elementary School. 1600 Dr. Iverson C. Bell Ln.

When:
Saturday, December 6th | 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday, December 7th | 10 AM – 5 PM
Scout Troops Special: Dec 6th | 9–10 AM
Sensory-Friendly Hour: Dec 7th | 9–10 AM

Why come?
Shop the Secret Buying Room 
Visit Mrs. Mouse’s Kitchen & Bakery 
Take photos with Mrs. Mouse 
Cookie & ornament decorating 
Reindeer Bar & MORE! 

Admission: $2 per person (at the door or in advance)

For tickets, email: terrehautegammagamma@trikappa.org. Follow along for updates: House of Mrs. Mouse on Facebook

All proceeds go to scholarships for local students and donations to community organizations.

December 5-7. Bridgeton Country Christmas in Parke County. Join us in Bridgeton for our Christmas celebration with unique gifts, handmade crafts, original artwork, decorations, lights, live music, food and fun. Santa will be in the 1822 Log Cabin 1-3 p.m. both Saturdays and Sundays. Vendors and shops open and full of gifts. Two big 3-day weekends of fun and festivities!

Saturday, December 6. Celebrate the Holidays with the Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra. Enjoy an afternoon of joyful melodies and heartwarming classics that capture the magic of the season with the THSO and vocalist Justin John Moniz! The THSO welcomes back retired Artistic Director, David Bowden, in his new role as Principal Guest Conductor!

Saturday, December 6. MainStreet Rockville Parade of Lights.

Saturday, December 6. Teen Volunteer Opportunity with Sisters of Providence. Calling all middle school and high school students! Volunteer your time and put a smile on the face of an elder. Our Teen Volunteers with General Superior Sister Dawn Tomaszewski and Sister Joni Luna. Youth ages 12-18 years old are invited to sign up for one or more of our Saturday or summer volunteer days throughout the year. Join other teens in sharing your time and talents — crafts, nail painting, music, games, activities and more — with the sisters and health care residents.

Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7. Friends of the Library Book Sale. Whether you’re shopping for last-minute stocking stuffers or a treat for yourself, the Friends of the Vigo County Public Library’s Holiday Book Sale has the perfect gifts for you and your family! Shop from thousands of items, including books with an average price of $1.00, DVDs, CDs, magazines, and more. The Friends’ Sale will be open to the general public on Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7.

Saturday, December 6. Bearing the Light Gallery Opening. Come at 4:30pm to participate in a short liturgical service to honor the journey of Advent and the light we have been given to share. This will be held in the parking lot on the South side of the church. Chairs will be provided for those who need a time of rest for the service. This Advent Art Show shows us how to bear the light. The art will line the streets starting at Central Presbyterian Church and lining 7th street to our neighbors St. Stephen’s church with 15 pieces of art to ignite a new light of thought. Each art piece has a QR Code to interact with. All are welcome to come experience this Advent show. The children will be collecting donations for their art they have created to share the light of love with the Humane Society.

Saturday, December 6. Car Talk at VCPL Main. Ages 2–6: Start your engines and race to Car Talk! Your little one can rev up their imagination with stories filled with planes, trains, trucks, and automobiles, then hit the pits to play with toys and games, or make a quick craft before speeding off to their next adventure. 

Saturday, December 6. Curious Kids: Soundwave Portraits at VCPL Main. Ages 6-12: Can your child see their own voice? Find out with an easy experiment at Curious Kids, where they will see how amplitude, frequency, and wavelength combine to create their unique vocal signature before turning it into artwork.

Saturday, December 6. Hometown Holly Days in MARSHALL, IL. From delicious food vendors and the Christmas Market, to bounce houses for the kids, ice skating for the whole family, visits with Santa at the Log Cabin, rides on the Polar Express Train, and hot cocoa to keep you warm — there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Saturday, December 6. Vendor Fair and Pictures with Santa at Anderson’s Plants and Produce. Join us for our first ever Vendor Fair and Pictures with Santa! It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and get some Christmas shopping done early! Shop a variety of local vendors- perfect for finding unique holiday gifts. Enjoy delicious food trucks. Kids can have fun in the bounce houses, play games, and activities for the whole family. There will be unbeatable sales in our retail, festive photo backdrops, giveaways, and so much more! Saturday, December 6th Vendors 10-6 and Santa 2-6 Located at Anderson’s Plants and Produce at 6066 Rosedale Rd. Admission is FREE, so bring your family and friends for a day full of holiday cheer!

