Welcome to Gary

- December provides many opportunities for children to learn about all different types of holiday traditions. We are happy to engage our youngest learners in celebratory activates introducing diverse American & worldwide cultures that may be different from their own. Join Boo crew daily at 1:30 for Winter Celebrations. And in Children’s Cooking for some new tasty creations! We want to make sure child feels included, accepted and celebrated this holiday season. December 3 -16.

Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center

Lake County Parks 219.769.7275 info@lakecountyparks.com

- Come out every weekend from November 23rd to December 23rd between 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM for photos with Santa taken in the infamous Santa's Mountain, complete with a slide!

For further information about Santa Photo's or other events, click for details

Indiana Welcome Center

Indiana Welcome Center 800.ALL.LAKE

- The most wonderful time of year deserves the most wonderful type of event. ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo has been Chicago’s holiday tradition for 24 years. The one of a kind experience offers fun, free, family oriented holiday celebrations that feature luminous displays and incredible seasonal activities… all under the glow of 2.5 million lights!

4:30-9 p.m.
November 2018: 23, 24, 25 and 30
December 2018: 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 31*
*(early closure of 8 PM on the 31st)
January 2019: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

Festive Activities
- Photos with Santa (through December 23 before he heads back to the North Pole)
- Incredible 3D displays
- Warm spiced wine, frosty beers and festive specials
- Delicious holiday snacks
- Holiday gift shopping
- Live ice-sculpture carving (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays and Family Night Mondays)
- Strolling carolers (Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Family Night Mondays)
- Ticketed Experiences: Carousel, train, ferris wheel, Light Maze presented by Invesco QQQ, Sea Explorer 5D featuring a polar Journey ticketed experiences
- Musical light shows at the Winter Wonderlawn
- Candy Cane Lane and more than 100 giant themed displays
- 3D holiday specs while supplies last

Special Events
Members Only Night at ZooLights
Friday, November 16, 4:30 - 9 p.m.
Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests get exclusive access to a preview of ZooLights before it opens to the public!
(Please note: Only Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests may enter the zoo this evening. No advance registration is required.)
To learn more and become a member, click for details

ZooLights Opening Night!
Friday, November 23
You are cordially invited to help us flip the switch! At 4:25 p.m., join in on the official lighting ceremony at the stairs to Wild Things! gift shop to kick off the festivities.

Holiday Market (TICKETED)
Tuesday, November 27, 6:30 - 10 p.m.
Don't miss the wildest magical holiday shopping fair in the city! The zoo's third annual Holiday Market will feature local artisan, crafters, and makers throughout the zoo grounds against the backdrop of 2.5 million lights!
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

Adults Night Out: Holidaze!
Thursday, November 29, 6:30 - 10 p.m.
This winter version of the zoo's most popular event series gives adults exclusive access to stroll zoo grounds afterhours with hot chocolate, mulled wine, or beer in hand. Come for the 2.5 million holiday lights but stay for the Zoo Trivia! Dazzling displays, holiday activities, music, cash bars, and educational entertainment. Sound fabulous? Join us!
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 18 and older
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

BrewLights Presented by Lakeshore Beverage
Thursday, December 6, 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Support Chicago's free zoo with a craft brew at the fifth annual BrewLights hosted by the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo. Guests will forage for local craft, seasonal and import beers amidst the dazzle of ZooLights. All proceeds go toward the Auxiliary Board's commitment to support Lincoln Park Zoo's The Pride of Chicago campaign.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 21 and older

The Chris White Trio Tribute to 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'
Sunday, December 9, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Snap your fingers to the jazzy take on one of the season's classic soundtracks. Meet your favorite cartoon dog, enjoy a backdrop of 2.5 million lights and experience a new holiday tradition.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event that takes place at Café Brauer)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

Breakfast with Santa
Sunday, December 16, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Enjoy quality family time with Kris Kringle with a delicious seasonal breakfast and complimentary cookie decorating for kids. Buy tickets today for one of four limited capacity seatings at landmark Café Brauer, located next to the zoo's Nature Boardwalk.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event that takes place at Café Brauer)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets: click for details

Zoo Year's Eve
Monday, December 31, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.
New Year, NEW EVENT: Zoo Year's Eve is an adults-only New Year's Eve celebration! Ring in the New Year with DJ entertainment, games and giveaways in the glow of ZooLights! Food and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 21 and older
Ticketing information coming soon!

Monday Family Nights
Monday, December 10, 17, and 31*, 2018

Kids eat FREE at Park Place Café (one free limited-menu kids’ meal per paid adult entrée/combo), all guests enjoy unlimited free rides on Lionel Train Adventure and AT&T Endangered Species Carousel as well as Ice Carvers and strolling carolers! Plus, Zoo Members at all levels get free parking. (Individual and Household members, pick up your parking vouchers at Searle Visitor Center during your visit.)

*(early closure of 8 PM on the 31st)

Experiences
Tickets can be purchased on site for $3 each, a package of 10 for $27, or a package of 20 for $51.

AT&T Endangered Species Carousel
The AT&T Endangered Species Carousel features 48 artisan-crafted wooden animals and two chariots.
1 ticket required per person to ride

Century Wheel
This 65-foot ferris wheel will lift you to new sights as your soar above the holiday magic and get the best view in the city.
2 tickets required per person to ride

Light Maze Presented by Invesco QQQ
This attraction features 30,000 twinkling lights distracting you from making your way through the twists and turns.
1 ticket required per person

Lionel Train Adventure
The trackless train crosses over a quaint country bridge and wends its way past forest and canyon scenery before returning to a red brick station.
1 ticket required per person to ride

Sea Explorer 5D
Take a virtual submarine ride that is great for the whole family. With this 4-D, limited-time attraction. You will cruise through ocean waters and perhaps pop up near the shore-and maybe encounter some wildlife on the way! A hydraulic floor makes It feel like you're really traveling through the water as you dive deep and meet the residents of our wild waters.
2 tickets required per person to ride

Frequently Asked Questions

WHERE IS ZOOLIGHTS TAKING PLACE, WHAT IS ACCESSIBLE, AND WILL I SEE ANIMALS?
To can check out all the exhibits Lincoln Park Zoo has to offer, lpzoo.org/exhibits. This year, ticketed attractions for ZooLights will take place throughout main zoo grounds only. However for ZooLights the McCormick Bird House and Farm-in-the-Zoo will not be open.

To learn about what areas of Lincoln Park Zoo are accessible, click for details

We have nearly 200 species here at Lincoln Park Zoo. In general, animals tend to be most active around feeding – diurnal species are most active during the day while nocturnal animals are more active at night. Most of the animals at the zoo have access to either indoor and outdoor habitats or behind-the-scenes spaces. Choice is important for species and these animals may choose not to be visible to the public.

WHAT ARE THE AGE RESTRICTIONS FOR THE ZOOLIGHTS ATTRACTIONS?
All ages are welcome to attend ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo! For the safety of all guests, please note that specific paid attractions will have weight and height limitations.

WHERE CAN I PURCHASE TICKETS TO ZOOLIGHTS ATTRACTIONS?
Tickets for rides can be purchased at Lincoln Park Zoo each night of ZooLights starting on Friday, November 23 through Sunday, January 6 from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Ticket kiosks will be set up throughout main zoo grounds. Tickets must be purchased in person as they are not available online. ZooLights tickets are $3 for one ticket, $27 for 10 tickets and $51 for 20 tickets.

I AM A LINCOLN PARK ZOO MEMBER. HOW CAN I APPLY MY MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS TO ZOOLIGHTS?
Lincoln Park Zoo members will enjoy exclusive access to the new year-round Member Lounge, generously supported by the Women’s Board, located in the Searle Visitor Center. Warm up in this new space open until 9:00 p.m. each night of ZooLights.

Members Only Night at ZooLights
Friday, November 16, 4:30 – 9 p.m.
Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests get exclusive access to a preview of ZooLights before it opens to the public!
(Please note: Only Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests may enter the zoo this evening. No advance registration is required.)
Learn more

For specific events and select ticket types, Lincoln Park Zoo members will receive a discount on their ticket purchase. Make sure to check the event page for details regarding member discounts.

To apply your Lincoln Park Zoo Membership code, please enter in the first three digits of your membership number is the “apply discount” box on Eventbrite. You will need to enter in the code before you select the number of tickets / ticket types (if more than one option is available) in order for the code to be applied. Then select the number of tickets you wish to purchase and proceed to checkout.

CAN ZOOLIGHT ATTRACTION TICKETS BE TRADED, TRANSFERRED, OR REFUNDED AND WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS INCLEMENT WEATHER?
ZooLights is free to attend. Attractions at ZooLights are an additional costs. Your attraction tickets can be used at the Lionel Train Adventure, AT&T Endangered Species Carousel, Century Wheel, Light Maze Presented by Invesco QQQ and/or the Sea Explorer 5D. Tickets are not assigned to individual people, so feel free to distribute to your family and friends. Please keep in mind that there are no refunds for tickets purchased to ZooLights attractions.

ZooLights will be held rain, shine or snow. Please dress accordingly!

WHERE CAN I PARK TO ATTEND ZOOLIGHTS?
Guests who wish to drive can pay to park in the Lincoln Park Zoo lot on Cannon Drive. For additional information and pricing, please, click for details
Lincoln Park Zoo is also accessible by public transportation.

WILL THERE BE FOOD OR BEVERAGES FOR SALE AT THIS EVENT?
Yes. Food is available at the following locations at Lincoln Park Zoo during ZooLights hours: Park Place Café, Eadie Levy’s Landmark Café, Safari Café, Snack & Drink Quick Stops, and the Patio at Café Brauer. All cafes are able to accept cash or credit. While we will have several ATMs on-site, we encourage you to bring cash for the most efficient experience.

I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS, WHO CAN I REACH OUT TO?
If you have a question regarding this event, please email events@lpzoo.org.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo 312.742.2000

- Lights will be on from 11/22-1/1 between 5pm til 10 pm.

- You don't have to travel to Las Vegas for quality casinos. Visit one these locations in Northwest Indiana:

AMERISTAR CASINO
777 Ameristar Boulevard, East Chicago
219-378-3000
With 56,000 square feet of gaming space on four levels, more than 1,750 slots and video poker machines, 58 table games and a dedicated baccarat room, we offer amazing gaming variety. Plus, guests enjoy our 288-room luxury hotel, which boasts a variety of amenities, our five exceptionally appetizing restaurants and a gift shop that's a destination it its own right. Located just 25 miles from downtown Chicago and conveniently located only minutes away from major interstates 90 and 80/94, we're easy to reach. And our 1,974-space covered parking garage makes it easy to stay.
click for details


BLUE CHIP CASINO, HOTEL & SPA
777 Blue Chip Drive, Michigan City
219-879-7711
We offer 65,000 square feet of gaming on a single luxurious and spacious level, with 44 table games, eight live poker room tables and more than 1,700 slots. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round. Dine in our of our five restaurants on site, or enjoy live entertainment from local bands to A-list performers. Blue Chip also has a 10,000-square-foot spa, salon and fitness center and a hotel with 486 luxurious rooms and suites.
click for details


FOUR WINDS
11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo, Michigan
866-494-6371
Less than an hour's drive from Downtown Chicago, on the shores of Lake Michigan, Four Winds New Buffalo delivers an unparalleled experience of indulgence, exhilaration and endless winning possibilities.
Prepare to be swept up in the excitement as you experience our action-packed games, sizzling nightlife and one-of-a-kind entertainment. Lose yourself in our luxurious hotel, enjoy headliner entertainment, indulge in our sensational restaurants including southwest Michigan's only Hard Rock Cafe, and bask in the beautiful Lake Michigan setting while experiencing the region's most attentive service.
click for details


HORSESHOE CASINO HAMMOND
777 Casino Center Drive, Hammond
866-711-7463
Horseshoe Casino Hammond is open daily 24 hours. The casino's 108,200 square foot gaming space features 3,000 gaming machines and 189 table and poker games. The property has award-winning restaurants and entertainment at The Venue.
click for details


MAJESTIC STAR CASINO AND HOTEL
One Buffington Harbor Drive, Gary
888-225-8259
Enjoy 6 floors of gaming action at Majestic Star Casino! We’re bringing the ‘Win’ to the Windy City! Located just 35 minutes from Downtown Chicago, our casino features a huge selection of gaming options 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can also enjoy in a wide variety of dining options, including our award winning Steakhouse. With the latest slots and wide array of table games, Majestic Star has something for everybody! Plus enjoy all your favorite games on our new non-smoking level.
click for details

 

- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
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SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
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WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- The tour will feature trolley rides throughout the city to look at houses displaying their Christmas lights and decorations.

 

- *****Now taking reservations for HOLIDAY PARTIES!*****

Theo's has beautifully remodeled private rooms which can accommodate 20-125 guests!

Theo's banquet room is also perfect for showers, business meetings, baptisms, birthday parties & more!

Call today: 219-838-8000

Theo's Steaks & Seafood

Theo's Steaks & Seafood 219.838.8000

 

Indiana Ballet Theatre 219.755.4444

- Director Linda Fortunato has cast Roger Mueller as Kris Kringle, Stella Rose Hoyt as Susan, Courtney Jones as Doris and Christopher Kale Jones as Fred for Theatre at the Center’s Miracle On 34th Street: The Musical. Previews begin November 15 with Opening Night on November 18 and a continued run through December 23.

The original 1947 American Christmas comedy-drama film, Miracle on 34th Street, was written and directed by George Seaton and based on a story by Valentine Davies. Maureen O’Hara, John Payne, a young Natalie Wood and Edmund Gwenn as Santa starred in the popular film, which received three Academy Awards and has remained a family favorite at for decades.

Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, features book, music and lyrics all by Meredith Willson of The Music Man fame and was adapted from the 1947 movie. It opened on Broadway in 1963 with the show’s title changing during the decades as both Here’s Love and later, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, with the latter a reference to the popular holiday song featured in the musical.

Roger Mueller returns to TATC where he was last seen in Here’s Love in 2000. Other credits include a Jeff Award for the role of John Adams in 1776 at the Marriott Theatre, Brigadoon at Goodman Theatre, All My Sons at Timeline Theatre and Amadeus at Shakespeare Theatre.

Stella Rose Hoyt has performed throughout Chicagoland since age 4. She was last seen at TATC playing Molly in the 2016 holiday run of Annie Warbucks. She recently played Small Alison in the Chicago premier of Fun Home at Victory Gardens, Mary Claire in The Christmas Schooner at Mercury Theatre as well as both Young Cosette in Les Miserable and Jane in Mary Poppins at Oak Lawn Theatre.
Courtney Jones, who is making her debut at TATC, recently played the role of Dyanne in Million Dollar Quartet at Timberlake Playhouse. Other credits include Ragtime and Titanic at Griffin Theatre and Ordinary Days at BoHo. Jones also worked regionally with Chicago Shakespeare.

Christopher Kale Jones is making his acting debut at TATC after his recent one-man tribute Darin: Bobby’s Biggest Hits dazzled TATC audiences last summer. He is best known for playing Frankie Valli in the first National Broadway Tour of Jersey Boys. A former member of the popular singing group Under the Streetlamp, his other theater credits include The Battle of Little Jo at Steppenwolf, A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Chicago Shakespeare, and The King and I at Marriott Theatre.

Additional cast members include Michael Kingston as Mr. Macy, Michael Potsic as District Attorney, Rick Rapp as the Judge, Sam Shankman as Sawyer, Amir Henderson as Harry, Liliana Rene as Hendrika, Ethan Solis as Tommy as well as Chris Carter, Veronica Garza, Matthew Huston, Rachel Klippel, Ashley Lanyon, Haley Jane Schafer, Hope Elizabeth Schafer and Trequon Tate.

Linda Fortunato, director and choreographer of Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, is in her third season as TATC Artistic Director where her recent credits include directing the hits Ghost The Musical and Steel Magnolias as well as Cabaret and Big River.

Fortunato has been nominated for five Joseph Jefferson Awards for her work as choreographer and director and received both Equity and Non-Equity Jeff Awards for Outstanding Choreography in 2013-14 for TATC’s first Jeff Award for choreography of 42nd Street.

‘Miracle on 34th Street’ is certainly familiar from the classic 1947 film and its more modern remakes,” said Fortunato, who choreographed TATC’s “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” in 2010 as well as “Here’s Love” in 2000, both the previous titles for the stage telling of this beloved story.

“The story of the real Kris Kringle hired as Macy’s Santa Claus still touches hearts and reminds us of the power of the imagination. I am excited to share this classic story in musical form with audiences of all ages. From the littlest believers to those who may have lost sight of the magic of Christmas, this musical brightens the holiday season for all.”

The creative team for Miracle on 34th Street includes Scenic Designers Jacqueline and Richard Penrod, Lighting Designer G. Max Maxin IV, Sound Designer Barry Funderburg, Costume Designer Brenda Winstead, Wig Designer Kevin Barthel and Prop Designer Devon Green. Stage Manager is Jessica Banaszak. William Underwood is Music Director. Fortunato is teamed with Richard Friedman, General Manager, and Ann Davis, Head of Production.

Founded in 1991, the 410 seat TATC is a year-round professional theater at its home: The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana. TATC is an accessible venue with plenty of free parking and is located off I80/94, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago.

Performances are 2 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 3 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Saturdays; and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays, with select Thursday and Sunday night performances. Individual ticket prices range from $42- $46. To purchase individual tickets, call the Box Office at 219-836-3255 or Tickets.com at 800-511-1532. Group discounts are available for groups of 11 or more. Student tickets are $20 and gift certificates are also available.

For more information on Theatre at the Center, visit click for details.

Theatre at the Center

Theatre at the Center, Box Office 219.836.3255

- BURNS HARBOR

Bozak Family Burns Harbor Christmas Lights
259 Lake Park Rd
430 pm to 1030 pm on weekdays and til 11pm on weekends.
click for details

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CEDAR LAKE

12552 Alexander
click for details

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CHESTERTON

Muddy Acres
463 E Greening Rd
click for details

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CROWN POINT

413 E Greenwood Ave
5 to 10 Sunday thru Thursday. 5 to Midnight Friday and Saturday.
click for details

Christmas on 124th Ave
7731 E. 124th Ave
Hours are Sunday thru Thursday 6pm to 8pm (2 Shows) and Friday & Saturday 6pm to 10pm (4 Shows).
click for details

Leluga's Lights on Sunrise
3535 Sunrise Dr.
Tune to 103.1 FM to listen to the lights.
click for details

1362 S Indiana Ave.
5-11pm.
click for details

4180 Thornhill Dr.
Sunday-Thursday 4:30 pm to 10:30pm
Fridays and Saturdays 4:30 pm to 11pm
click for details

South Court Street
click for details

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DYER

The Magical Light Show
1315 Capri Lane
Begins 11/23- 1/2 from 5:30- 10:30 pm (tune to 87.9 on your radio to listen to the music as you watch the light show).
click for details

1020 Richmond Ct.
5pm to 1030pm.
click for details

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GRIFFITH

502 S Rensselaer Griffith
4:30pm-10pm.
click for details

1003 N Rensselaer Ave.
Our lights and decor will be on from 6pm-10pm weather permitting.
click for details

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HAMMOND

PeteyVille
3033 Crane Place
We are open from 5:00-10:00 pm everyday, weather permitting, from Thanksgiving Day to New Year's Eve.
click for details
Breaking News on 11-26-18...Peteyville will not be up for the rest of the week. Everything is frozen to the ground! Once the weather warms up and everything thaws out, we will be able to see how much damage we sustained with the overnight very high winds. We should be ready by Friday to light up and we will keep you posted. Thanks for your patience and understanding.

Christmas on the Beech
7551 Beech Ave
5:00pm - 10:00pm
click for details

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HEBRON

County Line Christmas Lights
603 S. 800 W.
4:30 pm - 10 pm every day.
click for details

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HIGHLAND

3433 41PL HIGHLAND
3-10:30pm, starting December 1.
click for details

9121 Idelwood Dr.
Lights will be on from 11/22-1/1 between 5pm til 10 pm.
click for details

Lana’s Land Of Christmas
3105 Highway Ave
Hours- 5-11 and as it gets closer to Christmas my display stays on longer!
click for details

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HOBART

Peters Family Christmas Show
3635 E 33rd Ave.
Shows are at 6,7,8,9 & 10pm and are 30mins, house lights are timed to music.
click for details

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MERRILLVILLE

Werner Christmas Wonderland
Thanksgiving til New Years 5pm-12am everyday
click for details

2901 W. 54th Place
4 pm to midnight.
click for details

201 E 71st Ave
Display is Thanksgiving night thru Dec 31. lights should be on from aprox 5pm til aprox 10pm.
click for details

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MUNSTER

The Griswold’s on Greenwood
8147 Greenwood Ave, Munster
click for details

1918 Wren Dr Munster
4:30pm - 9:30pm.
click for details

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PORTAGE

2063 Karen Ct.
click for details

6440 Gaywood Ave
5pm-10pm.
click for details

6846 Portage Ave.
We are live from about 5p-10ish everyday through New Years Eve.
click for details

2240 McCool Road
click for details

Phoenix Lights 6062 Mulberry Ave
click for details

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RENSSELAER

5174 N US 231
5p-10p everyday.
click for details

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SCHERERVILLE

4 W. Elizabeth Drive
Sun thru Thurs 6pm until 11pm. Fri & Sat 6pm until 12am.
click for details

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VALPARAISO

Herlitz Christmas Lights
202 W 450 S
4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. every night til at least January 1st, 2019.
click for details

Thomas' Winter Wonderland
609 Partridge Path
Lights go on from about 4-10PM, starting on November 22.
click for details

658 Nome Rd.
Everyday at dusk til around 10pm.
click for details

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WHEATFIELD

First Church Christmas Lights
December 1- January 5
click for details

Kniman Christmas Lights
9099 N 500 W
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
click for details


**It's important to check the individual Facebook or website pages (when available) to see if they have announced any light display problems due to weather.

