🍦 Ho-Ho-Hold My Hot Chocolate — It’s a Busy Weekend!

TOGETHER WITH

If you’re trying to avoid Santa this weekend… good luck. He’s popping up everywhere—tree lightings, breakfasts, parades, you name it. If your kids are eager to hand over their wish lists (or you just want a cute photo), this is your weekend. And if you’re not into crowds, jingle bells, or candy canes… maybe stay home and let the rest of us get our holiday cheer on.

In today’s South Side Scoop:

• 🎄 Two major holiday celebrations are lighting up the Southside this weekend, with Bargersville and Franklin hosting their signature Christmas festivals.

• 🧥 A Greenwood police officer’s simple act of kindness—buying a coat for a student in need—has warmed hearts across the community.

• 🏫 Southside schools receive more than $70 million in Lilly Endowment grants, bringing major upgrades to academics, STEM, arts, and student support programs.

Let’s get to it!

A MESSAGE FROM Haggerty and Haggerty

8122 South Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46217

Phone: 317.786.2225

Website: southindylaw.com

THE DIGEST

Two Magical Holiday Celebrations This Weekend

Get ready for a weekend full of holiday cheer! Both Bargersville and Franklin are hosting their big Christmas celebrations packed with lights, music, and family fun. Yuletide on Baldwin kicks off Friday, Dec. 5th at 4:30 p.m. in Downtown Bargersville with Santa’s arrival on a fire truck, festive lighting, live reindeer, crafts, treats, and tons of free kids’ activities. Then on Saturday, Dec. 6th, Downtown Franklin lights up with its Holiday Lighting and Winter Market—a full day of activities like a shark encounter, live nativity, parades, food vendors, and visits with Santa. Don’t miss it!

Officer Steps Up to Help Student in Need

Greenwood Police Officer Lightsey recently responded to a welfare check for a young girl sitting outside without a jacket while waiting for the school bus. After learning she didn’t own one, he invited her to wait in his patrol car to stay warm. He later went out and purchased a jacket for her, delivering it to her at school. A small act of kindness with a big impact—thank you, Officer Lightsey!

Southside Schools Receive Major Grants from Lilly Endowment

Lilly Endowment, Inc. has awarded more than $460 million in new grants to Marion County public and private K–12 schools as part of its ongoing initiatives to boost academic achievement and post‑secondary preparedness. Among the recipients are four Southside schools: Franklin Township ($29.5M), Perry Township ($40M), Lutheran High School ($2M), and Calvary Lutheran School ($2.3M). These funds will support evidence‑based programs such as expanded career exploration, tutoring, upgraded STEM spaces, performing arts improvements, and enhanced student and family support services.

🍦 The Scoop is built for the South Side, by the South Side. If you want to help keep it strong, you can support for as little as $2/month. 👉 Support the Scoop here

A MESSAGE FROM Brian Quinlan – Daniels Real Estate

🏡 Perry Township parent. Former teacher. Local announcer for CG sports & Franklin College football.

This community is home, and I’d love to help you find yours.

Ready to move? Call/Text Brian Quinlan – Daniels Real Estate.

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

This Weekend

A Christmas Story at the Artcraft Theatre

Don’t miss this beloved holiday tradition at the Historic Artcraft Theatre! Watch A Christmas Story on 35mm film with special pre-show activities during evening showings. Get tickets here.
Friday, December 5th–Sunday, December 7th | Fri & Sat 2pm & 7:30pm | Sun 2pm & 5:30pm | 57 N. Main St., Franklin

Franklin College Holiday Choral Concert

The FC Music Department hosts its annual holiday concert with performances from the Men’s Chorus, Women’s Chorus, and FC Singers at the Custer Theatre in Old Main. Free and open to the public.
Friday, December 5th–Saturday, December 6th | 2pm & 7pm | 101 Branigin Blvd., Franklin

Christmas from Campus at UIndy

Celebrate the season with the University of Indianapolis' ensembles performing holiday classics in a festive and heartwarming concert at Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center. Get your tickets here.
Friday, December 5th & Sunday, December 7th | Fri 7pm | Sun 3pm | 1400 E. Hanna Ave., Indianapolis

Friday

After Hours Comedy at The Haven at Hickory Stick

Enjoy a night of laughs with national touring comedians at The Haven at Hickory Stick. Food and drinks available. Tickets start at $23.
Friday, December 5th | 8:30–10pm (Doors 7:30pm) | 4422 Hickory Stick Blvd., Greenwood

