December in Richmond sparkles with things to do, from holiday markets and parades to concerts, shopping, and cozy winter fun. This charming eastern Indiana city transforms into a festive destination where lights twinkle across historic streets, music fills the air, and community celebrations bring everyone together.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, visiting family, or simply looking for festive cheer, Richmond, Indiana, offers a full calendar of holiday events and activities throughout December 2025.
🎶 Major December Events
Christmas at the Reid Center
📅 Tuesday, December 16 – 4:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Celebrate the season with a free concert of holiday music and readings inside the stunning Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church. The performances feature choirs, instrumentalists, and a community sing-along accompanied by the grand pipe organ — a perfect way to embrace the Christmas spirit.
Christmas in the Depot District
📅 Saturday, December 21 – 2:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Richmond’s Historic Depot District transforms into a winter wonderland featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus, free children’s books, carriage rides, and the ever-popular Hot Chocolate Showdown. Enjoy live music from local bands and student orchestras while exploring beautifully decorated streets.
Winter Spectacular in the Depot District
📅 Saturday, December 16 – 2:00 to 7:00 p.m.
A companion celebration to the Christmas events, this festive afternoon offers family activities, entertainment, and shopping amid dazzling holiday décor.
🛍️ Holiday Markets and Festivals
Wayne County Holiday Market & Food Festival
📅 November 22 (10 a.m.–5 p.m.) & November 23 (11 a.m.–4 p.m.) – Wayne County Fairgrounds
Jump-start your holiday shopping at one of the region’s largest markets. Over 300 vendors showcase handmade crafts, jewelry, local food, art, and décor. Visitors can enjoy live music, Santa photos, a kids’ zone, and hourly prizes.
Richmond Farmers Market Holiday Market
Shop local artisans and food vendors offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, baked goods, and festive décor — perfect for those last-minute Christmas presents.
🎻 Music and Performing Arts
Cello Voci for Christmas
📅 Saturday, December 6 – 7 p.m. – Civic Hall Performing Arts Center
Experience a moving evening of string music and holiday classics performed by the acclaimed Cello Voci ensemble. Tickets start at $37.
Live Music at Christmas in the Depot
Enjoy performances from area musicians and student groups throughout the afternoon of December 21 while exploring the Depot District festivities.
🎅 Parades and Light Displays
Richmond Christmas Parade – “Songs of Christmas”
📅 Friday, December 5 – Downtown Richmond
The city’s signature holiday parade lights up the night with festive floats, marching bands, and community spirit — a local favorite that brings together residents from across Wayne County.
Whispering Christmas (Richmond, IN → Eaton, OH Day Tour)
📅 Wednesday, December 10
Join a motorcoach tour that begins with dinner at The Old Richmond Inn, then continues to Eaton, Ohio’s “Whispering Christmas,” a breathtaking drive-through light display with nearly two million twinkling lights.
🏙️ Other Seasonal Activities
Historic Downtown & Depot Shopping
Downtown Richmond and the Depot District are filled with boutiques, antique shops, and galleries — many staying open late for holiday shopping events. You’ll find everything from handcrafted jewelry to local art and cozy cafés.
Museums & Indoor Attractions
Warm up inside the Wayne County Historical Museum, Richmond Art Museum, or Model T Museum. Each offers fascinating exhibits perfect for a winter afternoon.
📅 Summary of December Events
| Event | Date & Time | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas at the Reid Center | Dec 16, 4 & 6:30 p.m. | Reid Memorial Presbyterian | Free concert, readings, sing-along |
| Christmas in the Depot District | Dec 21, 2–7 p.m. | Historic Depot District | Santa, carriage rides, live music |
| Winter Spectacular in Depot | Dec 16, 2–7 p.m. | Depot District | Family activities, festive fun |
| Wayne County Holiday Market | Nov 22–23 | Wayne Co. Fairgrounds | 300+ vendors, food, Santa photos |
| Cello Voci for Christmas | Dec 6, 7 p.m. | Civic Hall PAC | Holiday concert, $37+ tickets |
| Richmond Christmas Parade | Dec 5 | Downtown Richmond | Floats, bands, community celebration |
| Whispering Christmas Day Tour | Dec 10 | Old Richmond Inn / Eaton OH | Dinner + 2 million-light display |
🏨 Where to Stay
Make your trip easy and comfortable by booking a room at Best Western Plus Richmond — perfect for travelers visiting family or exploring the city’s holiday attractions. Enjoy modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, and quick access to downtown, the Depot District, and the Fairgrounds.
✨ Plan Your December Visit
From festive parades to cozy indoor concerts, Richmond, Indiana, offers something magical for every visitor in December 2025. Gather your loved ones, bundle up, and experience a month filled with light, laughter, and community spirit — right here in the heart of Wayne County.