 

- HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA:

Breakfast with Santa & Holiday Craft Fair- CROWN POINT
December 1
click for details

Breakfast with Santa- GRIFFITH
December 1
click for details

Breakfast With Santa- SCHERERVILLE
December 1
click for details

Breakfast with Santa & Craft Boutique- LOWELL
December 1
click for details

12th annual Breakfast with Santa at Tyler's Tender Railroad Restaurant- SCHERERVILLE
December 2nd, 8th, 16th, and 22nd
click for details

Breakfast With Santa at HCHS- CEDAR LAKE
December 7
click for details

Breakfast with Santa- ST. JOHN
December 8
click for details

Brookfield Zoo’s Breakfast with Santa- BROOKFIELD
December 8, 9, 15, 16
click for details

Breakfast with Santa at Legion Post 180 in Highland- HIGHLAND
December 9
click for details

Brunch with Santa- CEDAR LAKE
December 15
click for details

❄️☃❄️☃❄️☃❄️☃❄️☃

SANTA PARADES:

Crown Point Santa Parade- CROWN POINT
November 24
click for details

Hammond Holiday Parade- HAMMOND
December 1
click for details

🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄

LIGHTS FESTIVALS & OTHER HOLIDAY EVENTS:

IBT Sugarplum Party- CROWN POINT
November 17
click for details

Winter Lights Night 2018- VALPARAISO
November 17
click for details

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: THE MUSICAL- MUNSTER
Begins November 21
click for details

ZooLights Presented By ComEd and Invesco QQQ- CHICAGO
Begins November 23
click for details

Santa saves Schererville- SCHERERVILLE
November 23
click for details

Chesterton Hometown Holiday Celebration- CHESTERTON
November 24
click for details

Visit Santa in the Courthouse- CROWN POINT
Begins November 24
click for details

Elf Express- LAKE STATION
November 24
click for details

Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa's Workshop- EAST CHICAGO
November 30
click for details

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo- BROOKFIELD
Starts December 1
click for details

Weekends with Santa at Gabis Arboretum - VALPARAISO
December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16
click for details

A Major Event at Indiana Welcome Center- HAMMOND
December 1
click for details

Lowell's Holiday Magic Events- LOWELL
December 1
click for details

Touch a Truck for Toys for Tots- VALPARAISO
December 1
click for details

Christmas Open House & Bazaar- LYNWOOD
December 2
click for details

Rock Along With Santa- MUNSTER
December 5
click for details

Visit with Santa at the Festival of Lights- ST. JOHN
December 5
click for details

Holiday for Heroes- HAMMOND
December 6
click for details

B&N Polar Express- VALPARAISO
December 7
click for details

The Elf Express First Stop: Holiday Hullaballoo (with Santa too!)- LAKE STATION
December 7
click for details

Griffith Kringle Walk- GRIFFITH
December 8
click for details

Holiday Happenings Event at the Eddy Street Commons- SOUTH BEND
December 8
click for details

Sensory Sensitive SANTA-Day- LAKE STATION
December 15
click for details

Movie In The Dome - Polar Express- CROWN POINT
December 21
click for details

Cookie with Mrs. Claus- LAKE STATION
December 22
click for details

 

- Family tradition has returned November 10 - December 24 at Southlake Mall!

Share your wish list, take photos with Santa and capture memories for years to come at Santa’s House located at Sears Court.

Every child who visits Santa gets a *holiday wristband". (* While supplies last)

Santa's Schedule:
Monday-Saturday, 10 am– 9 pm; Sundays, 11 am – 6 pm
*Santa "feeds the reindeer breaks" will occur at various times throughout the day.

Special Santa Hours:
Thursday, November 22 No Santa
Sunday, December 23, 10 am- 9pm Monday December 24, 9am-6pm

**No personal photos are permitted at Santa’s House, however, visits are happily welcomed.

Southlake Mall

Southlake Mall 219.738.2260

- Cabela's
7700 Cabela Dr, Hammond, IN
(219) 845-9040

Bass Pro
6425 Daniel Burnham Dr, Portage, IN
(219) 787-6800

 

- CHESTERTON

Chesterton Hometown Holiday Celebration
November 24
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

CROWNPOINT

Visit Santa in the Courthouse
Every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

DYER

Pet Santa Pictures
December 15
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

HAMMOND

Hessville Holiday
November 30
click for details

Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro & Cabela's! (Cabela's is in Hammond, Bass Pro is located in Portage)
Now-December 24
click for details

Photos With Santa Weekends
Weekends November 23rd to December 23rd
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

HIGHLAND

Santa is coming to Coffee Cabin! (MEIJER HIGHLAND LOCATION ONLY)
December 8 & 23
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

HOBART

A Very Brickie Christmas Market
November 18
click for details

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LOWELL

Photos with Santa
December 1
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

LYNWOOD

Christmas Open House & Bazaar- LYNWOOD
December 2
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

MERRILLVILLE

Santa's Here at Southlake Mall!
Now-Until December 24
click for details

Soothing Santa Photos at Southlake Mall
December 2 & 9
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

MUNSTER

Pictures with Santa at Calumet Harley
December 8
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

SOUTH BEND

Holiday Happenings Event at the Eddy Street Commons- SOUTH BEND
December 8
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

ST. JOHN

Pet Pictures with Santa at Hungry Hound
December 9
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

VALPARAISO

Weekends with Santa at Gabis Arboretum
December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16
click for details

 

- Director Linda Fortunato has cast Roger Mueller as Kris Kringle, Stella Rose Hoyt as Susan, Courtney Jones as Doris and Christopher Kale Jones as Fred for Theatre at the Center’s Miracle On 34th Street: The Musical. Previews begin November 15 with Opening Night on November 18 and a continued run through December 23.

The original 1947 American Christmas comedy-drama film, Miracle on 34th Street, was written and directed by George Seaton and based on a story by Valentine Davies. Maureen O’Hara, John Payne, a young Natalie Wood and Edmund Gwenn as Santa starred in the popular film, which received three Academy Awards and has remained a family favorite at for decades.

Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, features book, music and lyrics all by Meredith Willson of The Music Man fame and was adapted from the 1947 movie. It opened on Broadway in 1963 with the show’s title changing during the decades as both Here’s Love and later, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, with the latter a reference to the popular holiday song featured in the musical.

Roger Mueller returns to TATC where he was last seen in Here’s Love in 2000. Other credits include a Jeff Award for the role of John Adams in 1776 at the Marriott Theatre, Brigadoon at Goodman Theatre, All My Sons at Timeline Theatre and Amadeus at Shakespeare Theatre.

Stella Rose Hoyt has performed throughout Chicagoland since age 4. She was last seen at TATC playing Molly in the 2016 holiday run of Annie Warbucks. She recently played Small Alison in the Chicago premier of Fun Home at Victory Gardens, Mary Claire in The Christmas Schooner at Mercury Theatre as well as both Young Cosette in Les Miserable and Jane in Mary Poppins at Oak Lawn Theatre.
Courtney Jones, who is making her debut at TATC, recently played the role of Dyanne in Million Dollar Quartet at Timberlake Playhouse. Other credits include Ragtime and Titanic at Griffin Theatre and Ordinary Days at BoHo. Jones also worked regionally with Chicago Shakespeare.

Christopher Kale Jones is making his acting debut at TATC after his recent one-man tribute Darin: Bobby’s Biggest Hits dazzled TATC audiences last summer. He is best known for playing Frankie Valli in the first National Broadway Tour of Jersey Boys. A former member of the popular singing group Under the Streetlamp, his other theater credits include The Battle of Little Jo at Steppenwolf, A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Chicago Shakespeare, and The King and I at Marriott Theatre.

Additional cast members include Michael Kingston as Mr. Macy, Michael Potsic as District Attorney, Rick Rapp as the Judge, Sam Shankman as Sawyer, Amir Henderson as Harry, Liliana Rene as Hendrika, Ethan Solis as Tommy as well as Chris Carter, Veronica Garza, Matthew Huston, Rachel Klippel, Ashley Lanyon, Haley Jane Schafer, Hope Elizabeth Schafer and Trequon Tate.

Linda Fortunato, director and choreographer of Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, is in her third season as TATC Artistic Director where her recent credits include directing the hits Ghost The Musical and Steel Magnolias as well as Cabaret and Big River.

Fortunato has been nominated for five Joseph Jefferson Awards for her work as choreographer and director and received both Equity and Non-Equity Jeff Awards for Outstanding Choreography in 2013-14 for TATC’s first Jeff Award for choreography of 42nd Street.

‘Miracle on 34th Street’ is certainly familiar from the classic 1947 film and its more modern remakes,” said Fortunato, who choreographed TATC’s “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” in 2010 as well as “Here’s Love” in 2000, both the previous titles for the stage telling of this beloved story.

“The story of the real Kris Kringle hired as Macy’s Santa Claus still touches hearts and reminds us of the power of the imagination. I am excited to share this classic story in musical form with audiences of all ages. From the littlest believers to those who may have lost sight of the magic of Christmas, this musical brightens the holiday season for all.”

The creative team for Miracle on 34th Street includes Scenic Designers Jacqueline and Richard Penrod, Lighting Designer G. Max Maxin IV, Sound Designer Barry Funderburg, Costume Designer Brenda Winstead, Wig Designer Kevin Barthel and Prop Designer Devon Green. Stage Manager is Jessica Banaszak. William Underwood is Music Director. Fortunato is teamed with Richard Friedman, General Manager, and Ann Davis, Head of Production.

Founded in 1991, the 410 seat TATC is a year-round professional theater at its home: The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana. TATC is an accessible venue with plenty of free parking and is located off I80/94, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago.

Performances are 2 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 3 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Saturdays; and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays, with select Thursday and Sunday night performances. Individual ticket prices range from $42- $46. To purchase individual tickets, call the Box Office at 219-836-3255 or Tickets.com at 800-511-1532. Group discounts are available for groups of 11 or more. Student tickets are $20 and gift certificates are also available.

For more information on Theatre at the Center, visit click for details.

Theatre at the Center

Theatre at the Center, Box Office 219.836.3255

- Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out our list of things to do in Northwest Indiana December 14-December 16.

CEDAR LAKE

Brunch With Santa- December 15
click for details

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HAMMOND

Winter WonderLAB: Red & Green Scene- December 14
click for details

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HOBART

Christmas at the Mill- December 15
click for details

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MUNSTER

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: THE MUSICAL- December 14-16
click for details

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PORTAGE

Holiday Boutique- December 15
click for details

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SCHERERVILLE

Schererville Parks Crafts at the Crossroads- December 15
click for details

12th annual Breakfast with Santa at Tyler's Tender Railroad Restaurant-
December 16
click for details

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ST. JOHN

LEGO & DUPLO at St. John Library- December 15
click for details

Teen Holiday Movie at St. John Library- December 15
click for details

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VALPARAISO

Holiday Pops- December 14
click for details

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Fun Things To Do Around NWI All Year Long!
click for details

 

- Horseshoe Casino has been voted as one of the Best Places to Work in Indiana since 2011, making our team legendary! Horseshoe Casino offers the best careers in the casino and hospitality industry. As part of Caesars Entertainment, you just can’t beat our winning combination.

Currently hiring for the following positions:
• Banquet Server (On Call)
• Beverage Server (Part-time)
• Cleaning Services Attendant (Full-time)
• Banquet Lead Cook (Full-time)
• Buffet Host (Part-time)
• EDR Cook (Full-time)
• Main Production Cook (Full-time)
• Noodle Bar Cook (Full-time)
• Pastry Cook (Full-time)
• Steakhouse Cook (Full-time)
• The Eatery Cook (Full-time)
• Count Room Representative (Full-time)
• Poker Dealer (Part-time/On Call)
• Poker Dual Rate Supervisor (Full-time)
• Security Ambassador (Full-time)
• SDS Administrator (Full-time)
• Slot Technician (Full-time)
• Table Games Dealer (Full-time/Part-time/On Call)
• Table Games Dual Rate Supervisor (Full-time)

To view job openings and apply:
CAESARSJOBS.COM, click for details
*Location: Hammond

Horseshoe Casino Hammond

Melissa Jones, Recruitment Specialist morr@caesars.com

- CROWN POINT

Family Friendly NYE Ice Skating Party
click for details

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DYER

Ring in the New Year Gym Camp
click for details

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HIGHLAND

Feature Film: When Harry Met Sally
click for details

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LAKE STATION

New Year's Eve Bellabaration 2018: A Glitterific Gala
click for details

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LOWELL

New Year's Eve at Signature Banquets
click for details

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OTHER NEW YEAR'S EVE EVENTS NEAR NORTHWEST INDIANA:

Zoo Year’s Eve at Brookfield Zoo
click for details

 

- Whether you are an individual or have a soccer team during the winter you should register for the Youth and Adult Soccer Leagues at the Sparta Dome. Registration for Session 1 ends on 10/28/18 and is posted on our website. Please check out more information on our leagues at click for details If you have questions please feel free to contact the General Manager, James Hinson, at j.hinson@spartadome.com. Times for Youth are from 8am -6pm Saturdays starting November 10. Times for Adult are from Sundays 7:30-10pm and Wednesdays 9-11pm starting on November 4 and 7.

Sparta Dome

James Hinson 219.224.3663 j.hinson@spartadome.com

- COME OUT AND VISIT OUR VERY FIRST CHRISTMAS MARKET! WE WILL HAVE OUR REGULAR VENDORS AND MORE! THIS MARKET WILL BE CHRISTMAS THEMED. SOMETHING SURELY FOR EVERYONE! GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO FINISH UP YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING! PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS AND SHARE THIS EVENT!

Beecher Farmer's Market

- Bundle up and celebrate the holiday with a walk at Deep River County Park December 15 and 16 from 10-4. Both the gazebo and the Wood’s Historic Mill will be decorated for the season to be the perfect back drop for your holiday greeting card. While you’re out, be sure to stop by the visitor center and gift shop to warm up with some hot cocoa, and get a little bit of holiday shopping done. Children can make a homemade ornament to take home or add to the mill’s Christmas tree.

Deep River County Park

Lake County Parks 219.769.7275 info@lakecountyparks.com

- Cozy nooks, low lights and soft sounds, as guided and approved by the pediatric therapists of Jacob’s Ladder, add to the already welcoming Universal Design of Bellaboo’s. Come climb aboard Bellaboo’s Santa Express for plenty of Train-themed PLAY and an extra squishy Children’s Cooking Class. Santa will be visiting from 12:00-3:00 for professional portraits, but we’ll be celebrating and sensory-sensitive all December 15th from 10-4.

Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center

Lake County Parks 219.769.7275 info@lakecountyparks.com

- December provides many opportunities for children to learn about all different types of holiday traditions. We are happy to engage our youngest learners in celebratory activates introducing diverse American & worldwide cultures that may be different from their own. Join Boo crew daily at 1:30 for Winter Celebrations. And in Children’s Cooking for some new tasty creations! We want to make sure child feels included, accepted and celebrated this holiday season. December 3 -16.

Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center

Lake County Parks 219.769.7275 info@lakecountyparks.com

- Join us for our annual brunch with Santa!
Adults: 10.99
Children 4-10: 7.99
Children 3 and under: free

We will have a 10:00 am-11:30 am seating and a 12:00 pm-1:30pm seating. Reservations are required. Call 219-401-8188 to book!

Every child will receive a special gift from Santa!

Menu to come..

Aurelio's Pizza Cedar Lake

Aurelio's Pizza Cedar Lake 219.401.8188

- First Presbyterian Church of Portage, 6225 Lute Road is having their annual Holiday Bake Sale on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018 from 10 am-2 pm. Our bakers our busy getting your holiday favorites ready. Available will be nut rolls, pumpkin rolls, assorted cookies, and candy. Mark your calendars and plan to be there. Further information at 219-762-4914.

First Presbyterian Church of Portage

Dennise Furnish 219.759.1548 stevedee76@hotmail.com

- All children and their families are invited to build with the library's
LEGO® and DUPLO® blocks. Design something nifty for our display
case! Please Register.

St. John Public Library

Youth Services 219.365.5379

- Come out every weekend from November 23rd to December 23rd between 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM for photos with Santa taken in the infamous Santa's Mountain, complete with a slide!

For further information about Santa Photo's or other events, click for details

Indiana Welcome Center

Indiana Welcome Center 800.ALL.LAKE

- Stop by First CRC (909 E. Greenwood Ave) between 11 a.m. - 12 noon and warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and pick up a warm winter coat if you need one. Coats for men, women, and children will be offered. Quantities are limited. We are on the corner of 9 Mile & Greenwood Avenue.

Hope to see you Saturday!

FREE COATS!
HOT CHOCOLATE!

First CRC

Jenn Prim 2196633643x303 crowntown@cpcrc.org

- Santa arrives in town and takes up residence in the Court House every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas.

1st Floor- Old Lake Court House

Lake Court House Foundation 219.663.0660 courthouse@airbaud.net

- You are all invited to come out and shop at the Holiday Boutique!
We'll have over 35 vendors under one roof.You're sure to find that perfect gift at the Holiday Boutique.

Boys and Girls Club of Portage

Veronica Martinez 12192900491 embellisheventsnwi@gmail.com

- Join us and bring your pets and family for beautiful, professional pictures with Santa from TSS Photography - Mokena, IL!

Photos will take place from 12pm-3pm.
We do recommended an appointment to avoid wait times to call today to schedule your pictures! 219-627-3127

Pictures make a great gift and can also be made into ornaments, coffee mugs, mouse pads and more!
Pictures are printed on site!

Advanced Animal Medical

Advanced Animal Medical 219.627.3127

- Teens, bring a blanket and come join us as we watch a holiday film. During the film we will be making hot chocolate. Must register.

St. John Public Library

Teen Services 219.365.5379

- The most wonderful time of year deserves the most wonderful type of event. ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo has been Chicago’s holiday tradition for 24 years. The one of a kind experience offers fun, free, family oriented holiday celebrations that feature luminous displays and incredible seasonal activities… all under the glow of 2.5 million lights!

4:30-9 p.m.
November 2018: 23, 24, 25 and 30
December 2018: 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 31*
*(early closure of 8 PM on the 31st)
January 2019: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

Festive Activities
- Photos with Santa (through December 23 before he heads back to the North Pole)
- Incredible 3D displays
- Warm spiced wine, frosty beers and festive specials
- Delicious holiday snacks
- Holiday gift shopping
- Live ice-sculpture carving (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays and Family Night Mondays)
- Strolling carolers (Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Family Night Mondays)
- Ticketed Experiences: Carousel, train, ferris wheel, Light Maze presented by Invesco QQQ, Sea Explorer 5D featuring a polar Journey ticketed experiences
- Musical light shows at the Winter Wonderlawn
- Candy Cane Lane and more than 100 giant themed displays
- 3D holiday specs while supplies last

Special Events
Members Only Night at ZooLights
Friday, November 16, 4:30 - 9 p.m.
Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests get exclusive access to a preview of ZooLights before it opens to the public!
(Please note: Only Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests may enter the zoo this evening. No advance registration is required.)
To learn more and become a member, click for details

ZooLights Opening Night!
Friday, November 23
You are cordially invited to help us flip the switch! At 4:25 p.m., join in on the official lighting ceremony at the stairs to Wild Things! gift shop to kick off the festivities.

Holiday Market (TICKETED)
Tuesday, November 27, 6:30 - 10 p.m.
Don't miss the wildest magical holiday shopping fair in the city! The zoo's third annual Holiday Market will feature local artisan, crafters, and makers throughout the zoo grounds against the backdrop of 2.5 million lights!
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

Adults Night Out: Holidaze!
Thursday, November 29, 6:30 - 10 p.m.
This winter version of the zoo's most popular event series gives adults exclusive access to stroll zoo grounds afterhours with hot chocolate, mulled wine, or beer in hand. Come for the 2.5 million holiday lights but stay for the Zoo Trivia! Dazzling displays, holiday activities, music, cash bars, and educational entertainment. Sound fabulous? Join us!
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 18 and older
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

BrewLights Presented by Lakeshore Beverage
Thursday, December 6, 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Support Chicago's free zoo with a craft brew at the fifth annual BrewLights hosted by the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo. Guests will forage for local craft, seasonal and import beers amidst the dazzle of ZooLights. All proceeds go toward the Auxiliary Board's commitment to support Lincoln Park Zoo's The Pride of Chicago campaign.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 21 and older

The Chris White Trio Tribute to 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'
Sunday, December 9, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Snap your fingers to the jazzy take on one of the season's classic soundtracks. Meet your favorite cartoon dog, enjoy a backdrop of 2.5 million lights and experience a new holiday tradition.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event that takes place at Café Brauer)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

Breakfast with Santa
Sunday, December 16, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Enjoy quality family time with Kris Kringle with a delicious seasonal breakfast and complimentary cookie decorating for kids. Buy tickets today for one of four limited capacity seatings at landmark Café Brauer, located next to the zoo's Nature Boardwalk.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event that takes place at Café Brauer)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets: click for details

Zoo Year's Eve
Monday, December 31, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.
New Year, NEW EVENT: Zoo Year's Eve is an adults-only New Year's Eve celebration! Ring in the New Year with DJ entertainment, games and giveaways in the glow of ZooLights! Food and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 21 and older
Ticketing information coming soon!

Monday Family Nights
Monday, December 10, 17, and 31*, 2018

Kids eat FREE at Park Place Café (one free limited-menu kids’ meal per paid adult entrée/combo), all guests enjoy unlimited free rides on Lionel Train Adventure and AT&T Endangered Species Carousel as well as Ice Carvers and strolling carolers! Plus, Zoo Members at all levels get free parking. (Individual and Household members, pick up your parking vouchers at Searle Visitor Center during your visit.)

*(early closure of 8 PM on the 31st)

Experiences
Tickets can be purchased on site for $3 each, a package of 10 for $27, or a package of 20 for $51.

AT&T Endangered Species Carousel
The AT&T Endangered Species Carousel features 48 artisan-crafted wooden animals and two chariots.
1 ticket required per person to ride

Century Wheel
This 65-foot ferris wheel will lift you to new sights as your soar above the holiday magic and get the best view in the city.
2 tickets required per person to ride

Light Maze Presented by Invesco QQQ
This attraction features 30,000 twinkling lights distracting you from making your way through the twists and turns.
1 ticket required per person

Lionel Train Adventure
The trackless train crosses over a quaint country bridge and wends its way past forest and canyon scenery before returning to a red brick station.
1 ticket required per person to ride

Sea Explorer 5D
Take a virtual submarine ride that is great for the whole family. With this 4-D, limited-time attraction. You will cruise through ocean waters and perhaps pop up near the shore-and maybe encounter some wildlife on the way! A hydraulic floor makes It feel like you're really traveling through the water as you dive deep and meet the residents of our wild waters.
2 tickets required per person to ride

Frequently Asked Questions

WHERE IS ZOOLIGHTS TAKING PLACE, WHAT IS ACCESSIBLE, AND WILL I SEE ANIMALS?
To can check out all the exhibits Lincoln Park Zoo has to offer, lpzoo.org/exhibits. This year, ticketed attractions for ZooLights will take place throughout main zoo grounds only. However for ZooLights the McCormick Bird House and Farm-in-the-Zoo will not be open.

To learn about what areas of Lincoln Park Zoo are accessible, click for details

We have nearly 200 species here at Lincoln Park Zoo. In general, animals tend to be most active around feeding – diurnal species are most active during the day while nocturnal animals are more active at night. Most of the animals at the zoo have access to either indoor and outdoor habitats or behind-the-scenes spaces. Choice is important for species and these animals may choose not to be visible to the public.

WHAT ARE THE AGE RESTRICTIONS FOR THE ZOOLIGHTS ATTRACTIONS?
All ages are welcome to attend ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo! For the safety of all guests, please note that specific paid attractions will have weight and height limitations.

WHERE CAN I PURCHASE TICKETS TO ZOOLIGHTS ATTRACTIONS?
Tickets for rides can be purchased at Lincoln Park Zoo each night of ZooLights starting on Friday, November 23 through Sunday, January 6 from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Ticket kiosks will be set up throughout main zoo grounds. Tickets must be purchased in person as they are not available online. ZooLights tickets are $3 for one ticket, $27 for 10 tickets and $51 for 20 tickets.

I AM A LINCOLN PARK ZOO MEMBER. HOW CAN I APPLY MY MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS TO ZOOLIGHTS?
Lincoln Park Zoo members will enjoy exclusive access to the new year-round Member Lounge, generously supported by the Women’s Board, located in the Searle Visitor Center. Warm up in this new space open until 9:00 p.m. each night of ZooLights.

Members Only Night at ZooLights
Friday, November 16, 4:30 – 9 p.m.
Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests get exclusive access to a preview of ZooLights before it opens to the public!
(Please note: Only Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests may enter the zoo this evening. No advance registration is required.)
Learn more

For specific events and select ticket types, Lincoln Park Zoo members will receive a discount on their ticket purchase. Make sure to check the event page for details regarding member discounts.

