Celebrating Christmas and the Holiday Season in Nashville, Indiana (2025)

ByKara Updated on

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While I know it’s possible to find holiday magic wherever you are, I happen to think that there’s something special about Christmas in Nashville, Indiana that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s not just the lights or the live music or the smell of kettle corn and cinnamon-roasted nuts downtown, it’s the feeling that the whole town is leaning into joy.

From the twinkle of the Christmas Light Parade to the old-world charm of the Christkindl Market, Nashville turns into the kind of place where even locals pause to soak it in. And 2025 brings even more reasons to visit: new concerts, returning favorites, and festive weekend events that make planning a holiday trip easier than ever.

We’ve lived here since 2016 – aka, long enough to know which events are worth bundling up for, which spots get crowded, and where to warm up after a frosty walk through town. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, here’s what to expect in Brown County at Christmastime, and how to make the most of every twinkling moment.

A fire truck covered in Christmas lights drives by as part of the annual Holiday Light Parade in Nashville, Indiana. A text overlay reads "Things to Do for Christmas and the Holiday Season in Nashville, Indiana."

Looking for more details about specific events in Nashville during the month of December and the rest of the holiday season? Don’t forget to check out this post as well.

See the Lights

One of the best parts of the holiday season is soaking up all the twinkling Christmas lights! Whether you’re strolling through town or driving around Brown County, the festive glow of holiday lights is everywhere, creating that cozy winter wonderland vibe we all love. Here are some must-see spots:

Christmas Lights in the Town of Nashville

Nashville, Indiana, already has that charming small-town feel all year long, but it really kicks things up a notch during the holidays! The entire town sparkles with white lights, wreaths, and festive decor—seriously, it’s like a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie.

You’ll find lights glowing on every corner (usually from around Thanksgiving through the beginning of January), making it perfect for an evening stroll. Don’t forget to grab a coffee or hot chocolate from one of the local coffee shops along the way to keep warm.

Looking for more than just the twinkle of downtown? Here are two annual events you won’t want to miss:

  • The Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting at the Brown County History Center – Head over to the Brown County History Center on Friday, November 28, 2025 from 5-7pm (with the tree lighting at 6pm) for this cozy tradition. There will be music, homemade cookies, hot chocolate, and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
  • Christmas Light Parade – The Holiday Light Parade is a Nashville favorite! This year, it’s happening on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., and it’s a perfect way to cap off a day of holiday shopping or a visit to the Brown County Cristkindl Market. Bundle up and find a spot along the parade route to watch the festive floats go by, all decked out in lights. Plus, the Salvation Army will be collecting new, unwrapped toys along the way, so feel free to bring something to donate if you can!

NOTE: For more details on these events and more, check out my post that includes all the December events in Nashville and Brown County, Indiana.

A group of kids smiles in front of one of the Christmas light displays at the Winter Wonderland Trail at the Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Christmas Lights Around Brown County

If you’re looking to venture a little further outside of Nashville for more light displays, there are a couple of spots in Brown County that will definitely wow you.

  • Check out the annual Winter Wonderland event at the Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Department in Helmsburg on Friday and Saturday evenings, December 5, 6, 12 and 13, from 6-8pm. Walk the self-guided trail lined with thousands of lights, holiday inflatables, and festive scenes through the woods. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there for photos and holiday wishes, and you can warm up with hot dogs, cocoa, and cookies by the fire. Admission is free, but donations help support the fire department.

Get in the Christmas Spirit

When it comes to getting into the holiday spirit, Brown County has plenty of festive options—from visits with Santa to supporting great local causes. Whether you’re in the mood for holiday fun or giving back, there’s something here for everyone!

