 Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters meticulously capture the essence of the holidays with the iconic carol, “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Sung by various singers from several generations and heard on radio, television and over the sound systems in elevators and shopping malls, Terre Haute now brings to you 12 holidates to attend with your loved ones this season in Terre Haute.
On the second day of Christmas, you can attend the annual Miracle on 7th St. beginning with the tree lighting on Dec. 2 with a special guest and plenty of local vendors to visit. The festivities of the event continue running through Dec. 3, on the third day of Christmas when you can attend the Light Your Way Christmas Parade by Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in partnership with Miracle on 7th St. This beloved holiday event takes place every year in downtown Terre Haute. On the second and third days of Christmas, join the Vigo County Parks and Recreation Department at Fowler Park for the annual Christmas Walk around Pioneer Village by candlelight as volunteers exhibit holiday traditions from the early 1800s. On the third day of Christmas, go visit the Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Performance, Joyful Holidays, with Caroline Goodwill at Tirey Hall on Dec. 3. On the third day of Christmas, step outside to either walk or run Wabash Valley Road Runners' 3K, 5K and ½ mile Reindeer Romp benefiting Clothe A Child on Dec. 3. On the tenth day of Christmas, bring the whole family out to enjoy Breakfast with Santa at the Zorah Shrine on Dec. 10 for great food and high-quality photos to make memories last a lifetime. On the fifth, twelfth and nineteenth day of Christmas, Haute City Center is hosting three opportunities to get Pet Photos with Santa. On every day of Christmas, get out and about to visit the well-known lights in Deming Park every night until Dec. 31 as well as the Holiday Express Train occurring nightly (weather permitting) through Dec. 20. Christmas in the Park lights in Deming Park every night until Dec. 31 as well as the Holiday Express Train occurring nightly (weather permitting) through Dec. 20. On the sixteenth day of Christmas, Rose-Hulman Drama Club presents A Christmas Carol at Hatfield Hall, taking place from Dec. 16 – 18. You can get your tickets now! On the twenty-first day of Christmas, bring the kids out for the Annual Ornament Decorating. Pre-registration is required. Be sure to take advantage of local green thumbs at your fingertips. On any day of Christmas, visit the Holiday Hill Christmas Tree Farm. This year they are providing customers with Frasier Fir trees from the Virginia and North Carolina mountains, as well as Snowfresh Douglas Fir and Scotch Pine from Michigan. On any day of Christmas, make your way to Jolly Pines Tree Farm, bringing you and your loved ones plenty of joy this holiday season. This year, instead of traveling for the holidays, bring your loved ones in from out of town to show off all the holiday spirit Terre Haute has to offer this season, and don't forget to add "The Twelve Days of Christmas” to your holiday playlist.  Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring ting tingling. The holidays are quickly approaching, and we understand how it can be overwhelming to navigate a starting point on your gift-giving checklist. Some of your favorite local small businesses are already advertising their biggest deals on Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, so let’s unwrap your gift-giving guide to getting started early and enjoying the holiday season. Terre Haute offers an ample number of options when shopping for everyone in the family at your local small businesses and now is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of what is already right at your fingertips. From new Carhart arrivals at Glick’s to toys at the Stork Stop, we have it all and want to make your gift shopping effortless and fun by providing just a few of our favorite one-stop shops:
For a complete list of local shops located throughout the Terre Haute, visit our website here at terrehaute.com/shopping. No worries if you prefer to stay at home to complete your holiday shopping, we have got you covered! When searching for the best online deals it is important to stay diligent and organized despite the endless open tabs . Here are just a few tips and tricks for smart shoppers to stay on track this holiday season:
The good news is that if your holiday schedule is already pretty booked up, “Super Saturday,” (yes, it is a thing) the Saturday before Christmas, is perfect for those who haven’t finished their holiday shopping just yet. Super Saturday and the days surrounding it are filled with last-minute deals both online and in-person. No matter what the holiday season may look like for you and your loved ones, we hope to See You In Terre Haute shopping at your favorite local businesses for all your holiday gift-giving needs and more. For additional ideas on what to get for your friends and family this holiday season, check out the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce's Favorite Things Gift Guide. LaVern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course prepares for nearly 10,000 visitors this week9/29/2022
 With four races scheduled this week and weekend, the LaVern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course prepares for an exciting week of competition projecting to bring nearly 10,000 runners and spectators to the Vigo County course.