To apply your Lincoln Park Zoo Membership code, please enter in the first three digits of your membership number is the “apply discount” box on Eventbrite. You will need to enter in the code before you select the number of tickets / ticket types (if more than one option is available) in order for the code to be applied. Then select the number of tickets you wish to purchase and proceed to checkout.

CAN ZOOLIGHT ATTRACTION TICKETS BE TRADED, TRANSFERRED, OR REFUNDED AND WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS INCLEMENT WEATHER?
ZooLights is free to attend. Attractions at ZooLights are an additional costs. Your attraction tickets can be used at the Lionel Train Adventure, AT&T Endangered Species Carousel, Century Wheel, Light Maze Presented by Invesco QQQ and/or the Sea Explorer 5D. Tickets are not assigned to individual people, so feel free to distribute to your family and friends. Please keep in mind that there are no refunds for tickets purchased to ZooLights attractions.

ZooLights will be held rain, shine or snow. Please dress accordingly!

WHERE CAN I PARK TO ATTEND ZOOLIGHTS?
Guests who wish to drive can pay to park in the Lincoln Park Zoo lot on Cannon Drive. For additional information and pricing, please, click for details
Lincoln Park Zoo is also accessible by public transportation.

WILL THERE BE FOOD OR BEVERAGES FOR SALE AT THIS EVENT?
Yes. Food is available at the following locations at Lincoln Park Zoo during ZooLights hours: Park Place Café, Eadie Levy’s Landmark Café, Safari Café, Snack & Drink Quick Stops, and the Patio at Café Brauer. All cafes are able to accept cash or credit. While we will have several ATMs on-site, we encourage you to bring cash for the most efficient experience.

I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS, WHO CAN I REACH OUT TO?
If you have a question regarding this event, please email events@lpzoo.org.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo 312.742.2000

- Lights will be on from 11/22-1/1 between 5pm til 10 pm.

- Line Up:

November 2- Shane & Mike Trio

November 3- 5 n Time Band

November 10- Eatin Alive

November 16- Jimmy Sarr Trio

November 17- I'm With Frank

November 23- Bannedannah

November 24- DJ Prime Time

November 30- Mike Green Trio

December 1- The Flex Group

December 7- Jason & Jack Adams

December 8- Uncle Jam

December 15- The Relics

R-Bar & Grill

R-Bar and Grill 219.922.8008

- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
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SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- The tour will feature trolley rides throughout the city to look at houses displaying their Christmas lights and decorations.

 

- Prime Steakhouse is a celebration of the finest Chicago steakhouses. Located in the historic Crown Point Square, the exposed brick wall interior lends itself perfectly to your casual, fine dining experience. The non-smoking setting is formal enough for the most extraordinary occasion or comfortable enough for just a night out with friends. A knowledgeable and friendly staff wait to serve you a twenty day wet-aged steaks and freshest seafood.

Prime Steakhouse

Prime Steakhouse 219.663.7377

 

Indiana Ballet Theatre 219.755.4444

- Director Linda Fortunato has cast Roger Mueller as Kris Kringle, Stella Rose Hoyt as Susan, Courtney Jones as Doris and Christopher Kale Jones as Fred for Theatre at the Center’s Miracle On 34th Street: The Musical. Previews begin November 15 with Opening Night on November 18 and a continued run through December 23.

The original 1947 American Christmas comedy-drama film, Miracle on 34th Street, was written and directed by George Seaton and based on a story by Valentine Davies. Maureen O’Hara, John Payne, a young Natalie Wood and Edmund Gwenn as Santa starred in the popular film, which received three Academy Awards and has remained a family favorite at for decades.

Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, features book, music and lyrics all by Meredith Willson of The Music Man fame and was adapted from the 1947 movie. It opened on Broadway in 1963 with the show’s title changing during the decades as both Here’s Love and later, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, with the latter a reference to the popular holiday song featured in the musical.

Roger Mueller returns to TATC where he was last seen in Here’s Love in 2000. Other credits include a Jeff Award for the role of John Adams in 1776 at the Marriott Theatre, Brigadoon at Goodman Theatre, All My Sons at Timeline Theatre and Amadeus at Shakespeare Theatre.

Stella Rose Hoyt has performed throughout Chicagoland since age 4. She was last seen at TATC playing Molly in the 2016 holiday run of Annie Warbucks. She recently played Small Alison in the Chicago premier of Fun Home at Victory Gardens, Mary Claire in The Christmas Schooner at Mercury Theatre as well as both Young Cosette in Les Miserable and Jane in Mary Poppins at Oak Lawn Theatre.
Courtney Jones, who is making her debut at TATC, recently played the role of Dyanne in Million Dollar Quartet at Timberlake Playhouse. Other credits include Ragtime and Titanic at Griffin Theatre and Ordinary Days at BoHo. Jones also worked regionally with Chicago Shakespeare.

Christopher Kale Jones is making his acting debut at TATC after his recent one-man tribute Darin: Bobby’s Biggest Hits dazzled TATC audiences last summer. He is best known for playing Frankie Valli in the first National Broadway Tour of Jersey Boys. A former member of the popular singing group Under the Streetlamp, his other theater credits include The Battle of Little Jo at Steppenwolf, A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Chicago Shakespeare, and The King and I at Marriott Theatre.

Additional cast members include Michael Kingston as Mr. Macy, Michael Potsic as District Attorney, Rick Rapp as the Judge, Sam Shankman as Sawyer, Amir Henderson as Harry, Liliana Rene as Hendrika, Ethan Solis as Tommy as well as Chris Carter, Veronica Garza, Matthew Huston, Rachel Klippel, Ashley Lanyon, Haley Jane Schafer, Hope Elizabeth Schafer and Trequon Tate.

Linda Fortunato, director and choreographer of Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, is in her third season as TATC Artistic Director where her recent credits include directing the hits Ghost The Musical and Steel Magnolias as well as Cabaret and Big River.

Fortunato has been nominated for five Joseph Jefferson Awards for her work as choreographer and director and received both Equity and Non-Equity Jeff Awards for Outstanding Choreography in 2013-14 for TATC’s first Jeff Award for choreography of 42nd Street.

‘Miracle on 34th Street’ is certainly familiar from the classic 1947 film and its more modern remakes,” said Fortunato, who choreographed TATC’s “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” in 2010 as well as “Here’s Love” in 2000, both the previous titles for the stage telling of this beloved story.

“The story of the real Kris Kringle hired as Macy’s Santa Claus still touches hearts and reminds us of the power of the imagination. I am excited to share this classic story in musical form with audiences of all ages. From the littlest believers to those who may have lost sight of the magic of Christmas, this musical brightens the holiday season for all.”

The creative team for Miracle on 34th Street includes Scenic Designers Jacqueline and Richard Penrod, Lighting Designer G. Max Maxin IV, Sound Designer Barry Funderburg, Costume Designer Brenda Winstead, Wig Designer Kevin Barthel and Prop Designer Devon Green. Stage Manager is Jessica Banaszak. William Underwood is Music Director. Fortunato is teamed with Richard Friedman, General Manager, and Ann Davis, Head of Production.

Founded in 1991, the 410 seat TATC is a year-round professional theater at its home: The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana. TATC is an accessible venue with plenty of free parking and is located off I80/94, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago.

Performances are 2 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 3 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Saturdays; and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays, with select Thursday and Sunday night performances. Individual ticket prices range from $42- $46. To purchase individual tickets, call the Box Office at 219-836-3255 or Tickets.com at 800-511-1532. Group discounts are available for groups of 11 or more. Student tickets are $20 and gift certificates are also available.

For more information on Theatre at the Center, visit click for details.

Theatre at the Center

Theatre at the Center, Box Office 219.836.3255

- BURNS HARBOR

Bozak Family Burns Harbor Christmas Lights
259 Lake Park Rd
430 pm to 1030 pm on weekdays and til 11pm on weekends.
click for details

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CEDAR LAKE

12552 Alexander
click for details

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CHESTERTON

Muddy Acres
463 E Greening Rd
click for details

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CROWN POINT

413 E Greenwood Ave
5 to 10 Sunday thru Thursday. 5 to Midnight Friday and Saturday.
click for details

Christmas on 124th Ave
7731 E. 124th Ave
Hours are Sunday thru Thursday 6pm to 8pm (2 Shows) and Friday & Saturday 6pm to 10pm (4 Shows).
click for details

Leluga's Lights on Sunrise
3535 Sunrise Dr.
Tune to 103.1 FM to listen to the lights.
click for details

1362 S Indiana Ave.
5-11pm.
click for details

4180 Thornhill Dr.
Sunday-Thursday 4:30 pm to 10:30pm
Fridays and Saturdays 4:30 pm to 11pm
click for details

South Court Street
click for details

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DYER

The Magical Light Show
1315 Capri Lane
Begins 11/23- 1/2 from 5:30- 10:30 pm (tune to 87.9 on your radio to listen to the music as you watch the light show).
click for details

1020 Richmond Ct.
5pm to 1030pm.
click for details

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GRIFFITH

502 S Rensselaer Griffith
4:30pm-10pm.
click for details

1003 N Rensselaer Ave.
Our lights and decor will be on from 6pm-10pm weather permitting.
click for details

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HAMMOND

PeteyVille
3033 Crane Place
We are open from 5:00-10:00 pm everyday, weather permitting, from Thanksgiving Day to New Year's Eve.
click for details
Breaking News on 11-26-18...Peteyville will not be up for the rest of the week. Everything is frozen to the ground! Once the weather warms up and everything thaws out, we will be able to see how much damage we sustained with the overnight very high winds. We should be ready by Friday to light up and we will keep you posted. Thanks for your patience and understanding.

Christmas on the Beech
7551 Beech Ave
5:00pm - 10:00pm
click for details

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HEBRON

County Line Christmas Lights
603 S. 800 W.
4:30 pm - 10 pm every day.
click for details

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HIGHLAND

3433 41PL HIGHLAND
3-10:30pm, starting December 1.
click for details

9121 Idelwood Dr.
Lights will be on from 11/22-1/1 between 5pm til 10 pm.
click for details

Lana’s Land Of Christmas
3105 Highway Ave
Hours- 5-11 and as it gets closer to Christmas my display stays on longer!
click for details

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HOBART

Peters Family Christmas Show
3635 E 33rd Ave.
Shows are at 6,7,8,9 & 10pm and are 30mins, house lights are timed to music.
click for details

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MERRILLVILLE

Werner Christmas Wonderland
Thanksgiving til New Years 5pm-12am everyday
click for details

2901 W. 54th Place
4 pm to midnight.
click for details

201 E 71st Ave
Display is Thanksgiving night thru Dec 31. lights should be on from aprox 5pm til aprox 10pm.
click for details

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MUNSTER

The Griswold’s on Greenwood
8147 Greenwood Ave, Munster
click for details

1918 Wren Dr Munster
4:30pm - 9:30pm.
click for details

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PORTAGE

2063 Karen Ct.
click for details

6440 Gaywood Ave
5pm-10pm.
click for details

6846 Portage Ave.
We are live from about 5p-10ish everyday through New Years Eve.
click for details

2240 McCool Road
click for details

Phoenix Lights 6062 Mulberry Ave
click for details

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RENSSELAER

5174 N US 231
5p-10p everyday.
click for details

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SCHERERVILLE

4 W. Elizabeth Drive
Sun thru Thurs 6pm until 11pm. Fri & Sat 6pm until 12am.
click for details

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VALPARAISO

Herlitz Christmas Lights
202 W 450 S
4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. every night til at least January 1st, 2019.
click for details

Thomas' Winter Wonderland
609 Partridge Path
Lights go on from about 4-10PM, starting on November 22.
click for details

658 Nome Rd.
Everyday at dusk til around 10pm.
click for details

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WHEATFIELD

First Church Christmas Lights
December 1- January 5
click for details

Kniman Christmas Lights
9099 N 500 W
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
click for details


**It's important to check the individual Facebook or website pages (when available) to see if they have announced any light display problems due to weather.

 

- HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA:

Breakfast with Santa & Holiday Craft Fair- CROWN POINT
December 1
click for details

Breakfast with Santa- GRIFFITH
December 1
click for details

Breakfast With Santa- SCHERERVILLE
December 1
click for details

Breakfast with Santa & Craft Boutique- LOWELL
December 1
click for details

12th annual Breakfast with Santa at Tyler's Tender Railroad Restaurant- SCHERERVILLE
December 2nd, 8th, 16th, and 22nd
click for details

Breakfast With Santa at HCHS- CEDAR LAKE
December 7
click for details

Breakfast with Santa- ST. JOHN
December 8
click for details

Brookfield Zoo’s Breakfast with Santa- BROOKFIELD
December 8, 9, 15, 16
click for details

Breakfast with Santa at Legion Post 180 in Highland- HIGHLAND
December 9
click for details

Brunch with Santa- CEDAR LAKE
December 15
click for details

❄️☃❄️☃❄️☃❄️☃❄️☃

SANTA PARADES:

Crown Point Santa Parade- CROWN POINT
November 24
click for details

Hammond Holiday Parade- HAMMOND
December 1
click for details

🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄

LIGHTS FESTIVALS & OTHER HOLIDAY EVENTS:

IBT Sugarplum Party- CROWN POINT
November 17
click for details

Winter Lights Night 2018- VALPARAISO
November 17
click for details

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: THE MUSICAL- MUNSTER
Begins November 21
click for details

ZooLights Presented By ComEd and Invesco QQQ- CHICAGO
Begins November 23
click for details

Santa saves Schererville- SCHERERVILLE
November 23
click for details

Chesterton Hometown Holiday Celebration- CHESTERTON
November 24
click for details

Visit Santa in the Courthouse- CROWN POINT
Begins November 24
click for details

Elf Express- LAKE STATION
November 24
click for details

Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa's Workshop- EAST CHICAGO
November 30
click for details

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo- BROOKFIELD
Starts December 1
click for details

Weekends with Santa at Gabis Arboretum - VALPARAISO
December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16
click for details

A Major Event at Indiana Welcome Center- HAMMOND
December 1
click for details

Lowell's Holiday Magic Events- LOWELL
December 1
click for details

Touch a Truck for Toys for Tots- VALPARAISO
December 1
click for details

Christmas Open House & Bazaar- LYNWOOD
December 2
click for details

Rock Along With Santa- MUNSTER
December 5
click for details

Visit with Santa at the Festival of Lights- ST. JOHN
December 5
click for details

Holiday for Heroes- HAMMOND
December 6
click for details

B&N Polar Express- VALPARAISO
December 7
click for details

The Elf Express First Stop: Holiday Hullaballoo (with Santa too!)- LAKE STATION
December 7
click for details

Griffith Kringle Walk- GRIFFITH
December 8
click for details

Holiday Happenings Event at the Eddy Street Commons- SOUTH BEND
December 8
click for details

Sensory Sensitive SANTA-Day- LAKE STATION
December 15
click for details

Movie In The Dome - Polar Express- CROWN POINT
December 21
click for details

Cookie with Mrs. Claus- LAKE STATION
December 22
click for details

 

- Family tradition has returned November 10 - December 24 at Southlake Mall!

Share your wish list, take photos with Santa and capture memories for years to come at Santa’s House located at Sears Court.

Every child who visits Santa gets a *holiday wristband". (* While supplies last)

Santa's Schedule:
Monday-Saturday, 10 am– 9 pm; Sundays, 11 am – 6 pm
*Santa "feeds the reindeer breaks" will occur at various times throughout the day.

Special Santa Hours:
Thursday, November 22 No Santa
Sunday, December 23, 10 am- 9pm Monday December 24, 9am-6pm

**No personal photos are permitted at Santa’s House, however, visits are happily welcomed.

Southlake Mall

Southlake Mall 219.738.2260

- Cabela's
7700 Cabela Dr, Hammond, IN
(219) 845-9040

Bass Pro
6425 Daniel Burnham Dr, Portage, IN
(219) 787-6800

 

- CHESTERTON

Chesterton Hometown Holiday Celebration
November 24
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

CROWNPOINT

Visit Santa in the Courthouse
Every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

DYER

Pet Santa Pictures
December 15
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

HAMMOND

Hessville Holiday
November 30
click for details

Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro & Cabela's! (Cabela's is in Hammond, Bass Pro is located in Portage)
Now-December 24
click for details

Photos With Santa Weekends
Weekends November 23rd to December 23rd
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

HIGHLAND

Santa is coming to Coffee Cabin! (MEIJER HIGHLAND LOCATION ONLY)
December 8 & 23
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

HOBART

A Very Brickie Christmas Market
November 18
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

LOWELL

Photos with Santa
December 1
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

LYNWOOD

Christmas Open House & Bazaar- LYNWOOD
December 2
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

MERRILLVILLE

Santa's Here at Southlake Mall!
Now-Until December 24
click for details

Soothing Santa Photos at Southlake Mall
December 2 & 9
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

MUNSTER

Pictures with Santa at Calumet Harley
December 8
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

SOUTH BEND

Holiday Happenings Event at the Eddy Street Commons- SOUTH BEND
December 8
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

ST. JOHN

Pet Pictures with Santa at Hungry Hound
December 9
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

VALPARAISO

Weekends with Santa at Gabis Arboretum
December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16
click for details

 

- Director Linda Fortunato has cast Roger Mueller as Kris Kringle, Stella Rose Hoyt as Susan, Courtney Jones as Doris and Christopher Kale Jones as Fred for Theatre at the Center’s Miracle On 34th Street: The Musical. Previews begin November 15 with Opening Night on November 18 and a continued run through December 23.

The original 1947 American Christmas comedy-drama film, Miracle on 34th Street, was written and directed by George Seaton and based on a story by Valentine Davies. Maureen O’Hara, John Payne, a young Natalie Wood and Edmund Gwenn as Santa starred in the popular film, which received three Academy Awards and has remained a family favorite at for decades.

Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, features book, music and lyrics all by Meredith Willson of The Music Man fame and was adapted from the 1947 movie. It opened on Broadway in 1963 with the show’s title changing during the decades as both Here’s Love and later, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, with the latter a reference to the popular holiday song featured in the musical.

Roger Mueller returns to TATC where he was last seen in Here’s Love in 2000. Other credits include a Jeff Award for the role of John Adams in 1776 at the Marriott Theatre, Brigadoon at Goodman Theatre, All My Sons at Timeline Theatre and Amadeus at Shakespeare Theatre.

Stella Rose Hoyt has performed throughout Chicagoland since age 4. She was last seen at TATC playing Molly in the 2016 holiday run of Annie Warbucks. She recently played Small Alison in the Chicago premier of Fun Home at Victory Gardens, Mary Claire in The Christmas Schooner at Mercury Theatre as well as both Young Cosette in Les Miserable and Jane in Mary Poppins at Oak Lawn Theatre.
Courtney Jones, who is making her debut at TATC, recently played the role of Dyanne in Million Dollar Quartet at Timberlake Playhouse. Other credits include Ragtime and Titanic at Griffin Theatre and Ordinary Days at BoHo. Jones also worked regionally with Chicago Shakespeare.

Christopher Kale Jones is making his acting debut at TATC after his recent one-man tribute Darin: Bobby’s Biggest Hits dazzled TATC audiences last summer. He is best known for playing Frankie Valli in the first National Broadway Tour of Jersey Boys. A former member of the popular singing group Under the Streetlamp, his other theater credits include The Battle of Little Jo at Steppenwolf, A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Chicago Shakespeare, and The King and I at Marriott Theatre.

Additional cast members include Michael Kingston as Mr. Macy, Michael Potsic as District Attorney, Rick Rapp as the Judge, Sam Shankman as Sawyer, Amir Henderson as Harry, Liliana Rene as Hendrika, Ethan Solis as Tommy as well as Chris Carter, Veronica Garza, Matthew Huston, Rachel Klippel, Ashley Lanyon, Haley Jane Schafer, Hope Elizabeth Schafer and Trequon Tate.

Linda Fortunato, director and choreographer of Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, is in her third season as TATC Artistic Director where her recent credits include directing the hits Ghost The Musical and Steel Magnolias as well as Cabaret and Big River.

Fortunato has been nominated for five Joseph Jefferson Awards for her work as choreographer and director and received both Equity and Non-Equity Jeff Awards for Outstanding Choreography in 2013-14 for TATC’s first Jeff Award for choreography of 42nd Street.

‘Miracle on 34th Street’ is certainly familiar from the classic 1947 film and its more modern remakes,” said Fortunato, who choreographed TATC’s “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” in 2010 as well as “Here’s Love” in 2000, both the previous titles for the stage telling of this beloved story.

“The story of the real Kris Kringle hired as Macy’s Santa Claus still touches hearts and reminds us of the power of the imagination. I am excited to share this classic story in musical form with audiences of all ages. From the littlest believers to those who may have lost sight of the magic of Christmas, this musical brightens the holiday season for all.”

The creative team for Miracle on 34th Street includes Scenic Designers Jacqueline and Richard Penrod, Lighting Designer G. Max Maxin IV, Sound Designer Barry Funderburg, Costume Designer Brenda Winstead, Wig Designer Kevin Barthel and Prop Designer Devon Green. Stage Manager is Jessica Banaszak. William Underwood is Music Director. Fortunato is teamed with Richard Friedman, General Manager, and Ann Davis, Head of Production.

Founded in 1991, the 410 seat TATC is a year-round professional theater at its home: The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana. TATC is an accessible venue with plenty of free parking and is located off I80/94, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago.

Performances are 2 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 3 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Saturdays; and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays, with select Thursday and Sunday night performances. Individual ticket prices range from $42- $46. To purchase individual tickets, call the Box Office at 219-836-3255 or Tickets.com at 800-511-1532. Group discounts are available for groups of 11 or more. Student tickets are $20 and gift certificates are also available.

For more information on Theatre at the Center, visit click for details.

Theatre at the Center

Theatre at the Center, Box Office 219.836.3255

- Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out our list of things to do in Northwest Indiana December 14-December 16.

CEDAR LAKE

Brunch With Santa- December 15
click for details

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HAMMOND

Winter WonderLAB: Red & Green Scene- December 14
click for details

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HOBART

Christmas at the Mill- December 15
click for details

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MUNSTER

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: THE MUSICAL- December 14-16
click for details

*********************************************************************************

PORTAGE

Holiday Boutique- December 15
click for details

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SCHERERVILLE

Schererville Parks Crafts at the Crossroads- December 15
click for details

12th annual Breakfast with Santa at Tyler's Tender Railroad Restaurant-
December 16
click for details

*********************************************************************************

ST. JOHN

LEGO & DUPLO at St. John Library- December 15
click for details

Teen Holiday Movie at St. John Library- December 15
click for details

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VALPARAISO

Holiday Pops- December 14
click for details

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Fun Things To Do Around NWI All Year Long!
click for details

 

- CROWN POINT

Family Friendly NYE Ice Skating Party
click for details

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DYER

Ring in the New Year Gym Camp
click for details

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HIGHLAND

Feature Film: When Harry Met Sally
click for details

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LAKE STATION

New Year's Eve Bellabaration 2018: A Glitterific Gala
click for details

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LOWELL

New Year's Eve at Signature Banquets
click for details

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OTHER NEW YEAR'S EVE EVENTS NEAR NORTHWEST INDIANA:

Zoo Year’s Eve at Brookfield Zoo
click for details

 

- On this date in 1791, the first 10 amendments to the US Constitution, known as the Bill Of Rights, became effective following ratification by Virginia.

