Christmas Events for Kids in Evansville (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

16 min read

The Evansville area has 17 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Nutcracker Storytime in Evansville on November 19 to Movies at the Museum: Elf in Evansville, on December 19. 12 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Indiana, part of our guide for every state.

The short version

  • 17 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Evansville for 2026, in Evansville
  • First: Nutcracker Storytime, Evansville, November 19. Runs latest: Movies at the Museum: Elf, Evansville, through December 19
  • Free: Nutcracker Storytime, Evansville's Christmas Parade on North Main, Stories with Santa at EVPL Oaklyn, A Nutcracker Storytime with Ballet Indiana, Stories with Santa at EVPL Stringtown, A Downtown Christmas Presented by Engelbrecht Enterprises, Stories with Santa at EVPL Central, Stories with Santa at EVPL North Park, Stories with Santa at EVPL West, Stories with Santa at EVPL East, Stories with Santa at EVPL McCollough and All Aboard! Interactive Polar Express Watch Party
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Indiana Christmas train rides page.

Evansville Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
17 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Evansville
Season
November 19 to December 19, 2026
Free events
12
Kinds of events
story time with Santa, holiday show, holiday story time and Santa and Mrs. Claus
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Evansville Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Nutcracker Storytime in Evansville on November 19; the last runs to December 19. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Evansville? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Evansville

17 confirmed events for kids in Evansville, soonest first.

Evansville: Nutcracker Storytime

Holiday story timeFreeEvansville Vanderburgh Public Library · Evansville

Host
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
EVPL North Park, 960 Koehler Dr, Evansville, IN 47710
When
Thursday, November 19, 2026, 10 to 10:30 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 5
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

This storytime brings the Nutcracker to the North Park branch in a form that suits young children. Young dancers perform short scenes from the ballet, and children get a chance to ask the performers questions. A craft follows the performance.

The program is listed for ages 0 to 5 and is held in the branch meeting room on Thursday, Nov 19, 2026, from 10 to 10:30 am. It is free, and the calendar lists no registration. North Park is at 960 Koehler Drive in Evansville. Because it is early in the season and short, it is an easy way to start the holiday traditions with a toddler or preschooler. Ballet Indiana's full Nutcracker performances at the Victory Theatre are on Dec 12 and 13 if your family wants to see the whole show.

Parent tip: The program is only 30 minutes, so arrive on time.

See dates and details from Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Evansville's Christmas Parade on North Main

Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeExplore Evansville · Evansville

Host
Explore Evansville (opens in a new tab)
Where
North Main Street (Division St to Garvin Park), N Main St at Division St, Evansville, IN 47711
When
Sunday, November 22, 2026
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The North Main Christmas Parade starts at Division Street and ends at Garvin Park. This year's theme celebrates America's 250th birthday with the Soundtrack of America, so floats and performances honor music from the country's most historic moments.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will also join the community at Dream Center's gym, 16 West Morgan Avenue, for Santa's Workshop. Children can write letters to Santa and have their picture taken with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The parade is free to watch and takes place on Sunday, Nov 22, 2026. The Explore Evansville listing does not give a start time, so check with the organizers before heading out. Families who want a good view should find a spot along North Main Street ahead of the parade, and dress for late November weather.

Parent tip: The listing gives no start time, so confirm it with the organizers. Bring layers for a cold outdoor wait.

See dates and details from Explore Evansville (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Stories with Santa at EVPL Oaklyn

Story time with SantaFreeEvansville Vanderburgh Public Library · Evansville

Host
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
EVPL Oaklyn, 3001 Oaklyn Dr, Evansville, IN 47711
When
Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 6 to 7 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 11, all ages welcome
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa visits the Oaklyn branch for an evening of stories, crafts, pictures and treats. Storytime begins at 6 pm, and the picture taking, activities and snacks follow once the stories are done.