Saturday, December 6. Montezuma Christmas Bazaar in Parke County.

Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7. Mouse House at Ben Franklin Elementary School. Cookies, crafts, magical talking tree, bounce houses, tasty treats, and photos with Mrs. Mouse.

Sunday, December 7. Tea Party from Sunrises to Sunsets Photography. Tea and sweet snacks, professional hair and makeup styling, fancy dresses, limited spots.

Sunday, December 7. Meet and Greet with Santa at The Maple Room.

Sunday, December 7. Jingle Jam with Mount Pleasant Church. An unforgettable family Christmas experience complete with fun, games, and music from our kids choir as we celebrate Jesus, God’s greatest gift! 

Monday, December 8. Library Detectives on the Case at VCPL Main. Ages 7–11: There’s a criminal loose in the library! Can your child figure out who the suspect is before they escape? An insider has agreed to provide the young detectives with information, but to protect their identity, your child must help solve puzzles, answer riddles, and decipher clues to identify what happened, why and how it was done, and who is responsible in this exciting, kid-friendly escape room.

Tuesday, December 9. Animals Around the World at VCPL Main. Ages 6–15: Travel to deep, dark jungles, arid deserts, and even the frigid Arctic in search of reptilian, avian, and furry friends at Animals Around the World! In every session, your child will learn about a unique animal through stories and crafts—and may even get to meet the featured animal.

Tuesday, December 9. Echoes of Christmas Past by Crosley Radio Players. Step back in time and experience the golden age of radio brought to life on stage. The Crosley Radio Players return to the Terre Haute Convention Center with Echoes of Christmas Past, a live re-creation of a classic 1940s holiday radio mystery. This one-night-only event transports audiences to an era when families gathered around the radio for stories filled with drama, suspense, and surprise twists. This year’s show tells the tale of an ex-con who makes a dangerous choice on Christmas Eve, only to find his fate changed by the most unexpected of things—a music box. Suspenseful yet nostalgic, Echoes of Christmas Past combines holiday atmosphere with the intrigue of a mystery from days gone by.

Tuesday, December 9. Nature Walk: Winter in Maple Avenue Nature Park. All Ages: As the temperatures drop, many animals hibernate for the winter while others have different methods to survive. Join Dobbs Park Naturalist Carissa Lovett for a tour of the Maple Avenue Nature Park, and learn the different strategies local animals who don’t hibernate use to make it through the coldest parts of the year. 

Tuesday, December 9. The cost of the Holiday Express train at Deming Park will be covered by the Vigo County Public Library!  All aboard the annual Holiday Express! Tickets for the Friday night ride on Deming Park’s miniature train will be covered by the Vigo County Public Library so you and your family can ride at no cost. Board the Spirit of Terre Haute at Kaufman Station for a tour of the decorated shelters and don’t forget to vote for your favorite to win the People’s Choice Award.

Wednesday, December 10. “The Chosen: Holy Night” at Mount Pleasant Church. A special holiday event. Join us for popcorn, cookies and hot chocolate as we watch the Christmas special from “The Chosen” called “Holy Night.” There will also be a display of nativities to enjoy. A unique and free way to experience the joy of Christmas!

Wednesday, December 10. Trash Talk at VCPL 12 Points. Every year, more than 40 million tons of plastic are used in the United States, yet only a small fraction is recycled. The rest ends up in landfills, oceans, and even the food and water we consume as microplastics. Discover how this growing problem affects you, your family, and the planet, then learn practical ways to reduce plastic waste at home while helping create a cleaner, healthier environment with reThink’s Organizational Manager Jenny Powell.

Wednesday, December 10. Bingo by the Books at VCPL West.

Thursday, December 11. Bambu Basics at Haute Create VCPL Main.

Thursday, December 11. Read to Walter to VCPL 12 Points.