Visits with Santa

Santa sightings are a core part of the Nashville Indiana holiday experience, and you’ll have several chances to meet the big guy (and Mrs. Claus!) while you’re in town:

A girls sits with Santa in front of the Brown County Visitor Center, as part of the annual Christkindl Market in Nashville, Indiana.
  • Visit Santa at the Brown County History Center – Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be making their rounds at the Brown County History Center on Saturdays November 29, December 6, and December 13 from noon to 4pm. They’ll also be at the History Center during the Community Christmas Tree Lighting event on Friday, November 28 from 5-7pm.
  • Brown County Christkindl Market – This outdoor Christmas market will be held in Coachlight Square from 10am to 6pm on Saturday, December 6 and 10am to 4pm on Sunday, December 7. There will be artisan vendors, live German and Christmas music throughout the day, plus unique food and beverages for purchase. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be there, greeting children all day long. Stay up to date with everything on their Facebook page and, if you’re there Saturday evening, make plans to hang around for the annual Christmas Light Parade and Toy Drive immediately following.
  • Indiana Railroad’s Santa Train in Morgantown and Helmsburg – One of the more unique holiday experiences in the area, the Santa Train makes its stops on December 5 in Morgantown at 4:30pm and Helmsburg at 7:15pm. This is your chance to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus aboard a vintage passenger car! Kids can mail letters to Santa, enjoy some treats, and mingle with beloved Christmas characters.
    • NOTE: The line to board the train can get long, but between the treats, the holiday music, and the characters in costume interacting with everyone, your kids won’t even notice the wait.
  • Winter Wonderland Trail with the Jackson Township VFD – If you miss Santa in town, you’ll find him greeting visitors at this festive, family-friendly trail through the woods, complete with lights, music, and plenty of holiday spirit on December 5, 6, 12 and 13 from 6-8pm.

Support a Good Cause

The holidays in Brown County are about more than just twinkle lights—they’re about community. Here are a few 2025 events where you can give back while celebrating:

  • The 48th Annual Brown County Children’s Auction – Held on Friday, December 5 at 6pm at the Brown County Inn, the Brown County Children’s Auction is an annual event where every penny raised helps children in need right here in Brown County. You’ll find all sorts of great items up for bid, and it’s always a fun, lively evening—plus, it’s for a great cause!
  • Brown County Community Foundation’s 11th Annual Stuff-a-Stocking event – Held on Saturday, December 6, starting at 11:00am, this is most kid-friendly events of the season! Children follow a map to participating shops in downtown Nashville, collecting treats and goodies to fill a holiday stocking. It’s a great way to explore town and support local businesses at the same time.
A festive set-up with Christmas trees for sale in the Foxfire Parking Lot in Nashville, Indiana.

Deck the Halls

If you’re all about the holiday décor (same here!), Brown County has you covered with greenery, decorations, and holiday workshops. Here’s how to “deck the halls” while you’re here:

  • Christmas Evergreen Workshop at Range 46 Wine Co – Sip wine while creating a festive centerpiece using fresh evergreens on Monday, December 1 at 6pm. Materials and your first glass of wine are included, so all you have to bring is your holiday spirit!
  • Festive Friday Craft Workshops at Our Little World Studio – These relaxed, beginner-friendly workshops include all supplies and a drink of your choice. It’s a cozy, low-stress way to make something meaningful while supporting a local business.
  • ‘Steele’s County Christmas’ at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site – This annual event will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025 and is one of the most charming ways to experience an old-fashioned Indiana Christmas. The T.C. Steele State Historic Site comes to life with 1900s holiday décor, music, crafts, treats, and visits from St. Nicholas and Belsnickel. It’s a great low-key afternoon, especially if you’re traveling with kids or art lovers.
    • Evergreen Wreath Workshop at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site – Hosted during Steele’s Country Christmas weekend, this workshop includes all materials, expert guidance, and admission to the historic site.
  • Need a fresh Christmas tree or wreath? Head over to the Foxfire Park Lot, where you’ll find beautiful greenery for sale (pictured above)—and don’t forget to snap a family photo with their adorable retro camper. It’s one of the best spots for a holiday-themed photo op!

Holiday Treats & Festive Dining

There’s no better time to indulge in some seasonal treats and festive dining than during the holidays! Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, sweet holiday snacks, or a special drink to warm you up, Brown County has plenty of options to get you in the holiday spirit.