This is the earliest Stories with Santa date on the library calendar, so it is a good pick for families who want to start the season early. Children from babies to elementary age are listed, so siblings can come together. The program is free and no registration is listed. EVPL Oaklyn is at 3001 Oaklyn Dr in Evansville. Stories with Santa also visits other EVPL locations on Dec 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 14 and 15, so you can choose the branch closest to home.

Parent tip: Evening event, so it suits children who nap early. Food will be served, so tell staff about allergies.

See dates and details from Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: A Nutcracker Storytime with Ballet Indiana

Holiday story timeFreeEvansville Vanderburgh Public Library · Evansville

Host
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
EVPL Oaklyn, 3001 Oaklyn Dr, Evansville, IN 47711
When
Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 10 to 10:45 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 2 to 5 with a guardian
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Ballet Indiana visits the Oaklyn branch as a special guest for a storytime based on The Nutcracker. The program mixes the story with dances, activities and a craft, and it is designed for children ages 2 to 5 who attend with a guardian.

It takes place in the branch meeting room on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2026, from 10 to 10:45 am. The program is free and no registration is listed. The Oaklyn branch is at 3001 Oaklyn Drive in Evansville. Ballet Indiana performs The Nutcracker at the Victory Theatre on Dec 12 and 13, so the storytime is a gentle way to introduce young children to the characters and music before seeing the full production. Families can ask library staff about parking and accessibility.

Parent tip: Guardians stay with children for the whole program. Wear shoes that are easy to dance in.

See dates and details from Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Stories with Santa at EVPL Stringtown

Story time with SantaFreeEvansville Vanderburgh Public Library · Evansville

Host
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
EVPL Stringtown, 2100 Stringtown Rd, Evansville, IN 47712
When
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 10 to 11 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 11, all ages welcome
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa is excited to visit the Stringtown branch for a morning of stories, crafts, pictures and treats. The program is listed for preschoolers through elementary students, and everyone in the family is welcome.

The Stringtown building is historic, and the library notes that its meeting rooms are not fully ADA accessible. Families who need an accessible program can contact the branch to arrange another option. The program is free and no registration is listed. EVPL Stringtown is at 2100 Stringtown Rd in Evansville. Stories with Santa also visits other EVPL locations on Dec 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 14 and 15, so you can choose the branch closest to home.

Parent tip: Call the branch ahead if you need an accessible space, since the historic building has limits.

See dates and details from Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: A Downtown Christmas Presented by Engelbrecht Enterprises

Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeDowntown Evansville · Evansville

Host
Downtown Evansville (opens in a new tab)
Where
Main Street (2nd to 6th Street), Main St between 2nd and 6th Streets, Evansville, IN 47708
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 am to 3 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

A Downtown Christmas turns several blocks of Main Street, from 2nd to 6th Street, into a free holiday festival. Children can visit Santa and Mrs. Claus for photos, write letters to Santa and join craft stations in Santa's Workshop, and get their faces painted. There is also a snow glacier inflatable slide, giant snow globe photos, pony rides, a petting zoo, reindeer and dinosaur encounters, costumed characters and a holiday express trackless train.

This is the 11th annual event, and it runs on Saturday, Dec 5, 2026 from 11 am to 3 pm. All activities and entertainment are free thanks to sponsors, including free hot cocoa and holiday music along the street. The Children's Museum of Evansville also opens its North Pole day on the same date, a few blocks away.

Parent tip: Street parking is easy to find on weekends, but expect crowds near Santa's Workshop around midday.

See dates and details from Downtown Evansville (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Peppermint Pops

Holiday showEvansville Philharmonic Orchestra · Evansville

Host
Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra (opens in a new tab)
Where
Victory Theatre, 600 Main St, Evansville, IN 47708
When
Sat December 5 and Sun December 6, 2026
Cost
Adults from $31; free child and student tickets
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Peppermint Pops is the Evansville Philharmonic's holiday concert at the Victory Theatre, led by Music Director Roger Kalia. The program ranges from Sleigh Ride to The First Noel to the theme from Elf, with audience sing-alongs and guest artist Rachel Potter.