 

- December 2nd, 8th, 16th, and 22nd

*There will be two sessions each day, 7:30am and 9:30am. Tickets are $10.00 for Children and $12.00 for adults, (infants under 1 year are free) and must be purchased in advance at the restaurant or call (219) 322-5590.

*Breakfast includes French Toast or Pancakes, sausage, hash brown stars and beverage. Santa will visit during breakfast and each family will have an opportunity to have pictures taken with Santa in his North Pole environment. Pictures will be available for $5.00 We look forward to seeing you!

Tyler's Tender

Tyler's Tender 219.322.5590

- December 2nd, 8th, 16th, and 22nd

*There will be two sessions each day, 7:30am and 9:30am. Tickets are $10.00 for Children and $12.00 for adults, (infants under 1 year are free) and must be purchased in advance at the restaurant or call (219) 322-5590.

*Breakfast includes French Toast or Pancakes, sausage, hash brown stars and beverage. Santa will visit during breakfast and each family will have an opportunity to have pictures taken with Santa in his North Pole environment. Pictures will be available for $5.00 We look forward to seeing you!

Tyler's Tender

Tyler's Tender 219.322.5590

- Whether you are an individual or have a soccer team during the winter you should register for the Youth and Adult Soccer Leagues at the Sparta Dome. Registration for Session 1 ends on 10/28/18 and is posted on our website. Please check out more information on our leagues at click for details If you have questions please feel free to contact the General Manager, James Hinson, at j.hinson@spartadome.com. Times for Youth are from 8am -6pm Saturdays starting November 10. Times for Adult are from Sundays 7:30-10pm and Wednesdays 9-11pm starting on November 4 and 7.

Sparta Dome

James Hinson 219.224.3663 j.hinson@spartadome.com

- We are heading to Creek Ridge County Park for this year Santa Dash. You will complete two laps around this park to achieve the 5k distance. Course could contain mud, ice or snow who knows. All runners will receive a Santa Hats so come on out!

Creek Ridge County Park

Paul Stofko 219.873.6296 stofko121@yahoo.com

- Bundle up and celebrate the holiday with a walk at Deep River County Park December 15 and 16 from 10-4. Both the gazebo and the Wood’s Historic Mill will be decorated for the season to be the perfect back drop for your holiday greeting card. While you’re out, be sure to stop by the visitor center and gift shop to warm up with some hot cocoa, and get a little bit of holiday shopping done. Children can make a homemade ornament to take home or add to the mill’s Christmas tree.

Deep River County Park

Lake County Parks 219.769.7275 info@lakecountyparks.com

- December provides many opportunities for children to learn about all different types of holiday traditions. We are happy to engage our youngest learners in celebratory activates introducing diverse American & worldwide cultures that may be different from their own. Join Boo crew daily at 1:30 for Winter Celebrations. And in Children’s Cooking for some new tasty creations! We want to make sure child feels included, accepted and celebrated this holiday season. December 3 -16.

Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center

Lake County Parks 219.769.7275 info@lakecountyparks.com

- Please join us for Advent events at First United Evangelical Lutheran Church from December 16th thru December 24th. Our first event on December 16th are "Advent Festival of 7 Lessons and Carols" during the Sunday 10am church service. The story of Human sin and God's Love will be performed by the children of First United Lutheran Church. All are welcome!

The church is located on 6705 Hohman Avenue in Hammond, IN 46324. We look forward to seeing you there.

Chauncey Daspit 312.617.1426 cdaspit@ameritech.net

- Come out every weekend from November 23rd to December 23rd between 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM for photos with Santa taken in the infamous Santa's Mountain, complete with a slide!

For further information about Santa Photo's or other events, click for details

Indiana Welcome Center

Indiana Welcome Center 800.ALL.LAKE

- The most wonderful time of year deserves the most wonderful type of event. ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo has been Chicago’s holiday tradition for 24 years. The one of a kind experience offers fun, free, family oriented holiday celebrations that feature luminous displays and incredible seasonal activities… all under the glow of 2.5 million lights!

4:30-9 p.m.
November 2018: 23, 24, 25 and 30
December 2018: 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 31*
*(early closure of 8 PM on the 31st)
January 2019: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

Festive Activities
- Photos with Santa (through December 23 before he heads back to the North Pole)
- Incredible 3D displays
- Warm spiced wine, frosty beers and festive specials
- Delicious holiday snacks
- Holiday gift shopping
- Live ice-sculpture carving (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays and Family Night Mondays)
- Strolling carolers (Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Family Night Mondays)
- Ticketed Experiences: Carousel, train, ferris wheel, Light Maze presented by Invesco QQQ, Sea Explorer 5D featuring a polar Journey ticketed experiences
- Musical light shows at the Winter Wonderlawn
- Candy Cane Lane and more than 100 giant themed displays
- 3D holiday specs while supplies last

Special Events
Members Only Night at ZooLights
Friday, November 16, 4:30 - 9 p.m.
Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests get exclusive access to a preview of ZooLights before it opens to the public!
(Please note: Only Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests may enter the zoo this evening. No advance registration is required.)
To learn more and become a member, click for details

ZooLights Opening Night!
Friday, November 23
You are cordially invited to help us flip the switch! At 4:25 p.m., join in on the official lighting ceremony at the stairs to Wild Things! gift shop to kick off the festivities.

Holiday Market (TICKETED)
Tuesday, November 27, 6:30 - 10 p.m.
Don't miss the wildest magical holiday shopping fair in the city! The zoo's third annual Holiday Market will feature local artisan, crafters, and makers throughout the zoo grounds against the backdrop of 2.5 million lights!
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

Adults Night Out: Holidaze!
Thursday, November 29, 6:30 - 10 p.m.
This winter version of the zoo's most popular event series gives adults exclusive access to stroll zoo grounds afterhours with hot chocolate, mulled wine, or beer in hand. Come for the 2.5 million holiday lights but stay for the Zoo Trivia! Dazzling displays, holiday activities, music, cash bars, and educational entertainment. Sound fabulous? Join us!
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 18 and older
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

BrewLights Presented by Lakeshore Beverage
Thursday, December 6, 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Support Chicago's free zoo with a craft brew at the fifth annual BrewLights hosted by the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo. Guests will forage for local craft, seasonal and import beers amidst the dazzle of ZooLights. All proceeds go toward the Auxiliary Board's commitment to support Lincoln Park Zoo's The Pride of Chicago campaign.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 21 and older

The Chris White Trio Tribute to 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'
Sunday, December 9, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Snap your fingers to the jazzy take on one of the season's classic soundtracks. Meet your favorite cartoon dog, enjoy a backdrop of 2.5 million lights and experience a new holiday tradition.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event that takes place at Café Brauer)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

Breakfast with Santa
Sunday, December 16, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Enjoy quality family time with Kris Kringle with a delicious seasonal breakfast and complimentary cookie decorating for kids. Buy tickets today for one of four limited capacity seatings at landmark Café Brauer, located next to the zoo's Nature Boardwalk.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event that takes place at Café Brauer)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets: click for details

Zoo Year's Eve
Monday, December 31, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.
New Year, NEW EVENT: Zoo Year's Eve is an adults-only New Year's Eve celebration! Ring in the New Year with DJ entertainment, games and giveaways in the glow of ZooLights! Food and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 21 and older
Ticketing information coming soon!

Monday Family Nights
Monday, December 10, 17, and 31*, 2018

Kids eat FREE at Park Place Café (one free limited-menu kids’ meal per paid adult entrée/combo), all guests enjoy unlimited free rides on Lionel Train Adventure and AT&T Endangered Species Carousel as well as Ice Carvers and strolling carolers! Plus, Zoo Members at all levels get free parking. (Individual and Household members, pick up your parking vouchers at Searle Visitor Center during your visit.)

*(early closure of 8 PM on the 31st)

Experiences
Tickets can be purchased on site for $3 each, a package of 10 for $27, or a package of 20 for $51.

AT&T Endangered Species Carousel
The AT&T Endangered Species Carousel features 48 artisan-crafted wooden animals and two chariots.
1 ticket required per person to ride

Century Wheel
This 65-foot ferris wheel will lift you to new sights as your soar above the holiday magic and get the best view in the city.
2 tickets required per person to ride

Light Maze Presented by Invesco QQQ
This attraction features 30,000 twinkling lights distracting you from making your way through the twists and turns.
1 ticket required per person

Lionel Train Adventure
The trackless train crosses over a quaint country bridge and wends its way past forest and canyon scenery before returning to a red brick station.
1 ticket required per person to ride

Sea Explorer 5D
Take a virtual submarine ride that is great for the whole family. With this 4-D, limited-time attraction. You will cruise through ocean waters and perhaps pop up near the shore-and maybe encounter some wildlife on the way! A hydraulic floor makes It feel like you're really traveling through the water as you dive deep and meet the residents of our wild waters.
2 tickets required per person to ride

Frequently Asked Questions

WHERE IS ZOOLIGHTS TAKING PLACE, WHAT IS ACCESSIBLE, AND WILL I SEE ANIMALS?
To can check out all the exhibits Lincoln Park Zoo has to offer, lpzoo.org/exhibits. This year, ticketed attractions for ZooLights will take place throughout main zoo grounds only. However for ZooLights the McCormick Bird House and Farm-in-the-Zoo will not be open.

To learn about what areas of Lincoln Park Zoo are accessible, click for details

We have nearly 200 species here at Lincoln Park Zoo. In general, animals tend to be most active around feeding – diurnal species are most active during the day while nocturnal animals are more active at night. Most of the animals at the zoo have access to either indoor and outdoor habitats or behind-the-scenes spaces. Choice is important for species and these animals may choose not to be visible to the public.

WHAT ARE THE AGE RESTRICTIONS FOR THE ZOOLIGHTS ATTRACTIONS?
All ages are welcome to attend ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo! For the safety of all guests, please note that specific paid attractions will have weight and height limitations.

WHERE CAN I PURCHASE TICKETS TO ZOOLIGHTS ATTRACTIONS?
Tickets for rides can be purchased at Lincoln Park Zoo each night of ZooLights starting on Friday, November 23 through Sunday, January 6 from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Ticket kiosks will be set up throughout main zoo grounds. Tickets must be purchased in person as they are not available online. ZooLights tickets are $3 for one ticket, $27 for 10 tickets and $51 for 20 tickets.

I AM A LINCOLN PARK ZOO MEMBER. HOW CAN I APPLY MY MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS TO ZOOLIGHTS?
Lincoln Park Zoo members will enjoy exclusive access to the new year-round Member Lounge, generously supported by the Women’s Board, located in the Searle Visitor Center. Warm up in this new space open until 9:00 p.m. each night of ZooLights.

Members Only Night at ZooLights
Friday, November 16, 4:30 – 9 p.m.
Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests get exclusive access to a preview of ZooLights before it opens to the public!
(Please note: Only Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests may enter the zoo this evening. No advance registration is required.)
Learn more

For specific events and select ticket types, Lincoln Park Zoo members will receive a discount on their ticket purchase. Make sure to check the event page for details regarding member discounts.

To apply your Lincoln Park Zoo Membership code, please enter in the first three digits of your membership number is the “apply discount” box on Eventbrite. You will need to enter in the code before you select the number of tickets / ticket types (if more than one option is available) in order for the code to be applied. Then select the number of tickets you wish to purchase and proceed to checkout.

CAN ZOOLIGHT ATTRACTION TICKETS BE TRADED, TRANSFERRED, OR REFUNDED AND WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS INCLEMENT WEATHER?
ZooLights is free to attend. Attractions at ZooLights are an additional costs. Your attraction tickets can be used at the Lionel Train Adventure, AT&T Endangered Species Carousel, Century Wheel, Light Maze Presented by Invesco QQQ and/or the Sea Explorer 5D. Tickets are not assigned to individual people, so feel free to distribute to your family and friends. Please keep in mind that there are no refunds for tickets purchased to ZooLights attractions.

ZooLights will be held rain, shine or snow. Please dress accordingly!

WHERE CAN I PARK TO ATTEND ZOOLIGHTS?
Guests who wish to drive can pay to park in the Lincoln Park Zoo lot on Cannon Drive. For additional information and pricing, please, click for details
Lincoln Park Zoo is also accessible by public transportation.

WILL THERE BE FOOD OR BEVERAGES FOR SALE AT THIS EVENT?
Yes. Food is available at the following locations at Lincoln Park Zoo during ZooLights hours: Park Place Café, Eadie Levy’s Landmark Café, Safari Café, Snack & Drink Quick Stops, and the Patio at Café Brauer. All cafes are able to accept cash or credit. While we will have several ATMs on-site, we encourage you to bring cash for the most efficient experience.

I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS, WHO CAN I REACH OUT TO?
If you have a question regarding this event, please email events@lpzoo.org.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo 312.742.2000

- Lights will be on from 11/22-1/1 between 5pm til 10 pm.

- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- Director Linda Fortunato has cast Roger Mueller as Kris Kringle, Stella Rose Hoyt as Susan, Courtney Jones as Doris and Christopher Kale Jones as Fred for Theatre at the Center’s Miracle On 34th Street: The Musical. Previews begin November 15 with Opening Night on November 18 and a continued run through December 23.

The original 1947 American Christmas comedy-drama film, Miracle on 34th Street, was written and directed by George Seaton and based on a story by Valentine Davies. Maureen O’Hara, John Payne, a young Natalie Wood and Edmund Gwenn as Santa starred in the popular film, which received three Academy Awards and has remained a family favorite at for decades.

Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, features book, music and lyrics all by Meredith Willson of The Music Man fame and was adapted from the 1947 movie. It opened on Broadway in 1963 with the show’s title changing during the decades as both Here’s Love and later, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, with the latter a reference to the popular holiday song featured in the musical.

Roger Mueller returns to TATC where he was last seen in Here’s Love in 2000. Other credits include a Jeff Award for the role of John Adams in 1776 at the Marriott Theatre, Brigadoon at Goodman Theatre, All My Sons at Timeline Theatre and Amadeus at Shakespeare Theatre.

Stella Rose Hoyt has performed throughout Chicagoland since age 4. She was last seen at TATC playing Molly in the 2016 holiday run of Annie Warbucks. She recently played Small Alison in the Chicago premier of Fun Home at Victory Gardens, Mary Claire in The Christmas Schooner at Mercury Theatre as well as both Young Cosette in Les Miserable and Jane in Mary Poppins at Oak Lawn Theatre.
Courtney Jones, who is making her debut at TATC, recently played the role of Dyanne in Million Dollar Quartet at Timberlake Playhouse. Other credits include Ragtime and Titanic at Griffin Theatre and Ordinary Days at BoHo. Jones also worked regionally with Chicago Shakespeare.

Christopher Kale Jones is making his acting debut at TATC after his recent one-man tribute Darin: Bobby’s Biggest Hits dazzled TATC audiences last summer. He is best known for playing Frankie Valli in the first National Broadway Tour of Jersey Boys. A former member of the popular singing group Under the Streetlamp, his other theater credits include The Battle of Little Jo at Steppenwolf, A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Chicago Shakespeare, and The King and I at Marriott Theatre.

Additional cast members include Michael Kingston as Mr. Macy, Michael Potsic as District Attorney, Rick Rapp as the Judge, Sam Shankman as Sawyer, Amir Henderson as Harry, Liliana Rene as Hendrika, Ethan Solis as Tommy as well as Chris Carter, Veronica Garza, Matthew Huston, Rachel Klippel, Ashley Lanyon, Haley Jane Schafer, Hope Elizabeth Schafer and Trequon Tate.

Linda Fortunato, director and choreographer of Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, is in her third season as TATC Artistic Director where her recent credits include directing the hits Ghost The Musical and Steel Magnolias as well as Cabaret and Big River.

Fortunato has been nominated for five Joseph Jefferson Awards for her work as choreographer and director and received both Equity and Non-Equity Jeff Awards for Outstanding Choreography in 2013-14 for TATC’s first Jeff Award for choreography of 42nd Street.

‘Miracle on 34th Street’ is certainly familiar from the classic 1947 film and its more modern remakes,” said Fortunato, who choreographed TATC’s “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” in 2010 as well as “Here’s Love” in 2000, both the previous titles for the stage telling of this beloved story.

“The story of the real Kris Kringle hired as Macy’s Santa Claus still touches hearts and reminds us of the power of the imagination. I am excited to share this classic story in musical form with audiences of all ages. From the littlest believers to those who may have lost sight of the magic of Christmas, this musical brightens the holiday season for all.”

The creative team for Miracle on 34th Street includes Scenic Designers Jacqueline and Richard Penrod, Lighting Designer G. Max Maxin IV, Sound Designer Barry Funderburg, Costume Designer Brenda Winstead, Wig Designer Kevin Barthel and Prop Designer Devon Green. Stage Manager is Jessica Banaszak. William Underwood is Music Director. Fortunato is teamed with Richard Friedman, General Manager, and Ann Davis, Head of Production.

Founded in 1991, the 410 seat TATC is a year-round professional theater at its home: The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana. TATC is an accessible venue with plenty of free parking and is located off I80/94, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago.

Performances are 2 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 3 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Saturdays; and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays, with select Thursday and Sunday night performances. Individual ticket prices range from $42- $46. To purchase individual tickets, call the Box Office at 219-836-3255 or Tickets.com at 800-511-1532. Group discounts are available for groups of 11 or more. Student tickets are $20 and gift certificates are also available.

For more information on Theatre at the Center, visit click for details.

Theatre at the Center

Theatre at the Center, Box Office 219.836.3255

- BURNS HARBOR

Bozak Family Burns Harbor Christmas Lights
259 Lake Park Rd
430 pm to 1030 pm on weekdays and til 11pm on weekends.
click for details

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CEDAR LAKE

12552 Alexander
click for details

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CHESTERTON

Muddy Acres
463 E Greening Rd
click for details

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CROWN POINT

413 E Greenwood Ave
5 to 10 Sunday thru Thursday. 5 to Midnight Friday and Saturday.
click for details

Christmas on 124th Ave
7731 E. 124th Ave
Hours are Sunday thru Thursday 6pm to 8pm (2 Shows) and Friday & Saturday 6pm to 10pm (4 Shows).
click for details

Leluga's Lights on Sunrise
3535 Sunrise Dr.
Tune to 103.1 FM to listen to the lights.
click for details

1362 S Indiana Ave.
5-11pm.
click for details

4180 Thornhill Dr.
Sunday-Thursday 4:30 pm to 10:30pm
Fridays and Saturdays 4:30 pm to 11pm
click for details

South Court Street
click for details

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DYER

The Magical Light Show
1315 Capri Lane
Begins 11/23- 1/2 from 5:30- 10:30 pm (tune to 87.9 on your radio to listen to the music as you watch the light show).
click for details

1020 Richmond Ct.
5pm to 1030pm.
click for details

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GRIFFITH

502 S Rensselaer Griffith
4:30pm-10pm.
click for details

1003 N Rensselaer Ave.
Our lights and decor will be on from 6pm-10pm weather permitting.
click for details

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HAMMOND

PeteyVille
3033 Crane Place
We are open from 5:00-10:00 pm everyday, weather permitting, from Thanksgiving Day to New Year's Eve.
click for details
Breaking News on 11-26-18...Peteyville will not be up for the rest of the week. Everything is frozen to the ground! Once the weather warms up and everything thaws out, we will be able to see how much damage we sustained with the overnight very high winds. We should be ready by Friday to light up and we will keep you posted. Thanks for your patience and understanding.

Christmas on the Beech
7551 Beech Ave
5:00pm - 10:00pm
click for details

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HEBRON

County Line Christmas Lights
603 S. 800 W.
4:30 pm - 10 pm every day.
click for details

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HIGHLAND

3433 41PL HIGHLAND
3-10:30pm, starting December 1.
click for details

9121 Idelwood Dr.
Lights will be on from 11/22-1/1 between 5pm til 10 pm.
click for details

Lana’s Land Of Christmas
3105 Highway Ave
Hours- 5-11 and as it gets closer to Christmas my display stays on longer!
click for details

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HOBART

Peters Family Christmas Show
3635 E 33rd Ave.
Shows are at 6,7,8,9 & 10pm and are 30mins, house lights are timed to music.
click for details

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MERRILLVILLE

Werner Christmas Wonderland
Thanksgiving til New Years 5pm-12am everyday
click for details

2901 W. 54th Place
4 pm to midnight.
click for details

201 E 71st Ave
Display is Thanksgiving night thru Dec 31. lights should be on from aprox 5pm til aprox 10pm.
click for details

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MUNSTER

The Griswold’s on Greenwood
8147 Greenwood Ave, Munster
click for details

1918 Wren Dr Munster
4:30pm - 9:30pm.
click for details

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PORTAGE

2063 Karen Ct.
click for details

6440 Gaywood Ave
5pm-10pm.
click for details

6846 Portage Ave.
We are live from about 5p-10ish everyday through New Years Eve.
click for details

2240 McCool Road
click for details

Phoenix Lights 6062 Mulberry Ave
click for details

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RENSSELAER

5174 N US 231
5p-10p everyday.
click for details

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SCHERERVILLE

4 W. Elizabeth Drive
Sun thru Thurs 6pm until 11pm. Fri & Sat 6pm until 12am.
click for details

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VALPARAISO

Herlitz Christmas Lights
202 W 450 S
4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. every night til at least January 1st, 2019.
click for details

Thomas' Winter Wonderland
609 Partridge Path
Lights go on from about 4-10PM, starting on November 22.
click for details

658 Nome Rd.
Everyday at dusk til around 10pm.
click for details

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WHEATFIELD

First Church Christmas Lights
December 1- January 5
click for details

Kniman Christmas Lights
9099 N 500 W
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
click for details


**It's important to check the individual Facebook or website pages (when available) to see if they have announced any light display problems due to weather.

 

- HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA:

Breakfast with Santa & Holiday Craft Fair- CROWN POINT
December 1
click for details

Breakfast with Santa- GRIFFITH
December 1
click for details

Breakfast With Santa- SCHERERVILLE
December 1
click for details

Breakfast with Santa & Craft Boutique- LOWELL
December 1
click for details

12th annual Breakfast with Santa at Tyler's Tender Railroad Restaurant- SCHERERVILLE
December 2nd, 8th, 16th, and 22nd
click for details

Breakfast With Santa at HCHS- CEDAR LAKE
December 7
click for details

Breakfast with Santa- ST. JOHN
December 8
click for details

Brookfield Zoo’s Breakfast with Santa- BROOKFIELD
December 8, 9, 15, 16
click for details

Breakfast with Santa at Legion Post 180 in Highland- HIGHLAND
December 9
click for details

Brunch with Santa- CEDAR LAKE
December 15
click for details

❄️☃❄️☃❄️☃❄️☃❄️☃

SANTA PARADES:

Crown Point Santa Parade- CROWN POINT
November 24
click for details

Hammond Holiday Parade- HAMMOND
December 1
click for details

🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄

LIGHTS FESTIVALS & OTHER HOLIDAY EVENTS:

IBT Sugarplum Party- CROWN POINT
November 17
click for details

Winter Lights Night 2018- VALPARAISO
November 17
click for details

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: THE MUSICAL- MUNSTER
Begins November 21
click for details

ZooLights Presented By ComEd and Invesco QQQ- CHICAGO
Begins November 23
click for details

Santa saves Schererville- SCHERERVILLE
November 23
click for details

Chesterton Hometown Holiday Celebration- CHESTERTON
November 24
click for details

Visit Santa in the Courthouse- CROWN POINT
Begins November 24
click for details

Elf Express- LAKE STATION
November 24
click for details

Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa's Workshop- EAST CHICAGO
November 30
click for details

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo- BROOKFIELD
Starts December 1
click for details

Weekends with Santa at Gabis Arboretum - VALPARAISO
December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16
click for details

A Major Event at Indiana Welcome Center- HAMMOND
December 1
click for details

Lowell's Holiday Magic Events- LOWELL
December 1
click for details

Touch a Truck for Toys for Tots- VALPARAISO
December 1
click for details

Christmas Open House & Bazaar- LYNWOOD
December 2
click for details

Rock Along With Santa- MUNSTER
December 5
click for details

Visit with Santa at the Festival of Lights- ST. JOHN
December 5
click for details

Holiday for Heroes- HAMMOND
December 6
click for details

B&N Polar Express- VALPARAISO
December 7
click for details

The Elf Express First Stop: Holiday Hullaballoo (with Santa too!)- LAKE STATION
December 7
click for details

Griffith Kringle Walk- GRIFFITH
December 8
click for details

Holiday Happenings Event at the Eddy Street Commons- SOUTH BEND
December 8
click for details

Sensory Sensitive SANTA-Day- LAKE STATION
December 15
click for details

Movie In The Dome - Polar Express- CROWN POINT
December 21
click for details

Cookie with Mrs. Claus- LAKE STATION
December 22
click for details

 

- Family tradition has returned November 10 - December 24 at Southlake Mall!