A group of servers dressed in Victorian-era clothing stands in front of the Story Inn, ready to welcome guests to their annual candlelit dinner series.
  • Candlelit Victorian Dinners at the Story Inn – If you’re looking for a truly memorable dining experience, the Victorian Candlelight Dinners at the Story Inn are a must. Every Friday and Saturday evening in December before Christmas, you can enjoy a candlelit dinner where the staff dresses in authentic Victorian attire, and live Christmas music fills the room. It’s like stepping back in time! So make your reservation early…you won’t want to miss this unique holiday tradition.
  • Breakfast with Santa
    • Brunch with Santa at Hard Truth Hills – Enjoy a festive brunch, photos with Santa, and a beautiful woodland setting on Saturday, December 13 from 11am-1pm.
    • Breakfast with Santa at the Abe Martin Lodge – This family-friendly breakfast buffet is held inside Brown County State Park on Sunday, December 14 & 21 from 8-11am, so you can fuel up before a winter hike or just soak in the holiday atmosphere.
  • Holiday Sweets & Warm Drinks in Nashville – Nashville is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth this time of year! With so many locally owned spots to choose from, you’ll find everything from handmade candies and gourmet chocolates to freshly baked pies and holiday cookies. Here are a few of my favorites:
    • Olde Bartley House Coffee & Donuts – Their seasonal Volant pastries are incredible, and they always have a holiday drink or two on the menu.
    • Bird’s Nest Cafe – One of my favorite restaurants in town and their menu changes seasonally, so there’s sure to be something to warm you up during the holiday season.
    • Nashville Fudge Kitchen or the Heritage Candy Store – In-house made candies, plus classic and seasonal flavors of fudge are great ways to indulge during the holiday season
    • Chocolate Moose – We love this place year-round and I always get gift cards from here as a stocking stuffer for my kids.

Shop Small

One of the best things about visiting Nashville, Indiana during the holiday season is the chance to shop at all the unique, locally-owned businesses. There’s nothing quite like finding that perfect, one-of-a-kind gift while supporting small businesses—plus, it’s a great way to experience the local charm that Brown County is known for.

The Wood Fairy Apothecary shop in Nashville, Indiana is decked out with greenery and ready to welcome holiday shoppers.

There are a few different ways to shop small in Nashville this holiday season:

Shops in Nashville, Indiana

Downtown Nashville, Indiana is full of boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops that make holiday shopping feel extra special. Whether you’re searching for handmade jewelry, artisan goods, or gourmet foods, there’s a little something for everyone here. Some of my favorite spots to hit up each year include:

It’s easy to spend an entire afternoon wandering through the shops in town, and trust me, you’ll want to. Many of the stores are decorated for the holidays, adding that extra festive touch.

Shoppers head towards the tents and festive atmosphere of the Brown County Christkindl Market.

Holiday Markets & Craft Fairs

If you’re a fan of finding truly unique, handcrafted items, Brown County’s holiday markets are where you’ll want to be. They’re filled with talented local artisans showcasing everything from handmade ornaments to pottery, jewelry, and more.

  • The Seasons Holiday Art and Craft Show – This annual craft show at the Season’s Lodge is happening on Friday, November 28, 2025, from 10am to 5pm, and Saturday, November 29, 2024, from 10am to 4pm. It’s the perfect spot to pick up unique gifts while supporting local artists, and of course, you’ll want to grab some of their famous fried biscuits with apple butter while you’re there!
  • Brown County Christkindl Market – Don’t miss this European-style Christmas Market in the heart of Nashville on Saturday, December 6 from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday, December 7 from 10am to 4pm. This outdoor market is filled with artisan vendors, festive food, live Christmas music, and more. It’s a great way to experience the holiday spirit while shopping small, and you’ll also have a chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus! It’s one of the biggest Nashville Indiana Christmas events of the year and pairs perfectly with the Light Parade on Saturday night.

