Boone County Magazine November 2025 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

LEADING THE WAY

BOONE COUNTY LEADERSHIP PROGRAM REVIVED TO INSPIRE GROWTH & COMMUNITY IMPACT

Early lung cancer screening saves lives.

Worried about lung cancer? Get a low-dose CT scan at Witham. If you’re between the ages of 50-80, have a history of smoking, or are currently a smoker, you may qualify for a free screening. You can pay out of pocket for just $99. The scan is quick, easy, and painless. Remember, lung cancer is most treatable when it’s found early.

LOW-DOSE CT SCAN

you’re aged 50-80, have a history of smoking, or are currently a smoker.

LEBANON

Witham Main Campus 2605 N. Lebanon Street Lebanon, IN 46052

WHITESTOWN AT ANSON

F l avo r, Tr a d i t i o n , a n d Q u a l i t y Yo u C a n Tr u s t

B r i n g i n g y o u t h e b e s t s e l e c t i o n , t h e h i g h e s t q u a l i t y m e a t s a n d m o r e f o r y o u r h o l i d a y t a b l e .

2 0 E C e d a r S t r e e t | Z i o n s v i l l e ( 3 1 7 ) 8 7 3 - 1 8 0 0 m o o d y s b u t c h e r s h o p . c o m

brandon@townepost.com (317) 514-9522

(317) 496-3599

jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

Lebanon’s Christmas on the Square

Zionsville’s Christmas in the Village

Experience the magic of the holidays in Boone County, where charming traditions and unforgettable memories await. With cozy shops, seasonal events, and heartwarming small-town charm around every corner, Boone County is your holiday destination for wonder and joy.

Dull’s Tree Farm

As seen on

SENIOR RESOURCE HUB Support for Seniors and Families

For CarDon & Associates, “senior living support” involves much more than finding a new home. It’s also about serving as an informational resource for anyone navigating the path of aging. That’s why CarDon created the Senior Resource Hub — a virtual space uniting seniors and their families with industry experts on topics like Medicare, elder fraud, nutrition, rehabilitation and memory loss, to name a few.

That space continues to expand, and it now includes local TV airwaves. CarDon partnered with WTHR to broadcast weekly segments devoted to advice for seniors and their loved ones. CarDon Vice President and Chief Growth Officer Kendra Edwards presents a new tip each week, which viewers can watch on the station’s streaming app. The information in these segments comes from an ongoing series of video interviews housed on CarDon’s website, within the Senior Resource Hub page.

In addition to CarDon representatives from the company’s 20 communities across Indiana, the videos feature outside experts such as elder law attorneys, registered dietitians, dialysis providers, veteran benefit providers and more. They gently guide viewers through tough questions, such as how to talk to loved ones about moving into senior living, what signs of memory loss to keep an eye on, where to look for respite care, etc.

The Senior Resource Hub maintains the compassionate, family-like feeling of CarDon’s senior living communities. Watching the videos is like chatting over a cup of coffee with a staff member. They’re designed to welcome and engage viewers of all ages and backgrounds.

As Edwards said, “We thought, ‘Let’s bring all our resources together and have casual, open video conversations that we can share with anyone, even those who don’t live in our communities or have loved ones who are residents.’”

Best of all, the Senior Resource Hub allows people to approach these sensitive topics from the privacy and comfort of their homes. Viewers and those interested in learning more can send questions for future videos to InfoCD@cardon.us. You can also find videos at cardon. us/senior-resource-hub, or tune in to WTHR on Monday mornings from 6-7 a.m. for a new tip each week.

“We’re thrilled to be able to extend our reach through WTHR,” Edwards said. “We want people across Indiana to view us as more than a company — we’re a community resource. We have been through tough decisions and conversations with our own families, and we know how difficult this phase of life can be to navigate. We’re here to listen and offer advice to anyone facing the milestones and challenges of aging. Whether it’s on TV, our website or another future outlet, the Senior Resource Hub will be around for your questions and needs.”

