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- 🍦 Tis the Fri-yay Before Christmas - Let’s Sleigh It!
🍦 Tis the Fri-yay Before Christmas - Let’s Sleigh It!
Discover what's happening in Greenwood, Center Grove, Bargersville, and beyond this weekend!
Jess Adragna
December 20, 2024
TOGETHER WITH
It’s December 20th, which means we’re officially knee-deep in holiday spirit, elbow-deep in cookie dough, and—let’s be real—probably stuck in traffic behind someone who thinks Rudolph is actually leading their minivan.
But hey, the weekend is so close you can practically smell the hot cocoa and peppermint bark. Whether you’re braving the mall (may the odds be ever in your favor) or cozying up at home with a good book and questionable gift-wrapping skills, we’re here to bring a little sparkle to your day.
So grab your favorite festive sweater (the uglier, the better) and dive into this weekend’s news—because if we’re going to survive the countdown to Christmas, we’re going to need a solid plan, a sense of humor, and possibly a second helping of pie.
In today’s South Side Scoop:
🧥 Warm Hearts for Winter: Help foster families by donating boys' size 4 and 5 winter clothes to Resources of Hope.
🏗️ Franklin's Big News: Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and more are heading to town, plus Big Lots is launching liquidation sales in Franklin and Greenwood.
🎄 Festive Fun on the South Side: From holiday markets and live nativities to Christmas trivia and movie nights, your weekend is packed with holiday cheer!
Let’s get to it!
A MESSAGE FROM Rob & Joyce Campbell
As the holiday season fills the air with joy and togetherness, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for our incredible clients. Helping families buy and sell homes over the years has been a true privilege. We’re especially honored to have served some families across generations, helping parents, children, and even grandchildren find their perfect homes.
With over 35 years of real estate expertise, we bring a unique blend of time-tested knowledge and the latest technology to guide you through today’s ever-changing market. Whether you’re starting fresh in the new year or planning your next move, we’re here to make the process seamless and stress-free.
THE DIGEST
Help Needed: Boys’ Winter Clothes for Foster Families
Resources of Hope is seeking size 4 and 5 boys’ winter clothes to support local foster families. They’re asking for new or gently used items in good condition (no rips, stains, or piling) to help fill an empty rack. Donations can be dropped at their office during their open hours on Monday or Wednesday from 9am-5pm. Donations make a big difference—let’s step up for the kids!
Ivy Tech Showcases Advanced Manufacturing Program for High School Students
Ivy Tech Community College in Franklin recently hosted 80 high school students to explore careers in advanced manufacturing and the Johnson County Advanced Manufacturing Program (JCAMP). This free, three-year program allows students to earn an associate’s degree in industrial technology while still in high school, with hands-on experience through paid internships. Ivy Tech will hold an info night for interested families on February 6 at 6 pm at its Franklin campus.
LOCAL BUSINESS
Big Brands Coming to Franklin: Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and More!
Exciting news for Franklin! Chick-fil-A is set to open where the former Aaron's Rental building was located. The area will also welcome a Chipotle, Dutch Bros Coffee, and Valvoline Instant Oil Change, with interest from Longhorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden. Big changes are coming to US-31!
Franklin and Greenwood Big Lots Begin Liquidation Sales
The Franklin and Greenwood Big Lots stores are officially beginning going out of business sales after efforts to secure a buyer fell through. Big Lots Inc. announced the closures as part of a nationwide liquidation process to preserve the company’s estate. While still hopeful for a potential agreement with another buyer, the company has started the sales as a precaution. Both locations will remain open during the liquidation, offering in-store and online shopping until they close for good.
📸 Tag @SouthSideScoopNews on Instagram to get your photos in the publication!
A MESSAGE FROM South Side Scoop
Looking for the best holiday events on the South Side? Our seasonal guide has you covered with all the festive fun happening in our community! Bookmark this page and check back often as we’ll keep adding more events to keep your season merry and bright.
Have a holiday event to share? Your event could be featured in our next issue—don’t miss the chance to spread the cheer!
WHAT’S HAPPENIN’
Friday
Luca: Family Movie Series
Join Franklin Parks & Recreation for a Family Movie Night featuring Luca! Enjoy candy, popcorn, and soda for just $1 each. Fun for all ages—don’t miss it!
When: Friday, December 20th
Time: 10am-12pm
Where: Franklin Parks & Recreation - 396 Branigin Blvd, Franklin, Indiana 46131
Late Night Paint Night
Open until midnight! Join us for a late-night painting party and create last-minute gifts and holiday ornaments. No reservations needed—just drop in and paint the night away!