The festivities began with the Vigo County Middle School Cross Country Championships on Wednesday evening, followed by the 2022 Cross Country Town Twilight College Division scheduled for Friday, and finishing the weekend with both the Indiana Middle School Cross Country State Championships and the NIKE XC Town Twilight race on Saturday. “This is a packed week for runners, with championships and divisions bringing them all right here to Terre Haute,” said David Patterson, Executive Director of the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau. “This course continues to be a destination for the sport, and our continued advancements and investments in the facility prove to be a point of pride, ultimately enhancing the runner and spectator experience.” Between the four races, over 5,000 runners will tread the course. The Twilight College Division offers the first of its kind held as a night race, with most scheduled during the day in years past, and over 2,700 of the best high school runners will take the course at dusk for one of the season’s favorites, the NIKE XC Town Twilight race. “There is an added layer of complexity, challenge and excitement for the night races, making them popular amongst the athletes,” continued Patterson. The LaVern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course continues to help spearhead the tourism industry in Terre Haute – Vigo County. Averaging between 30,000 and 40,000 annually, the course has secured racing bids for events such as NCAA Division Championships, IHSAA State Championships and Nike Midwest Regionals. The bidding process is a competitive process in which the LaVern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course presents on the course’s assets. These bidding periods are how races, invitationals and championships are secured, therefore allowing Terre Haute, West Central Indiana and the state of Indiana to welcome thousands of people from across the nation to the facility.  Today we celebrated the ribbon cutting for the LaVern Gibson Championship Cross County Course climate controlled athletic medical building. Community leaders gathered alongside Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch to cut the ribbon, marking the official opening. “The climate-controlled athletic medical building is such a progressive and leading way to care for the athletes that run this renowned course,” stated David Patterson, Executive Director of the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We have athletes who compete on this course at local, state and national levels. Some compete when it’s snowing, some compete in extremely hot temperatures. This facility provides a space for athletes to be assessed out of the elements, out of spectator sight, and quite simply, comfortably.” The athletic medical building, funded by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation’s (IDDC) Destination Development grant with matching funds from the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau, will serve tens of thousands of runners across the nation who visit the course annually. The LaVern Gibson Championship Cross County Course is a true asset to the Terre Haute community and this new medical building will help athletic trainers and other medical personnel better serve the athletes.
 Fire up the grill! It’s the Fourth of July, which means there is plenty to celebrate here in Terre Haute, Indiana, as well as throughout Vigo County. Independence Day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a long weekend, burgers and hot dogs on the grill, beer, sunshine, music, boats, bonfires, and best of all fireworks with friends and family. Of course, all these festive activities grant us the much-needed reset of rest and relaxation from our daily routines, so grab your loved ones because the festivities begin now. You can use this time to get creative with your outdoor party recipes. Combining sweet and salty ingredients for a patriotic recipe this year is similar to the compilation of Fourth of July festivities offered throughout Terre Haute and Vigo County that we have to share with you! As the world continues to transition away from COVID regulations, this year is the perfect traditional Independence Day celebration as the firework shows must go on! Make your way to the Moon Lite Drive-In Theater in Terre Haute on July 1st for a firework show at 10:00 p.m. and a double-feature directly afterwards around 10:15 p.m. Bring your entire family to celebrate our nation and enjoy brand new movies, where Lightyear and Top Gun will likely play. On July 3rd, bring your lawn chairs and blankets to sit and relax at the New Covenant Fellowship Church, in Terre Haute for food, fellowship, and fireworks! All ages are welcome at this free event to celebrate Independence Day at the Sycamore Winery’s 5th anniversary! On Sunday, July 3rd, they will offer food and live music 6:00-10:00 p.m., then a fireworks show over the lake at dark. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, as no tents will be allowed. Also, at The Bridge celebrate the Fourth of July on Sunday, July 3rd from 6:00-9:00 p.m. with free food, face painting, and blow ups for the kids. The night will close out with a fireworks show at dark! The most dazzling fireworks display will take place in the Wabash Valley on July 4th at Fairbanks Park by the City of Terre Haute. The entertaining celebration will begin at the amphitheater at 8:00 p.m. with the Terre Haute Community band until the fireworks display begins at dusk, which is approximately 10:00 p.m. There are updates to come on events at American Legion Post #290, Rosedale and Rex Baseball, Terre Haute, Military Nights. If you host your own fireworks display, be sure to do so legally. Fireworks are not allowed within Terre Haute city limits. If you are outside of the city limits, ensuring safety is the number one priority. Simple tips that ensure everyone is kept safe is by buying high-quality fireworks from reputable retailers, keeping onlookers at a safe distance from the launch pad, as well as counting down before and after every lighting. Whether you prefer a large firework show or hand-held sparklers, remember to make memories with loved ones. However, you choose to celebrate the Fourth of July, enjoy the holiday filled with fireworks safely alongside great company. Source: Haute Happenings
 This week you can f – e – e – l summer! Although you may want to lessen your time in the outdoors with the relentless heat, it has us thinking about Terre Haute and the unique things our collective assets have to offer the outdoor enthusiasts. Perhaps this week and maybe next, the outdoor activities should include water, and lots of it! Kind of like somethin’ water needs to be a part of all your activities.