Share your wish list, take photos with Santa and capture memories for years to come at Santa’s House located at Sears Court.

Every child who visits Santa gets a *holiday wristband". (* While supplies last)

Santa's Schedule:
Monday-Saturday, 10 am– 9 pm; Sundays, 11 am – 6 pm
*Santa "feeds the reindeer breaks" will occur at various times throughout the day.

Special Santa Hours:
Thursday, November 22 No Santa
Sunday, December 23, 10 am- 9pm Monday December 24, 9am-6pm

**No personal photos are permitted at Santa’s House, however, visits are happily welcomed.

Southlake Mall

Southlake Mall 219.738.2260

- Cabela's
7700 Cabela Dr, Hammond, IN
(219) 845-9040

Bass Pro
6425 Daniel Burnham Dr, Portage, IN
(219) 787-6800

 

- CHESTERTON

Chesterton Hometown Holiday Celebration
November 24
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

CROWNPOINT

Visit Santa in the Courthouse
Every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

DYER

Pet Santa Pictures
December 15
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

HAMMOND

Hessville Holiday
November 30
click for details

Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro & Cabela's! (Cabela's is in Hammond, Bass Pro is located in Portage)
Now-December 24
click for details

Photos With Santa Weekends
Weekends November 23rd to December 23rd
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

HIGHLAND

Santa is coming to Coffee Cabin! (MEIJER HIGHLAND LOCATION ONLY)
December 8 & 23
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

HOBART

A Very Brickie Christmas Market
November 18
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

LOWELL

Photos with Santa
December 1
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

LYNWOOD

Christmas Open House & Bazaar- LYNWOOD
December 2
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

MERRILLVILLE

Santa's Here at Southlake Mall!
Now-Until December 24
click for details

Soothing Santa Photos at Southlake Mall
December 2 & 9
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

MUNSTER

Pictures with Santa at Calumet Harley
December 8
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

SOUTH BEND

Holiday Happenings Event at the Eddy Street Commons- SOUTH BEND
December 8
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

ST. JOHN

Pet Pictures with Santa at Hungry Hound
December 9
click for details

🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅🎅

VALPARAISO

Weekends with Santa at Gabis Arboretum
December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16
click for details

 

- Director Linda Fortunato has cast Roger Mueller as Kris Kringle, Stella Rose Hoyt as Susan, Courtney Jones as Doris and Christopher Kale Jones as Fred for Theatre at the Center’s Miracle On 34th Street: The Musical. Previews begin November 15 with Opening Night on November 18 and a continued run through December 23.

The original 1947 American Christmas comedy-drama film, Miracle on 34th Street, was written and directed by George Seaton and based on a story by Valentine Davies. Maureen O’Hara, John Payne, a young Natalie Wood and Edmund Gwenn as Santa starred in the popular film, which received three Academy Awards and has remained a family favorite at for decades.

Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, features book, music and lyrics all by Meredith Willson of The Music Man fame and was adapted from the 1947 movie. It opened on Broadway in 1963 with the show’s title changing during the decades as both Here’s Love and later, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, with the latter a reference to the popular holiday song featured in the musical.

Roger Mueller returns to TATC where he was last seen in Here’s Love in 2000. Other credits include a Jeff Award for the role of John Adams in 1776 at the Marriott Theatre, Brigadoon at Goodman Theatre, All My Sons at Timeline Theatre and Amadeus at Shakespeare Theatre.

Stella Rose Hoyt has performed throughout Chicagoland since age 4. She was last seen at TATC playing Molly in the 2016 holiday run of Annie Warbucks. She recently played Small Alison in the Chicago premier of Fun Home at Victory Gardens, Mary Claire in The Christmas Schooner at Mercury Theatre as well as both Young Cosette in Les Miserable and Jane in Mary Poppins at Oak Lawn Theatre.
Courtney Jones, who is making her debut at TATC, recently played the role of Dyanne in Million Dollar Quartet at Timberlake Playhouse. Other credits include Ragtime and Titanic at Griffin Theatre and Ordinary Days at BoHo. Jones also worked regionally with Chicago Shakespeare.

Christopher Kale Jones is making his acting debut at TATC after his recent one-man tribute Darin: Bobby’s Biggest Hits dazzled TATC audiences last summer. He is best known for playing Frankie Valli in the first National Broadway Tour of Jersey Boys. A former member of the popular singing group Under the Streetlamp, his other theater credits include The Battle of Little Jo at Steppenwolf, A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Chicago Shakespeare, and The King and I at Marriott Theatre.

Additional cast members include Michael Kingston as Mr. Macy, Michael Potsic as District Attorney, Rick Rapp as the Judge, Sam Shankman as Sawyer, Amir Henderson as Harry, Liliana Rene as Hendrika, Ethan Solis as Tommy as well as Chris Carter, Veronica Garza, Matthew Huston, Rachel Klippel, Ashley Lanyon, Haley Jane Schafer, Hope Elizabeth Schafer and Trequon Tate.

Linda Fortunato, director and choreographer of Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical, is in her third season as TATC Artistic Director where her recent credits include directing the hits Ghost The Musical and Steel Magnolias as well as Cabaret and Big River.

Fortunato has been nominated for five Joseph Jefferson Awards for her work as choreographer and director and received both Equity and Non-Equity Jeff Awards for Outstanding Choreography in 2013-14 for TATC’s first Jeff Award for choreography of 42nd Street.

‘Miracle on 34th Street’ is certainly familiar from the classic 1947 film and its more modern remakes,” said Fortunato, who choreographed TATC’s “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” in 2010 as well as “Here’s Love” in 2000, both the previous titles for the stage telling of this beloved story.

“The story of the real Kris Kringle hired as Macy’s Santa Claus still touches hearts and reminds us of the power of the imagination. I am excited to share this classic story in musical form with audiences of all ages. From the littlest believers to those who may have lost sight of the magic of Christmas, this musical brightens the holiday season for all.”

The creative team for Miracle on 34th Street includes Scenic Designers Jacqueline and Richard Penrod, Lighting Designer G. Max Maxin IV, Sound Designer Barry Funderburg, Costume Designer Brenda Winstead, Wig Designer Kevin Barthel and Prop Designer Devon Green. Stage Manager is Jessica Banaszak. William Underwood is Music Director. Fortunato is teamed with Richard Friedman, General Manager, and Ann Davis, Head of Production.

Founded in 1991, the 410 seat TATC is a year-round professional theater at its home: The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana. TATC is an accessible venue with plenty of free parking and is located off I80/94, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago.

Performances are 2 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 3 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Saturdays; and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays, with select Thursday and Sunday night performances. Individual ticket prices range from $42- $46. To purchase individual tickets, call the Box Office at 219-836-3255 or Tickets.com at 800-511-1532. Group discounts are available for groups of 11 or more. Student tickets are $20 and gift certificates are also available.

For more information on Theatre at the Center, visit click for details.

Theatre at the Center

Theatre at the Center, Box Office 219.836.3255

- Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out our list of things to do in Northwest Indiana December 14-December 16.

CEDAR LAKE

Brunch With Santa- December 15
click for details

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HAMMOND

Winter WonderLAB: Red & Green Scene- December 14
click for details

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HOBART

Christmas at the Mill- December 15
click for details

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MUNSTER

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: THE MUSICAL- December 14-16
click for details

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PORTAGE

Holiday Boutique- December 15
click for details

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SCHERERVILLE

Schererville Parks Crafts at the Crossroads- December 15
click for details

12th annual Breakfast with Santa at Tyler's Tender Railroad Restaurant-
December 16
click for details

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ST. JOHN

LEGO & DUPLO at St. John Library- December 15
click for details

Teen Holiday Movie at St. John Library- December 15
click for details

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VALPARAISO

Holiday Pops- December 14
click for details

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Fun Things To Do Around NWI All Year Long!
click for details

 

- We post job openings every week!

PEDIATRIC MEDICAL ASSISTANT
Green Pediatrics Family Care, St. John

We are looking for a dedicated hardworking person who is able to multitask, has great people skills, computer skills, is organized, composed, well balanced and is fast learner. We are very busy pediatric office which integrates western medicine with holistic medicine and it is very important to us to have a harmony in the office among our staff. MA should know how to take vitals, room patients, discharge patients, prepare and administer immunizations, call in medicine, do call backs to patients, do referrals, schedule patient appointments and have some EMR experience. We use NextGen EMR/EHR program at the office. Most importantly, MA should have a smile and positive attitude, and be very friendly to parents and patients. MA also MUST be highly experienced in giving immunizations. The opportunity for growth is large - we are a start up company with very fast growth. Full-time. 1 year medical assisting experience required. To apply, click for details

(Posted: December 11, 2018)
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NOW HIRING!
Horseshoe Casino, Hammond

BECOME PART OF OUR LEGENDARY TEAM AND RECEIVE LEGENDARY PERKS! Horseshoe Casino has been voted as one of the Best Places to Work in Indiana since 2011, making our team legendary! Horseshoe Casino offers the best careers in the casino and hospitality industry. As part of Caesars Entertainment, you just can’t beat our winning combination.

Currently hiring for the following positions:

* Banquet Server (On Call)
* Beverage Server (Part-time)
* Cleaning Services Attendant (Full-time)
* Banquet Lead Cook (Full-time)
* Buffet Host (Part-time)
* EDR Cook (Full-time)
* Main Production Cook (Full-time)
* Noodle Bar Cook (Full-time)
* Pastry Cook (Full-time)
* Steakhouse Cook (Full-time)
* The Eatery Cook (Full-time)
* Count Room Representative (Full-time)
* Poker Dealer (Part-time/On Call)
* Poker Dual Rate Supervisor (Full-time)
* Security Ambassador (Full-time)
* SDS Administrator (Full-time)
* Slot Technician (Full-time)
* Table Games Dealer (Full-time/Part-time/On Call)
* Table Games Dual Rate Supervisor (Full-time)

To view job openings and apply, click for details

*Location: Hammond

(Posted: December 8, 2018)
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VIOLIN INSTRUCTORS & PIANO INSTRUCTORS
HGS Music, Crown Point or Highland

**Accepting resumes from college-students through seasoned musicians and educators.**
A successful candidate will have these qualities:
- proficiency on their instrument
- comfortable with all ages and personalities
- able to work 1-2 weeknights, and/or Saturday mornings
- comfortable in a professional environment

For more information about our school, click for details

Please be prepared to play two pieces for us during an interview.
Please EMAIL only. NO phone calls. Send resume or detailed info to info@hgsmusic.net. We look forward to hearing from you!

(Posted: December 7, 2018)
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WINDOW CLEANERS
BREN-MARK Window Cleaning...Lake, Porter, LaPorte Counties

FULL-TIME & PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

Starting at $10 to $18/hour after 90 days of Training.

Work 25-40+ hours per week. Monday-Friday availability between 6am-6pm. Occasional Saturdays.

No experience? No problem! We Will Train You!

Our company has grown every year we have been in business, 19 years and counting. Now we are adding new, cutting-edge technology in both window and gutter cleaning. Glass and gutters that were once unreachable can now be done more efficiently and safely. This will open up new opportunities without having to travel outside of our service area. Be part of our growing company and apply today!

• We provide complete training, equipment, uniforms
• Weekly performance bonuses!
• Direct Deposit
• Flexible Schedule--College students welcome!!!
• Year-Round Work
• Appreciation for a Job Well Done
• FREE Keurig beverages, Gatorade, Fully Stocked Candy Bowl
• Monthly Breakfasts to celebrate Birthdays/Anniversaries
• Mileage Reimbursement

Required: Valid Driver's License, Vehicle to drive to job site, and Current Proof of Car Insurance

For the complete job description and to apply with our one-page application, click for details

(Posted: December 7, 2018)
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BRANCH CLERICAL ASSISTANT
Lowell Public Library- Shelby Branch, Shelby

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THIS POSITION:

The Branch Clerical Assistant is responsible for the day to day management of the branch, meeting patron needs and programming, and is under the direct supervision of the Director and Assistant Director. Prior library experience is required for this position.

QUALIFICATIONS:

High School Diploma or equivalent. College degree preferred but not required
Strong oral and written communication skills
Strong interpersonal skills
Strong computer skills, knowledge of Polaris, Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel (preferred)
Ability to lift up to 20 lbs.’, and to set up tables and chairs for programs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Opening and closing of branch.
2. Check materials in and out.
3. Responsible for handling of holds, over dues, fines and fees.
4. Responsible for any processing not done at the main library.
5. Handle all requests for books and information promptly.
6. Write monthly reports.
7. Help to plan, prepare and present interesting programs for patrons.
8. Responsible for assisting in developing and weeding collections and ordering books.
9. Management of the branch facility. If there is any problem with the facility, let the director know immediately.
10. Assigns job tasks to the library page.
11. Responsible for displays.
12. Responsible for transporting materials to and from the main library.
13. Attend monthly staff meetings.
14. Responsible for cleaning the branch.
15. Other Duties as assigned.

FILL OUT AN APPLICATION AT THE LOWELL MAIN BRANCH 1505 E. Commercial Ave.

(Posted December 5, 2018)
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CIRCULATION DESK CLERK
Lowell Public Library, Lowell

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THIS POSITION:

The circulation clerk is responsible for functions of the circulation desk.

QUALIFICATIONS:
High school diploma
Ability to stand for periods of six hours
Ability to use a standard telephone
Good communication and interpersonal skills
Basic computer skills

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Work at the circulation desk as scheduled performing the following duties:
1. Answer the telephone and transfer calls appropriately
2. Learn the Polaris computer system
3. Create new library cards
4. Search & place holds for patrons
5. Check items in and out
6. Print, collect, and reconcile the pull list report on the computer
7. Reconcile the cancelled holds report on the computer
8. Assist with patron instruction.
9. Work with staff on special projects.
10. Sort and distribute incoming mail
11. Other duties as assigned

This is an entry level position. To apply, click for details and bring to the circulation desk at 1505 E. Commercial Ave.

(Posted December 5, 2018)
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SECRETARY
Merrillville Intermediate School, Merrillville

The Merrillville Intermediate School is seeking a Main Office Secretary/Clerk to start December 10, 2018. Job responsibilities and qualifications can be viewed on their website here: click for details

(Posted November 27, 2018)
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PAGE POSITION
Lake County Library- Munster Branch, Munster

12-15 hours per week, $7.25 per hour.

Job duties include:
Shelve library material
Read shelves regularly
Maintain neatness and order
Assist patrons in locating materials when necessary
Perform opening and closing duties
Perform all other duties as assigned

For a more detailed description:
click for details

To download and print an application:
click for details

(Posted November 26, 2018)
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PARK SECRETARY
The Lowell Parks Dept., Lowell

Qualified applicants please apply by December 10th. This position will begin January 2019. For Job description and employment application, click for details and look under Parks Department-Latest News.

(Posted November 26, 2018)
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BEVERAGE SERVER
Horshoe Casino, Hammond

$10.00/hr + tips. Provides food and beverage service to patrons using “One on One” service that exceeds their expectations. Observes patron to ensure patron satisfaction and responds to additional requests. Work variable shifts within the Casino Beverage department. Provide quick, friendly and professional service to patrons and co-workers that exceed expectations. Keep service wells, lounge and gaming tables wiped down, clean and free of debris and clutter. Remain visible by standing in the front of the room greeting guests as they enter. To apply, click for details

(Posted November 20, 2018)
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COUNT ROOM REP
Horseshoe Casino, Hammond

$10.59/hr. Labor Position. Able to lift up to 50lbs. Count and strap currency from bill validator cash boxes. Create disk with bill validator amounts to be entered into SIS system. Count, strap and record currency from table games drop boxes. Verify and audit documents from table games drop boxes to the Drop Verification Report and correct any system errors or discrepancies. Print closing reports and process end of day in LGS system. Test accuracy of the counting machine monthly. Other duties as assigned. Filling NRT machines. To apply, click for details

(Posted November 20, 2018)
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TEAM MEMBER
Lansing Public Library, Lansing IL

The Lansing Public Library is looking for an outgoing new member for our library team with fresh ideas and unlimited enthusiasm. Hours: 12-18 hours/week including evenings and weekends. Wage: $13.11.

For more information, click for details
For availability form, click for details

Those interested in the position must send in a cover letter and resume to emily@lansingpl.org. Applicants that do not include the cover letter, resume, and availability will not be considered for the position. No phone calls, please.

(Posted November 20, 2018)
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Check back with us regularly! We post job openings every Monday. New openings are added to the list as they come in, the most recent openings will be at the top of the list. Your job opening will be posted for three weeks.

If you are an employer or manager with a job opening, please send us a short job description (100 words or less), the town that the job is held, and the best way to apply for the position. Please email this information to Stacy Travis at stacy.travis@nwi-townplanner.com. We accept up to 2 job openings at a time for free. If you would like to learn more about advertising an unlimited number of job openings every week, contact Stacy at stacy.travis@nwi-townplanner.com.

Please note that beginning June 1, 2015, we will not be including job posts promoting direct sales businesses. If you would like to promote your direct sales business please feel free to email Stacy Travis at stacy.travis@nwi-townplanner.com for advertising pricing and information.

 

- CROWN POINT

Family Friendly NYE Ice Skating Party
click for details

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DYER

Ring in the New Year Gym Camp
click for details

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HIGHLAND

Feature Film: When Harry Met Sally
click for details

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LAKE STATION

New Year's Eve Bellabaration 2018: A Glitterific Gala
click for details

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LOWELL

New Year's Eve at Signature Banquets
click for details

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OTHER NEW YEAR'S EVE EVENTS NEAR NORTHWEST INDIANA:

Zoo Year’s Eve at Brookfield Zoo
click for details

 

- On this date in 1773, the Sons of Liberty, some disguised as Native Americans, boarded three British vessels at Griffin's Wharf, Boston Harbor. Contents of 342 chests of tea were dumped into the harbor as a protest against the Tea Act of 1773 by the American Colonists.

 

- Each Monday at lunchtime! Expand your horizons with us at greenCOW Coworking as we watch movies, short films, TED Talks, and documentaries that push us to challenge our ideas and become better people. Bring your own lunch and feel free to share.

GreenCOW Coworking

Lee Watson 219.501.0501

- Beyond Our Borders discussion of Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng.

Hammond Public Library

Hammond Public Library 219.931.5100

- Kids (K-5th grade) will make their own LEGO® creations using the library's LEGO® blocks. Call (219)838-2825 to register or go to events.lcplin.org.

Griffith-Calumet Township Branch

Melissa Melendez 219.838.2825 griffith@lcplin.org

- Would you like to help plan the St. John Library's future teen events? If
so, join our Teen Advisory Board! You will earn volunteer hours while we
discuss and plan future teen programs. Ages 11-17.

St. John Public Library

Teen Services 219.365.5379

- The most wonderful time of year deserves the most wonderful type of event. ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo has been Chicago’s holiday tradition for 24 years. The one of a kind experience offers fun, free, family oriented holiday celebrations that feature luminous displays and incredible seasonal activities… all under the glow of 2.5 million lights!

4:30-9 p.m.
November 2018: 23, 24, 25 and 30
December 2018: 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 31*
*(early closure of 8 PM on the 31st)
January 2019: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

Festive Activities
- Photos with Santa (through December 23 before he heads back to the North Pole)
- Incredible 3D displays
- Warm spiced wine, frosty beers and festive specials
- Delicious holiday snacks
- Holiday gift shopping
- Live ice-sculpture carving (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays and Family Night Mondays)
- Strolling carolers (Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Family Night Mondays)
- Ticketed Experiences: Carousel, train, ferris wheel, Light Maze presented by Invesco QQQ, Sea Explorer 5D featuring a polar Journey ticketed experiences
- Musical light shows at the Winter Wonderlawn
- Candy Cane Lane and more than 100 giant themed displays
- 3D holiday specs while supplies last

Special Events
Members Only Night at ZooLights
Friday, November 16, 4:30 - 9 p.m.
Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests get exclusive access to a preview of ZooLights before it opens to the public!
(Please note: Only Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests may enter the zoo this evening. No advance registration is required.)
To learn more and become a member, click for details

ZooLights Opening Night!
Friday, November 23
You are cordially invited to help us flip the switch! At 4:25 p.m., join in on the official lighting ceremony at the stairs to Wild Things! gift shop to kick off the festivities.

Holiday Market (TICKETED)
Tuesday, November 27, 6:30 - 10 p.m.
Don't miss the wildest magical holiday shopping fair in the city! The zoo's third annual Holiday Market will feature local artisan, crafters, and makers throughout the zoo grounds against the backdrop of 2.5 million lights!
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

Adults Night Out: Holidaze!
Thursday, November 29, 6:30 - 10 p.m.
This winter version of the zoo's most popular event series gives adults exclusive access to stroll zoo grounds afterhours with hot chocolate, mulled wine, or beer in hand. Come for the 2.5 million holiday lights but stay for the Zoo Trivia! Dazzling displays, holiday activities, music, cash bars, and educational entertainment. Sound fabulous? Join us!
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 18 and older
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

BrewLights Presented by Lakeshore Beverage
Thursday, December 6, 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Support Chicago's free zoo with a craft brew at the fifth annual BrewLights hosted by the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo. Guests will forage for local craft, seasonal and import beers amidst the dazzle of ZooLights. All proceeds go toward the Auxiliary Board's commitment to support Lincoln Park Zoo's The Pride of Chicago campaign.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 21 and older

The Chris White Trio Tribute to 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'
Sunday, December 9, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Snap your fingers to the jazzy take on one of the season's classic soundtracks. Meet your favorite cartoon dog, enjoy a backdrop of 2.5 million lights and experience a new holiday tradition.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event that takes place at Café Brauer)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets, click for details

Breakfast with Santa
Sunday, December 16, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Enjoy quality family time with Kris Kringle with a delicious seasonal breakfast and complimentary cookie decorating for kids. Buy tickets today for one of four limited capacity seatings at landmark Café Brauer, located next to the zoo's Nature Boardwalk.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event that takes place at Café Brauer)
For guests of all ages
To learn more and buy tickets: click for details

Zoo Year's Eve
Monday, December 31, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.
New Year, NEW EVENT: Zoo Year's Eve is an adults-only New Year's Eve celebration! Ring in the New Year with DJ entertainment, games and giveaways in the glow of ZooLights! Food and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.
(Please note: this is a ticketed event, only guests with a ticket will be allowed entry to the zoo this evening)
For guests 21 and older
Ticketing information coming soon!

