Christmas on the Square in Danville, IN

If you have ever fantasized about stepping into one of those cheesy Hallmark Christmas movies, look no further than Danville, Indiana! You will find all the magic of a small-town Christmas at Danville's Christmas on the Square on Nov. 29!

Folks of all ages gather each year the day after Thanksgiving when the historic Hendricks County Courthouse Square transforms into a bustling Christmas wonderland. Bring your family and friends to see the town turn on the canopy of lights streaming down from every side of the square, officially kicking off the Christmas season.

Here is what you can expect at the 18th annual celebration:

Danville, Indiana

Danville serves as the county seat for Hendricks County and boasts a plethora of events and activities all year long. But the community really comes together for the holidays!

Christmas on the Square is put on by the Downtown Danville Partnership, the Town of Danville and Hawkeye Storage, with the goal of bringing people to Danville’s beautiful downtown and supporting the town’s amazing small businesses.

For the Kids

Christmas on the Square is a free, family-friendly event for all ages, with plenty of activities the youngsters will love. Santa will be there, so don't forget your Christmas list and your camera. Wander over to the Hendricks County Historical Museum to check out Santa's workshop.

The kiddos will also have an opportunity to write down their Christmas wishes and mail them to Santa at The Author's Patch. Face painters, balloon twisters and a giant inflatable will add even more Christmas magic.

Lighting The Tree

Creating cherished holiday memories is at the core of Danville's Christmas on the Square, with none more anticipated than the lighting of the tree.

On the Southeast corner of the square, across from Danville Dips, families will gather with the Christmas season officially kicking off at 6:30 p.m. when Santa flips the giant switch, illuminating the tree and the glittering canopy of lights.

After lighting up the historic town square, Santa will head down to open up Winterland at Ellis Park.

Festivities Galore & Holiday Decor

The sounds of the holidays will fill the streets as the Treblemakers roam the square singing all your favorite Christmas carols. Enjoy a carriage ride as you snuggle up with your sweetie and then wander the square to take in the beautiful holiday-themed window displays created by local businesses.

Always a popular attraction, don't miss the live nativity scene put on by Danville United Methodist Church as you take a moment to ponder the very first Christmas.

Shopping, Dining & More

Plan to come early and stay late to browse the array of shops lining the square and enjoy dinner or a sweet treat. Find one-of-a-kind creations at Forget-Me-Nots or a piece of handmade art by a local artisan at Gallery on the Square. Wander into Seize the Night Designs for a piece of handmade jewelry for that special someone.

Dig into down-home food at Mayberry Cafe or head to Frank’s Place for an Italian feast. Don’t forget to pop into Court House Grounds for some of Grandma Pete’s famous fruitcake! There will also be several food trucks at the event, so come hungry!