This Christmas season, Shipshewana is brimming with heartwarming experiences and flashing light displays that will make your holiday one to remember. If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway that will fill your heart with joy and wonder of the season, look no further than the Christmas-y town of Shipshewana, Indiana. From twinkling lights to cozy breakfasts with Santa, this holiday adventure has something for everyone in your family.
Lights of Joy: A Dazzling Holiday Drive-Thru Experience in Shipshewana
The holiday magic begins at the Lights of Joy display, a breathtaking 1.8-mile drive-thru experience that will light up the night in the most spectacular way imaginable. As your family drives through the stunning scenes, the twinkling lights reflect off the snow if there is any, filling the car with excitement and smiles. This isn’t just a light show; it’s a tradition in the making for your family for years to come! Your kids will be pointing at everything they pass, exclaiming with glee at the flashing bright colors as they sing along to your family’s Christmas music. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday celebration.
Walkway of Lights: A Mile of Magic
Just when you think the magic couldn’t get any better, bundle up the family and take a jaunt down the Walkway of Lights, a 1-mile stretch that runs from downtown Shipshewana to the Blue Gate Garden Inn. This Hallmark town-worthy decorated sidewalk, lined with glowing displays, is the perfect opportunity to slow down, experience the quiet beauty of the season, and snap some unforgettable family photos. With each step, you’ll get more into the Christmas spirit!
Breakfast with Santa: A Special Treat for the Kids
Christmas just wouldn’t be complete without a visit from Santa Claus! Treat your little ones to Breakfast with Santa at the Blue Gate Restaurant, where they can meet the man in red himself. On select dates (December 8, 14, and 21), Santa will be ready to hear their Christmas list while they enjoy a delicious Amish breakfast. Trust us, watching your children’s eyes light up as they talk with Santa over pancakes is a Christmas memory you’ll treasure forever.
Take Cinderella Ride in a Lighted Carriage
For a true Christmas fairy-tale experience, step aboard the Blue Gate Carriage for a magical ride through town. The Cinderella-style lighted carriage glides through the streets, offering a holly, jolly journey that will make your family feel like they’ve stepped right into a winter wonderland storybook. Cozy up under blankets, admire the sparkling lights around you, and let the happy clip-clop of hooves bring a perfect close to your day. This truly enchanting ride is sure to be one of the highlights of your Shipshewana Christmas adventure.
Ride the Vintage Carousel at Davis Mercantile
Don’t miss the Davis Mercantile for a chance to relive your childhood and introduce your children to a ride on their vintage carousel. This delightful ride is an experience for both kids and adults. With the old-fashioned horses twirling and Christmas music playing all around you in the air, it’s the best place to create more holiday memories together.
Pro tip: Ensure you have plenty of time to shop around Davis Mercantile after you ride on the carousel. This is a one-stop shopping experience out of the cold weather!
Treats and Eats: A Holiday Feast
After all the outdoor and indoor excitement, your family will need to refuel, and Shipshewana’s food scene does not disappoint. For a quick snack, stop by JoJo’s Pretzels in the Davis Mercantile for warm, buttery pretzels that melt in your mouth. And for a heartier meal, indulge in a traditional Amish-style dinner at one of the local eateries, where comfort food like roast beef, mashed potatoes, and homemade noodles will leave everyone satisfied. Don’t forget to grab some sweet treats like popcorn at Shipshewana Popcorn Co., ice cream at The Vanilla Bean Creamery, or cupcakes at Shawna Rae’s Bakery and Cafe for dessert as you stroll through town!
Entertainment for All: Blue Gate Theater & Performing Arts Center
Shipshewana offers more than just sights and food—it’s a surprising hub for holiday entertainment. Head over to the Blue Gate Theater Performing Arts Center for a family-friendly holiday musical that will have everyone tapping their feet and singing along. From heartwarming Christmas stories to festive live performances, these shows add another layer of magic to your Shipshewana Christmas trip.
Christmas Craft Shows
If you’re a fan of unique, handmade gifts, you’re in luck! Shipshewana’s Christmas Craft Shows are filled with one-of-a-kind treasures, perfect for finding that special something to complete your holiday shopping. Browse through the vendors with your family, and maybe even pick up a keepsake to remember your magical holiday visit to Shipshewana.
Wrap Up Your Christmas Adventure
A visit to Shipshewana during the Christmas season is more than just a holiday outing—it’s an experience filled with joy, laughter, and Christmas wonder that your family will remember and want to make a family tradition. From the twinkling lights of the Lights of Joy and Walkway of Lights to sharing pancakes with Santa and taking a fairy-tale carriage ride, this trip is packed with moments that will warm your hearts and bring your family closer together. Make sure to stop by our visitor center to get coupons, maps, and information for your magical trip. Shipshewana invites you to embrace the spirit of Christmas and come create family memories!
Pack up the car, get the family together, and head to Shipshewana for a magical Christmas adventure!