🍦 Cozy Up, Southside: Your First December Scoop Is Here

TOGETHER WITH

It’s Monday, December 1st and yes, we’re just as shocked as you are.

December really snuck up on us, and so did the very rude drop in temperature. It’s looking like a cold one this week, so bundle up and let the holiday countdown begin. This month, you’ll hear from me on Mondays and Fridays until we slide into the holiday slowdown then we’ll shift to Mondays only through the new year.

In today’s South Side Scoop:

• 🧊 December is here (somehow), bringing colder temps and a shift to Monday + Friday newsletters for the month.

• 🎄 Three local holiday light experiences — Christmas Acres, Kelsay Farms Holiday Stroll, and Dec-A-Trees — are now glowing across the Southside.

• 🖼️ A full week of festive events is packed with craft nights, author visits, wreath workshops, kids’ holiday activities, and more.

Let’s get to it!

A MESSAGE FROM Grace Counseling Indy

✨ Now Accepting New Clients ✨

Grace Counseling is welcoming new clients for professional, faith-based counseling for individuals and couples, ages 12 and up.

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📍 365 E. Main Street, Greenwood, IN 46143

📞 Call or Text: (317) 560-6058

🌐 Visit: gracecounselingindy.com

DIGEST

The holiday season is officially glowing, and we wanted to share a few festive favorites that have already lit up the south side. Whether you're looking for a cozy walk-through experience or an over-the-top light display you can enjoy from the car, here are three local spots that are sure to put you in the holiday spirit. Grab a cup of cocoa and check them out!

Christmas Acres

More than 100,000 lights transform this private family property into a holiday spectacle open to the public. Guests can drive through the display for free and are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for the local pantry.
Dates: November 26th–December 31st
Hours: 6–10pm, nightly
Location: 6211 N. 500 East, Franklin

The Holiday Stroll at Kelsay Farms

Kelsay Farms offers a magical evening stroll through holiday lights, festive décor, hot cocoa by the fire, and a live Nativity. Great for families and photo ops.
Dates: November 28th–December 23rd
Hours: 5:30–9pm (Fridays–Sundays through Dec. 17, then nightly Dec. 18–23)
Location: 6848 N. 250 East, Whiteland
Tickets: https://kelsayfarms.com/holiday

Dec-A-Trees at the Museum

Step inside the Johnson County Museum to explore a charming display of decorated Christmas trees. Visitors can vote for their favorite tree, making this a fun and interactive holiday tradition for all ages.
Dates: December 2nd–31st
Hours: 9am–4pm (Tues–Fri), 10am–3pm (Saturdays)
Location: 135 N. Main St., Franklin

🍦The Scoop will always be free, but if it feels worth the price of an ice cream cone, I’d love your support. 👉 Support the Scoop here

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WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Monday

“The Way We Talk” Book Launch Party at Clark Pleasant Public Library

Celebrate the launch of this poetry collection about ASL, family, and being understood. Enjoy cookies, stickers, a kid-friendly activity, and ask the author, E.S. Quinlan, questions.
Monday, December 1st | 6–7pm | 530 Clearwater Blvd., Whiteland

Stitch Some Support at Southport Library

Bring your crochet or knitting project—or start a new one using library supplies—at this monthly gathering focused on community crafting and service. All skill levels welcome. Register here.
Monday, December 1st | 6–7:30pm | 2630 E. Stop 11 Rd., Indianapolis

Tuesday

Virtual Author Talk with Sue Hincenbergs

Join Greenwood Public Library online for a conversation with debut author Sue Hincenbergs about The Retirement Plan, a sharp and funny novel about three women, their husbands, and one seriously shady investment scheme. Register here.
Tuesday, December 2nd | 2–3pm | Virtual via GPL

Storytime with the Grinch at GPL

Bring the kids for a special holiday storytime with Miss Anne at Greenwood Public Library—and a visit from the Grinch himself! Snap a pic, enjoy themed crafts, and soak up the holiday cheer.
Tuesday, December 2nd | 6–7pm | 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood

Grinch Pen, Keychain & Ornament Craft Class at Applebee’s Franklin

Get creative and festive at this hands-on Grinch-themed craft night at Applebee’s hosted by Sunflowers & Roses Craft Club. Get your tickets here.
Tuesday, December 2nd | 6–8pm | 700 N. Morton St., Franklin

Christmas Painting Class with Kira at El Pueblo

Paint a festive snowman scene on canvas with glitter paint at this guided class by Kira Illustration. All supplies included. $22 per person. Secure your spot through Etsy.
Tuesday, December 2nd | 6–8pm | 1904 Northwood Plaza Dr., Franklin

Author Event with Sophie Cousens at The Sycamore

Celebrate the release of And Then There Was You with New York Times bestselling author Sophie Cousens. Hosted by Wild Geese Bookshop. Get your tickets here.
Tuesday, December 2nd | 6:30pm | 7070 W. Whiteland Rd., Bargersville

Wednesday

Sip and Salt Slow Flow Yoga

Unwind with gentle yoga and the healing benefits of salt therapy. Includes a mocktail and good vibes. $40 per person. Book your spot here.
Wednesday, December 3rd | 6–7pm | Salty Woods, 200 Byrd Way, Greenwood

Franklin College Art Exhibit and Reception at Johnson Center for Fine Arts

Celebrate the creativity of Franklin College art students with a gallery exhibit and awards ceremony. Free and open to the public.
Wednesday, December 3rd | 6–7:30pm | 255 Branigin Blvd., Franklin

Cookie Decorating Class by Salo Salo

Enjoy unlimited hot cocoa while decorating holiday cookies at this sweet class hosted by the Philippines Cultural Community Center for $20. Register here.
Wednesday, December 3rd | 7–8pm | 2350 Fairview Pl., Suite 100, Greenwood

Thursday

Little Artist Painting Day at uPaint

A holiday storytime and star-shaped cookie painting class just for toddlers and preschoolers. $15 per child. Walk-ins welcome or secure your spot ahead of time here.
Thursday, December 4th | 11am–12:30pm | 3113 W Smith Valley Rd, Greenwood

Jim Rhoades Memorial Hog Roast at Johnson County Fairgrounds

Support the Good Cheer Fund and Interchurch Food Pantry at this annual Franklin Rotary fundraiser.
Thursday, December 4th | 11am–1pm | 250 Fairground St., Franklin

Magical Lights Watercolor Workshop at Generation Art & Frame

Learn mixed media watercolor techniques from Emily to create a holiday lights–themed masterpiece at one of two classes. Ages 16+, $50. Get your tickets here.
Thursday, December 4th | 3:30–5:30pm and 6–8pm | 62 E. Jefferson St., Franklin

Christmas Market by Perry Seniors Services

Enjoy crafts, food, hot cocoa, vendors, and a cookie decorating station for kids at this free-admission market at the Southport Community Room.
Thursday, December 4th | 4–8pm | 6901 Derbyshire Rd., Indianapolis

Wreath Making Workshop at Miss M’s

Design and build your own holiday wreath with fresh greenery. Sign-up here.
Thursday, December 4th | 5–7pm | 4415 N. State Rd. 135, Bargersville

Sip & String at Brandywine Creek Winery

Create your own string art masterpiece while sipping wine or a slushy at this fun, guided class. $25 includes supplies and a drink. Get your tickets here.
Thursday, December 4th | 5:30–7:30pm | 12524 Southeastern Ave., Indianapolis

Holiday Centerpiece Class at The Sycamore

Create a festive centerpiece with Crister’s Flowers & Gifts. Ticket includes materials and a glass of wine. $100 per person. Get your tickets here.
Thursday, December 4th | 6pm | 7070 W. Whiteland Rd., Bargersville

Franklin College Holiday Instrumental Concert

Enjoy a festive evening of music by Franklin College instrumental students at Clarence E. & Inez R. Custer Theatre in Old Main. Free and open to the public.
Thursday, December 4th | 7–9pm | 101 Branigin Blvd., Franklin

Sold Out (So You Don’t Miss Out Next Time!)