The Evansville Philharmonic Chorus, the Evansville Children's Choir and the North High School Huskettes join the orchestra, and the concert is meant for audiences of all ages. Performances are on Saturday, Dec 5 and Sunday, Dec 6, 2026, with showtimes on the Philharmonic ticket page. Adult tickets start at $31, and children and students can get free tickets starting two weeks before the concert. Donations to the Tri-State Food Bank are accepted before, during and after the concert. Tickets are sold on the Philharmonic's website or by phone at 812-425-5050.

Parent tip: Free child and student tickets open two weeks before the concert, so book then.

See dates and details from Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Stories with Santa at EVPL Central

Story time with SantaFreeEvansville Vanderburgh Public Library · Evansville

Host
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
EVPL Central, 200 SE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Evansville, IN 47713
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 2 to 3 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 11, all ages welcome
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa returns to the Central Library on a Saturday afternoon for stories, crafts, pictures and treats. It is the downtown branch, which makes it the easiest stop for families already visiting downtown for A Downtown Christmas on the same day.

The library asks that large groups from camps, daycares and preschools contact the location at least five days ahead, since programs are not set up for big groups that arrive without notice. The program is free and no registration is listed. EVPL Central is at 200 SE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd in Evansville. Stories with Santa also visits other EVPL locations on Dec 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 14 and 15, so you can choose the branch closest to home.

Parent tip: Groups of children from camps or daycares should call at least five days ahead.

See dates and details from Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: cMoe Goes to the North Pole

Holiday craftsKoch Family Children's Museum of Evansville (cMoe) · Evansville

Host
Koch Family Children's Museum of Evansville (cMoe) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Koch Family Children's Museum of Evansville, 22 SE 5th St, Evansville, IN 47708
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 9 am to 5 pm
Cost
General museum admission
Ages
Families with young children
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

For one day the Koch Family Children's Museum of Evansville, known as cMoe, is transformed into a holiday destination. Families explore three floors of festive wonderlands, with hands-on seasonal activities and special moments meant to spark wonder in young children.

The day is part of Downtown Christmas, so it pairs well with the free street festival on Main Street. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm on Saturday, Dec 5, 2026, and the listing says admission is general museum admission. The museum is at 22 SE 5th Street, a few blocks from the festival. Because it is an indoor event, it works as a warm break between outdoor activities. The museum also holds free Family Literacy Nights this season, with a story-based evening on Dec 1, and you can find that schedule on the museum site.

Parent tip: Check the museum site for current admission prices before you go.

See dates and details from Koch Family Children's Museum of Evansville (cMoe) (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Stories with Santa at EVPL North Park

Story time with SantaFreeEvansville Vanderburgh Public Library · Evansville

Host
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
EVPL North Park, 960 Koehler Dr, Evansville, IN 47710
When
Monday, December 7, 2026, 10 to 11 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 5
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa visits the North Park branch for stories, crafts, pictures and treats. The program is listed for the youngest children, ages 0 to 5. Storytime starts at 10 am, with pictures, activities and snacks to follow.

The branch holds the program in its meeting room, so families should plan to arrive a few minutes before 10 am. It is the only date aimed at the youngest listeners, with the age range listed as 0 to 5, so older siblings may prefer another branch. The program is free and no registration is listed. EVPL North Park is at 960 Koehler Dr in Evansville. Stories with Santa also visits other EVPL locations on Dec 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 14 and 15, so you can choose the branch closest to home.

Parent tip: Arrive before 10 am so you do not miss the stories. Food will be served.