Thursday, December 11. Cozy Crafts: Cinnamon Ornaments. Ages 10–18: Spice up your holiday tree with the sweet smell of cinnamon at Cozy Crafts. Use cinnamon sticks, buttons, artificial branches, and berries to create a unique ornament to take home.

Friday, December 12. 3D print night at VCPL West. Learn how to take your ideas from concept to creation at 3D Print Night! At this interactive demonstration of the West Branch Library’s 3D printer, you’ll journey through every phase of designing a print—from the inception of an idea to a polished product.

Friday, December 12. Maker Hour at VCPL West.

Friday, December 12. Home for the Holidays at The Red Barn. Ages 12 & Up: Are you curious about 3D printing? Find out how to get started at BambuⓇ Basics.

Featured Event! Friday, December 12. A Bazaar of Owls: A Knight Owl Storytime and Craft hosted by the Vigo County Public Library.

Ages 5–11: At A Bazaar of Owls, your child can join Owl on two grand adventures! In Christopher Denise’s Knight Owl, Owl’s dream of being accepted into Knight School has come true, but can he outwit a hungry dragon? In the sequel Knight Owl and Early Bird, Early Bird wants to learn to be a brave knight like Owl, but his constant questions interrupt Owl’s sleep! Can the two of them work together when danger threatens the castle? After storytime, your child can create their own owl using yarn, feathers, markers, and recyclable materials. 

Saturday, December 13. Free STEAM workshop: Botanical dyeing. The Swope’s December STEAM workshop will be a natural dyeing workshop and demonstration at The White Violet Center for Eco-Justice. Participants will learn the basics of natural dyes using immersion baths and a variety of natural materials, some of which were grown and gathered at White Violet Center for Eco-Justice. Participants will be able to take sample fabric swatches home with them.

Saturday, December 13. Read to Rover at VCPL Main. All Ages: Share a book with a furry friend from Love on a Leash. These good-natured therapy dogs are eager to listen to your child practice reading aloud in a stress-free setting, complete with cuddles, belly rubs, and ear scratches!

Saturday, December 13. Meet the Grinch & Santa at the Exotic Feline Rescue Center. Animal tours and treats!

Saturday, December 13. Experience VR at VCPL Main.

Featured Event! Daddy Daughter Dance at the Terre Haute Children’s Museum.

Saturday, December 13. Enjoy themed experiments, photos, tasty treats, dancing, and activities to celebrate the season!

Saturday, December 13. Christmas Fun at the Woods. The holiday tradition is back! Celebrate the coming of Christmas with the Sisters of Providence at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. Guests of all ages are invited to the Providence Spirituality and Conference Center for an afternoon full of fun for the whole family, including crafts, alpaca visits, wagon rides, storytelling, face painting, bake sale, cake walk and much more. There may even be a special visit from Santa himself! Our sisters cherish this event and enjoy sharing the fun of the season with the community. We welcome a suggested donation of $5 per car for this event. No pre-registration is needed.

Saturday, December 13. Christmas Dinner Theater in MARSHALL, IL. We will be partnering with the American Legion and hosting our first Christmas Dinner Theater. We would love for you to join us! Tickets are free, but reservations are required

Saturday, December 13. Last-minute shopping event at The Meadows.

Saturday, December 13. Light up Lakewood parade. Canceled due to weather predictions.

Saturday, December 13. Christmas at the Clay Plant. Shop a large selection of handmade pottery! Including mugs, tumblers, bowls, planters, soup bowl mugs, and more for sale.

Sunday, December 14. Breakfast with Santa at the Terre Haute Convention Center. Treat your family to a delicious pancake breakfast, and enjoy a special visit from Santa Claus! Capture the moment with a photo and create unforgettable holiday memories with your loved ones.

Sunday, December 14. Meet the Grinch at Bear’s North. 2-5pm and get your pictures taken with the Grinch. After head over to The Moonlite Drive-In Theater for a FREE showing of The Grinch! Gates will open at 5pm and the show will start at 6pm. Please bring in a canned good donation.

Sunday, December 14. Ritz Kids Christmas Show by the Parke Players at the Historic Ritz Theater in ROCKVILLE, IN.

Monday, December 15. Scrabble at 12 Points at VCPL 12 Points.