When: Friday, December 20th
Time: 11am-Midnight
Where: uPaint Pottery Studio - 3113 W Smith Valley Rd D, Greenwood, Indiana 46142
Procrastinator’s Night Out at J Avenue Boutiquet
Are you a last-minute Christmas shopper? Join us for Procrastinator’s Night Out at J Avenue Boutique and check off those final gifts in style. Shop for everyone on your list while enjoying refreshments to keep your energy up, and enter to win a $25 gift card raffle! This fun and festive evening is the perfect way to finish your holiday shopping with a little extra cheer.
When: Friday, December 20th
Time: 5pm-8pm
Where: J Avenue Boutique - 197 E Jefferson St, Franklin, Indiana 46131
Live Nativity at First Baptist
Experience the magic of a live Nativity at First Baptist Church of Greenwood! This drive-through event is a perfect way to celebrate the season.
When: Friday, December 20th
Time: 6pm-8pm
Where: First Baptist Church of Greenwood - 1589 Averitt Road, Greenwood, Indiana 46143
The Artcraft Theatre: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Join the Griswold family as they attempt to pull off the perfect Christmas, only to face hilarious chaos with bosses, in-laws, and wild holiday mishaps. This modern Christmas classic is one of the most anticipated annual films on the Artcraft schedule, so don’t wait—tickets will sell out fast! Come laugh along with this timeless holiday favorite. Buy your tickets here.
When: Friday, December 20th – Sunday, December 22nd
Time: 2pm and 7:30pm Fri & Sat; 2pm and 5:30pm Sun
Where: The Historic Artcraft Theatre - 57 N Main St, Franklin, Indiana 46131
A Christmas Story Trivia Night
Test your knowledge of A Christmas Story at this festive trivia night! Doors open at 5:30 PM with Tex-Mex eats from Woppo’s Food Truck and themed cocktails from the Sycamore Bar. Trivia starts at 7 PM, supporting Leadership Johnson County’s Beyond Four Walls project to fund an outdoor classroom for Clark Pleasant K-5 students. Mallow Run Winery will donate 50% of table purchases to the cause. Tickets are $40 per table (2–8 players). Reserve your spot for holiday fun and a great cause!
When: Friday, December 20th
Time: 5:30pm-8:30pm
Where: The Sycamore at Mallow Run – 7070 W. Whiteland Road, Bargersville, Indiana 46106
Cost: $40/table (2-8 players)
Urban Air Jumperoo Holiday Party
Bring your littles (ages 5 & under) to our annual holiday-themed Jumperoo party! Enjoy donuts, crafts, and goody bags at this fun-filled event. It’s just for the tiny tots and their parents, with a $10.99 admission per child (parents play free!). Don’t forget your Urban Air socks! This is the last Jumperoo session until Jan. 9th, so don’t miss out.
When: Friday, December 20th
Time: 10am-12pm
Where: Urban Air Adventure Park - 1172 North Main Street, Franklin
Smocktown’s Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Show off your ugliest Christmas apparel at our annual party! Enjoy holiday cocktails, syringe jello shots, live music from 8–10pm, and a prize for the best dressed. Don’t miss the festive fun!
When: Friday, December 20th
Time: 7pm
Where: SmockTown Brewery - 223 W. Main Street, Greenwood, Indiana 46142
Mikie’s Pub DJ Bingo
When: Friday, December 20th
Time: 7pm
Where: Mikie’s Pub
That Place DJ Bingo
When: Friday, December 20th
Time: 8pm
Where: That Place
Saturday
Santa Claus Parade in New Whiteland
Join the New Whiteland Fire Department for a festive evening! Santa will be at the fire station for photos starting at 5pm, followed by a parade at 6pm (no stops along the route). Celebrate the season with this holiday tradition in New Whiteland, Indiana—fun for the whole family!
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 5pm-7pm
Where: New Whiteland Fire Department – 500 Sweetbriar Ave, New Whiteland, Indiana 46184
Hoosier Handmade Craft Fair & Winter Market
Stroll through Scott and Herring Halls at the Johnson County Fairgrounds for a unique shopping experience featuring over 70 local artisans! Discover leatherworks, pottery, jewelry, wood carvings, charcuterie boards, candles, goat milk products, farm décor, and more. Enjoy food trucks, take a Crafty Class, and let kids (10 and under) join a free scavenger hunt with prizes. Free admission and parking make this a festive event not to miss!
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 9am-3pm
Where: Johnson County Fairgrounds - 250 Fairground St, Franklin, Indiana 46131
Join us for Breakfast with Santa—open to everyone! Don't miss this festive morning with the jolly man himself.
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 8am-10am
Where: Greenwood American Legion - 334 S. U.S. 31, Greenwood, Indiana 46142
Breakfast with Santa at The Haven
Santa’s sleigh is on its way! Bring the family for a festive morning of breakfast, photos with Santa, and holiday games. Tickets are $25 per person and include a breakfast buffet. Don’t miss the holiday fun! Buy your tickets here.