Monday Family Nights
Monday, December 10, 17, and 31*, 2018

Kids eat FREE at Park Place Café (one free limited-menu kids’ meal per paid adult entrée/combo), all guests enjoy unlimited free rides on Lionel Train Adventure and AT&T Endangered Species Carousel as well as Ice Carvers and strolling carolers! Plus, Zoo Members at all levels get free parking. (Individual and Household members, pick up your parking vouchers at Searle Visitor Center during your visit.)

*(early closure of 8 PM on the 31st)

Experiences
Tickets can be purchased on site for $3 each, a package of 10 for $27, or a package of 20 for $51.

AT&T Endangered Species Carousel
The AT&T Endangered Species Carousel features 48 artisan-crafted wooden animals and two chariots.
1 ticket required per person to ride

Century Wheel
This 65-foot ferris wheel will lift you to new sights as your soar above the holiday magic and get the best view in the city.
2 tickets required per person to ride

Light Maze Presented by Invesco QQQ
This attraction features 30,000 twinkling lights distracting you from making your way through the twists and turns.
1 ticket required per person

Lionel Train Adventure
The trackless train crosses over a quaint country bridge and wends its way past forest and canyon scenery before returning to a red brick station.
1 ticket required per person to ride

Sea Explorer 5D
Take a virtual submarine ride that is great for the whole family. With this 4-D, limited-time attraction. You will cruise through ocean waters and perhaps pop up near the shore-and maybe encounter some wildlife on the way! A hydraulic floor makes It feel like you're really traveling through the water as you dive deep and meet the residents of our wild waters.
2 tickets required per person to ride

Frequently Asked Questions

WHERE IS ZOOLIGHTS TAKING PLACE, WHAT IS ACCESSIBLE, AND WILL I SEE ANIMALS?
To can check out all the exhibits Lincoln Park Zoo has to offer, lpzoo.org/exhibits. This year, ticketed attractions for ZooLights will take place throughout main zoo grounds only. However for ZooLights the McCormick Bird House and Farm-in-the-Zoo will not be open.

To learn about what areas of Lincoln Park Zoo are accessible, click for details

We have nearly 200 species here at Lincoln Park Zoo. In general, animals tend to be most active around feeding – diurnal species are most active during the day while nocturnal animals are more active at night. Most of the animals at the zoo have access to either indoor and outdoor habitats or behind-the-scenes spaces. Choice is important for species and these animals may choose not to be visible to the public.

WHAT ARE THE AGE RESTRICTIONS FOR THE ZOOLIGHTS ATTRACTIONS?
All ages are welcome to attend ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo! For the safety of all guests, please note that specific paid attractions will have weight and height limitations.

WHERE CAN I PURCHASE TICKETS TO ZOOLIGHTS ATTRACTIONS?
Tickets for rides can be purchased at Lincoln Park Zoo each night of ZooLights starting on Friday, November 23 through Sunday, January 6 from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Ticket kiosks will be set up throughout main zoo grounds. Tickets must be purchased in person as they are not available online. ZooLights tickets are $3 for one ticket, $27 for 10 tickets and $51 for 20 tickets.

I AM A LINCOLN PARK ZOO MEMBER. HOW CAN I APPLY MY MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS TO ZOOLIGHTS?
Lincoln Park Zoo members will enjoy exclusive access to the new year-round Member Lounge, generously supported by the Women’s Board, located in the Searle Visitor Center. Warm up in this new space open until 9:00 p.m. each night of ZooLights.

Members Only Night at ZooLights
Friday, November 16, 4:30 – 9 p.m.
Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests get exclusive access to a preview of ZooLights before it opens to the public!
(Please note: Only Lincoln Park Zoo members and their guests may enter the zoo this evening. No advance registration is required.)
Learn more

For specific events and select ticket types, Lincoln Park Zoo members will receive a discount on their ticket purchase. Make sure to check the event page for details regarding member discounts.

To apply your Lincoln Park Zoo Membership code, please enter in the first three digits of your membership number is the “apply discount” box on Eventbrite. You will need to enter in the code before you select the number of tickets / ticket types (if more than one option is available) in order for the code to be applied. Then select the number of tickets you wish to purchase and proceed to checkout.

CAN ZOOLIGHT ATTRACTION TICKETS BE TRADED, TRANSFERRED, OR REFUNDED AND WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS INCLEMENT WEATHER?
ZooLights is free to attend. Attractions at ZooLights are an additional costs. Your attraction tickets can be used at the Lionel Train Adventure, AT&T Endangered Species Carousel, Century Wheel, Light Maze Presented by Invesco QQQ and/or the Sea Explorer 5D. Tickets are not assigned to individual people, so feel free to distribute to your family and friends. Please keep in mind that there are no refunds for tickets purchased to ZooLights attractions.

ZooLights will be held rain, shine or snow. Please dress accordingly!

WHERE CAN I PARK TO ATTEND ZOOLIGHTS?
Guests who wish to drive can pay to park in the Lincoln Park Zoo lot on Cannon Drive. For additional information and pricing, please, click for details
Lincoln Park Zoo is also accessible by public transportation.

WILL THERE BE FOOD OR BEVERAGES FOR SALE AT THIS EVENT?
Yes. Food is available at the following locations at Lincoln Park Zoo during ZooLights hours: Park Place Café, Eadie Levy’s Landmark Café, Safari Café, Snack & Drink Quick Stops, and the Patio at Café Brauer. All cafes are able to accept cash or credit. While we will have several ATMs on-site, we encourage you to bring cash for the most efficient experience.

I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS, WHO CAN I REACH OUT TO?
If you have a question regarding this event, please email events@lpzoo.org.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo 312.742.2000

- Come join us for Weekly Monday Bingo. Every Monday (except when Monday is a Holiday) Tri-Town Safety Village along with our friends at Patrician Banquets will host a Monday Night Bingo. Great payouts, reserved seating is available by calling 219-865-9600 and asking for Jodi.

Come early for the Patricians fantastic food at great prices, and stay for the fun and excitement.
Proceeds go to help fund Tri-Town Safety Village, and to keep surrounding community children safe. Our children are our future.

Patrician Banquets

Jodi Kobak 12198659600 admin@safetyvillage.us

- Lights will be on from 11/22-1/1 between 5pm til 10 pm.

- Lets Go Sledding!

BEECHER, IL:
Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve
Dutton Road, north of Goodenow Road., Beecher
Times: 8 a.m.-Sunset
For current sledding conditions call: 708.946.2216.
Inner tubes for sledding are available for rental at Plum Creek Nature Center for use on the sled hill at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve when conditions allow after December 1. Renters must be 18 years old and bring a valid driver's license or state ID. Tubes may be limited to one tube per license/ID. Tubes are rented until 3 p.m. and must be returned to the Nature Center by 4 p.m.
Activity Fee: $2/tube
click for details
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CHESTERTON:
Indiana Dunes State Park
1600 N. 25 E., Chesterton
219.926.1952
Adventure seekers can enjoy a thrilling 100-ft ride down Devil's Slide, the only location where sledding is permitted in the park. Hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing also are available on the 16 miles of trails along the lakeshore.
click for details
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CROWN POINT:
Lake County Fairgrounds
889 S Court St., Crown Point
219.663.3617
A longtime favorite among sledders, the hill at Fancher Lake offers fun for all ages.

Lemon Lake County Park
6322 W. 133rd Avenue, Crown Point
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset daily
The sledding hill at Lemon Lake will be open December 1 through March when adequate snow base allows. The gate fee is charged when a gatekeeper is on duty. Call after 9 a.m. to see if the hill is open before you come out. Call Lemon Lake at 219-663-7627 or the Lemon Lake Ski Rental building at 219-663-2418.
There are no rentals, so bring your own tube or plastic sled. No wooden or metal runner sleds or snowboards are allowed for safety purposes.
click for details
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DYER:
Northgate Park
Calumet Ave. at Harrison Place, Dyer
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GRIFFITH:
Oak Ridge Prairie County Park
301 S. Colfax Street, Griffith
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset daily
The sledding hill at Oak Ridge Prairie will be open December 1 through March when adequate snow base allows. The gate fee is charged when a gatekeeper is on duty.
Call after 9 a.m. to see if the hill is open before you come out. Oak Ridge Prairie at 219-884-7238.
There are no rentals, so bring your own tube or plastic sled. No wooden or metal runner sleds or snowboards are allowed for safety purposes.
click for details
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HAMMOND:
Dowling Park
175th & Parrish Avenue, Hammond
click for details

Forsythe Park
119th Street and Calumet Avenue, Hammond
219.659.7678
Time: Dawn to dusk daily
Outdoor recreation isn’t only for the summer! Each winter, hundreds enjoy activities in and around the Hammond Port Authority properties.
click for details

Lost Marsh Golf Course
1001 129th St., Hammond
219.932.4653
click for details
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LAPORTE:
Red Mill County Park
0185 South Holmesville Road, La Porte
219.325.8315
click for details

Kesling Park
18th Street, La Porte
219.326.9600
click for details
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LEROY:
Stoney Run County Park
142nd and Union St., Leroy
219.996.6500
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset daily
Looking for a great way to exercise in a beautiful setting? Then come out to your Lake County Parks and cross country ski. Each park that offers this activity has several miles of trails through wooded areas as well as open fields. The trails are designed for a beginner as well as the experienced skier, so don't worry if you have never tried cross country skiing before.
Cross country ski rentals open at Lemon Lake and Stoney Run on Fri, Sat, Sun and school holidays 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Weather and snow conditions permitting. All equipment must be returned by 4:30 p.m. Note: Closing times may vary due to darkness. The equestrian trail is clossed at Stoney Run from December through March. Ski trails are groomed at Lemon Lake and Stoney Run when there is at least a four inch snow base.
click for details
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LOWELL:
Liberty Park
W Main St & N Liberty St., Lowell
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MERRILLVILLE:
Hidden Lake Park
6355 Broadway, Merrillville
219.980.8790
click for details
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MUNSTER:
Centennial Park
901 N. Centennial Dr., Munster
219.836.6930
click for details
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PORTAGE:
Countryside Park
5250 U.S. 6, Portage
219.762.1675

Woodland Park
2100 Willowcreek Road, Portage
219.762.1675
click for details
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PORTER:
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
1100 N. Mineral Springs Road, Porter
219.926.7561
Time: Sunrise to sunset daily
Hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular in the wintertime. Visitors must bring their own snowshoes and cross-country skis, as there are no rentals available. A 4-6 inch snow base is recommended. Trails are not groomed.
click for details
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ST. JOHN:
Heron Lake Park
11960 Osage Dr., St. John
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VALPARAISO:
Forest Park Golf Course near Discovery Cottage
1158 Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso
219.462.5144
Once the golf course closes for the season, families can bring their skis and sleds for some winter fun.

Rogers-Lakewood Park
3210 North Campbell Street, Valparaiso
219.462.5144
This popular sledding hill attracts families each year to this 122-acre park. Families must bring their own sleds.
click for details

Sunset Hill Farm
775 Meridian Road, Valparaiso
219.465.3586
Time: Dawn to dusk

 

-
Indiana Dunes Visitor Center
1215 N. State Road 49, Porter
(219) 926-2255
The stress of everyday life melts away the instant you arrive at any of the beaches within the Indiana Dunes. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach as gentle waves lap the shore around you, strolling along the shore, or playing frisbee, it’s apparent why this natural wonder is called Nature’s Masterpiece.
click for details


Central Avenue Beach Access
151 Central Ave., Michigan City
(219) 395-1882
A unique beach you can access by paved road or wooded trail. Here, you can see a buried forest created by wind-blown sands. Nearby, you can access the Calumet Bike Trail. Nearby, you can access the northeast end of the Calumet Bike Trail. This 9.1-mile gravel trail passes flower-filled fields, marshes, and woodlands. Lifeguards are not provided at Central Avenue Beach.
click for details


Cowles Bog
1618 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter
(219) 395-1882
If you are the type that will WALK MILES TO GET TO A SECLUDED BEACH, this is your spot. On your way to the beach you will walk through the remnant of the once-widespread wetland system called Cowles Bog. The bog encompasses a marsh surrounding a small fen, where a stand of tamaracks and white pines grows on a floating mat of peat moss. Starting near the guardhouse in the northeastern part of the site, a boardwalk trail passes marshes and ponds that host horned grebes, black-crowned night herons, buffleheads, and a myriad of other water birds. You can hike right out to the beach and back on 4.5 miles of interconnecting loop trails. Two trailheads serve the trail system, each with a portable toilet. Parking is very limited and needless to say there are no lifeguards making the trek out to this secluded beach.
click for details


Dunbar Beach Access
300 W. Lakefront Dr., Beverly Shores
(219) 395-1882
Parking is limited at this prime spot near the Lake View Picnic Area and the historic Century of Progress homes. A beautiful beach in a residential neighborhood where there are no lifeguards.
click for details


Indiana Dunes State Park
1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton
(219) 926-1952
Indiana Dunes consists of 2,182 acres of primitive, beautiful, historic and unique Hoosier landscape. It lies at the north end of State Road 49 in Porter County, and includes more than three miles of beautiful beach along Lake Michigan’s southern shore. In the early 1900s scientists, recreationists and nature enthusiasts, recognizing the value and potential of the Indiana dunes area, fought to have the region preserved. As a result, in 1925, the state park was established.
click for details


Kemil Road Beach Access
27 N. State Park Rd., Chesterton
(219) 395-1882
You’ll enjoy one of the most scenic drives in Porter County getting to the Kemil Road Beach parking lots. Then you can enjoy a nice stretch of beach or walk down to Lake View Picnic area to have a picnic or use the restroom. No lifeguards.
click for details


Lake View Picnic Area
50 W. Lake Front Dr., Michigan City
(219) 395-1882
With easy access from your car to a sitting area with a stunning view, Lake View is also a popular spot for enjoying the beach. There are no lifeguards at Lake View, but it is the only area in the national lakeshore with picnic shelters overlooking the lake.
click for details


Mount Baldy Beach
U.S. 12, Michigan City
Phone: (219) 395-1882
The BEACH is open but the DUNE is closed for public safety and dune protection.
click for details


Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk
100 Riverwalk Dr., Portage
Phone: (219) 395-1882
The popular location is open daily, sunrise to dusk. Year round, the location is a great place to view the ever changing seasons along Lake Michigan and watch dramatic weather and clouds build over the lake. It's an easy location to watch for migrating birds in the spring and summer, and observe shelf ice that forms along the beach edge in the winter. (Keep in mind that walking on shelf ice is dangerous). During the busy summer season, the 125 vehicle parking lots are often full by mid-morning.
click for details


Porter Beach Access
3050 Wabash Ave., Porter
(219) 395-1882
A popular gathering spot for splashing in the water, playing beach sports and catching some rays. Bathrooms and small foot wash. Limited parking. No lifeguards.
click for details


Wells St. Beach
9501 Lake Shore Dr, Gary
Phone: (219) 938-8275
WSB beach front parking and concession now has a patio with table side dining serving beer, wine, and food. Located in Miller, Indian on Lake Michigan, just a short drive from Chicago, Michigan City, LaPorte, and Valparaiso. Enjoy a day on the beach with family and friends. Don't forget to indulge in the season must have, our Wells Street Burger!
click for details


West Beach
376 N. County Line Rd., Portage
(219) 395-1882
A bath house nestled among dunes and a wide sandy beach makes this a popular spot for enjoying Lake Michigan. From the beach, hike the Dune Succession Trail that includes a boardwalk and 250 stairs to a spectacular overlook of the lake with Chicago on the horizon. Covered picnic shelters and grills offer a great spot to relax over a meal after a day’s worth of activities. Lifeguards available from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
click for details

 

- Northwest Indiana is the home to numerous walking and biking trails. Check out the details on each trail for uses and location.

LAKE COUNTY TRAILS

Erie Lackawanna Trail
Cities: Hammond, Highland, Griffith, Merrillville, Schererville, Lake County
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail-trail
Total Length of all segments: 16 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: walking, biking, wheelchairs, biking, rollerblading.
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Tranquil fields, wetlands, neighborhoods.
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Hammond Bus Station - Sibley St and Hohman Ave, Hammond - IN
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: West 93rd Avenue - Crown Point
click for details

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Marquette Trail
City: Gary
INFO
Type of Trail: Dunes
Mileage: 2.10
Surface: crushed limestone
Uses allowed: walking, Cross Country Skiing,mountain biking, skating,wheelchairs.
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Wetlands, dunes.
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Grand Blvd at Ash Ave.
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: County Line Road going to beach
click for details

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Veteran's Memorial Bikeway
Cities: Crown point & Hebron
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 9; 7 equestrian
Uses allowed: Horses on the parallel Equestrian Trail, rollerblading, walking, running, biking, hiking
Which uses NOT allowed: Motorized vehicles
Attractive Features: 6 miles of the Trail parallels with an Equestrian Trail, first trail in the US named after war veterans, eventually will connect to the American Discovery Trail running from Delaware to California, farmland and a quite beautiful, serene surrounding
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : State Road 231, Crown Point
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: N. Main Street, Hebron
click for details

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Wolf Lake - George Lake Trails
City: Whiting
INFO
Type of Trail: greenway
Mileage: 3.14 miles
Total Length of all segments: 6.5 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses Allowed: hiking, jogging, rollerblading, walking, biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Northern Entrance to the Forsythe Park
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: 119th Street
click for details

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Whihala Beach Bike Trail - Whiting Park
City: Whiting
INFO
Type of Trail: dune
Uses Allowed: Walking, jogging, biking
Mileage: 3886 ft.
North Endpoint – General: Lake Avenue - Whiting
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Park Road - Whiting
click for details

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Little Calumet River Levee Trail
City: Gary
INFO
Type of trail: River bank trail
Uses allowed: hiking, jogging, biking, rollerblading, skating, XC skiing, walking, wheelchairs
Mileage: 6
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Calumet Avenue Munster IN
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: Martin Luther King Dr. - Gary In
click for details

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Pennsy North West Greenway
City: Schererville
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 2.1
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, walking, jogging, rollerblading
Wheelchairs allowed: Yes
North Endpoint – General: E. Wilhelm Street - Redar Park Shererville IN
South Endpoint – General: Rohrman Park and Mockingbird Dr. - Shererville IN
click for details

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Munster Trail System
City: Munster
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Surface: Asphalt
Uses allowed: Jogging, Walking, Biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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Green Link Trail
City: Gary
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Mileage: 3/4 of a mile
Part NOT open: yes
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: Walking, biking, jogging, rollerblading, skating
Wheelchairs allowed: Yes
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Bridge Street
East endpoint – General: W. 2nd Ave and Roosevelt St.
click for details

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Monon Trail
Cities: Hammond/Munster
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 3.64
Uses Allowed: Walking, rollerblading, skating, biking
Surface: Asphalt
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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Pennsy Greenway
City: Munster
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Total Length of all segments: 4.10 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, walking, hiking, skating, rollerblading
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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St. John Trail
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Mileage: 2.5 miles
Surface: Asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, walking, hiking, skating, rollerblading
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Homestead Acres Park, Heartland Park
click for details

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Cressmoor Prairie Nature Preserve Trail
City: Hobart
INFO
Type of Trail: Nature Preserve
Mileage: 0.8
Surface: Natural
Uses allowed: walking
Agency, Group Owned: Meadowbrook
Telephone: (219) 242 8558
click for details

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C&O Trail ( Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad )
City: Merrillville
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 1.48
Part NOT open: yes
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: Biking, Walking, Jogging
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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LAPORTE COUNTY


Lincoln Memorial Trails
City: Westville
INFO
Type of Trail: Various
Total Length of all segments: 3 miles
Uses allowed: Hiking, Biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
E-mail: rbalsa@lincolntrail.info
click for details

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LaPorte County Bicycle Routes
City: Countywide
INFO
Type of Trail: 20 bike loops that connect our parks, communities, and other attractions
Total Length of all segments: 420 miles
Surface: asphalt
click for details

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PORTER COUNTY


Taltree Arboretum & Gardens
City: Valparaiso
Taltree has nearly just over six miles of trails. All provide plenty of room to comfortably walk or run by yourself, with a canine companion or your family and friends. The trail terrain is mostly grass and mulch.
Bluebird Trail 1.63 miles
Cardinal Trail .62 miles
Goldfinch Trail .63 miles
Heron Trail .28 miles
Owl Trail .51 miles
Woodcock Trail .96 miles
Pheasant Trail 1.11 miles
click for details

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Calumet Trail
City: Michigan City/Dune Acres
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 9.2
Part NOT open: no
Total Length of all segments: 9.2 miles
Surface: crushed limestone
Length of unpaved: 9.2 miles
Uses allowed: biking, walking, running
Which uses NOT allowed: horses,snowmobiles
Attractive Features: Wetland flowers, wildlife, fall foliage; close to parks.
Impediments: First three miles can be under water after rain; some damage to covered bridges.
West Endpoint – General: Near Porter
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Mineral Springs Road
East endpoint – General: Michigan City
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: U. S. 12 at the power plant road
Telephone: (219) 395-1882
click for details

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Iron Horse Heritage Trail
City: Portage
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail-trail
Mileage: 2.9
Part NOT open: no
Total Length of all segments: 5.1 miles
Surface: dirt,some asphalt
Uses allowed: walking, mountain biking.
Wheelchairs allowed: no
Which uses NOT allowed: wheelchair, rollerblading, biking
Attractive Features: Park, Mountain biking adjacent.
Impediments: rustic, muddy.
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Portage Avenue
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: N. State Rd 149
Telephone: 219-762-1675
click for details

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Prairie Duneland Trail
City: Chesterton
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail-trail
Mileage: 10.40
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: all uses
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Connects to various trails, natural areas with abundant flora and fauna.
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : SR51-Hobart
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: S. 15th Street
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: Hobart Road
Telephone: (219) 395-1882
click for details

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Outback Trail
City: Portage
INFO
Type of Trail: BMX
Part NOT open: no
Total Length of all segments: 4 miles
Surface: dirt
Length of unpaved: 4 miles
Uses allowed: all levels of skill mountain biking.
Wheelchairs allowed: no
Which uses NOT allowed: restricted to mountain biking only.
Attractive Features: Circular dirt.
Impediments: dirt, steep slopes.
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : circular,off Imagination Park,Portage
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: circular
click for details

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Hobart Trails
City: Hobart
INFO
Type of Trail: City
Total Length of all segments: 1.2 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: Hiking, Walking, Biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Telephone: (219) 942-1940
click for details

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Ly-co-ki-we Trail System
City: Chesterton
INFO
Type of Trail: Forest
Mileage: 6.4
Total Length of all segments: 9.4
Surface: Sandy
Uses allowed: Hiking, walking, horseback riding, cross country skiing
Wheelchairs allowed: No
Attractive Features: Historic site-forest-marsh-wetlands
Impediments: Trails are not wheelchair accessible
North Endpoint – General: Calumet Interpretive Center
South Endpoint – General: US Hwy 20 & Brummitt Rd.
West Endpoint – General: Hwy 12 & 50 East
East endpoint – General: Dunewood Campground
Telephone: 219-926-7561
click for details

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Little Calumet River Trail
City: Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: River
Mileage: 1.2
Surface: Natural (dirt-bark-some sand)
Uses allowed: Hiking, walking
Wheelchairs allowed: No
Attractive Features: Historic site-forest-marsh-wetlands
Impediments: some areas not wheelchair accessible
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Howe Rd & oak Hill Rd.
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Hwy. 20 & Howe Rd.
Telephone: 219-926-7561
click for details

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Bailly Homestead & Chellberg Farm Trails
City: Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: Forest
Mileage: 2.1
Surface: Natural (dirt-bark-some sand)
Uses allowed: Hiking, walking
Attractive Features: Historic site-forest-marsh-wetlands
Impediments: some areas not wheelchair accessible
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : at Bailly Cemetery near Hwy 12
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Bailly Homestead
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Howe Rd
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: Chellberg Farm
Telephone: 219-926-7561
click for details

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Valparaiso walking & biking trail system
City: Valparaiso
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenways
Surface: Asphalt
click for details

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Brickyard Trail / Dunes Kankakee Bike Trail
City: Chesterton / Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Total Length of all segments: 4.1 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, hiking, walking
Attractive Features: Indiana Dunes State Park, Little Calumet River, Connects Prairie Duneland with Calumet trail
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Indiana Dunes State Park
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Prairie Duneland Trailhead – Chesterton
click for details

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Cowles Bog Trails
City: Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: Park
Uses Allowed: Foot traffic only
Surface: Natural
click for details

 

- Northwest Indiana hosts a variety of museums and other establishments offering tours to the public. Stop by or schedule a tour at one of the following locations!