Tuesday, December 16. Create at Snow Globe at VCPL 12 Points. Ages 3–6: Your little one can hold a glittery blizzard in their hands at Create a Snow Globe. Use simple craft items, water, and a bit of magic to create a personal winter wonderland to take home.

Tuesday, December 16. Duplo Designers at VCPL Main. Ages 2–5: Give your child the chance to build, create, and explore with DuploⓇ bricks at DuploⓇ Designers. Whether they follow the monthly theme or free-build, each session encourages hands-on learning and self-expression while they practice problem-solving, hand-eye coordination, and early planning skills.

Wednesday, December 17. Clue mystery at the Ohio Building.

Wednesday, December 17. Last-Minute Handmade Gifts at VCPL Main. Ages 13 & Up: Do you need a quick gift for a friend or a quirky present for your Secret Santa? At Last Minute Handmade Gifts, you can create a custom gift that will last beyond the holidays using sublimation printing! Bring your own sublimation blank and any digital photo or image to learn how to permanently transfer an image onto a surface using special ink and a heat press.

Wednesday, December 17. Coloring for Adults at VCPL 12 Points. Coloring isn’t just for kids—it’s a great way for you to relax, destress, and express your creativity without pressure. Spend an afternoon coloring preprinted pages and socialize with others as you enjoy your artistic endeavors. Coloring materials will be supplied.

Thursday, December 18. Tinkercad basics at VCPL Main.

Friday, December 19. Erasure Poetry at VCPL 12 Points. Try a new form of creative expression at Erasure Poetry. Use a marker to redact a printed page, revealing only the words that speak to you and shape a unique poem. No writing experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to play with language.

Friday, December 19. Frosted and Festive Cookie Baking Event. Host your own private holiday baking party inside the elegant Ohio Building — perfect for friends, family, or team gatherings. Enjoy two festive hours of cookie baking, decorating, and celebrating in one of Terre Haute’s most charming spaces.

Featured event! Friday, December 19. Grinchmas at VCPL West.

Celebrate the holidays like they do in Whoville! Drop in to enjoy Grinch-inspired treats, crafts, and activities, watch the Grinch create mayhem in the 2018 animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ classic story, and take a photo with the Grinch.

Saturday, December 20. Sphero Mini Golf at VCPL Main. Ages 4 & Up: Tee-up to visit the Land of Lands, an exciting nine-hole mini-golf course where you and your family will travel from Candyland to Wonderland to the mysterious I-land. Overcome hazards and see how many holes-in-one you can get by navigating remote-controlled Spheros through these colorful worlds. Call to register a group of up to six members for thirty minutes of Sphero Mini Golf. Four Spheros and iPads will be available for play.

Saturday, December 20. Cozy Crafts: Fabric Friendship Bracelets at VCPL Main. Ages 10-18: Combine patterned fabric and letter beads to make a unique bracelet you can share with your friends at Cozy Crafts.

Saturday, December 20. Breakfast with Santa at Highland-Church. We’re serving a FREE hot breakfast, and Santa himself will be here for pictures — just bring your phone or camera!

Saturday, December 20. The Grinch is coming to the Brazil Public Library. Move over, Santa. Get your photo with the Grinch at the Brazil Public Library! Please bring your own device for photos. The Teen Advisory Board will dress at residents of Whoville and welcome you to this event. Join us to watch “How the Grinch Stole Christmas (PG, 2000)” at 2:00pm. Enjoy free popcorn, Grinch juice, more during the showing.

Saturday, December 20. Santa is coming to The Magpies’ Nest!

Monday, December 22. Haute Create at VCPL Main. Ages 9 & Up: Head into the mines for resources, create a redstone-powered trap, craft tools, and fight off Creepers at the Minecraft Club! Join other players in Haute Create for co-op play, or enjoy your own game while you chat with people who share your interest. Bring your own device to play or use one provided in Haute Create.

Monday, December 22. Preschool Play and Learn at VCPL 12 Points. Ages 3–6: Help your child build the skills they need for school through play with themed stations that encourage creativity, curiosity, and social connection while preparing your child for early learning success. Each session offers a new theme with hands-on activities designed to spark imagination and confidence. 

December 31. New Year’s Eve: A Night in Black and White.

