The first lighting of a Christmas tree each year is cause for festive celebration of the holiday season to come. When the tree is an enormous one in a major city, there’s even more reason for the entire community to come together and be merry. If you’re looking for a Christmas tree lighting near Avon, IN, look no further than the annual celebration of the Circle of Lights on Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis.

This year’s ceremony will take place on November 24, 2017 from 6:00-8:00 PM, and will be televised live from 7:00-8:00 PM. See the Circle light up at approximately 7:55 PM! The lighting ceremony is presented by IBEW #481.

A Treasured Tradition

More than 100,000 spectators are expected to head to Monument Circle this year to experience this free ceremonial lighting and kickoff of the holiday season. This tradition has brought joy to families across Indy for 55 years, and this year the 52 strands of lights strung from top to bottom of the Soldiers & Sailors Monument are brand-new and feature LED bulbs for the first time, for an even brighter and more sparkly glow. The Monument will continue to be surrounded by the beloved 26 giant toy soldiers and 26 massive candy canes.

Live Music and Entertainment

Video auditions from across the entire state were submitted for review, and only the very best entertainers were chosen to participate in the celebrations. The lucky few will share the stage with Sandi Patty, the host of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s IPL Yuletide Celebration.

Each year, one lucky child is chosen from the Carson’s Coloring Contest to be the one who’ll flip the switch and light up the city for the holidays. The evening will conclude with a spectacular fireworks finale that will leave the crowds oohing and ahhing.