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 9am-11am
Where: The Haven at Hickory Stick - 4422 Thompson Road, Greenwood, Indiana 46143
Cost: $25/person
Get creative this holiday season at our DIY holiday ornament workshop with Santa! Each registration covers one person and includes all the materials you’ll need to create a fun set of ornaments for your tree. Choose your favorite designs and paint colors, and follow step-by-step instructions to bring your holiday creations to life. Pre-registration is required for each participant—click the link to register. We can’t wait to see you there!
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 10am and 11am
Where: Board & Brush – 200 W. Main St, Greenwood, Indiana 46142
Cost: $5
Holiday Music at Mallow Run Winery
Head to Mallow Run Winery for a festive day of holiday cheer! The Tasting Room will be open from 12-6pm, offering complimentary wine tastings, seasonal wines, custom gift baskets, gift cards, and more—perfect for last-minute holiday shopping. Enjoy live music on the cozy, heated patio from 2-5pm. This family-friendly event is free to attend, so bring the whole crew for a day of music, merriment, and delicious sips!
When: Saturday, December 21st - Sunday, December 22nd
Time: 12pm-6am
Where: Mallow Run Winery – 6964 W Whiteland Rd, Bargersville, Indiana 46106
Holiday Open House at the Museum
Enjoy a delightful evening of live holiday music and refreshments while admiring more than a dozen beautifully decorated Christmas trees, created by local community groups. This festive event takes place in the museum’s auditorium and is free to attend. Bring the whole family and soak in the holiday spirit!
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 1pm-3pm
Where: Johnson County Museum of History – 135 N. Main St, Franklin, Indiana 46131
Holiday Night Market at MashCraft
Find last-minute handmade and artisan gifts at our one-stop shop! Enter to win a raffle basket featuring goodies from every vendor, and get your purchases wrapped on-site. Perfect for final gifts and stocking stuffers!
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 4pm-9pm
Where: MashCraft Greenwood – 1140 N State Road 135, Ste M, Greenwood, Indiana 46142
Ugly Sweater Party at BoJak’s
Get ready to rock your most outrageous knitwear at our Ugly Sweater Extravaganza on a night filled with quirky beats, eccentric fashion, and tons of fun! Admission is just $5 for an evening of hilarity and style rebellion. Show off your wildest sweater in our Ugly Sweater Contest, with registration from 9pm-11pm. Compete for the grand prize of a $100 Gift Card for Best Overall Sweater or a $50 Gift Card for the runner-up. Winners will be announced at 2am after our judges assess every glorious stitch and sequin. Don’t miss this epic night!
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 8pm-3am
Where: BoJak’s Bar & Grille – 377 E. Jefferson St, Franklin, Indiana 46131
Flashbacks Music Bingo
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 7pm
Where: Flashbacks Family Bar & Grill
That Place Music Bingo
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 7pm
Where: That Place Bar & Grill
Whiskey Business TUNEBOT Music TV Bingo
When: Saturday, December 21st
Time: 7pm
Where: Whiskey Business - Southport
Sunday
Celebrate A Very Garfield Christmas with us! Enjoy food and drink specials, Christmas movies, and surprise presents handed out all day. Don’t miss the festive fun!
When: Sunday, December 21st
Time: 10am-9pm
Where: Parkside Public House - 2602 Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN 46203
WEATHER
Friday
36 🌡️ 24 | 🌨️ | 47% | 🌬️ NW 10-20 MPH
Saturday
34 🌡️ 19 | 🌥️ | 10% | 🌬️ N 5-10 MPH
Sunday
35 🌡️ 24 | 🌤️ | 5% | 🌬️ SSE 5-10 MPH
🎶 LIVE MUSIC
Friday
Mikie’s Pub | Spanky’s Clubhouse | 930pm
Slippery Noodle | DiscomBOBulated | 8pm
Slippery Noodle | Ian Seaholm and the Night Thieves | 830pm
The Rathskeller | Rods & Cones | 8pm
Tin Roof | Naughty Input | 1030pm
Whiskey Business Southport | Jai Baker 3 | 11pm
Saturday
Mallow Run Winery | The Wilsons | 2pm
Mikie’s Pub | Jambox | 930pm
Parkside Public House | Kevmo & Friends | 11am
Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza | Rural Soul | 6pm
Slippery Noodle | Jon Strahl | 8pm
Slippery Noodle | Mojo Gumbo | 830pm
SmockTown | John Ryan | 830pm
That Place | Tight Rope Band | 930pm
The Rathskeller | Aimee Eisenmann Duo | 8pm
Tin Roof | Naughty Input | 1030pm
Whiskey Business Southport | Chasing Katie | 930pm
Sunday
Mallow Run Winery | Mark Stansbury | 2pm
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