See dates and details from Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Stories with Santa at EVPL West

Story time with SantaFreeEvansville Vanderburgh Public Library · Evansville

Host
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
EVPL West, 2000 W Franklin St, Evansville, IN 47712
When
Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 10 to 11 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 11, all ages welcome
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa visits the West branch on a weekday morning for stories, crafts, pictures and treats. It is a relaxed program for preschoolers and older siblings alike.

The West building is historic, and the library notes that its meeting rooms are not fully ADA accessible. Families who need an accessible option should contact the branch ahead of time so staff can make other arrangements. The program is free and no registration is listed. EVPL West is at 2000 W Franklin St in Evansville. Stories with Santa also visits other EVPL locations on Dec 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 14 and 15, so you can choose the branch closest to home.

Parent tip: Contact the branch in advance if you need an accessible room.

See dates and details from Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Ballet Indiana Presents: The Nutcracker

Holiday showBallet Indiana · Evansville

Host
Ballet Indiana (opens in a new tab)
Where
Victory Theatre, 600 Main St, Evansville, IN 47708
When
Sat December 12 (2 to 7 pm) and Sun December 13 (2 pm), 2026
Cost
Tickets on the Victory Theatre website
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Ballet Indiana presents The Nutcracker at the Victory Theatre in downtown Evansville, a holiday ballet in the city's historic theatre. The Explore Evansville listing gives three performances: Saturday, Dec 12, 2026 at 2 pm and 7 pm, and Sunday, Dec 13, 2026 at 2 pm.

Tickets are sold through the Victory Theatre website, and the listing does not give prices. The Victory Theatre is at 600 Main Street. Families with younger children who want a gentler first look can try the free Nutcracker storytimes that the Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library holds with Ballet Indiana on Dec 2 and with young dancers on Nov 19. The ballet itself is a longer evening or afternoon at the theatre, so plan for a seat and a quiet attention span.

Parent tip: Ticket prices are not listed, so check the Victory Theatre site. The 2 pm shows are the easiest for young children.

See dates and details from Ballet Indiana (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Stories with Santa at EVPL East

Story time with SantaFreeEvansville Vanderburgh Public Library · Evansville

Host
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
EVPL East, 840 E Chandler Ave, Evansville, IN 47713
When
Monday, December 14, 2026, 5 to 6 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 11
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa visits the East branch in the early evening for stories, crafts, pictures and treats. The program is listed for preschoolers and elementary-age children, so it works for families with children of different ages.

The East building is historic, and the library notes that its meeting rooms are not fully ADA accessible. Food will be served at this event, and the library asks families with concerns to call the branch at 812-428-8231. The program is free and no registration is listed. EVPL East is at 840 E Chandler Ave in Evansville. Stories with Santa also visits other EVPL locations on Dec 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 14 and 15, so you can choose the branch closest to home.

Parent tip: Food will be served, so call the branch with allergy questions.

See dates and details from Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Stories with Santa at EVPL McCollough

Story time with SantaFreeEvansville Vanderburgh Public Library · Evansville

Host
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
EVPL McCollough, 5115 Washington Ave, Evansville, IN 47715
When
Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 6 to 7 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa makes the last stop listed on the library calendar at the McCollough branch, with an evening of stories, crafts, pictures and treats. The program is open to all ages, and Santa is excited to visit EVPL again this year.

The evening time suits families who work during the day or who have children in school, and it gives families a second chance to see Santa if they missed an earlier date at another branch. The program is free and no registration is listed. EVPL McCollough is at 5115 Washington Ave in Evansville. Stories with Santa also visits other EVPL locations on Dec 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 14 and 15, so you can choose the branch closest to home.

Parent tip: This is the last Stories with Santa date on the calendar, so plan ahead if your family wants to attend.

See dates and details from Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey: Grinch Night and Free Kid Friday

Holiday showEvansville Thunderbolts · Evansville

Host
Evansville Thunderbolts (opens in a new tab)
Where
Ford Center, 1 SE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Evansville, IN 47708
When
Friday, December 18, 2026
Cost
Tickets on the Ford Center website; one free kid ticket with each adult ticket at the box office
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Evansville Thunderbolts host the Peoria Rivermen on Grinch Night at the Ford Center, with a festive evening of holiday fun, themed entertainment and hockey for the whole family. The listing also marks it as a Free Kids Friday.

