Lights of Joy (Christmas Light Drive)
Wanting to step it up this Holiday Season, or create memories your entire family will be begging for more? Then a visit to Shipshewana in Northern Indiana is the place with the small town in likeness of a classic Hallmark movie. Shipshewana has perfected the Christmas season into a winter wonderland. Whether you are looking to shop for unique handcrafted gifts, catch dinner and a show, or drive through the Lights of Joy; Shipshewana has it all.
During my weekend in Shipshewana, I received a sneak peak at the Lights of Joy. From the comfort of your car, you will drive 1.8 miles through what has been turned into the most magically light display from the animatronics to the Salute to the Armed Forces to Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer himself, you will see and feel it all while listening to Christmas music.
Blue Gate Performing Arts Center (PAC)
While visiting Shipshewana, I attended the sold out Trace Adkins Somewhere in America Tour at the Blue Gate PAC. WoW! Not only was Trace awesome in concert, but this theater is beautiful and full of so much history from all the talented artists that have played since its opening in March of 2020. This 1500 seat theater boasts a state of the art performance center and not a bad seat in the house!
During this holiday season, there are performances of all genres; including Celtic Angles Christmas, Gaither Homecoming Christmas (limited ticket availability), Christmas with the Getty’s, and Sawyer Brown to name just a few. To check out tickets and dates, click here and be sure to check out all the artists and visit this Center.
Blue Gate Restaurant & Theater
A must is to have a bit to eat, whether dinner or a lighter lunch at the Blue Gate Restaurant and then a show. This cozy atmosphere, home style Amish food and fresh baked goods (for those delicious pies, bread or cookies), will sure please any stomach. While you are waiting for your table, there is plenty of shopping in any of the Riegsecker Family shops within.
Following dinner, be sure to catch a performance in the Blue Gate Music Hall located upstairs of the restaurant. I had the pleasure of attending The Christmas Candy Caper Musical running now through 12/30/2023. The story is about the Candy Shop owner Lydia and her troubles of playing pranks on family members.
Whether you are visiting Shipshewana for a day, or a long weekend, this town in Northern Indiana will having you and your entire family dreamy eyed for the Christmas season. This town brings to life all there is about the Holiday and Christmas season, from the festive lights to the traditional Amish meals to the current performing artists, Shipshewana will bring the laughter and joy this Holiday Season.
*The Lagrange County Convention Center & Visitors Bureau hosted my visit to Shipshewana. All opinions expressed in this article are 100% mine and not influenced for compensation.
