Last weekend, I was invited to a fall birthday bonfire. It had been on my calendar for four weeks. But when the day came, it was actually more like winter, a frigid 20 degrees outside.
The party still took place and was actually one of the most fun winter nights I have ever had. The stars were incredibly clear and bright. The air was so clear and refreshing. The huge bonfire was blazing, and we all sat around drinking hot cider and hot chocolate. We had a blast and stayed warm.
Sometimes to beat the cold, we need to embrace it! And Hendricks County really does make it easy for you to try some new outdoor events and activities, even in the gray of winter. Come and see smiling faces, learn a new skill or just enjoy the fresh air while getting out of the house by trying a few of these special winter events in Hendricks County, Indiana:
Winterland Holiday Light Display
Ok, so maybe you’re ready to get out of the house but not ready to go traipsing around in the cold. We have the perfect segue!
One of our most anticipated traditions is the Winterland Holiday Light Display at Ellis Park in Danville, Indiana. Any day of the week, from 6-10 p.m., drive your car through this incredible display of Christmas lights with your family.
Bring along your favorite hot drink and for only $10 on the weekend or half price during the week enjoy a beautiful Christmas landscape.
Ice Skating
This year the 2nd annual Avon Ice Rink returns. For only $10 a person, come out to Washington Township Park in Avon to try your hand at ice skating on a synthetic rink!
Skate for the first thirty minutes and try the brand-new bumper cars on ice for your second half hour. This is truly a unique recreational destination for many on the west side of Indianapolis and the perfect winter activity for families.
The Shops at Perry Crossing
Here’s another one to ease you into enjoying winter. Come start your Christmas shopping at Hendricks County’s outdoor lifestyle mall, The Shops at Perry Crossing. Enjoy the fresh air while popping into your favorite stores and restaurants.
The huge Christmas tree right in the center makes for great photos with your friends and family! Warm up in between shopping by going to a movie, dining in a cozy restaurant or simply grabbing a warm drink with your family and friends.
Trail Riding at Natural Valley Ranch
There really is no better way to enjoy the forest in winter than on horseback.
Natural Valley Ranch offers trail rides year-round, weather permitting. Schedule a 30-minute or hour-long trail ride at your convenience.
Not a fan of horseback riding? No problem! Visit the farm to see the animals for free or even snag a free pony ride (of course remembering to tip the handler).
Christmas Bird Count
Have you ever sat still long enough outdoors to watch the birds?
Against the gray sky and leafless trees, winter is a unique time that allows us to see much more of our feathered friends. Their colors are brighter, you can spot their nests easier and they’re much easier to watch!
Come out to McCloud Nature Park on Dec. 29 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. to participate in the Jamestown area bird count! With experienced birders, you will count all birds that you hear and see. The data is compiled by the Audubon Society and used by scientists to measure bird populations!
Birders of all levels are welcome to participate.
Candy Cane Hunt
I mentioned a horseback ride at Natural Valley Ranch above. Well, a great outdoor event to introduce you to this fun attraction and get you in the holiday spirit will occur on Dec. 8.
Santa has left some candy canes around Natural Valley Ranch, so the folks there need your help to hunt for them. Along the way, visit with Santa Claus, say hi to the animals in the animal encounter area, make a craft and enjoy a snack from the popcorn bar!
This event will take place from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 2:30 p.m on Dec. 8. The cost is $7 in advance ($10 at the gate).
Scout Sunday: Nature Art
That same weekend, scouts and non-scouts alike are invited to this event celebrating the inspiration of nature at McCloud Nature Park.
Bring your hiking shoes, your pencils, and create original works of art with clay, stones, wire, watercolors, sticks and charcoal. This is a great way to become one with the outdoors during the winter season. The event is from 1 to 4 p.m., Dec. 9.
Additional Outdoor Activities
Want to enjoy the outdoors but on your own time and terms? Here are some worthy ideas for your winter enjoyment:
Hiking – Grab your mud boots, layer up, and adventure out to any of our Hendricks County parks. Most of them offer a good mix of dirt trails and paved trails, so all levels of hikers, runners and walkers can find what they need. Keep a nature book, take photographs or simply be present and explore nature. Here's a list of some of our favorite trails.- Sledding – The snow is definitely good for sledding, and we have plenty of it in Hendricks County! A favorite hill is located at Washington Township Parks & Recreation, a popular gathering spot for snow days! For more places to sled in Hendricks County click here.
- Walking the dog – Simply walking your pooch is a great way to de-stress and enjoy the great outdoors. Take a new path, visit a new park, or simply take your time and get your blood moving. Here's some ideas of pet-friendly places to take your pooch.
If those aren’t enough to keep you busy until the pools open on Memorial Day, well, maybe you should be a snow bird. As for the rest of us, we’ll be happy enjoying our ice skating and bonfires and chilly winter evenings together, laughing and enjoying life in the cold.
We know how to do winter in Indiana because we know spring always comes back around!