With every adult ticket purchased, a family receives one free kids ticket. The offer is valid only at the Ford Center Box Office, not online. After the final horn, fans can stay for a postgame jersey auction and take home a game-worn jersey. The game is on Friday, Dec 18, 2026, and the arena is at 1 SE Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in downtown Evansville. Tickets are listed on the Ford Center website. The page does not give the puck drop time, so check the team schedule before you plan the evening.

Parent tip: The free kid ticket is box office only, so plan to buy in person.

See dates and details from Evansville Thunderbolts (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: All Aboard! Interactive Polar Express Watch Party

Holiday story timeFreeEvansville Vanderburgh Public Library · Evansville

Host
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
EVPL Oaklyn, 3001 Oaklyn Dr, Evansville, IN 47711
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, 2:30 to 4:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 11
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Oaklyn branch hosts an interactive watch party for The Polar Express. Children cash in their own personal ticket to the Polar Express and join call-and-response games during the show. They also go on a silver bell scavenger hunt and write a letter to Santa.

Refreshments include hot cocoa and cookies. The library warns that activities may become boisterous, so children with sensory sensitivities should be told what to expect. The program is listed for preschool and elementary ages, though all are welcome, and it takes place on Saturday, Dec 19, 2026 from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. It is free and no registration is listed. The Oaklyn branch is at 3001 Oaklyn Drive in Evansville, and questions can go to the branch at 812-428-8234, extension 5404.

Parent tip: Prepare sensitive children for a noisy, active program.

See dates and details from Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Evansville: Movies at the Museum: Elf

Holiday showEvansville Museum of Arts, History & Science · Evansville

Host
Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science (opens in a new tab)
Where
Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science, 411 SE Riverside Dr, Evansville, IN 47713
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026
Cost
Matinee adults $7, youth $5; evening adults $9, youth $7
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science screens the holiday favorite Elf in the Koch Immersive Theater and Planetarium. The movie follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, as he goes to New York City to find his father and learns that spreading Christmas cheer is about more than singing loud.

The museum invites families to grab their favorite people and get cozy for the screening. The event is on Saturday, Dec 19, 2026. Matinee shows between 11 am and 5 pm cost $7 for adults and $5 for youth and museum members, while evening shows from 5 to 9 pm cost $9 for adults and $7 for youth and members. The museum is at 411 SE Riverside Drive in Evansville. The listing does not give the exact start time, so check the museum site for showtimes.

Parent tip: Showtimes are not on the tourism listing, so confirm them with the museum.

See dates and details from Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science (opens in a new tab)

Looking further afield? Our Indiana Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Indianapolis, Fort Wayne and South Bend. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Evansville Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Evansville in 2026?

We confirmed 17 Christmas events for kids in Evansville for 2026 on each host’s own page: Nutcracker Storytime in Evansville (November 19), Evansville's Christmas Parade on North Main in Evansville (November 22), Stories with Santa at EVPL Oaklyn in Evansville (December 1), A Nutcracker Storytime with Ballet Indiana in Evansville (December 2), Stories with Santa at EVPL Stringtown in Evansville (December 3), A Downtown Christmas Presented by Engelbrecht Enterprises in Evansville (December 5), Peppermint Pops in Evansville (December 5), Stories with Santa at EVPL Central in Evansville (December 5), cMoe Goes to the North Pole in Evansville (December 5), Stories with Santa at EVPL North Park in Evansville (December 7), Stories with Santa at EVPL West in Evansville (December 8), Ballet Indiana Presents: The Nutcracker in Evansville (December 12), Stories with Santa at EVPL East in Evansville (December 14), Stories with Santa at EVPL McCollough in Evansville (December 15), Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey: Grinch Night and Free Kid Friday in Evansville (December 18), All Aboard! Interactive Polar Express Watch Party in Evansville (December 19) and Movies at the Museum: Elf in Evansville (December 19). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Evansville, Indiana?