So, what do we recommend? If you’re traveling around Indiana, you certainly don’t want to drive by Terre Haute. Instead, you want to drop-in, believe us! Let’s start with water, it makes sense. Just to name a few, and a few more…
Don’t take our word for it, take time to enjoy these unique amenities. Stop, swim, and celebrate the dog days of summer. If you’re looking to explore nearby be sure to also check out swimming at Sullivan Lake, boating at Racoon Lake, or even Canoeing at Turkey Run State Park. Within thirty miles you can explore most of West Central IN and its water activities. It’s Hot… Hot… Hot… Stay safe out there! 
Terre Haute is full of exciting pastimes and activities; however, did you know the community also offers an array of activities at no cost? From outdoor enthusiasts, to art lovers and everyone in between, this list of free things to do in Terre Haute are sure to keep you busy and exploring all facets of the community!
 If you haven’t noticed, the town has been painted pink and red for a very special heart-shaped holiday. It’s Valentine’s Day and local businesses in Terre Haute have just what you need to woo your sweetheart this year. Sugar Studio by Tiers of Elegance is offering customers a sugary sweet sampler box containing pink frosted cookies, cake pops, brownies and more!  Photo courtesy of Sugar Studio by Tiers Surprise your sweetie by bringing them a piping hot cup of coffee from Federal Coffee Company. Might I suggest The Winter Rose, a smooth espresso with rose cardamom syrup, textured milk, White Chocolate sauce and honey. I feel in love just thinking about it! Valentine’s Day isn’t just about chocolate hearts and sweets, it’s also about romantic evenings with your love. Consider taking your Valentine to Bar Bosco or Piloni’s for a plate of hand-made spaghetti and meatballs. You could re-enact the iconic scene from Lady and the Tramp! Tell me that wouldn’t be a cute photo-op.  Photo courtesy of Bar Bosco For those who convey their love in diamonds and pearls, Ross Elliott Jewelers, Terre Haute’s home for fine jewelry, is promoting a free box of truffles and flowers with any purchase of $199 or more! Quite literally a one-stop-shop for any last-minute Valentine’s Day purchases. If your honey likes the classics, you can never go wrong with a card and flowers. Select a beautiful bouquet from Maggie & Moe’s, Baesler’s Floral Market, or Cowan & Cook! These hand-crafted arrangements are sure to turn any budding romance into a full on bloom!  Photo courtesy of Maggie & Moe's Poplar Flower Shop No matter what you buy, or how you spend your Valentine’s Day, remember this is a day of love. Enjoy this romantic time with the ones who matter most, and maybe a few sweet treats. Happy Valentine’s Day, lovebugs!