Enjoy a Live (Holiday-themed) Performance

No Nashville Indiana holiday season is complete without catching at least one live show. From classic Christmas plays to bluegrass concerts and tribute bands, Brown County brings a lot of festive energy to the stage in December.

Performers on stage of the 2023 Amplify Nashville show at the Brown County Music Center.

All this is in addition to the normal live music acts that happen regularly at many local restaurants—including the Brown County Inn, the Country Heritage Winery, and many more events happening during the holidays in Brown County.

With all these performances, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the arts while soaking up the holiday spirit in Brown County.

Celebrate the New Year in Brown County

If you’re extending your trip through the end of the month, here are two festive ways to ring in 2026:

Other Things to Do in Nashville & Brown County, IN in December

While this post focuses on many of the holiday activities happening in Nashville and around Brown County during December, there’s plenty more to explore! And if you’re looking for even more ideas, many of the suggestions from my “Things to Do in November” post still apply as we move into winter.

Get Outside – Even in the Cold!

Just because it’s December doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. In fact, winter is one of my favorite times to hike around here—the bare trees open up views you can’t get any other time of year.

Hiking

Bundle up and hit the trails—one of my personal favorites for winter is Trail 10 at Brown County State Park. It’s an easy-to-access hike with gorgeous winter views of the forest. Trevlac Bluffs Nature Preserve is another fantastic spot where the bare trees reveal stunning overlooks you won’t want to miss. If you’re up for a winter adventure, Browning Mountain (aka “Indiana’s Stonehenge”) is a more remote but equally rewarding hike.

All of these trails have views that are best appreciated with the leaves off the trees, so definitely check them out this winter!

View from the top of Browning Mountain on a late December day.

Biking

Yes, even in December! If the trails are dry, mountain biking in Brown County State Park is still fair game—just dress for the weather and check conditions. Road cyclists and gravel riders will love the open views and low-traffic routes this time of year.

Warm Up with Hot Drinks & Cozy Spots

After a day of exploring outside, warm up with a festive drink from one of Nashville’s local coffee shops or wineries! Whether you’re craving hot chocolate, a seasonal latte, or a glass of red wine, there’s something cozy waiting for you in Brown County.

And don’t forget to stop by one of my favorite local restaurants and bakeries for sweet treats, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, or curl up by the fireplace in a cozy spot like Naughty Dog Books.

Festive private, heated holiday dining 'huts' at Cooper's Alley in Nashville, Indiana.

And More…

Brown County is truly magical in December, with its mix of outdoor adventures and cozy spots to relax. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or just enjoying the holiday lights, there’s something special about this time of year. Happy exploring!

Wrapping Up the Holiday Season in Brown County (pun intended 🎁)

With so many ways to celebrate Christmas in Nashville, Indiana, it’s easy to see why this little town holds a special place in the hearts of so many—including mine. From twinkling lights and Santa sightings to unique holiday performances and local treats, there’s no shortage of festive fun to be had.

Whether you’re planning a full weekend getaway or just popping in for a day, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your holiday visit to Brown County. There’s truly something for everyone, whether you’re cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa, braving the chill for a scenic winter hike, or crossing gift purchases off your list in the cutest small-town shops around.

We’ve been lucky enough to spend many holiday seasons here, and I can honestly say that no two years are quite the same—which is why I love sharing my personal tips with you. If there’s anything I missed or if you have questions, feel free to message me at any time. I’d love to help you make your trip as magical as possible.

Happy holidays, and here’s to making some unforgettable memories this season!

Still planning your December trip? Be sure to check out my full Brown County December Event Calendar to see what’s happening each day. And if you’re looking for where to stay, warm up, or hike while you’re here, I’ve got you covered on that, too.

Hi there! I'm Kara and I live in Nashville, Indiana with my husband and our two daughters. I love sharing my local favorites and travel tips on my blog Tanglewood Hideaway and hosting guests at our rental, the Brown County Barn Burner.

When I'm not doing that, then I spend my time hiking, gardening (aka pulling weeds and trying to deter the deer), experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, starting DIY projects that might only ever get 90% finished, and planning our next travel adventure.