• Tuesday

  • Porch Pots Workshop at Miss M’s

• Thursday

  • Christmas Vacation Trivia Night at The Sycamore at Mallow Run

  • Frosting & Flicks: How the Grinch Stole Christmas with EA Cookies at Millie’s Ice Cream Co.

🎤 Looking for karaoke nights, trivia, bingo, or fun weekly activities for the kids? Check out our full list of recurring events here!

📆 Upcoming Events You Can’t Miss

Hosting an event on the southside? 👉 Send it our way! We review each event and feature the ones that our readers will love most.

This Weekend

• Friday, December 5th:

  • Yuletide on Baldwin Holiday Lighting in Downtown Bargersville

  • Chicago Christman Shopping Bus Trip with Greenwood Parks & Rec

  • Jodi White at Mad Hatter Shows & Event Center

  • Boos & Brews Walking Tour in Downtown Franklin

  • Christmas Music Bingo at Board & Brush Greenwood

• Friday-Saturday, December 5th-7th: 

  • Our Town Players Presents: A Charlie Brown Christmas at Franklin Active Adult Center

  • A Christmas Story at The Artcraft

• Saturday, December 6th:

  • KiD CiTY Christmas

  • Ocean's Rat Pack at Mad Hatter Shows & Event Center

  • Friends of JCPL Book Sale at the Franklin Branch Library

  • Holiday Lighting and Winter Market in Downtown Franklin

  • Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus at Greenwood Public Library

  • Breakfast with Santa at Compass Park

  • Pancakes with Santa at The Sycamore (SOLD OUT)

  • Christmas in Wanamaker

  • Christmas with the Grinch at Center Church

• Sunday, December 7th:

  • GW Parks & Rec: Lighted Trail Opens

  • Whiteland Winter Market at Nire Event Center

Happening Soon

• Tuesday, December 9th:

  • The Glenn Miller Orchestra at The Artcraft

  • GPL: Holiday Gift Wrap Station

• Thursday, December 11th: 

  • GPL: Holiday Gift Wrap Station

  • Stuttering John Melendez at Mad Hatter Shows & Event Center

  • It’s a Wonderful Life at The Artcraft

• Friday, December 12th: 

  • GW Parks & Rec: Green Friday

  • Todd Yohn at Mad Hatter Shows & Event Center

• Saturday, December 13th: 

  • Donuts with Santa with Johnson County Shrine Club

  • Sunset Strip Experience featuring Glamerica Band at Mad Hatter Shows & Event Center

  • Breakfast with Santa at The Haven at Hickory Stick

  • Polar Express Party at Wild Geese Bookshop

• Sunday, December 14th: MashCraft’s Merry Meet & Greet with Santa

If you’d like more information about any of the upcoming events, don’t hesitate to send us an email—we’re happy to assist! Keep in mind that many of these events require a ticket, so be sure to grab yours before they’re gone!

⛅️ WEATHER

Monday

34 🌡️ 25 | ☁️ | 15% | 🌬️ ESE 5-10 MPH

Tuesday

29 🌡️ 20 | ☁️ | 9% | 🌬️ NW 5-10 MPH

Wednesday

36 🌡️ 24 | 🌥️ | 7% | 🌬️ SSW 10-15 MPH

Thursday

29 🌡️ 19 | ⛅️ | 7% | 🌬️ N 5-10 MPH

_{*Disclaimer: This forecast was pulled from the weather app the night before and is subject to Indiana’s ever-changing moods—accuracy not guaranteed!}

🎶 LIVE MUSIC

Tuesday

• Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza | Frank Dean’s Performance Stage | 5pm

• The Corner Bar | John Stevens | 7pm

Wednesday

• The Corner Bar | Open Stage with Phil Pierle | 7pm

Thursday

• Parkside Public House | Kevmo & Friends | 6pm

• The Corner Bar | Phil Pierle Trio | 7pm

• Tried & True | Ben Tatum | 8pm

• Whit’s Inn | Brandon | 7pm

🍒 THE CHERRY ON TOP

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