Jodi White at Mad Hatter Shows Event Center

Catch Jodi White’s sharp, reality-based humor in Greenwood. All-ages show (recommended 17+). Get your tickets here.
Friday, December 5th | 7pm (Doors 6pm) | 916th E. Main St., Greenwood

Happy Birthday, Jane Austen! – Pride & Prejudice Screening

Celebrate Jane Austen’s birthday with a screening of the 2005 Pride and Prejudice at the library’s Nook theater. Free popcorn and beverages. Register here.
Friday, December 5th | 2–4:30pm | 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood

Yuletide on Baldwin Holiday Lighting in Bargersville

A free family holiday event featuring a lighting ceremony, luminary walk, Santa and his reindeer, and more.
Friday, December 5th | 4:40–8pm | 118 N. Baldwin St., Bargersville

First Fridays Downtown Franklin Chocolate Walk

Grab a shopping bag and stroll downtown Franklin, picking up holiday truffles from 27 local businesses. One truffle per location while supplies last.
Friday, December 5th | 5–8pm | Downtown Franklin

Holiday Garland Workshop at 1823 Bakehouse

Make handmade wooden ornaments and custom garlands at this cozy holiday craft night. Cost is $40 per person; Reserve your spot using Venmo: @creative_table
Friday, December 5th | 6:30–8:30pm | 25 E. Court St., Franklin

“Oh What Fun!”: A Covenant House Christmas at The Barn at Aberdeen Farms

Enjoy live music, food trucks, cookie decorating, and a silent auction—all for a great cause supporting Covenant House.
Friday, December 5th | 7–9pm | 5028 Abbeygate Blvd., Bargersville

Saturday

Franklin Holiday Lighting Festival

Spend the day in Downtown Franklin enjoying a Winter Market, holiday parade, courthouse lighting, live music, food vendors, a shark encounter, Santa visits, and more! Find the full schedule here.
Saturday, December 6th | 8am–7:30pm | Downtown Franklin

Breakfast with Santa at Compass Park

Join Santa and his helpers for a breakfast buffet and photo ops. This event is benefitting Girls on the Run Central Indiana. $10 for adults, $7 for kids ($5 for multi-child families), and free for children under 1. Get your tickets here.
Saturday, December 6th | 8am–12pm | 590 Five Points Dr., Franklin

Breakfast with Santa at One Christian Church

Enjoy a free breakfast with Santa, including doughnuts, a toy, and a photo with the big guy himself.
Saturday, December 6th | 8:30–9:30am | 2578 Donica Rd., Greenwood

Dave & Buster’s Annual Breakfast with Santa

Get early VIP access to arcade games, enjoy a festive breakfast, meet Santa, write letters, and more. Ticket options available online.
Saturday, December 6th | 9am | 1251 US Hwy 31 N, Greenwood

Breakfast with Santa & Craft Fair at St. Rose of Lima

Enjoy breakfast and shopping from over 20 vendors. $7 per person or $20 per family.
Saturday, December 6th | 9am–2pm | 114 Lancelot Dr., Franklin

Christmas with the Grinch at Center Church

Celebrate the season with photos with the Grinch, festive crafts, treats, and hot chocolate at this fun and free family event hosted by Center Church.
Saturday, December 6th | 10–11:30am | 5445 Bluff Rd., Indianapolis

Santa at Fletcher Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Bring your camera for free photos with Santa. Cookies and milk provided.
Saturday, December 6th | 10am–2pm | 3099 N U.S. 31, Franklin

Christmas in Wanamaker: All Aboard the Polar Express

Enjoy breakfast with Santa, live performances, train rides, crafts, a gingerbread house contest, vendor booths, a parade, and more family fun during this festive community celebration. Most activities are free; donations and canned goods appreciated.
Saturday, December 6th | 10am–3pm | Downtown Wanamaker

Santa Day at Berkshire Hathaway

Photos with Santa, plus cookies and crafts. Free for everyone.
Saturday, December 6th | 11am–2pm | 1680 W. Main St., Greenwood

Free Pictures with Santa at Greenwood Happy Haunts

Stop by for free Santa photos—pets are welcome too.
Saturday, December 6th | 12–4pm | 248 Market Plaza, Greenwood

Santa Photos at the Johnson County Museum of History

Get free pictures with Santa, enjoy a craft activity, and check out the Dec-a-Trees. If you can’t make it this time, his next visit is scheduled for December 14th.
Saturday, December 6th | 1:30–4:30pm | 135 N. Main St., Franklin

Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus at the Greenwood Public Library

