Every holiday season, Madison transforms into "Merry Madison," not only as a delightful holiday destination but as the very feeling of the season, where the warmth and joy of the holidays fill every street and shop. Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, Madison invites visitors to explore vibrant streets, charming shops, historic sites, and an enchanting atmosphere that make this National Historic Landmark District a perfect seasonal escape.
Holiday Highlights:
Witness history come alive with a unique candlelight tour through beautifully preserved private homes and historic sites. Back-to-back weekends from November 29 to December 7, Madison opens doors to six stunning homes and 6 historic sites decorated with holiday splendor. Stroll through Madison's heritage while enjoying seasonal music and festivities.
- Holly Jolly Trolley
Hop on for a delightful trolley ride through Madison's festive downtown! Guests can relax and enjoy the charm of the season. This hop-on-hop-off experience is perfect for taking in decorated storefronts, glowing lights, a cheerful holiday atmosphere, and holiday shopping - happening on the same days as the Nights before Christmas home tour.
- A Very Merry Madison Christmas Parade & Celebration
On December 7, downtown Madison bursts into holiday cheer as the annual Christmas parade brings Santa, giant balloons, and spirited floats through town, starting at 11AM. Afterward, Broadway Fountain & Street comes alive with local vendors, kids’ crafts, hot chocolate, and a special appearance by Santa and his reindeer.
- A Christmas Carol Reading & Seasonal Performances
Storyteller Bob Hartsaw brings Dickens' “A Christmas Carol” to life in a reading fit for kids ages 3 to 103 at Gallery 115. For music lovers, the Louisville Brass returns with a free holiday concert at Trinity United Methodist Church on December 5, while the Madison Community Band delivers festive tunes on December 14 at Clifty Inn.
- Lights, Shopping, and Unique Festivities
Throughout the season, Madison’s streets twinkle with holiday lights from Bicentennial Park’s enchanting displays to Broadway Fountain's Light Up Madison event on November 29. Shoppers can indulge in unique holiday finds all season long, Small Business Saturday, and The Merry Marketplace to name a few.
- Festival of Trees, Hosts of Angels, and Rudy's Garden at Lanthier Winery & Distillery
Celebrate the season surrounded by over 850 Christmas trees, angelic displays, and the glowing charm of Rudy's Garden. This free, family-friendly event is open daily from November 29 through Christmas Eve, offering a magical setting for visitors of all ages.
- Santa Sightings
Madison welcomes Santa in a variety of settings—from the cozy Santa Cottage on Main Street to the Caroling with Santa event to seeing the big guy light up Madison with the Mayor. Children can also drop off letters in Santa’s mailbox at City Hall and receive a personal reply from Santa himself.
To make it easy to join in all of the festivities and see Santa’s schedule, every event has been compiled in the annual ‘Merry Madison & More Holiday Events Brochure’, available to view or download online.
This holiday season, Madison, Indiana, invites families, friends, and travelers to celebrate in a truly enchanting setting. With festive trolley rides, historic tours, Santa sightings and holiday shopping, “Merry Madison” offers a memorable experience for everyone. For more information go to www.VisitMadison.org or call 812-265-2956.