Winterlights at Newfields

My son in law treated us to a magical night at Winterlights last night. The evening was so spectacular that we didn't even notice the rain. Newfields does an amazing job of orchestrating this event. We had the premier tickets, which advanced us through lines, offered free and discounted beverages, and provided us with fancy Christmas light necklaces and 3D glasses. The light walk was incredible with surprises around every corner. Huge trees were filled with colorful lights. Lights were set to music by the Indianapolis Symphony (my favorite). The Lilly Mansion was decked out in imaginative and fun ways. My granddaughters loved the interactive trail of lights. I was afraid parking would be a bear, but they had attendants directing us to spaces and traffic flowing in a logical manner. Volunteers and workers were amazing! There are several restroom opportunities along the walk as well as concession areas. Wheel chairs are available. They've thought of everything. Dress warm! Plan 2 hours. Fun event and worth every penny.

I've attended Winterlights many times over the years and they keep finding ways to update and improve the light displays! We enjoyed the expanded music selections this year for the light show outside of Lilly House. The expanded area along the Michigan road side of the grounds is really nice as well. Lilly House is always beautifully decorated inside as well. It is definitely worth waiting in line to see it. Or...you can come back on another day during daytime hours and see the decorations with just a general admission ticket or membership. The only downside to the growth of Winterlights is that the crowds continue to grow...last year we had to park at the Interchurch center across the street; the lot was fine but the walk was about 1/4 mile and not well lit, so definitely drop off any members of your party who would have challenges with that before going to park. This year, we were directed to park in the mud...it was unseasonably warm, and had been raining....I am not kidding when I say the mud came up over the toes of our shoes...we should have worn boots, but had no idea we'd be hiking through mud...parking attendants were somewhat rude and impatient with visitors; we were yelled at for trying to walk around a deep mud puddle rather than through it...and no, we weren't walking in traffic....anyway...5 stars for the lights and a 2 for parking experience....but we were here for the lights, so going with 4!

This is a perfect holiday tradition in Indianapolis, and we've enjoyed visiting Winterlights for several years. They do such an amazing job with the grounds, the lights are beautiful and can be enjoyed by all ages. I love walking through the Lilly mansion as it is just a beautiful home and I love all the history. It is always so fun to see how it's decorated for Christmas. They have some booths where they serve hot cocoa and cider. About halfway through you will also find girl scouts selling s'mores. The parking can be a bit of a mess, so come early to make sure you have time to find a spot.

Finally, I made it to Winterlights at Newfields. I've been wanting to do this for a few years now, but each time we tried, it's either fully booked or it's long gone, and I have to wait for the next winter season. But I made it, and it did not disappoint!It's so magical and beautiful. So, bundle up and get your camera out for a wonderful, magical wonderland. This, for sure, takes you to a different dimension. I had a great time, and you MUST get the chocolate chip cookie and hot cocoa. Enjoy!"

Winterlights had a great setup! Lights, smores, cider, beers.. this was a fun experience for the family and friends.

This is the second time we have enjoyed this activity and it was such a delightful experience! We loved the details like parking instructions and easy of ticket purchase online which made the build up to the event easy. We had planned to attend with friends and it was easy to pick a time for entry and all join up once at the location. (Of course we had to check out a food spot first together!)My impression was one of organization and preparation which as an event planner I appreciated. They had lots of attendants and helpers so even the parking was easy. Once you move toward the entrance you find noticeably marked spots for waiting for your time slot. We came when there wasn't much of a crowd so we were able to walk straight in to the entrance. They direct you through to where there are restrooms and a ticket taker, then you are outside again to start the exhibit.It is a wonderful exhibit of both sights and sounds with music playing throughout both classical and modern for the various displays. My favorite was the full length display outside the Lilly House. They had a classical score with multiple trees and lawn lights with a lot of variety. Amazing!You get to your the Lilly House as well as the grounds and it is a full display of all kinds of lights and trees both inside and out. It took us around 1 hour to go slowly through the exhibit. They have conveniently placed warming stations as well as spots to purchase hot beverages, snacks and even a place for making s'mores! We didn't buy anything this time but will for sure keep that in mind for a next visit.Given what the exhibit included the price was reasonable. I'm told they have deals in the fall for tickets to several of their exhibits as a package, so we will keep our eyes out for those! It is definitely a fun evening and we loved it.

What a beautiful place to enjoy the spirit of Christmas! We bought the Christmas light up necklaces and I'm glad we did. The pictures seemed to turn out a little better because we had built in lights around our necks even when it was dark. You need to reserve a time slot before you go. They have different packages to choose from. Some that include food and drinks and festive glasses, VIP access and things like that. Although you can buy all of the light up necklaces and glasses without buying the package. The night we went we didn't need a hat or gloves! It was so nice! Although come prepared just in case. You will wander around the beautiful Christmas lights that are all around you. It's really cool looking. The Lily House is also decorated and they go all out like they did at Harvest Nights. They have stations where you can buy drinks and a few goodies. Gingerbread popcorn and a giant chocolate chip cookie were what was offered. The Girl Scouts of Indiana had a S'mores booth. You could get all the items for the s'mores and then roast them over an open fire they had set up! Good idea! The gift shop is open during this event also. They also were selling Winterfest themed merchandise outside at one of the tents. If you've never been I would recommend going. It's really a neat experience!

Another magical year at winterlights, this is one of my favorite holiday activities in indy, it's well put together, with a crazy amount of lights.Perfect for family time, date night or a night with friends.The grounds are all decorated in each area, and they have lights strung up in the trees, so be sure to look up! The lily mansion is also decorated beautifully.There was also a cool new display of a light up piñata, that moved, love to see the support of Hispanic cultures! You can also get drinks as you walk around which is a nice touch.I enjoyed a peppermint vodka hot chocolate and the sunking season beer electric reindeer.Check this out if you are in the area, it's worth it!

Central Indiana is so blessed to have a facility like Newfields in our midst. This year's presentation of WINTERLIGHTS enhanced our celebration of the season. The beauty of the artistic arrangement of lights is unforgettable.The property displays a incredible feast to the eyes and the amazement of children. My favorite experience is watching my granddaughter take in the seasons fantasy of color.This walking tour is made to be a flawless adventure with the hard work and planning of the entire Newfield'sStaff. Parking all those cars is a puzzle that was put together well by the parking staff. The entire staff along the walking path and manning the snack areas were friendly and in great spirits, adding to the enjoyment of the evening.

Very expensive!! Smores and hot chocolate advertised as part of the admission. Cost for s'mores kit (two graham crackers, two marshmallows, 1 square of chocolate) is $6. Cost for a small cup of hot chocolate... $8.