For families in and around Evansville, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Nutcracker Storytime (Thu, Nov 19, 10 to 10:30 am, free); Evansville's Christmas Parade on North Main (Sun, Nov 22, free); Stories with Santa at EVPL Oaklyn (Tue, Dec 1, 6 pm to 7 pm, free); A Nutcracker Storytime with Ballet Indiana (Wed, Dec 2, 10 to 10:45 am, free); Stories with Santa at EVPL Stringtown (Thu, Dec 3, 10 am to 11 am, free); A Downtown Christmas Presented by Engelbrecht Enterprises (Sat, Dec 5, 11 am to 3 pm, free); Peppermint Pops (Sat and Sun, Dec 5 and 6, adults from $31; free child and student tickets); Stories with Santa at EVPL Central (Sat, Dec 5, 2 pm to 3 pm, free); cMoe Goes to the North Pole (Sat, Dec 5, 9 am to 5 pm, general museum admission); Stories with Santa at EVPL North Park (Mon, Dec 7, 10 am to 11 am, free); Stories with Santa at EVPL West (Tue, Dec 8, 10 am to 11 am, free); Ballet Indiana Presents: The Nutcracker (Sat, Dec 12, 2 and 7 pm; Sun, Dec 13, 2 pm, tickets on the victory theatre website); Stories with Santa at EVPL East (Mon, Dec 14, 5 pm to 6 pm, free); Stories with Santa at EVPL McCollough (Tue, Dec 15, 6 pm to 7 pm, free); Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey: Grinch Night and Free Kid Friday (Fri, Dec 18, tickets on the ford center website; one free kid ticket with each adult ticket at the box office); All Aboard! Interactive Polar Express Watch Party (Sat, Dec 19, 2:30 to 4:30 pm, free); Movies at the Museum: Elf (Sat, Dec 19, matinee adults $7, youth $5; evening adults $9, youth $7). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Evansville section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Evansville?

Yes. 12 of the 17 events here are free: Nutcracker Storytime in Evansville, Evansville's Christmas Parade on North Main in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL Oaklyn in Evansville, A Nutcracker Storytime with Ballet Indiana in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL Stringtown in Evansville, A Downtown Christmas Presented by Engelbrecht Enterprises in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL Central in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL North Park in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL West in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL East in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL McCollough in Evansville and All Aboard! Interactive Polar Express Watch Party in Evansville. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Evansville this December?

Santa appears at Evansville's Christmas Parade on North Main in Evansville (November 22), Stories with Santa at EVPL Oaklyn in Evansville (December 1), Stories with Santa at EVPL Stringtown in Evansville (December 3), A Downtown Christmas Presented by Engelbrecht Enterprises in Evansville (December 5), Stories with Santa at EVPL Central in Evansville (December 5), Stories with Santa at EVPL North Park in Evansville (December 7), Stories with Santa at EVPL West in Evansville (December 8), Stories with Santa at EVPL East in Evansville (December 14) and Stories with Santa at EVPL McCollough in Evansville (December 15). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Evansville?

Holiday story times on this page: Nutcracker Storytime in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL Oaklyn in Evansville, A Nutcracker Storytime with Ballet Indiana in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL Stringtown in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL Central in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL North Park in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL West in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL East in Evansville, Stories with Santa at EVPL McCollough in Evansville and All Aboard! Interactive Polar Express Watch Party in Evansville. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Which Evansville Christmas events are best for toddlers?