Wednesday, December 31. New Year’s Noon at the Terre Haute Children’s Museum.

Recurring Events:

As always, typos happen and event details change! Please confirm details with hosting organizations before finalizing your plans.

We are continually grateful to our featured sponsors. Their partnership helps to keep Haute Happenings free for readers like you! Please help us thank them by attending their events and supporting their businesses.

Our calendar of December Christmas events is just the beginning of the holiday fun! In our holiday guide homepage, we have meals with Santa, Santa pictures, holiday markets, holiday parades, holiday trains, and so much more!

Click HERE for the 2025 Guide to Christmas Events and Holiday Fun in Terre Haute and the Wabash Valley!

Miracle on 7th Street “Light Your Way” Parade.

Don’t Miss the “Light Your Way” Parade!

The fun has ended for these great events:

Monday, December 1. Santa’s Express Portraits in BRAZIL, IN.

Monday, December 1. Lego Lab at the Vigo County Public Library.

Monday, December 1. Christmas in the Park opening night at Deming Park. Please arrive by 5:30 pm!

Monday, December 1. Ornament decorating at Deming Park for ages 5-12. FREE while supplies last!

Tuesday, December 2. We Survived Book Club: Maribel Versus the Volcano at VCPL Main.

Wednesday, December 3. Decks, Dice, and Dominoes at VCPL West. Challenge friends and fellow enthusiasts to card, board, and tile games at Decks, Dice & Dominoes! Whether you’re a cunning tactician, a master bluffer, or a secret grandmaster, you can indulge in timeless traditional games like Euchre, chess, or dominoes, or discover new classics, including Settlers of Catan, Carcassonne, or Kingdomino!

Wednesday, December 3. Adventures in HeroQuest at VCPL Main.

Wednesday, December 3. Healthy and Easy Holiday Dishes at VCPL 12 Points. Your holiday meal doesn’t have to be calorie-laden to be indulgent. Join the Maple Center to learn how to create three delicious dishes that will complement your meal: a fall harvest salad, yams with an orange glaze, and chocolate chip no-bake cookies.

Wednesday, December 3. Crafting Cheer: Sublimating Personalized Ornaments at VCPL Main.

Thursday, December 4. Youth Craft: Keepsake Ornament at the BRAZIL public library. Create your own keepsake ornament at the Library at 6:00pm on December 4 . This program is for ages 6-12 only. Parents are welcome to attend to help their children, but supplies are limited. Registration is not required.

Thursday, December 4. Pokémon Creation at VCPL Main.

Thursday, December 4. Adult CPR/AED training.

Thursday, December 4. Winter Makers: Snowflake Geometry and 3D Design at Haute Create at VCPL Main.

Thursday, December 4. Meet and Greet with Santa and his reindeer at the VERMILLION county public library. Start the holiday season off right at the library! Come visit and snap some photos with Santa and a live reindeer from our friends at Silly Safaris! Enjoy free popcorn, hot chocolate, holiday music, and crafts.

Friday, December 5. Dueling Pianos at the Terre Haute Casino Resort.

Friday, December 5. Cozy Crafts: Build a Snow Globe at VCPL Main.

Friday, December 5. Stop by the History Center for their FREE holiday open house. Join us on December 5th from 3–7 PM for free admission, festive treats, kids’ activities, and the magical Festival of Miracle Trees. Come make holiday memories with us at the Vigo County History Center!

Featured Event! Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6. Miracle on 7th Street.

Get your festive fix this December with a vendor market, kids activities, live music, Santa + more!

Mark your calendar for Dec 5th (5-9 PM) & Dec 6th (12-6 PM).

Entry to Hulman Center is FREE!

The Light Your Way Parade will take place on December 6 at 6pm! 

Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6. Fowler Park Christmas Walk. Step back in time this Christmas season at Vigo County Parks and Recreation Department’s Annual Christmas Walk at Fowler Park’s Pioneer Village! Enjoy FREE admission during this two-day event—Friday, December 5 from 6 to 9 PM, and Saturday, December 6 from 5 to 9 PM. Explore the 19th-century Pioneer Village, Shop handmade gifts at the Village Mercantile, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more! Plus, on Friday only, delight in festive carriage rides and a special visit from Santa’s reindeer. Feel the magic of the season at the Christmas Walk!

Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6. Shattered Nightmares Haunted House: A Christmas Nightmare.

Featured Event! Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7. Mouse House by Tri Kappa.

House of the Christmas Mouse is back! Join Terre Haute Tri Kappa for a magical holiday tradition filled with fun for the whole family! 

Where:

Benjamin Franklin Elementary School. 1600 Dr. Iverson C. Bell Ln.

When:
Saturday, December 6th | 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday, December 7th | 10 AM – 5 PM
Scout Troops Special: Dec 6th | 9–10 AM
Sensory-Friendly Hour: Dec 7th | 9–10 AM

Why come?
Shop the Secret Buying Room 
Visit Mrs. Mouse’s Kitchen & Bakery 
Take photos with Mrs. Mouse 
Cookie & ornament decorating 
Reindeer Bar & MORE! 

Admission: $2 per person (at the door or in advance)

For tickets, email: terrehautegammagamma@trikappa.org. Follow along for updates: House of Mrs. Mouse on Facebook

All proceeds go to scholarships for local students and donations to community organizations.

Saturday, December 6. Celebrate the Holidays with the Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra. Enjoy an afternoon of joyful melodies and heartwarming classics that capture the magic of the season with the THSO and vocalist Justin John Moniz! The THSO welcomes back retired Artistic Director, David Bowden, in his new role as Principal Guest Conductor!

Saturday, December 6. MainStreet Rockville Parade of Lights and Hometown Holidays. Jingle and mingle, tree lighting ceremony, Santa visit, hot chocolate, live music.

Saturday, December 6. Holidays in Farmersburg, IN at the Farmersburg Theater. ArtWalk, Christmas Tree lighting, mini photo session!

Saturday, December 6. Merry Grinchmas Cookie Decorating class at Wabash Activity Center.

Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7. Friends of the Library Book Sale. Whether you’re shopping for last-minute stocking stuffers or a treat for yourself, the Friends of the Vigo County Public Library’s Holiday Book Sale has the perfect gifts for you and your family! Shop from thousands of items, including books with an average price of $1.00, DVDs, CDs, magazines, and more. The Friends’ Sale will be open to the general public on Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7.

Saturday, December 6. Bearing the Light Gallery Opening. Come at 4:30pm to participate in a short liturgical service to honor the journey of Advent and the light we have been given to share. This will be held in the parking lot on the South side of the church. Chairs will be provided for those who need a time of rest for the service. This Advent Art Show shows us how to bear the light. The art will line the streets starting at Central Presbyterian Church and lining 7th street to our neighbors St. Stephen’s church with 15 pieces of art to ignite a new light of thought. Each art piece has a QR Code to interact with. All are welcome to come experience this Advent show. The children will be collecting donations for their art they have created to share the light of love with the Humane Society.

Saturday, December 6. Car Talk at VCPL Main. Ages 2–6: Start your engines and race to Car Talk! Your little one can rev up their imagination with stories filled with planes, trains, trucks, and automobiles, then hit the pits to play with toys and games, or make a quick craft before speeding off to their next adventure. 

Saturday, December 6. FREE movie showing of The Polar Express at Linton Cinema 3. Santa visit and movie!

Saturday, December 6. Curious Kids: Soundwave Portraits at VCPL Main. Ages 6-12: Can your child see their own voice? Find out with an easy experiment at Curious Kids, where they will see how amplitude, frequency, and wavelength combine to create their unique vocal signature before turning it into artwork.

Saturday, December 6. Hometown Holly Days in MARSHALL, IL. From delicious food vendors and the Christmas Market, to bounce houses for the kids, ice skating for the whole family, visits with Santa at the Log Cabin, rides on the Polar Express Train, and hot cocoa to keep you warm — there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Saturday, December 6. Vendor Fair and Pictures with Santa at Anderson’s Plants and Produce. Join us for our first ever Vendor Fair and Pictures with Santa! It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and get some Christmas shopping done early! Shop a variety of local vendors- perfect for finding unique holiday gifts. Enjoy delicious food trucks. Kids can have fun in the bounce houses, play games, and activities for the whole family. There will be unbeatable sales in our retail, festive photo backdrops, giveaways, and so much more! Saturday, December 6th Vendors 10-6 and Santa 2-6 Located at Anderson’s Plants and Produce at 6066 Rosedale Rd. Admission is FREE, so bring your family and friends for a day full of holiday cheer!