Stop by the Greenwood Public Library for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a kids' activity, and refreshments provided by the Kiwanis.
Saturday, December 6th | 2–4pm | 310 S. Meridian, Greenwood

KiD CiTY Christmas at Greenwood Amphitheater

Holiday fun for the whole family—train rides through the lighted trail, bounce house, hot cocoa, and holiday crafts. Admission: $10 | Admission + Stuffed Reindeer: $20 | Kids under 2 free. Get your tickets here.
Saturday, December 6th | 5–8pm | 100 Surina Way, Greenwood

Greenwood Community Band Christmas Concert

Enjoy a festive evening of traditional holiday music, narration by the Mayor, and performances by local choirs and dancers. Free and open to the public—no tickets required. Donations of canned goods accepted for the Interchurch Food Pantry.
Saturday, December 6th | 6–7pm (Doors open 5:30pm) | 615 W. Smith Valley Rd., Greenwood

Ocean’s Rat Pack Tribute Show at Mad Hatter Shows Event Center

Experience the timeless sounds of the Rat Pack with this high-energy tribute show featuring music by Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, and more. Get your tickets here.
Saturday, December 6th | 7pm (Doors open 6pm) | 916 E Main St., Greenwood

Sunday

Sensory-Friendly Jump at Urban Air

Join us for a fun-filled event created for children who enjoy a sensory-friendly setting. Relax at the park with no loud music or flashing lights just inclusive activities for all to enjoy!
Sunday, December 7th | 9–11am | 1172 N Main St, Franklin

Whiteland Winter Market at Nire Event Center

Shop small and local at the Whiteland Winter Market. Vendors, food trucks, and coffee will be on-site.
Sunday, December 7th | 11am–3pm | 740 E. Main St., Whiteland

Santa Paws with Franklin Parks & Rec

Bring your furry friend to meet Santa at this free pet-friendly event hosted by Franklin Parks & Recreation. Donations to the Humane Society of Johnson County appreciated.
Sunday, December 7th | 1–3pm | 396 Branigin Blvd., Franklin

Scandalous Sexy Snowman Paint & Sip at MashCraft Brewing

Join a fun and cheeky adult painting class at MashCraft Brewing. No experience needed—just good vibes and drinks. 21+ Get your tickets here.
Sunday, December 7th | 2–5pm | 1140 IN-135, Greenwood

A Chordlighters Christmas

Enjoy a festive performance from the Chordlighters barbershop group at the Franklin Performing Arts Center.
Sunday, December 7th | 3–4:30pm | 2600 Cumberland Dr., Franklin

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

• Friday

  • Christmas Vacation Trivia Night – ENCORE at The Sycamore at Mallow Run

• Saturday

  • Pancakes with Santa at The Sycamore at Mallow Run

  • Resources of Hope Inc. Hope for the Holidays at New Hope Church

🎤 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.

• 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

• Thursday, December 18th: Candlelight Christmas at Mad Hatter Shows & Event Center

• Friday-Sunday, December 19th-21st: National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation at The Artcraft

• Saturday, December 20th: Misfits of Comedy at Mad Hatter Shows & Event Center

• Monday-Tuesday, December 22nd-23rd:

  • Muppet Christmas Carol at The Artcraft

  • Die Hard at The Artcraft

If you'd like additional details on any of the upcoming events, feel free to send us an email—we're happy to help!

⛅️ WEATHER

🎶 LIVE MUSIC

Friday

• Ale Emporium Greenwood | Rhino Down | 830pm

• Draft Day Pub | 8-bit Audio Band | 7pm

• Freddie’s Pub | Gina & Joel | 9pm

• SmockTown | Tobias | 8pm

• The Corner Bar | Paul Holdman Trio | 7pm

• Tried & True | Taylor Hernley | 8pm

• Whiskey Business Southport | Dude! | 9pm

• Whit’s Inn | Homemade Jam | 830pm

Saturday

• Brandywine Creek Winery | Breanna Faith | 6pm

• Draft Day Pub | Kara Cole | 7pm

• Greater Greenwood Community Band | Greenwood Community High School Auditorium | 6pm

• Mikie’s Pub | That 90s Band | 9pm

• SmockTown | Lindsey Flannery | 830pm

• The Corner Bar | Gordon Bonham Band | 7pm

• Tried & True | Craig Thurston | 8pm

• Whiskey Business Southport | Crowd Therapy | 9pm

Sunday

• Chilly Water Brewing Co. South | Pillow Talk | 4pm

🍒 THE CHERRY ON TOP

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