Holiday Arts Options in Central Indiana

11/24/2025 12AM

A bustling, twinkling presence on the Allied Solutions Center campus, the Carmel Christkindlmarkt and the Ice at Carter Green attract visitors from throughout Center Indiana and beyond | photo by Bill Crawford/Harbor Pictures.

Allied Solutions Center offers wide range of events and activities

 

The holiday season brings Central Indiana to life, turning everyday places into gathering spots filled with music, tradition and shared moments. From festive performances to winter markets and seasonal celebrations, the region offers countless ways to slow down and savor the season.

 

In Carmel, Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts sits at the heart of it all. With a full calendar of holiday programming and an easy walk to the beloved Carmel Christkindlmarkt, it’s a natural starting point for a day – or evening – of seasonal experiences.

 

Let’s take a look at some of the wonderful events and experiences on offer this holiday season.

 

Holiday Shows at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts

 

As the holidays approach, Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts invites audiences of all ages to celebrate the season with an exceptional lineup of festive performances and special events. From beloved seasonal favorites and captivating concerts to timeless traditions and family-friendly experiences, this year’s holiday offerings are designed to kindle joy, create memories, and inspire a sense of wonder. Whether you’re in the mood for stirring choral works, whimsical theater or heart-warming melodies, there’s a magical holiday moment waiting for you.

 

Our holiday shows and events at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts include the Center Presents Old Town Holiday Series, featuring seasonal performances by acclaimed national artists. This year’s series includes:

• An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee – Dec. 2
• Jon McLaughlin & Friends: Home for the Holidays – Dec. 5
• Preservation Hall Jazz Band: Creole Christmas – Dec. 8
• Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour 2025 – Dec. 12
• Chris Isaak – Dec. 13

 

Our friends at the Great American Songbook Foundation also have exciting events at the Payne & Mencias Palladium:

• White Christmas Artifact Display (December 15-19): Explore a special temporary display inspired by the classic holiday musical White Christmas, featuring artifacts and stories tied to the iconic film and its unforgettable soundtrack.
• Songbook Academy Sings the Songs of the Season: Enjoy a spirited performance on Dec. 22 from talented vocalists as they present a selection of holiday classics with heart and enthusiasm in an intimate and immersive concert experience unlike any other. Tickets often sell out fast, so get yours here before they’re gone!

 

Other seasonal offerings on campus come from our Resident Companies and popular arts groups from Indianapolis, including:

• A Christmas Story (December 14-27): Delight in Civic Theatre’s musical stage adaptation of the beloved holiday classic full of laughs, nostalgia, and heartwarming moments that the whole family will enjoy. See showtimes here!
• Handel’s Messiah (December 18): Experience Handel’s powerful and timeless masterwork as performed by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra – a stirring holiday tradition that resonates with audiences year after year. Learn more and purchase tickets here.
• Festival of Carols (December 19-21): The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir's holiday concert tradition returns, with familiar favorites and exciting new works to capture the joy of the season. Acclaimed guest vocalist Bruno Sandes reprises his 2024 appearance at Festival of Carols. Santa, the Hallelujah Chorus, and even a few holiday surprises are in store! Explore showtimes and grab your tickets here.

 

You’ll find something for everyone at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts this season. Don’t miss out – explore our holiday shows and events, and book your tickets today!

 

Carmel Christkindlmarkt: A Festive Wonderland

 

No holiday season in Central Indiana would be complete without a visit to the Carmel Christkindlmarkt, located on Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts’ campus. This German Christmas market brings old-world charm to Carmel, featuring wooden huts adorned with twinkling lights, the aroma of mulled wine, and the sound of traditional holiday music.

 

You’ll find:

• Ice skating: Glide across the outdoor ice-skating rink with family and friends. Skating under the festive lights and in the brisk winter air is a quintessential holiday experience.
• German Christmas market: Wander through the stalls of the Christkindlmarkt, where you’ll find food, handmade ornaments, crafts and gifts. These unique treasures are perfect for those looking to give their loved ones something special this season.
• Glühwein (mulled wine): Warm up with a cup of Glühwein, a spiced mulled wine traditionally served at European Christmas markets. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, hot chocolate and cider are also available.
• Local gift shopping: In addition to the German-inspired goods, the Christkindlmarkt offers plenty of opportunities to shop local. Vendors offer a variety of items, including artisan crafts, jewelry, and holiday décor. Supporting local businesses while finding one-of-a-kind gifts is a win-win!

If you’re still looking for that perfect gift, check out our Allied Solutions Center gift certificates and give a fun-loving friend or loved one access to incredible entertainment!

 

The merry atmosphere at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt, combined with Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts’ holiday performances, makes for a perfect holiday outing. Spend the day ice skating and shopping, then warm up with Glühwein before catching an evening show. Or see a daytime show at Allied Solutions Center and spend an enchanting evening at the Christkindlmarkt! Whatever itinerary you choose, you’re bound to have a charming and captivating experience.

 

Celebrate the Holidays with Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts

 

This holiday season, Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts is your destination for unforgettable experiences to delight audiences of all ages.

 

Don’t miss the chance to make lasting memories with family and friends. Purchase your tickets today!

 

And from all of us at Allied Solutions Center, have a peaceful and joyful holiday season!

 

Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization that aims to engage and inspire the Indiana community through enriching arts experiences. We are responsible for the operation and programming of a multidisciplinary performing arts campus in Carmel, Indiana, that presents scores of events each year and provides space and support services for six resident companies: Actors Theatre of Indiana, Carmel Symphony Orchestra, Central Indiana Dance Ensemble, Civic Theatre, Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre, and Indiana Wind Symphony. Explore our upcoming events and experiences, or support our work and the expansion of the arts today!