INDIANAPOLIS — A holiday tradition returns to downtown Indianapolis this week.
The Indiana Historical Society's Festival of Trees opens to the public on Friday, Nov. 15. The 11th annual display features 85 decorated trees, along with special programs and holiday-themed dining and shopping.
The trees have been decorated by individuals, families and organizations across Indiana on display throughout the museum. A 30-foot tree in Eli Lilly Hall serves as a centerpiece that can be seen throughout the building.
In addition to admiring the dozens of decorated trees, visitors can search for the "Elf on the Shelf" and the Weihnachtsgurke — 10 pickle ornaments hidden on trees throughout the building.
Guests can vote for their favorite tree, with the winning organization receiving a special trophy created by ArtMix.
Classic holiday music will play in the museum's Cole Porter Room and a scene from "A Christmas Story," which was written by Hammond, Indiana native Jean Shepherd, will also be on display.
PHOTOS: Indiana Historical Society 2024 Festival of Trees
The 2024 Festival of Trees runs through Jan. 4, 2025 and family members of all ages are welcome. The exhibit will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Dec. 6, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Eve. The festival will be open extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays between Thanksgiving and Christmas, when the historical society will remain open until 8 p.m.
Tickets and more information about the festival are available at IndianaHistory.org. The Indiana Historical Society is located on West Ohio Street, just east of West Street in downtown Indianapolis.
WTHR is the media sponsor for the Festival of Trees and once again has a decorated tree on display.
