How Indianapolis International Airport is Spreading Holiday Cheer with Daily Performances in 2025 Soaking in Some Festivities and Live Music

Published on December 18, 2025

Indianapolis International Airport is ringing in the holiday season with a festive spirit that’s sure to brighten the travel experience for passengers flying in and out of central Indiana. As travelers pass through the bustling terminal, they will be treated to daily performances that showcase a mix of holiday music, local talent, and seasonal cheer, all contributing to the festive atmosphere during December 2025.

The airport, known for its welcoming atmosphere, has partnered with local musicians and school groups to present a calendar full of performances designed to lift the spirits of both holiday travelers and staff. A representative from the airport authority shared that the terminal will be filled with the “sounds of holiday cheer,” with musical showcases and performances taking place throughout the month. Travelers will find that every day brings a new festive experience, from classical and jazz performances to contemporary holiday music.

Kicking Off the Season: A Showcase of Holiday Performances

The festivities at Indianapolis International Airport began on December 12, 2025, with a series of exciting events aimed at setting the tone for the holiday season. Kicking off the celebrations, Blair Clark hosted a variety of entertainers, including Monte Parker on vocals and keyboard, along with the Gospel Trio, which blended gospel-style harmonies with classic holiday songs. A vocal ensemble from Carmel High School also joined in, bringing their youthful energy to the holiday event.

The first evening performance on December 12 saw the Castlewood Singers, a choir of 40 voices, fill the air with festive holiday tunes. This marked just the beginning of a month filled with music, and travelers were delighted by the welcoming atmosphere created by these local musicians.

A Week of Musical Delights: From Classical to Pop Christmas

The following days saw an equally diverse array of performances. On December 13, the Young Hoosier Pianists delighted passersby with their holiday-themed pieces. These talented students, ranging from ages 6 to 8, showcased their love for music and the season in a special “Tickling the Ivories” event, which took place from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

December 14 featured an afternoon filled with holiday cheer as DJ Don Masters played a mix of yuletide favorites. Travelers could also enjoy a unique performance by the Capital City Chorus, a women’s choir performing a cappella holiday songs in the barbershop style, providing an energetic and festive vibe throughout the day.

Special Performances for Hanukkah and Jazz Lovers

The airport continues its holiday celebrations with a special performance on December 16, as the Klezmer Quartet takes the stage to celebrate Hanukkah, combining Jewish and secular music. The Lockerbie String Quartet followed up this performance with klezmer fiddling, bringing a cultural richness to the holiday celebrations.

For jazz enthusiasts, December 17 offered a festive take on the genre with “Merry Jazzmas.” Brenda Williams, one of Indianapolis’ leading jazz vocalists, started the day with her sultry renditions of holiday classics, and in the afternoon, the Valerie Phelps Trio took the stage to deliver their own jazzy interpretation of holiday favorites.

Pop and Country Christmas at IND: An Eclectic Mix of Holiday Music

The airport’s celebration continued into December 18, with Elizabeth Lee offering a mix of country and pop for the “Pop Christmas” celebration. This event brought a fun, upbeat energy to the terminal, while a later performance from duo Anneliese and Ali offered soothing holiday music to unwind after a busy travel day.

On December 23, country music took center stage for the “Country Christmas” event, featuring Tim Wright and Catherine Federspiel blending their harmonies with acoustic guitar. Known as the “Cuban Cowboy” from The Voice, Elias Gomez then took the stage to bring his festive flair to the holiday celebrations, charming travelers with his music in Civic Plaza.

Instrumental Choirs and Holiday Classics: A Feast for the Ears

December 19 and 20 brought an instrumental twist to the festivities with performances from groups like the Indy Winds Flute Choir and the Indianapolis Clarinet Ensemble. Travelers were treated to beautiful renditions of holiday classics as these talented instrumentalists spread cheer throughout the airport.

A Grand Finale: Christmas Eve Peace on Earth

The holiday season at Indianapolis International Airport will culminate on Christmas Eve, December 24, with a performance by Jan Aldridge Clark, a perennial favorite. Jan will perform her harp and keyboard compositions as part of the “Peace on Earth” event, bringing a serene and peaceful end to the airport’s holiday festivities. Travelers departing or arriving on Christmas Eve will enjoy a calm and soothing atmosphere, making their travel experience even more memorable.

A New Tradition of Holiday Cheer at IND

Indianapolis International Airport has certainly set the stage for a new tradition of holiday cheer. With daily performances showcasing local talent and an eclectic mix of holiday music, the airport is proving that travel doesn’t have to be stressful during the busy holiday season. Whether you’re flying in or out of central Indiana, the airport’s commitment to spreading holiday joy ensures that every passenger gets to experience the magic of the season, no matter where their journey takes them.

As the holidays draw to a close, the airport’s series of performances will have left a lasting impression, offering travelers a festive, joyful respite before they take off to their next destination. With plans for more performances to come, Indianapolis International Airport is well on its way to becoming a true holiday destination for those flying through the heart of Indiana.