Things to Do in Northwest Indiana in November

Friendsgiving weekends, holiday markets and cozy things to do near Long Lake Memories

November is a wonderful time to explore Northwest Indiana as the last of the fall colors give way to holiday lights, festive markets and seasonal traditions. From shopping for handcrafted gifts and attending local tree-lighting celebrations to ice skating and enjoying the last of the crisp autumn weather, there’s plenty happening throughout the region.

Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a weekend with friends or a quiet escape before the holiday rush, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite things to do in Northwest Indiana this November, plus one Chicago holiday tradition that’s worth the trip.

Plan a Friendsgiving Weekend

November was made for gathering around a table, and Long Lake Memories has plenty of room to do exactly that. Bring everyone together for a Friendsgiving dinner, spend the afternoon playing games or exploring the area and settle in for a cozy night at the house.

If you don’t want to cook every meal for a big group, downtown Valparaiso is only about 10 minutes away, with plenty of restaurants and takeout options.

Shop Local Holiday Markets

November marks the beginning of holiday shopping season, and Northwest Indiana has several markets where you can discover handmade gifts, support local businesses and get a head start on your Christmas list.

Journeyman Autumn Artisan Market

November 21-22 | Valparaiso, Indiana

The historic American Factory in downtown Valparaiso transforms into a bustling artisan market featuring more than 100 makers and artists. Browse handcrafted goods, unique gifts and locally made products while enjoying food and drinks throughout the property. It’s a great opportunity to explore one of Valparaiso’s most distinctive destinations while supporting small businesses and checking a few names off your holiday shopping list.

3 Little Birds Holiday Market

November 13-14 | Valparaiso, Indiana

Another favorite for holiday shopping, the 3 Little Birds Holiday Market brings together more than 80 small businesses and makers for a weekend of shopping, food and seasonal festivities. From handmade accessories and home décor to thoughtful gifts, it’s a fun way to spend a few hours browsing local vendors and discovering something you won’t find at a traditional shopping mall.

Evergreen Artisan Market

November 20-December 23 | Munster, Indiana

If you’re visiting later in November, the Evergreen Artisan Market offers another opportunity to shop small throughout the holiday season. Featuring work from local artists and makers, this seasonal market is a great place to find handcrafted gifts and one-of-a-kind pieces. With dates extending into December, it’s also a nice option for guests planning a holiday getaway.

Celebrate the Start of the Holiday Season

As Thanksgiving approaches, communities across Northwest Indiana begin welcoming the Christmas season with parades, tree lightings and family-friendly celebrations.

Chesterton Hometown Holiday & Twilight Christmas Parade

November 28 | Chesterton, Indiana

Downtown Chesterton comes alive with holiday cheer during its annual Hometown Holiday celebration. Spend time browsing local shops and seasonal vendors before gathering along the parade route for the Twilight Christmas Parade, scheduled to begin at 5:15 PM. With festive floats, holiday decorations and Santa’s arrival, it’s a wonderful small-town tradition for families and visitors of all ages.

Valparaiso Winter Fest & Tree Lighting

November 28, 5-7 PM | Downtown Valparaiso

Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season at Central Park Plaza during Valparaiso’s Winter Fest & Tree Lighting. This festive evening includes musical performances, opportunities for photos with Santa and the lighting of the downtown Christmas tree. While you’re there, enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant or explore the shops around downtown Valparaiso.

A Christmas Story Comes Home

November 21-December 30 | Hammond, Indiana

Fans of the classic holiday movie A Christmas Story won’t want to miss this annual exhibit at the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond. Inspired by author Jean Shepherd’s childhood in Hammond, the exhibit features six animated window displays originally created for Macy’s, bringing memorable scenes from the film to life.

It’s a nostalgic holiday outing for adults and a fun introduction to the Christmas classic for younger visitors.

Enjoy Seasonal Family Fun

Not every November outing needs to revolve around Christmas shopping. From outdoor ice skating to wildlife experiences, there are plenty of ways to spend time together throughout the month.

Go Ice Skating at Central Park Plaza

Season Opens November 20 | Valparaiso, Indiana

One of downtown Valparaiso’s favorite winter traditions returns in November when the Central Park Plaza ice rink opens for the season. Located beneath the covered Urschel Pavilion, the rink offers a fun activity for families, couples and groups of friends. After skating, warm up with coffee or hot chocolate and explore the restaurants and shops downtown.

Pumpkin Smash Bash at Fair Oaks Farms

November 7 | Fair Oaks, Indiana

Fall fun doesn’t have to end on Halloween! Fair Oaks Farms celebrates the season with its Pumpkin Smash Bash, offering families one more opportunity to enjoy autumn activities before the holidays begin.

Thanksgiving Turkey Walk at Friendship Botanic Gardens

November 26 | Michigan City, Indiana

Spend part of Thanksgiving outdoors with a visit to Friendship Botanic Gardens. The Thanksgiving Turkey Walk offers a seasonal scavenger-style activity in the gardens, making it a fun way for families to enjoy some fresh air and time together before or after their holiday celebrations.

Worth the Trip: Chicago’s Christkindlmarket

Opens November 20 | Daley Plaza, Chicago, Illinois

One of the Midwest’s most beloved holiday traditions, Chicago’s Christkindlmarket returns on November 20, bringing the charm of a traditional German Christmas market to the heart of downtown.

Wander between wooden market stalls filled with handcrafted ornaments, gifts and holiday decorations while enjoying seasonal favorites like warm pretzels, roasted nuts, sweet treats and hot drinks. The festive atmosphere makes it a memorable outing for families, couples or groups of friends looking to kick off the holiday season.

If you’re staying at Long Lake Memories, consider taking the South Shore Line into Chicago for the day. You can visit the market, explore downtown holiday displays and enjoy some of the city’s seasonal attractions without having to drive and park downtown.

Enjoy the Last of Fall in Northwest Indiana

Before winter settles in, November still offers plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy Northwest Indiana’s natural beauty.

The Indiana Dunes National and State Parks are especially peaceful this time of year, with cooler temperatures, quieter trails and beautiful views of Lake Michigan. It’s a great season for a scenic hike, birdwatching or simply enjoying the shoreline without the summer crowds.

Closer to Valparaiso, Sunset Hill Farm County Park and Coffee Creek Preserve offer walking trails and natural areas that are perfect for a crisp November afternoon. Bring a warm jacket, comfortable shoes and a camera. Even after the leaves have fallen, there’s something beautiful about the quieter side of the season.

Make Long Lake Memories Your November Home Base

After a day of exploring holiday markets, attending local celebrations or enjoying the outdoors, there’s nothing better than returning to a comfortable place where everyone can gather.

At Long Lake Memories, November is all about slowing down and spending time together. Enjoy a soak in the hot tub, gather around the fireplace, make s’mores by the fire or settle in for a cozy evening with family and friends.

With seven bedrooms, two kitchens and accommodations for up to 30 guests, there’s room for everyone to enjoy a pre-holiday family weekend, Friendsgiving gathering or relaxing escape before the busy season begins.

Whether you’re visiting for a special event or simply looking for a change of scenery, November is a lovely time to experience Northwest Indiana.

Planning a visit? Explore Long Lake Memories and start planning your next getaway.