These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Nutcracker Storytime in Evansville (Ages 0 to 5), Stories with Santa at EVPL Oaklyn in Evansville (Ages 0 to 11, all ages welcome), A Nutcracker Storytime with Ballet Indiana in Evansville (Ages 2 to 5 with a guardian), Stories with Santa at EVPL Stringtown in Evansville (Ages 0 to 11, all ages welcome), Stories with Santa at EVPL Central in Evansville (Ages 0 to 11, all ages welcome), Stories with Santa at EVPL North Park in Evansville (Ages 0 to 5), Stories with Santa at EVPL West in Evansville (Ages 0 to 11, all ages welcome), Stories with Santa at EVPL East in Evansville (Ages 0 to 11) and All Aboard! Interactive Polar Express Watch Party in Evansville (Ages 0 to 11).

How much is Nutcracker Storytime in Evansville?

Free. Nutcracker Storytime is on Thursday, November 19, 2026, 10 to 10:30 am at EVPL North Park. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Evansville's Christmas Parade on North Main in Evansville?

Free. Evansville's Christmas Parade on North Main is on Sunday, November 22, 2026 at North Main Street (Division St to Garvin Park). Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Stories with Santa at EVPL Oaklyn in Evansville?

Free. Stories with Santa at EVPL Oaklyn is on Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 6 to 7 pm at EVPL Oaklyn. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is A Nutcracker Storytime with Ballet Indiana in Evansville?

Free. A Nutcracker Storytime with Ballet Indiana is on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 10 to 10:45 am at EVPL Oaklyn. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Stories with Santa at EVPL Stringtown in Evansville?

Free. Stories with Santa at EVPL Stringtown is on Thursday, December 3, 2026, 10 to 11 am at EVPL Stringtown. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is A Downtown Christmas Presented by Engelbrecht Enterprises in Evansville?

Free. A Downtown Christmas Presented by Engelbrecht Enterprises is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 am to 3 pm at Main Street (2nd to 6th Street). Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Peppermint Pops in Evansville?

Adults from $31; free child and student tickets. Peppermint Pops is on Sat December 5 and Sun December 6, 2026 at Victory Theatre. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Stories with Santa at EVPL Central in Evansville?

Free. Stories with Santa at EVPL Central is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 2 to 3 pm at EVPL Central. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is cMoe Goes to the North Pole in Evansville?

General museum admission. cMoe Goes to the North Pole is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 9 am to 5 pm at Koch Family Children's Museum of Evansville. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Stories with Santa at EVPL North Park in Evansville?

Free. Stories with Santa at EVPL North Park is on Monday, December 7, 2026, 10 to 11 am at EVPL North Park. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Stories with Santa at EVPL West in Evansville?

Free. Stories with Santa at EVPL West is on Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 10 to 11 am at EVPL West. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Ballet Indiana Presents: The Nutcracker in Evansville?

Tickets on the Victory Theatre website. Ballet Indiana Presents: The Nutcracker is on Sat December 12 (2 to 7 pm) and Sun December 13 (2 pm), 2026 at Victory Theatre. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Stories with Santa at EVPL East in Evansville?

Free. Stories with Santa at EVPL East is on Monday, December 14, 2026, 5 to 6 pm at EVPL East. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Stories with Santa at EVPL McCollough in Evansville?

Free. Stories with Santa at EVPL McCollough is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 6 to 7 pm at EVPL McCollough. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey: Grinch Night and Free Kid Friday in Evansville?

Tickets on the Ford Center website; one free kid ticket with each adult ticket at the box office. Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey: Grinch Night and Free Kid Friday is on Friday, December 18, 2026 at Ford Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is All Aboard! Interactive Polar Express Watch Party in Evansville?

Free. All Aboard! Interactive Polar Express Watch Party is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 2:30 to 4:30 pm at EVPL Oaklyn. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Movies at the Museum: Elf in Evansville?

Matinee adults $7, youth $5; evening adults $9, youth $7. Movies at the Museum: Elf is on Saturday, December 19, 2026 at Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Evansville?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Evansville Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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