ALBANESE CANDY FACTORY (guided group tours and self-guided tours)
5441 E Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN 46410
(219) 947-3070
Every year, people from all over the country come to learn about our process of making the “World’s Best Gummies” and chocolates. What makes us unique is that we are the only candy company that offers a public tour for gummi manufacturing in the USA. You’ll get to view our Gummi Factory through 8 separate windows and see two videos explaining the creation of our gummies and one video featuring our Gold Label Chocolates. Albanese tours are a great way for people of all ages to add a little fun and knowledge to their day.
Our tours are designed for people of all ages and the tour is wheelchair accessible. We offer two types of tours – guided group tours or self-guided tours, geared toward the individual visitor. Both types of tours are FREE. From November – December and March-April, no tours will be given. Santa and the Easter Bunny visit us every year during that time.
click for details


BROKEN WAGON BISON (guided group tours and “walk-in-tours” with no minimum group size)
563 W 450 N, Hobart, IN 46342
(219) 759-3523
Come visit Broken Wagon Bison and have your own personal encounter with North America's largest native land mammal. Summer tours give you the opportunity to be "surrounded" by bison (in the safety of our Bison Tour Wagon) and watch the new-born calves nurse and run around. You'll get a true sense of the size, strength, and power of these remarkable animals as you watch the one-ton herd bull lumber by, and if the herd should break into a run, they can hit speeds of 35 to 50 mph and literally make the ground shake.
Private and open tours of Broken Wagon Bison Ranch are offered from June 1st through September 30th. All tours are $10 per person and include a stick of genuine bison jerky.
click for details


BUCKLEY HOMESTEAD COUNTY PARK (self-guided and guided group tours)
Farm & Barnyard open daily 7am - dusk
Buildings open seasonally
3606 Belshaw Road
Lowell, IN 46356
The historic traditions, culture and heritage of farming life during the 19th and early 20th centuries are re-created on this living history farm, where visitors learn about our local history or reminisce about their own childhood memories.
click for details


CEDAR LAKE HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION MUSEUM
7408 Constitution Ave, Cedar Lake, IN 46303
(219) 390-9423
The museum is housed in the 100-year old historic Lassen's hotel and features interesting exhibits from Cedar Lake's resort era and much more. It is open Thursday through Sunday afternoons from May-September with many special events throughout the summer. Admission is free. Special tours are available anytime from May-October with advance reservations.
click for details


CHALLENGER LEARNING CENTER (individual and group tours)
*Please call ahead for events open to the general public
Hours: 8am-4pm
2300 173rd St, Hammond, IN 46323
(219) 989-3250
The Challenger Learning Center of Northwest Indiana is Chicagoland's premiere Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education facility for field trips and more. From our famous simulated space missions to hands-on workshops, labs, summer camps and planetarium experiences, we offer unique learning opportunities for children of all ages as well as STEM resources and curricula for their teachers. The Challenger Center of Northwest Indiana has been called the “hidden gem” of NWI—find out why!
click for details


COMMUNITY VETERANS MEMORIAL (guided and self-guided tours)
Open daily from dawn - dusk
9710 Calumet Avenue,
Munster, Indiana
219-836-3392
Guided tours are a great way to experience the Memorial. Tours are free of charge and available April 1st - mid-November, weather permitting. We are honored to have four Veterans from the Munster VFW Post 2697 who have graciously volunteered their time to conduct the tours. Among them, they have actively served in WWII, Korea and Vietnam. They started leading the tours in May 2015 and have since hosted groups from high schools, elementary schools, Cub and Boy Scout troops, and Veteran service organizations. With guests ranging from 5 to 95 years of age, the Veterans are happy to tailor material to fit the group, class or curriculum.
click for details


FAIR OAKS FARMS (guided and self-guided tours)
856 N 600 E
Fair Oaks, IN 47943
(219) 394-2025
Fair Oaks Farms is an escape to the country with acres of great outdoor fun, food and learning where you can explore family farms and reconnect with nature, animals and our planet.
click for details


GRIFFITH HISTORICAL PARK AND RAILROAD MUSEUM (guided and self-guided tours)
201 S Broad St, Griffith, IN 46319
Open on Sundays from 2-4pm, from Mid-June to the end of August.


HESSTON STEAM MUSEUM (self-guided tours)
1201 E 1000 N, La Porte, IN 46350
(219) 778-2783
Three different railroads for your family to ride and huge machines working hard to entertain and educate your family. Each of our three railroads have their own story. The full size railroad is of very rare narrow gauge equipment from many counties which was used to haul freight and/or passengers for commerce. Our largest locomotive is a Shay type that hauled logs out of the mountains in the West. The medium sized vintage Kiddieland railroad provided entertainment as part of small amusement parks from the 1920s through the 1970s. One more small railroad (one-eighth scale) takes your family through the woods and on an under/over bridge route that is fun for “kids” of all ages. These trains are built by craftsmen and some even operate on steam power just like the full sized locomotives. These trains are quite an interesting hobby!
click for details


JOHN H. BARKER MANSION (guided and self-guided tours)
631 Washington St, Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 873-1520
The historic Barker Mansion lives as a monument of industry, charity, and turn-of-the-century life in Michigan City, highlighting the legacy of the Barker family through interpretive tours and special programs for kids and adults. Browse our site to learn more about venue rentals, scout sleepovers, and more.
click for details


JT SHRIMP LLC (Individual tours, technical tours, school tours and group tours)
4836 W 1450 N, Wheatfield, IN 46392
(219) 987-3809
Ever wonder how shrimp is raised on a farm? Come out to JT Shrimp and get a tour of our facility! Individual tours, technical tours, school tours and group tours are available.
click for details


MERRILLVILLE COMMUNITY PLANETARIUM
Clifford Pierce Middle School
199 East 70th Avenue, Merrillville, IN
(219) 650-5486
The Merrillville Community Planetarium is part of the Merrillville Community School Corporation, a K-12 public school system in Northwest Indiana. The Planetarium is located in Clifford Pierce Middle School. We provide programming for Merrillville classes, outside groups, and the public. Bring the family to explore the moon during our summer public show. Public programs start at 7:30 p.m. The planetarium opens for seating 30 minutes before show time. No one is admitted after the program starts. Programs last from 60 to 90 minutes. Admission to public programs is $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for children. Seating is limited and should be reserved by calling (219) 650-5486 or using the form on our web site. Tickets are sold at the door. Groups may arrange for a private show by calling the planetarium at (219) 650-5486.
click for details


PORTER COUNTY MUSEUM (guided and self-guided tours)
153 Franklin St, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 465-3595
Scheduled tours are consistently offered at the PoCo Muse and are tailored to the age group and focus of the patrons participating. Standard tours last about 45 minutes to an hour, traveling through the entirety of the Porter County Museum, detailing the history of the building as well as the exhibits on display. Tours given during regular public hours (Wednesday-Saturday from 10a-5p) are free of charge, but must be scheduled in advance. For school groups, PoCo Muse staff can provide scavenger hunts or other activities, and will work with educators to develop a Museum visit that highlights classroom topics.
To schedule a tour of the PoCo Muse, e-mail info@pocomuse.org or call 219.465.3595.
click for details


SOUTH SHORE CIVIL WAR MEMORIAL TRAIL (self-guided tours)
(Various Locations throughout Northwest Indiana)
This trail is a collection of the last known resting places, monuments and architectural icons related to the brave men and women of Lake and Porter counties who sacrificed during this most pivotal era in history. Indiana contributed more than 200,000 Union troops to the Civil War effort between 1861 and 1865, and hundreds of those veterans are buried in the cemeteries of Northwest Indiana along the South Shore of Lake Michigan. The South Shore Civil War Memorial Trail serves as a guide for visitors who want to see and pay respect to the veterans' historic burial grounds and learn the stories of humanity behind the Calumet Region men in blue.
click for details


TASK FORCE TIPS INC. (guided tours)
3701 Innovation Way, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 462-6161
Task Force Tips, is a three-shift "around the clock" 7 day/week production facility. However it is open daily to visitors from 8 AM-5 PM, Monday through Friday. Your visit is sure to be memorable, as you are escorted by a TFT employee. Our new wide area broadcast presentation system can be used to allow everyone to easily hear as well as see many of the ongoing processes. This assures your visit will be a personal and individualized tour of this state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
Special Note: Anyone arriving after these normal hours are STILL WELCOME. However due to the limited number of people available, we ask for at least 24 hours notice so that we can assure that a tour guide specialist will be available.
click for details


THE OLD LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM (Self-guided tours, audio tours and docent-led tours)
1 Washington St, Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 872-6133
Built in 1858, the old lighthouse had a lantern with a light that could be seen from 15 miles. It is the oldest remaining lighthouse in Indiana. The museum is open for public tours from April through October, every day except Monday, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Central Time. Self-guided and audio tours as well as docent-led tours are available. The last tour each day begins at 3:30 PM Central Time. Call the museum at (219) 872-6133 to check on special hours, closings, or to book tours. Strollers are not allowed in the museum. Admission: Adults/$5 and Children 14 and under/$2.
click for details


THE SHRINE OF CHRIST’S PASSION (guided and self-guided tours)
10630 Wicker Ave, St John, IN 46373
(219) 365-6010
The dramatic 6,000 sq. ft. Shrine Gift Shoppe/Visitor Center and Café are open year round. The Prayer Trail is also open year round weather permitting. There is no charge to experience The Shrine of Christ’s Passion. The Shrine of Christ’s Passion is a 501 (c) (3) not for profit and continues to exist from sales at our one of a kind Shrine Gift Shoppe and from the generous donations of our guests. All donations are much needed, welcomed and appreciated.
click for details


THOMAS CONWAY OBSERVATORY
19100 Chase St, Lowell, IN 46356
773-639-5491
The Calumet Astronomical Society operates the Thomas Conway Observatory, located just southeast of Lowell, Indiana. Like many good ideas, this one started small and just keeps growing. Conway Observatory is open to the public during specific dates and times. Unless otherwise noted, all programs are free. Programs may be cancelled due to inclement weather, call the CAS Hotline 773-639-5491 before visiting.
click for details


1933 WORLD'S FAIR HOMES AT BEVERLY SHORES, INDIANA (self-guided tours and guided tours)
Join National Park Service rangers at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore for a tour of five historic homes from the 1933 Chicago World's Fair. These tours offered by reservation only one day each in October between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm (Last tour begins at 4:00 pm) Each tour lasts two hours and includes an inside look at the Cypress Log Cabin, the House of Tomorrow, Florida Tropical, Armco Ferro, and the Wieboldt-Rostone houses.
click for details

 

- Northwest Indiana is home to many different water activities. From sailing to jet skiing, here are some programs to get you out on the water this summer!

CEDAR LAKE:

Lake Toy Rentals
14611 Lauerman St, Cedar Lake
(219) 380-2570
Lake Toy Rentals, in Cedar Lake, IN, is located at the area's leading marina serving Cedar Lake, Crown Point and surrounding areas. We offer stand up paddle board and kayak rentals, cross training core and yoga classes on the boards. We are open Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 9am and closing hours vary. Last rental is at 4:00 PM. Please call for availability, weather permitting. For availability for kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, contact Lake Toy Rentals in Cedar Lake.
click for details

North Point Boat Rentals
13245 Grimm St, Cedar Lake
(219) 374-7216
At North Point, we offer many different services ranging from Boat, Waverunner (jet ski), Inflatables/pull behind rentals & boat slip rentals, to boat repair, service and maintenance. We also offer Storage options and we sell docks and boat lifts. Our boat launch is available if your looking for a place to launch your watercraft. For more information on the above items, please click on a tab to the left.
click for details


HAMMOND:

The Hammond Port Authority
701 Casino Center Drive, Hammond
(219) 659-7678
The Hammond Port Authority provides maximum public recreational access to Lake Michigan waters, Wolf Lake waters, George Lake waters, Lost Marsh Golf Course, Forsythe Park, Wolf Lake Memorial Park, for all who come by land or by sea, striving towards the highest quality of professional Port Authority management for customers and citizens while promoting economic development for the city of Hammond.
click for details

HAMMOND MARINA
701 Casino Center Drive., Hammond
(219) 659-7678
Designated the first “Clean Marina” in the State of Indiana, the Hammond Marina is just 12 nautical miles from Downtown Chicago, with a boating season that extends from May 1st until October 15th.
click for details

Wolf Lake
701 Casino Center Drive, Hammond
(219) 655-5212
Tour the wonders of Wolf Lake by kayak, canoe, paddle boat or stand-up paddle board. Enjoy paddling the open waters and exploring hidden trail systems. Scenic shores and island habitats attract an astonishing array of wildlife.
click for details


MICHIGAN CITY:

Washington Park at the Lakefront
12 & ½ on the Lake, Michigan City
(219) 879-3363
Michigan City Yacht Club, on Lake Michigan’s beautiful South Shore, is the ideal place for sailing and racing. With a very active junior program and an impressive PHRF fleet, there is a type of racing, or cruising for every boating style. Racing typically takes place on weekends, with newcomers always welcome.
click for details


VALPARAISO:

The Northwest Indiana Paddling Association
109 West 700 North, Valparaiso
nwipa@nwipa.org
The Northwest Indiana Paddling Association (NWIPA) was formally founded on January 18, 2009 as a non-profit organization dedicated to developing the region's paddling resources and opportunities, providing environmental stewardship of the region's waterways, education, and to be a link between the region's paddlers.
click for details


OTHER:

Indiana's North Coast Charter Association
info@charterfish.org
We're Indiana's Finest Charter Fleet because all members are Coast Guard and DNR
click for details


Reed's Canoe Trips
907 N. Indiana Ave. Rt. 50, Kankakee
(815) WE CANOE (932-2663)
Reed's Canoe Trips provide people of all ages (minimum age 3 and minimum weight 35 pounds) with “an adventure close to home.” The three trips we offer range in length from approximately 2 hours to a full 6 hours on the water, and are suitable for either new or experienced canoeists. Since the Kankakee River is located only an hour south of Chicagoland, even our longest trip will fit into a one-day outing!
click for details

 

- PAINTBALL:

BLAST CAMP PAINTBALL & AIRSOFT
563 West 600 North
Hobart, Indiana 46342
(219) 759-7733
support@blastcamp.com
Open All Year
Chicagoland's longest running and most unique Paintball & Airsoft field. Over our 25 years in business we've entertained thousands of players from around the country. Blastcamp is a historic national landmark that served as a Nike missile defense base during the Cold War that has now been turned into a one of a kind paintball field.
click for details

SHERWOOD PAINTBALL INC.
3497 North US HWY 35
LaPorte, IN 46350
(219) 325-8060
info@sherwoodpaintball.com
Open Saturday and Sunday, 9am to 4pm
Sherwood Paintball Inc. is one of Indiana's oldest and most famous paintball fields. Sherwood has over 80 acres to play on and boasts the largest castle in the Midwest. If you are a first time player or an experienced veteran you will find Sherwood's fields the best around.
click for details


LASER TAG:

FIREFLIES
1505 S Calumet Road
Chesterton, IN.
Your adventure begins in a custom designed 4,000 square foot arena, with black lights, and other special effects. Using state of the art equipment, we guarantee you an experience your children will be talking about for days!
click for details

JAK'S WAREHOUSE
221 US-41
Schererville, IN 46375
(219) 322-5257
Welcome to JAK'S Warehouse. We are Northwest Indiana's premiere Indoor Family Fun Center. We are here to provide great entertainment for the whole family. Come make it a day at JAK'S Warehouse.
Come and enjoy attractions like Laser Tag, Go-Karts, Bumper Cars, Urban Golf, Ballocity, and our amazing Sky Trail! Indoor.
click for details

TEAM COMBAT
8183 Grand Blvd.
Merrillville, IN 46410
(219) 895-1221
Your Fully Immersive Tactical Laser Tag Experience for Adults, Teens and 8-12 Year Olds. Sessions start every hour. Reservations recommended.
click for details

ZIG-E’S FUNLAND
8176 Wicker Ave
St John, IN 46373
(219) 558-0596
Let’s face it. It’s difficult finding a place that’s fun for both children and parents especially in NW Indiana. Zig-E’s Funland bridges the gap, and brings families together. For over 5 years we’ve provided a place for adults to join in on the fun! Race your kids in go-karts, play laser tag, hit a few balls in the batting cages or spend some quality time at the arcade.
click for details


Also see our Family Fun Center list click for details for more Family Friendly Fun in Northwest Indiana!

 

- SOUTH SHORE CIVIL WAR MEMORIAL TRAIL (self-guided tours)
(Various Locations throughout Northwest Indiana)
This trail is a collection of the last known resting places, monuments and architectural icons related to the brave men and women of Lake and Porter counties who sacrificed during this most pivotal era in history. Indiana contributed more than 200,000 Union troops to the Civil War effort between 1861 and 1865, and hundreds of those veterans are buried in the cemeteries of Northwest Indiana along the South Shore of Lake Michigan. The South Shore Civil War Memorial Trail serves as a guide for visitors who want to see and pay respect to the veterans' historic burial grounds and learn the stories of humanity behind the Calumet Region men in blue.
click for details


JASPER COUNTY

Jasper County World War Memorial
N. McKinley Ave. & E. Angelica St.
Rensselaer
click for details


Jasper County Veterans Memorial
Northwest Corner Courthouse Lawn
Washington & Van Rensselaer St.
Rensselaer
click for details


LAKE COUNTY

East Chicago Veterans Memorial
4500 Block Indianapolis Blvd.
East Chicago


Griffith Veterans Memorial
Broad St. and Oak St.
Griffith


Hammond Veterans Memorial
5800 Block Hohman Ave.
Hammond


Memorial for all Wars
Highland St. and Calumet Ave.
Hammond


Highway of Flags Veterans Memorial
Ridge Rd. and Rt. 41
Highland


Community Veterans Memorial
Corner of Calumet, Columbia and Superior Avenues
Munster
click for details


Whiting Veterans Memorial
Oliver St. and 119th
Whiting


Whiting Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Schrage Ave. and 119th
Whiting


"Battle of the Bulge" War Memorial
Calumet Park Cemetary, 2305 W. 73rd Ave.
Merrillville


Vietnam Veteran's Memorial
Stony Run County Park
2.5 mi. north of Leroy


Lake County Korean Veteran's Memorial
U.S. 231 and 145th Avenue
Leroy


World War I - Gulf War Veteran's Memorial
Located on the west lawn of the front grounds of Theodore Roosevelt High School
730 W. 25th Ave.
Gary


Civil War Veterans Grave Site
Old North Township/Tolleston Cemetary
West side of Grant St. btn 19th Place and 20th Ave.
Gary


Non-denominational Veterans Memorial
RidgeLawn-Mount Mercy Cemetary
4401 W. Ridge Rd. (US Hwy 6)
Gary


Historical Veterans Cemetary Site
Chain Lake Baptist Church Cemetary
Chain Lake Rd. btn Calvin Center Rd. and Union Rd.
Cass Co., Cassopolis, MI. (just north of Indiana State Line)


WW-II Triangle Memorial
North Main & East Goldsborough St.
Crown Point
click for details


Hobart Patriotic Honor Rolls
Lincoln & Main St.
Hobart
click for details


LA PORTE COUNTY

Soldiers Memorial Park
250 Pine Lake Ave.
La Porte


Great Lakes Museum of Military History (Revolutionary War to present)
360 Dunes Plaza
Michigan City


Numerous Memorials to the veterans of the various wars
Washington Park on North Franklin Ave.
Michigan City


Numerous Memorials to veterans of WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam
Greenwood Cemetary
Michigan City


World War Memorial Tree
NE Lawn LaPorte County Courthouse, Lincolnway & Michigan Ave.
LaPorte


NEWTON COUNTY

Civil War Memorial & War Memorial Pocket Park
Westside Newton Co. Courthouse Lawn, North 3rd & East Graham St.
Kentland, In 47951


PORTER COUNTY

Memorial Park Monument / Flags Memorial
One Mile South of I-80/I-90 on Willowcreek Rd.
Portage


"All Wars" / Flags Memorial
One-Half Mile north of I-80/I-90 on Rt 49
Chesterton


Porter County Veterans Memorial
NW Lawn of Porter Co. Courthouse, Lincolnway & Washington St.
Valparaiso


Veterans and Volunteers Service Memorial at Foundation Meadows Park
3210 N. Campbell Street
Valparaiso
click for details

 

- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- SESSION INFORMATION
Games primarily played on Saturdays ♦Some games may be on Sunday♦
Individual & Team Registration (see links below)
Greenfield's SlideMax Elite XP Turf (FIFA Preferred Product)- Like Playing Outdoors!
-Wear Outdoor Cleats (clean!) or Turf Shoes
-Full Concessions with Gelsosomo's Pizza, Little Market Tamales, & I-PourIt
-Climate Controlled • USSF Certified Refs!
-Coaches/Mgrs manage teams online •Automatic game reminders
-NO DOOR FEE! NO REF FEE! NO LINE-UP FEE!
-Age/Birthyear
-US Soccer: 5 Things to Know About Birth Year Registration-click for details

AGE GROUP INFO
U5/U6 CO-ED $99/Player (+ Sparta member/Registration card*)
-3v3 no goalies
-42 min running clock
-Parent Coached
-Sparta League T-Shirt for each player
-Medals for each player on last Game
-In-House Teams Only

U07/U08 $749/Team $99/Individual (+ Sparta Member/Registration card*)
-5v5 ( 4 field players + goalie )
-42 min running clock
-Sparta League T-Shirt for each player
-Champions receive choice of Short or Long Sleeve Dri-Fit Champion Shirts
-Individual (In-House) & Team registration available

U10, U12, U14 and High School $899/Team $109/Individual (+ Sparta Member/Registration card*)
-7v7 (6 field players + goalie)
-42 min running clock
-Sparta League T-Shirt for each player
-Session Champions receive choice of Short or Long Sleeve Dri-Fit Champion Shirts
-Individual (In-House) and Team registration available
-Field size 67 x 33 yards (202' x 100')

* $20 Individual/$40 Family Annual (2017/2018) Sparta Member/Registration card required each player before playing. Birth Cert or US Youth Soccer Player card & Photo required.