 For a long time, outdoor concert lovers in Terre Haute had only one option if they wanted to see their favorite artists and musicians at an outdoor music venue, a drive to Noblesville. While the distance made for a fun night out in the city, it took away opportunities to have fun and make memories in our city. Terre Haute needed a new outdoor music venue, and it needed one quick.  Terre Haute resident Tim Drake saw this as an opportunity to provide his community with a state-of-the-art music venue. “I have lived here my whole life,” stated Drake. “You find the need, you fill the need.” Not only will this cater to residents, it will also increase tourism to the Terre Haute area. “It’s right here in our backyard,” Drake explained. “We’re bringing in some big artists next year.” The Mill Amphitheater is just over 65 acres and can hold between 4,000 and 5,000 people. This outdoor venue pays homage to a bit of Terre Haute history. “We wanted to pay tribute to what was here and tip our hat to where we want to go,” stated Drake. In 1917, the International Paper Plant opened for business. Over the 90 years it was in operation, the mill employed 170 people. In 2007, the corporate office decided to close the plant, leaving the property empty and desolate. In 2018, Drake placed a bid on the property with a plan to create the amphitheater.  The Mill officially opened to the public on June 5, 2021, with a sold-out show featuring two-time Grammy award-winning recording artist Nelly. The outdoor venue started their first year with a bang, hosting several acts including Riley Green, Three Dog Night, Summerland Tour, Lee Brice and Granger Smith. So far, the stage has seen many music stars, and this is only the beginning. “We’ve been working so hard for so many years, talking about it and dreaming about it,” explained Drake. “Seeing it come to life, it’s pretty crazy.” Drake is impressed with the progress he and his team have made. Every concert provides an opportunity to improve the venue, both for the artists and for the concert goers. In preparation for next season, The Mill has already started scouting out big names from talent agencies in Nashville and even New York City to fill the stage next season. “Talent agencies in big cities are very interested in who we are, where we came from and where we are going,” said Drake. “Lots of agencies have been very impressed with our progress.”  Drake and his staff at The Mill are happy with their first season, but they also realize the key to a great business, a great customer experience, is change. “Every time we have a concert we are constantly improving,” he said. “This venue is always changing for the better.” Drake plans to announce the lineup for next season within the next six months. Until then, he and his team will be hard at work perfecting the stage and working with engineers to create a one-of-a-kind concert experience that can only be found in Terre Haute. For more information on The Mill, including past acts, amenities and even keep up to date on next season’s line-up, check out their website! We’ll be seeing you… at The Mill.
 Alright, elves, the Christmas Countdown has officially begun. Black Friday deals have come and gone, and you still have lots of people to shop for on your list! What can be done? Not to worry, for I am a professional procrastinator and have developed a system for the season. Two words: stocking stuffers. People underestimate the power of an adorable stocking full of candy and trinkets! This last-minute gift idea only takes an hour to put together. Stop by your favorite local store, pick out a stocking, stuff it full of candy, gift cards, or any other trinket that aligns with your person’s favorite things! Maybe it’s nail polish, maybe it’s a CD (do people still listen to CDs?) or, my personal favorite, a set of Bass Farms bath and body products, which can be found at the 1921 Boutique. Can someone say spa night?  Photo Courtesy of the 1921 Boutique Facebook Page Stocking stuffers are a great last-minute gift idea, but if you would rather put a little more thought into the gift, try something homemade! Handmade gifts hold an extra spark of spirit that can’t be found in store bought gifts. In my research, I have come across some pretty cute gift ideas, many of which I plan to try myself! Ornaments are a great gift for family and friends, and a homemade fabric covered tree ornament will add a bit of DIY sparkle to any Christmas tree. For the tutorial from Alice & Lois, check out this link!  Photo Courtesy of aliceandlois.com Handmade gifts don’t always have to be made by you. Local businesses and artisans in Terre Haute offer a plethora of unique gifts for everyone in your life. Willow Gift & Home, The Burlap Penguin and the 1921 Boutique have just what you need for that extra special gift. For a full list of boutiques and businesses, click this link!  Photo Courtesy of Willow Gift & Home: Flour Sack Handle Towel – Terre Haute, Indiana Multi-dots Ornaments aren’t for everyone, and neither are trinkets. For any of the plant lovers in your life, have you considered a small succulent? Or maybe, and how festive is this? A Christmas Cactus?! How cute is this little lady? The Christmas Cactus is aptly named due to its unique bloom schedule. Three out of the four seasons, this plant is green and flat, but around Christmas, something magical happens! The cactus blooms with bright pink, red, white, purple, or orange flowers to celebrate the season. While her cactus name may confuse you, she needs to be watered regularly and prefers indirect sunlight. Terre Haute has a plethora of flower shops to choose from for your green thumbed friend. Check out Maggie & Moe’s Poplar Flower Shop, Apple House, Baesler’s Flower Market, or the District 6 Market! The Christmas Cactus will find herself most comfortable in a cozy window seat where she may be admired.  Photo Courtesy of iStock/Nadezhda_Nesterova Speaking of things to be admired, I believe it’s high time you start wrapping these presents to be put under the tree! I hope these hints have been helpful, I know I will be using a few. Here is wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas!
|
Website designed and managed by RJL Solutions