Saturday, December 6. Clause for a Cause Toy Drive. Claus for a Cause: Toy Drive with Santa at Terre Haute Brewing Co.

Saturday, December 6. Christmas Lights at the Farm in SULLIVAN.

Saturday, December 6. Cocoa and Cookies with Santa at York in BRAZIL.

Saturday, December 6. Saturday with Santa at the CLINTON public library.

Saturday, December 6. Montezuma Christmas Bazaar in Parke County.

Saturday, December 6. Santa is coming to Old National Bank.

Sunday, December 7. Tea Party from Sunrises to Sunsets Photography. Tea and sweet snacks, professional hair and makeup styling, fancy dresses, limited spots.

Sunday, December 7. Sensory Santa at The Magpie’s Nest.

Sunday, December 7. Meet and Greet with Santa at The Maple Room.

Sunday, December 7. Jingle Jam with Mount Pleasant Church. An unforgettable family Christmas experience complete with fun, games, and music from our kids choir as we celebrate Jesus, God’s greatest gift! 

Monday, December 8. Library Detectives on the Case at VCPL Main. Ages 7–11: There’s a criminal loose in the library! Can your child figure out who the suspect is before they escape? An insider has agreed to provide the young detectives with information, but to protect their identity, your child must help solve puzzles, answer riddles, and decipher clues to identify what happened, why and how it was done, and who is responsible in this exciting, kid-friendly escape room.

Tuesday, December 9. Animals Around the World at VCPL Main. Ages 6–15: Travel to deep, dark jungles, arid deserts, and even the frigid Arctic in search of reptilian, avian, and furry friends at Animals Around the World! In every session, your child will learn about a unique animal through stories and crafts—and may even get to meet the featured animal.

Tuesday, December 9. Nature Walk: Winter in Maple Avenue Nature Park. All Ages: As the temperatures drop, many animals hibernate for the winter while others have different methods to survive. Join Dobbs Park Naturalist Carissa Lovett for a tour of the Maple Avenue Nature Park, and learn the different strategies local animals who don’t hibernate use to make it through the coldest parts of the year. 

Tuesday, December 9. The cost of the Holiday Express train at Deming Park will be covered by the Vigo County Public Library!  All aboard the annual Holiday Express! Tickets for the Friday night ride on Deming Park’s miniature train will be covered by the Vigo County Public Library so you and your family can ride at no cost. Board the Spirit of Terre Haute at Kaufman Station for a tour of the decorated shelters and don’t forget to vote for your favorite to win the People’s Choice Award.

Wednesday, December 10. “The Chosen: Holy Night” at Mount Pleasant Church. A special holiday event. Join us for popcorn, cookies and hot chocolate as we watch the Christmas special from “The Chosen” called “Holy Night.” There will also be a display of nativities to enjoy. A unique and free way to experience the joy of Christmas!

Wednesday, December 10. Trash Talk at VCPL 12 Points. Every year, more than 40 million tons of plastic are used in the United States, yet only a small fraction is recycled. The rest ends up in landfills, oceans, and even the food and water we consume as microplastics. Discover how this growing problem affects you, your family, and the planet, then learn practical ways to reduce plastic waste at home while helping create a cleaner, healthier environment with reThink’s Organizational Manager Jenny Powell.

Wednesday, December 10. Bingo by the Books at VCPL West.

Thursday, December 11. Bambu Basics at Haute Create VCPL Main.

Thursday, December 11. Meet Santa, take photos, and enjoy fresh baked cookies in BRAZIL!

Thursday, December 11. Read to Walter to VCPL 12 Points.

Thursday, December 11. Cozy Crafts: Cinnamon Ornaments. Ages 10–18: Spice up your holiday tree with the sweet smell of cinnamon at Cozy Crafts. Use cinnamon sticks, buttons, artificial branches, and berries to create a unique ornament to take home.