Sparta Dome

Sparta Dome 219.224.3663 info@spartadome.com

- Freebies you can get on your birthday! Freebies and coupons may be subject to the discretion of franchise owners, please check with your local franchise before using your coupon! Enjoy!

FOOD & TREATS:

AMC (Theaters)
Free Birthday Popcorn with membership.
click for details

A&W
Free Root Beer Float for your birthday when you join the A&W Mug Club.
click for details

Abuelo’s
Free entree on your birthday when you sign up for Mi Abuelo’s Rewards.
click for details

Applebees
Birthday coupon with e-mail sign up.
click for details

Auntie Anne’s
Free pretzel on your birthday when you join My Pretzel Perks.
click for details

Baskin Robbins
Baskin Robbins will send you a coupon for a free scoop of ice cream on your birthday when you join the Baskin Robbins Birthday Club.
click for details

Cinnabon
Cinnabon will send you a coupon for a free treat on your birthday when you sign up for Cinnabon Offers.
click for details

Dairy Queen
An extra-special coupon emailed for your b-day and surprise on your anniversary.
click for details

Dippin’ Dots
Free Dippin’ Dots on your birthday when you join the Dot Crazy Email Club.
click for details

Dunkin’ Donuts
Sign up for the Dunkin’ Donuts birthday club for free ice cream on your birthday.
click for details

Firehouse Subs
Free medium sub on your birthday when you join the Firehouse Subs Birthday Club here.
click for details

Friendly’s- Most Jewel-Osco Stores Carry Friendly's Brand
Free Sundae on your birthday when you join the BFF Club.
click for details

Hooters
Free birthday gift with eclub membership.
click for details

Houlihan's
Free entree on your birthday with e-mail club sign up.
click for details

IHOP
Free meal on your birthday when you subscribe to IHOP's e-mail list. You will also receive a free meal just for signing up.
click for details

Jersey Mike’s Subs
Jersey Mike’s Subs will send you a coupon for a free regular sub and fountain drink on your birthday when you join their Email Club.
click for details

Longhorn Steakhouse
Free dessert on your birthday with rewards program sign up.
click for details

Noodles & Company
Get a free dish from Noodles & Company on your birthday when you sign up for their eclub.
click for details

Olive Garden
Free dessert on your birthday with club sign up.
click for details

Orange Leaf
Receive a free $3 reward on your birthday when you sign up for the Ounce Back Card.
click for details

Panera Bread
Panera Bread will give you a free pastry for your birthday when you join the MyPanera rewards program.
click for details

Red Lobster
Birthday surprise offer with rewards sign up.
click for details

Red Robin
Free Birthday burger when you join their royalty rewards program.
click for details

Starbucks
Get a birthday reward at Starbucks on your birthday when you join Starbucks Rewards.
click for details

Steak & Shake
Birthday surprise with club sign up.
click for details

Toast & Jam- Schererville
Free meal on the day before, day of, or day after your birthday.
click for details

Texas Roadhouse
Free Gift on your birthday with e-mail sign up.
click for details

Tcby
Tcby will send you an email for a free frozen yogurt on your birthday when you sign up for their email list.
click for details

Wing Stop
Free gift on your birthday with club sign up.
click for details


RETAIL FREEBIES:

Bare Minerals
Join the Friends and Benefits Program, and they’ll send you a gift on your birthday.
click for details

Barnes & Nobles
Sign up for the B&N Kids’ Club, and your child gets a free cupcake on his/her birthday.
click for details

Payless
Special birthday offer with rewards program sign up.
click for details

Sephora
Register with Sephora, and receive a free gift on your birthday.
click for details

Ulta
Free birthday gift with reward program membership.
click for details

 

- NORTHWEST INDIANA:

CEDAR LAKE HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION MUSEUM
7408 Constitution Ave, Cedar Lake, IN 46303
(219) 390-9423
The museum is housed in the 100-year old historic Lassen's hotel and features interesting exhibits from Cedar Lake's resort era and much more. It is open Thursday through Sunday afternoons from May-September with many special events throughout the summer. Admission is free. Special tours are available anytime from May-October with advance reservations.
click for details

GRIFFITH HISTORICAL PARK AND RAILROAD MUSEUM
201 S Broad St, Griffith, IN 46319
Open on Sundays from 2-4pm, from Mid-June to the end of August.

HESSTON STEAM MUSEUM
1201 E 1000 N, La Porte, IN 46350
(219) 778-2783
Three different railroads for your family to ride and huge machines working hard to entertain and educate your family. Each of our three railroads have their own story. The full size railroad is of very rare narrow gauge equipment from many counties which was used to haul freight and/or passengers for commerce. Our largest locomotive is a Shay type that hauled logs out of the mountains in the West. The medium sized vintage Kiddieland railroad provided entertainment as part of small amusement parks from the 1920s through the 1970s. One more small railroad (one-eighth scale) takes your family through the woods and on an under/over bridge route that is fun for “kids” of all ages. These trains are built by craftsmen and some even operate on steam power just like the full sized locomotives. These trains are quite an interesting hobby!
click for details

MERRILLVILLE COMMUNITY PLANETARIUM
Clifford Pierce Middle School
199 East 70th Avenue, Merrillville, IN
(219) 650-5486
The Merrillville Community Planetarium is part of the Merrillville Community School Corporation, a K-12 public school system in Northwest Indiana. The Planetarium is located in Clifford Pierce Middle School. We provide programming for Merrillville classes, outside groups, and the public. Bring the family to explore the moon during our summer public show. Public programs start at 7:30 p.m. The planetarium opens for seating 30 minutes before show time. No one is admitted after the program starts. Programs last from 60 to 90 minutes.
click for details

PORTER COUNTY MUSEUM
153 Franklin St, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 465-3595
Scheduled tours are consistently offered at the PoCo Muse and are tailored to the age group and focus of the patrons participating. Standard tours last about 45 minutes to an hour, traveling through the entirety of the Porter County Museum, detailing the history of the building as well as the exhibits on display. Tours given during regular public hours (Wednesday-Saturday from 10a-5p) are free of charge, but must be scheduled in advance. For school groups, PoCo Muse staff can provide scavenger hunts or other activities, and will work with educators to develop a Museum visit that highlights classroom topics.
click for details

THE OLD LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM
1 Washington St, Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 872-6133
Built in 1858, the old lighthouse had a lantern with a light that could be seen from 15 miles. It is the oldest remaining lighthouse in Indiana. The museum is open for public tours from April through October, every day except Monday, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Central Time. Self-guided and audio tours as well as docent-led tours are available. The last tour each day begins at 3:30 PM Central Time. Call the museum at (219) 872-6133 to check on special hours, closings, or to book tours. Strollers are not allowed in the museum.
click for details

THOMAS CONWAY OBSERVATORY
19100 Chase St, Lowell, IN 46356
773-639-5491
The Calumet Astronomical Society operates the Thomas Conway Observatory, located just southeast of Lowell, Indiana. Like many good ideas, this one started small and just keeps growing. Conway Observatory is open to the public during specific dates and times. Unless otherwise noted, all programs are free. Programs may be cancelled due to inclement weather, call the CAS Hotline 773-639-5491 before visiting.
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CHICAGO:

Adler Planetarium
1300 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 922-7827
The mission of the Adler Planetarium is to inspire exploration and understanding of our Universe.
click for details

Art Institute of Chicago
111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 443-3600
From popular Rembrandt masterpieces to recent works by lesser-known artists, the Art Institute of Chicago houses one of the finest art collections in the world. Spanning centuries of human creativity, exhibits include a distinguished collection of prints and drawings, an internationally acclaimed collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, sculptures, photographs, Asian, African and American arts, architectural drawings, textiles and more. Many pieces are on loan from the famed Terra Foundation for American Art. Educational programs and guided museum tours are available. Art books, reproductions, postcards and other items are available in the museum shop. Free public lectures are given during weekends.
click for details

Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture
6500 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60629
(773) 582-6500
Founded in 1966 in Chicago, Illinois, the Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture is dedicated to the preservation and perpetuation of Lithuanian culture. The Museum celebrates the notable achievements of Lithuanian Americans, the Lithuanian nation, and Lithuanian communities world wide. The Balzekas Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
click for details

Bronzeville Children's Museum
9301 S Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60617
(773) 721-9301
A museum in the southern side of Chicago, it is the first and only African American children’s museum in the country
click for details

Charnley-Persky House Museum
1365 N Astor St, Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 915-0105
The Society of Architectural Historians is a nonprofit membership organization that promotes the study, interpretation, and conservation of architecture, design, landscapes, and urbanism worldwide. SAH serves a network of local, national, and international institutions and individuals who, by profession or interest, focus on the history of the built environment and its role in shaping contemporary life.
click for details

Chicago Children's Museum
700 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 527-1000
Chicago Children's Museum's mission is to improve children’s lives by creating a community where play and learning connect
click for details

Chicago History Museum
1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 642-4600
The Museum continues to share the stories of the city and its people through exhibitions, programs, publications, and digital media. Thousands of school groups from Chicago and the surrounding area visit annually. The Research Center serves thousands each year, from schoolchildren working on History Fair projects to PhD students writing dissertations to filmmakers researching documentaries.
click for details

Chicago Maritime Museum
1200 W 35th St, Chicago, IL 60609
(773) 376-1982
Located on the historical Bubbly Creek, the Chicago Maritime Museum is the only museum that tells the story of how Chicago was founded and shaped based solely by waterways. The first European explorers to settle on the land of what is now Chicago, Louis Jolliet and Jacques Marquette, sparked the beginning age of Chicago becoming one of the busiest sea ports in this nation. The Museum features replicas of Schooner ships, such as the famous David Dows, artifacts uncovered from the Eastland Dissaster, the biggest fatal ship sinking in Chicago history, the famous Ralph Freese canoe collection, and so much more
click for details

Depaul University Art Museum
2350 N Kenmore Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 325-7457
click for details

DuSable Museum of African American History
740 E 56th Pl, Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 947-0600
To promote understanding and inspire appreciation of the achievements, contributions, and experiences of African Americans through exhibits, programs, and activities that illustrate African and African American history, culture and art.
click for details

Field Museum
1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago IL 60605
(312) 922-9410
The Field Museum fuels a journey of discovery across time to enable solutions for a brighter future rich in nature and culture.
click for details

Glessner House Museum
1800 S Prairie Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 326-1480
A National Historic Landmark, Glessner House was designed by noted American architect Henry Hobson Richardson and completed in 1887. It remains an internationally-known architectural treasure in Chicago. A radical departure from traditional Victorian architecture, the structure served as an inspiration to architects such as Louis Sullivan, Mies van der Rohe, and the young Frank Lloyd Wright and helped redefine domestic architecture.
click for details

Halim Time & Glass Museum
1560 Oak Ave. Evanston, IL 60201
(224) 714-5600
Halim Time & Glass Museum houses over 1100 time pieces and over 70 stained glass pieces of art. The building is five stories tall and is filled with history, art and the study of time.
click for details

Illinois Holocaust Museum
603 Woods Drive, Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 967-4800
The mission of the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center is perhaps best expressed in our founding principle: Remember the Past, Transform the Future. The Museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Holocaust by honoring the memories of those who were lost and by teaching universal lessons that combat hatred, prejudice and indifference. The Museum fulfills its mission through the exhibition, preservation and interpretation of its collections and through education programs and initiatives that foster the promotion of human rights and the elimination of genocide.
click for details

International Museum of Surgical Science
1524 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 642-6502
The International Museum of Surgical Science, a division of the International College of Surgeons (ICS), maintains over 10,000 square feet of public galleries committed to the history of surgery, and an exquisite permanent collection of art and artifacts from the history of Medicine. The Museum supports its Mission through medically thematized exhibitions and programs, in addition to a strong contemporary art exhibition program.
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Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art
756 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 243-9088
Intuit is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1991. Our mission is to celebrate the power of outsider art. Intuit defines "intuitive and outsider art" as work of artists who demonstrate little influence from the mainstream art world and who instead are motivated by their unique personal visions. This includes what is known as art brut, non-traditional folk art, self-taught art, and visionary art.
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Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
220 S Cottage Hill Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126
(630) 833-1616
The Lizzadro Museum displays gemstone treasures, antiques to modern, with a blending of earth science exhibits.
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Loyola University Museum of Art
1200 W Loyola Ave, Chicago, IL 60626
(312) 915-7600
The Loyola University Museum of Art (LUMA) was founded in 2005 on the Water Tower Campus of Loyola University Chicago. LUMA is located on the Magnificent Mile in Lewis Towers, a historic 1926 Gothic Revival building. The museum, with 25,000 square feet contains eight main exhibition galleries, the William G. and Marilyn M. Simpson Lecture Hall, the Solomon Cordwell Buenz Library of Sacred Art and Architecture, the Museum Shop, the Push Pin Gallery, and the Harlan J. Berk Ltd. Works on Paper Gallery.
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Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
2600 Central Park Ave, Evanston, IL 60201
(847) 475-1030
The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian is one of only a handful of museums across the country that focuses exclusively on the art, history, and culture of Native American and First Nation peoples from throughout the United States and Canada. It promotes public understanding of cultural diversity through first voice perspectives.
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Museum of Broadcast Communications
360 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 245-8200
The mission of The Museum of Broadcast Communications (MBC) is to collect, preserve, and present historic and contemporary radio and television content as well as educate, inform, and entertain the public through its archives, public programs, screenings, exhibits, publications, and online access to its resources.
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Museum of Contemporary Art
220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 280-2660
Founded in 1967 as a Kunsthalle, or noncollecting art gallery, the MCA is now one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to art since 1945. Since our inception, it has been our mission to exhibit new and experimental work artists in all media, paired with ambitious education programs.
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Museum of Science & Industry
5700 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 684-1414
Providing unique experiences designed to spark scientific inquiry and creativity since 1933.
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National Hellenic Museaum
333 South Halsted Street, Chicago IL, 60661
(312) 655-1234
The mission of the museum is to share the legacy of Hellenism and to preserve the stories and honor the contributions to the United States of Greek immigrants and Americans of Greek heritage.
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National Museum of Mexican Art
1852 W 19th St, Chicago, IL 60608
(312) 738-1503
Come to The National Museum of Mexican Art, where you can immerse yourself in the richness of Mexican art and culture right here in Chicago. Whatever your background, you’ll connect to this museum on a very personal level.
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Northwestern Block Museum of Art
40 Arts Circle Drive Evanston, IL 60208
(847) 491-4000
The Block is a dynamic, imaginative, and innovative teaching and learning resource for Northwestern and its surrounding communities, featuring a global exhibition program that crosses time periods and cultures and serves as a springboard for thought-provoking discussions relevant to our lives today. The museum also commissions new work by artists to foster connections between artists and the public through the creative process. Each year, the Block mounts exhibitions; organizes and hosts lectures, symposia, and workshops involving artists, scholars, curators, and critics; and screens classic and contemporary films at its in-house cinema. The museum also reaches national and international audiences through its traveling exhibitions, publications and website. Its growing permanent collection of approximately 6,000 works focuses primarily on prints, photography, and drawings.
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Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
2430 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 755-5100
Known for its iconic Judy Istock Butterfly Haven and providing more hands-on science instruction than any other museum in Chicago, the Nature Museum has become one of the city's most attended institutions. The Nature Museum has given visitors the opportunity to create an authentic connection to nature, and has provided the Academy with a new opportunity to build on its legacy of hands-on science education, scientific research, and citizen science.
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Pritzker Military Museum
104 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago IL 60603
312.374.9333
The Mission of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library is to acquire and maintain an accessible collection of materials and to develop appropriate programs focusing on the citizen soldier in the preservation of democracy.
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Renaissance Society Museum
5811 S. Ellis Ave., Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 702-8670
The Renaissance Society at the University of Chicago presents contemporary art exhibitions, events, and publications. “The Ren”—as we are known by many—is an independent, non-collecting museum driven by an uncompromising commitment to artists and their ideas. All exhibitions and events are free and open to the public.
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Smart Museum of Art
5550 S. Greenwood Ave., Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 702-0200
AN INTIMATE MUSEUM FOR BOLD ENCOUNTERS WITH ART. As the fine arts museum of the University of Chicago, the Smart is home to thought-provoking exhibitions and an exquisite collection of more than 15,000 objects, including modern masterpieces, millennia-old Chinese artworks, rich examples of European painting, and provocative works of contemporary art.
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Swedish American Museum
5211 N Clark St., Chicago Illinois, IL 60640
(773) 728-8111
The Swedish American Museum thrives on the generosity of donors and volunteers. Nearly all of the artifacts in our collections have been donated by individuals, businesses and organizations. The Swedish American Museum collects items that contribute to the narrative we tell about immigration, the Swedish communities here in North America, and Swedish and Swedish-American culture.
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The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum
99 Chicago Riverwalk, Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 977-0227
The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum celebrates the Chicago River and its world-famous movable bridges. Beginning at river level and spiraling five stories up, the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore a historic landmark bridgehouse.
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The Oriental Institute
1155 E 58th St., Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 702-9514
The Oriental Institute Museum is a world-renowned showcase for the history, art, and archaeology of the ancient Near East. The museum displays objects recovered by Oriental Institute excavations in permanent galleries devoted to ancient Egypt, Nubia, Persia, Mesopotamia, Syria, Anatolia, and the ancient site of Megiddo, as well as rotating special exhibits.
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The American Toby Jug Museum
910 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202
(877) 862-9687
The American Toby Jug Museum houses over 8000 Toby and Character jugs in ninety-seven cabinets, and is the largest collection of its kind in the world. Tracing the development of the Toby Jug and its derivative the Character Jug from its origin in the mid 18th Century into the present 21st Century, major sub-collections include over 300 antique Toby Jugs, the World’s finest collection of French majolica pitchers, a superb collection of Royal Bayreuth German jugs, complete collections of over one hundred fifty 20th Century makers, and the World’s largest collection of more than 1500 Royal Doulton Character and Toby Jugs and Derivatives. Included herein are the World’s largest Toby (40 inches tall), smallest Toby (3/8 inch), and certainly one of the oldest (c. 1760).
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Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art
2320 W. Chicago, Ave., Chicago IL 60622
(773) 227-5522
The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art (UIMA) preserves and promotes contemporary art as a shared expression of the Ukrainian and American experience. UIMA develops, utilizes and encourages artistic talent through exhibitions, concerts, readings, lectures and films to serve the cultural needs of our community and city, and thereby strengthen cultural understanding and diversity.
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Ukrainian National Museum
2249 W Superior St, Chicago, IL 60612
(312) 421-8020
The Ukrainian National Museum is a symbol and reminder of the rich culture and history of Ukraine. Established in 1952, this museum houses a large collection of Ukrainian artwork, artifacts, folk costumes and many miscellaneous artifacts which are all related to the Ukrainians and its culture.
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- BURNS HARBOR

Bozak Family Burns Harbor Christmas Lights
259 Lake Park Rd
430 pm to 1030 pm on weekdays and til 11pm on weekends.
click for details

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CEDAR LAKE

12552 Alexander
click for details

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CHESTERTON

Muddy Acres
463 E Greening Rd
click for details

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CROWN POINT

413 E Greenwood Ave
5 to 10 Sunday thru Thursday. 5 to Midnight Friday and Saturday.
click for details

Christmas on 124th Ave
7731 E. 124th Ave
Hours are Sunday thru Thursday 6pm to 8pm (2 Shows) and Friday & Saturday 6pm to 10pm (4 Shows).
click for details

Leluga's Lights on Sunrise
3535 Sunrise Dr.
Tune to 103.1 FM to listen to the lights.
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1362 S Indiana Ave.
5-11pm.
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4180 Thornhill Dr.
Sunday-Thursday 4:30 pm to 10:30pm
Fridays and Saturdays 4:30 pm to 11pm
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South Court Street
click for details

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DYER

The Magical Light Show
1315 Capri Lane
Begins 11/23- 1/2 from 5:30- 10:30 pm (tune to 87.9 on your radio to listen to the music as you watch the light show).
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1020 Richmond Ct.
5pm to 1030pm.
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GRIFFITH

502 S Rensselaer Griffith
4:30pm-10pm.
click for details

1003 N Rensselaer Ave.
Our lights and decor will be on from 6pm-10pm weather permitting.
click for details

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HAMMOND

PeteyVille
3033 Crane Place
We are open from 5:00-10:00 pm everyday, weather permitting, from Thanksgiving Day to New Year's Eve.
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Breaking News on 11-26-18...Peteyville will not be up for the rest of the week. Everything is frozen to the ground! Once the weather warms up and everything thaws out, we will be able to see how much damage we sustained with the overnight very high winds. We should be ready by Friday to light up and we will keep you posted. Thanks for your patience and understanding.

Christmas on the Beech
7551 Beech Ave
5:00pm - 10:00pm
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HEBRON

County Line Christmas Lights
603 S. 800 W.
4:30 pm - 10 pm every day.
click for details

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HIGHLAND

3433 41PL HIGHLAND
3-10:30pm, starting December 1.
click for details

9121 Idelwood Dr.
Lights will be on from 11/22-1/1 between 5pm til 10 pm.
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Lana’s Land Of Christmas
3105 Highway Ave
Hours- 5-11 and as it gets closer to Christmas my display stays on longer!
click for details

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HOBART

Peters Family Christmas Show
3635 E 33rd Ave.
Shows are at 6,7,8,9 & 10pm and are 30mins, house lights are timed to music.
click for details

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MERRILLVILLE

Werner Christmas Wonderland
Thanksgiving til New Years 5pm-12am everyday
click for details

2901 W. 54th Place
4 pm to midnight.
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201 E 71st Ave
Display is Thanksgiving night thru Dec 31. lights should be on from aprox 5pm til aprox 10pm.
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MUNSTER

The Griswold’s on Greenwood
8147 Greenwood Ave, Munster
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1918 Wren Dr Munster
4:30pm - 9:30pm.
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PORTAGE

2063 Karen Ct.
click for details

6440 Gaywood Ave
5pm-10pm.
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6846 Portage Ave.
We are live from about 5p-10ish everyday through New Years Eve.
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2240 McCool Road
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Phoenix Lights 6062 Mulberry Ave
click for details

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RENSSELAER

5174 N US 231
5p-10p everyday.
click for details

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SCHERERVILLE

4 W. Elizabeth Drive
Sun thru Thurs 6pm until 11pm. Fri & Sat 6pm until 12am.
click for details

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VALPARAISO

Herlitz Christmas Lights
202 W 450 S
4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. every night til at least January 1st, 2019.
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Thomas' Winter Wonderland
609 Partridge Path
Lights go on from about 4-10PM, starting on November 22.
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658 Nome Rd.
Everyday at dusk til around 10pm.
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WHEATFIELD

First Church Christmas Lights
December 1- January 5
click for details

Kniman Christmas Lights
9099 N 500 W
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
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**It's important to check the individual Facebook or website pages (when available) to see if they have announced any light display problems due to weather.