Christmas is such a beautiful time; they aren't kidding when they say it's the most wonderful time of the year! Unfortunately, it also happens to be an outrageously chilly and even snowy time of year, and that can make it tough to decide what to do. Well, how about you get bundled up and take the family - or your special someone - to one (or all) of these awesome Christmas lights displays in Indiana? I was wondering about the best Christmas lights near me, and I figured I might as well write 'em down and let you guys know, too - at least one of these ought to be nearby, wherever you are!

1. Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights, Elkhart

This world-famous holiday lights display in Indiana is back for another amazing season - this time, for an epic 18 days! Even if you've been to the Wellfield Gardens many times, you've never seen it like this. It's incredibly beautiful, and better still, it keeps the zoo open just a little later. Be sure to visit the official Wellfield Gardens website for all the dates, times, and events planned for these Christmas lights in Elkhart, Indiana.

2. Santa Claus Land of Lights, Santa Claus

So, did you know that there's actually an incredible Christmas town in Indiana that goes all-out every year - so much so that the whole town is named after the big guy in red? It's true - Santa Claus, Indiana is more than just some town with a funny name; it is THE Christmas capital of Indiana, and it's a can't-miss this year. Check out the Santa Claus Land of Lights, an enchanting 1.2-mile drive-through that's sure to charm the whole fam. 2023's theme is the story of Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer. Come out and enjoy! I'm pretty sure there's nothing like Christmas lights in Santa Claus, Indiana - it's a unique thing and it's all ours.

3. Blue Jacket’s Fantasy of Lights, Fort Wayne

With two amazing miles of lights and decor to drive thru, you'll find plenty to love at Blue Jacket's Fantasy of Lights, one of the best places for Christmas lights in Fort Wayne. In that two miles, you'll find more than 160 lit-up scenes, all of which are sure to delight. There's also a scavenger hunt to get the kids in on while you're here, so be sure to ask about Elsie the Elephant when you arrive. Check out the official Blue Jacket website for dates, times, and themes!

4. Lights of Joy, Shipshewana

Shipshewana is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful little towns in Indiana, and the folks who live here absolutely know how to do Christmas - and all the holidays - right! Shipshewana Lights of Joy is a wondrous experience perfect for a family night, date night, or even a solo holiday adventure. With almost two miles of amazing, synchronized lights set to music, this is one holiday lights display in Indiana that you can't pass up on. Christmas lights in Shipshewana, Indiana, are always special - but when paired with events and good company, they're irresistible! Visit the Lights of Joy website to learn more about dates, times, admission, and everything else you'll need to know before you go.

5. Christmas Lights of Charlestown, Charlestown

Psst, here's a secret: there are lots of winter wonderlands all over Indiana, and the beautiful town of Charlestown is adorable and worth a visit. The annual Christmas in Charlestown festivities draw in visitors from all over the state, with tons of things to do for everyone in the family. The opening night ceremony is a must-do, with food trucks, vendors, and, of course, the lighting ceremony. Other events include a mystery dinner party, wreath making classes, holiday parties, and more! You'll never see the Christmas lights in Charlestown, Indiana, the same way again - you'll associate them with fun from now on.

6. City of Marion Walkway of Lights, Marion

The small city of Marion is a cute little place where the holidays really come to life. Every year, the city puts on its annual Walkway of Lights, an adventure of Christmas lights in Marion, Indiana, you won't soon forget. Like all the items on this list, the kids will love it, too. Did you know that Marion's lights are so impressive that the town has earned the nickname Christmas City, USA? Yep! It's true - come out and see why.

7. Christmas at the Zoo, Indianapolis

Christmas at the Zoo is an amazing, traditional display of Christmas lights in Indianapolis that can't be beaten - or compared to anything else. For more than 55 years, this tradition has lit up the hearts and souls of Hoosiers everywhere. If you've never experienced it, what better time to try than now? Come out and meet Santa Claus, explore the White River Gardens all lit up, come visit Mrs. Claus's kitchen (yum), and so much more. For dates, hours, and tickets, be sure to visit the official Indianapolis Zoo website for all the details.

8. Winterland Lights at the Park, Danville

Winterland Lights in the Park is a Danville tradition that everyone's welcome to get in on. If you've never heard of the Christmas lights in Danville, Indiana, it's time you have - and it's time you come visit! The whole town is a wonderland during the winter season, but during Winterland, it's especially magical. You'll love the warm, cozy holiday vibes, and the kids will love meeting with Santa. visit the City of Danville website for the most up-to-date hours, events, and more.

9. Circle of Light, Indianapolis

Last, but certainly nowhere near least, we'll take a look at another breathtaking display of Christmas lights in Indianapolis, this time downtown and oh-so-incredible. Truly, no photographs or videos will ever do this one justice; it's something you absolutely need to experience in person at least once. For more than 60 years, this awesome tradition has gone on rain, snow, or shine - and it shows no signs of slowing down. Check out the official website for Downtown Indianapolis to get all the details about this year's Christmas festival in Indy.

So there you have 'em: nine amazing Christmas lights displays in Indiana to bring the kids out for - or anyone else! Planning to head out and need to know what to bring along? Check out our handy-dandy winter packing list to get some ideas. I'm pretty glad I looked up the best Christmas lights near me - now we all know what we're doing this year!

What are your favorite things to do in Indiana during the winter? Let me know!