Home for the Holidays in Danville, Indiana
Small towns are full of charm and nostalgia, especially during the holidays. One of my favorite small towns in Indiana is Danville. And there is no better time to visit Danville than Christmas time!
With brilliant white lights strung out from the courthouse to the shops and restaurants lining the square, even the grinchiest of grinches can’t help but feel the love in Danville.
Kick your Christmas spirit up a notch with a visit to Danville!
Here are 3 reasons you should check out Danville, Indiana this holiday season.
Festive Decorations & Holiday Happenings
People of all ages pack the town square to kick off the holiday season the Friday evening after Thanksgiving. The main event is the lighting of the tree and the strands of lights strung from all sides of the courthouse. Evening festivities also include carolers, hot cocoa, cookie decorating, train rides for the kiddies, and so much more as all the local businesses join in the celebration.
The lights and decorations can be enjoyed all season long and are sure to bring about your festive side. Every store window is decked out in colorful Christmas trimmings, just begging you to come inside.
One of my favorite stops on the square is the Royal Theater. This historic theater from the 1920’s shows both old and new flicks, but it has all the charm of theaters from days gone by. Including their ticket prices; just $6 ($4 for the kids and matinee showings).
Unlike today’s popular multiplex theaters, the Royal Theater just has one auditorium, but plenty of nostalgia for movie buffs. Along with all your favorite movie theater concessions. Popcorn with extra butter, please!
This holiday season Frozen 2 is sure to be all the rage. And on December 19 you can catch a classic, Christmas Vacation, on the big screen.
Less than a mile down the road from the town square is Ellis Park. There you will find the Winterland Holiday Light Show. It is a spectacular drive-through display of animated Christmas lights.
Your whole family can enjoy the lights from the warmth of your vehicle as you slowly drive through the park. On the weekends you can even go into the train station inside the park to visit Santa.
Young and old alike will appreciate this holiday attraction, which costs $5 per carload on weekdays and $10 on the weekends.
Photos just don’t do this light display justice, so take my word for it. Load your family into the minivan for a scenic drive through the Winterland Holiday Light Show in Ellis Park!
Unique Shops
Evening time is perfect for viewing the Christmas lights in Danville, however many of the shops will be closed. So make sure you also plan a day trip to Danville to do some holiday shopping!
You will find plenty of unique gifts and lovely holiday decor to fill your home with Christmas cheer.
Don’t miss Forget-Me-Nots, just south of the town square. This shop specializes in one-of-a-kind creations made out of repurposed barn wood.
Additional shops offer jewelry, clothing, children’s items, and handcrafted creations. Plenty of options for everyone on your holiday shopping list!
Variety of Dining Options
Danville also offers an array of restaurants to please any palate, no matter the season. For fine Italian dining, we love Frank’s Place. A great option for date night, but the kids will love it too!
If I’m meeting a friend for a holiday lunch or breakfast, The Bread Basket is ideal. You feel like you are dining at your best friend’s home with its cozy atmosphere and homemade dishes. And I dare you to leave without buying a sweet treat from the bakery case! Pick up something to have on hand for your next holiday party.
When I want to sip on a warm beverage while getting some work done, I bring my laptop and park myself at The Beehive. This cafe also has a great selection of soups, sandwiches, quiches, and baked goods. You can even pick up produce and locally made goods from their market section. Great for stocking stuffers!
I haven’t indulged yet, but on my must-try list in Danville is Red’s Donuts. Yet another reason to visit Danville again to check out this family-owned business,
Probably the most well-known dining establishment in Danville is the Mayberry Cafe. Full of memorabilia from The Andy Griffith Show and home cooking just like Aunt Bee’s. People travel from all over to dine here all year long.
While the Christmas season is a great time for a homestyle meal at Mayberry Cafe, true fans of the show need to return in May for the 3-day celebration of Mayberry in the Midwest.
Yet another great dining option in Danville is Court House Grounds.
The ambiance is perfect for a casual holiday date night as well as Sunday brunch. The Christmas decor brings out the character of this beautiful restaurant and historic building.
Sip a steaming mug of coffee or indulge in an adult beverage while you enjoy one of their tasty menu options.
And don’t leave without picking up one of Grandma Pete’s famous fruitcakes. This is NOT your run-of-the-mill fruitcake that ends up being the gift no one wants!
While Danville, Indiana is a pretty special place to visit during the holiday season, this small town offers plenty of charm and seasonal fun all year long. So plan your visit to Danville soon!
Which small towns have you visited that offer up all the Christmas feels? Comment below with your favorite Christmas town and what makes it so festive.
Wherever the road takes you, make it a joyous journey,
Traveling Tanya
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