A mix of new and old traditions are set for this year’s holiday season in downtown Noblesville. Area businesses and community organizations are readying for this weekend, which will kick off festivities through the end of the year.
ICE PLAZA
One of the city’s new traditions, skating at the Ice Plaza at Federal Hill Commons, began Nov. 17.
“We are expecting 10,000 skaters this season, and to accommodate the demand, the city has ordered a 30 percent larger rink,” Noblesville Parks and Recreation Director Brandon Bennett said. “Second-year events and activities at Federal Hill have had increased attendance, and the same is expected for the Noblesville Ice Plaza.”
Admission is $12 for untimed skating, which includes skate rental. Guests may bring their own skates.
Special events and themed nights include: Nov. 24 (Small Business Saturday), Nov. 30 (Elf Party and toy drive), Dec. 7 (Elf Party and toy drive), Dec. 14 (Holiday Hat Night), Dec. 21 (Ugly Sweater Party), Dec. 28 (Flannel Night), Jan. 4 (Aloha Night) and Jan. 5 (Glow Night).
Ice Plaza hours are 5 to 9 p.m. Monday-Friday, Nov. 17-Dec. 21; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 17-Dec. 23 and Nov. 23 (day after Thanksgiving) and New Year’s Day (Jan. 1); 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, Dec. 22-Jan. 7; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Christmas Eve (Dec. 24) and New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31). The rink is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY ON THE SQUARE
For several years, the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce and Hamilton County Government have worked together to present the annual lighting of the square.
This year, the event will kick off at 7 p.m. Nov. 23 inside the Hamilton County Government and Judicial Center.
Live music and other entertainment will fill the agenda, and, per tradition, Noblesville Mayor John Ditslear will read “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY
Small Business Saturday will take place Nov. 24. For years, businesses around the square and beyond have celebrated the day as a counter to Black Friday.
Many of the downtown merchants are offering “Shop Small” promotions, including a gift certificate package. Participating merchants include A Corner Cottage; Across the Pond; Adriene’s Flowers & Gifts; Bash Boutique; Caravan Classes; Courtney’s Kitchen; Kaleidoscope Krossing; Karisma; Kiln Creations; Lil Bloomers; Linden Tree; Little Gypsie Boutiqu; Logan Village Mall; Love’s Hangover; Nickel Plate Arts; Noble Coffee & Tea; Old Picket Fence; and Shine Yoga & Wellness. Shoppers should look for the blue Small Business Saturday and “Shop Small” signs in store windows.
CHRISTMAS PARADE
The official time and date of the Noblesville Christmas Parade is 2 p.m. Nov. 25.
This is the 40th year for the parade, which will begin at the corner of 16th and Harrison Streets and continue south to Logan Street, west to Ninth Street, north to Monument Street and east to 16th Street, where it will end.
CHAMBER HOLIDAY LUNCHEON
At 11:30 a.m. Dec. 5, the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce will host its annual holiday membership luncheon.
Each year, the Noblesville High School choir performs, along with the North Elementary School Hand Chime Choir.
The luncheon will take place at Purgatory Golf Club, 12160 E. 216th St., Noblesville. Members admission is $24 and $27 for non-members. Register at noblesvillechamber.com.
