Downtown Indy's Circle of Lights® presented by IBEW 481
It's almost here!
On November 27, 2026, Monument Circle will welcome thousands of residents and visitors alike for a special celebration of holiday magic. This year's Circle of Lights® presented by IBEW Local 481, will celebrate 64 years of festive décor and bright bulbs lighting up the Soldiers and Sailors Monument in the heart of Indianapolis.
Festivities will begin at 5PM with live music, vendors, and other holiday activities around Monument Circle, continuing until 8PM. The highlight of the evening will be the official "flipping of the switch," when a child selected through the AES Coloring Contest will take the stage to illuminate the monument before 7PM. For those who can't make it in person, WTHR Channel 13 will exclusively broadcast the lighting ceremony from 6 to 7PM.
Make Circle of Lights® your family’s favorite tradition as you explore everything that makes the event so special. From jolly Santa and talented artists to delicious food trucks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Discover what makes Downtown Indy the perfect place to celebrate the holidays!
This FREE event is made possible through the support of these organizations:
IBEW 481, WTHR 13, AES Indiana, Hoosier Lottery, Radio One, Christ Church Cathedral, Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Sports Corp, and Indiana Members Credit Union.
AES Coloring Contest
Each year, children from around Indianapolis can use their creativity to receive the opportunity to flip the switch at Circle of Lights®. This is a great art class assignment for teachers, or an at-home craft project for the whole family. Stay tuned for more information on participating in the 2026 AES Coloring Contest.
Continued Traditions
Alongside Circle of Lights®, Downtown Indy Alliance hosts fantastic events that make incredible traditions.
Winter Wanderland is your guide to everything holiday in Indianapolis! Take on a festive family outing or explore the romantic side of the season with your loved one. No matter your taste, there's something for everyone to discover by simply wandering! Check out the guides by clicking here.
SPARK Holidays on the Circle is the perfect way to cherish the season. Each Saturday and Sunday in December, join us on the north quadrant of Monument Circle for hot cocoa, live performances, and even the chance to see Santa. Learn more about SPARK by clicking here.
Keeping Spirits Bright
For more than six decades, the Circle of Lights® has illuminated not just Monument Circle, but the hearts of thousands of residents who gather each year to celebrate the start of the holiday season in Downtown Indianapolis. The iconic strands of lights and garland that transform the Soldiers & Sailors Monument into our beloved holiday centerpiece have served our community for years — and now, it’s time to give them a well-deserved retirement.
Downtown Indy Alliance has launched Keeping Spirits Bright, a community fundraising effort to help restore and replace the aging garland and lights, while also supporting broader beautification efforts and updated holiday decor on Monument Circle.
From refreshed greenery and lighting to enhanced seasonal decorations, your donation will directly support the next generation of holiday magic in Indianapolis.
Help us preserve one of Indiana’s most cherished traditions — and keep the heart of Downtown shining bright for holidays to come, by bringing home your own piece of history! Learn more and donate here.