With the NFL’s continued commitment to expanding its global footprint, several teams will once again play overseas this season— including the Indianapolis Colts. On Nov. 9, the Colts will host the Atlanta Falcons at the historic Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany.

For offensive tackle Bernard Raimann, the trip will be something of a homecoming. Born in Steinbrunn, a small town just outside Vienna, Austria, Raimann is only a short flight or train ride from Berlin. “About 20 members of my family will be at the game,” he says. “Half are taking the 4- to 5-hour train ride, and the rest are flying— it’s only about 90 minutes.”

FÜR DAS HUFEISEN

(FOR THE HORSESHOE)

THE INDIANAPOLIS COLTS RETURN TO THE WORLD STAGE THIS MONTH

Writer / Devon Dean

This won’t be Raimann’s first time playing abroad. He was also part of the Colts’ roster in 2023 when they played the New England Patriots in Frankfurt. “I’m over-the-moon excited to go back,” he says.

Raimann grew up playing soccer but switched to American football at age 14, drawn to the physicality of the game. “What I love about American football is how much we have to rely on one another as teammates,” he says. “You have to be able to trust the person next to you.”

He went on to play college football at Central Michigan and was drafted by the Colts in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft with the 77th overall pick.

The Colts take careful steps to help players manage jet lag on international trips. Berlin is six hours ahead of Indianapolis, and anyone who has flown across several time zones knows how disorienting it can be. “The staff forces us to sleep on the flight to help,” Raimann says. “It makes a big difference.”

While Raimann and his teammates are excited for the trip, it will be all business once they land. “We’ll practice on Thursday, then fly overnight to Germany on Friday,” he says. “Once we arrive, we’ll check into the hotel and head straight to the walkthrough.”

Raimann hopes to squeeze in time for

dinner with his family—and to introduce them to his infant daughter, who will be taking her first-ever flight.

“We’re going to experience the whole ‘flying with a baby’ thing,” he jokes.

One thing he’s certain about? Enjoying some comfort food from home. “I’m looking forward to goulash, bread dumplings, and sausage,” he says. “All of the offensive line loved the food last time around.”

Berlin’s Olympiastadion has previously hosted NFL exhibition games from 1990

to 1994. Built for the 1936 Summer Olympics, the stadium is best known for American track star Jesse Owens’ legendary performance, making it a fitting venue for another historic sporting event.

This will be the third international matchup for the Colts. They previously played the Patriots in Frankfurt in 2023 and faced AFC South rivals, the Jacksonville Jaguars, at London’s Wembley Stadium in 2016.

Notably, the Berlin game marks the first time the Colts will serve as the designated “home” team abroad.

The 2024 NFL International Series will feature up to eight regular-season games, with matchups in São Paulo, Dublin, London, Madrid—and now Berlin. The Colts-Falcons game will be the firstever regular-season NFL game played at Olympiastadion.

And one final note: the Colts beat the Patriots the last time they played in Germany.

Kickoff for Colts vs. Falcons is set for 9:30 a.m. Eastern on Sunday, Nov. 9.

LEADING THE WAY

BOONE COUNTY LEADERSHIP PROGRAM REVIVED TO INSPIRE GROWTH & COMMUNITY IMPACT

The Community Foundation of Boone County has reignited its leadership cohort this year — a 10-month program in which 18 participants explore key issues across the county through in-person events designed to develop leadership skills and drive positive community change.

Since its founding in 1991, the foundation has granted more than $31M to nonprofit organizations and programs addressing critical challenges in Boone County.

This leadership program empowers individuals to become more engaged in their community while providing invaluable insights on issues of importance throughout all six Boone County communities, including education, health and wellness, and community connectivity.

Director of Community Engagement Hope Coons believes the foundation’s commitment to highlighting Boone County’s diversity makes this leadership

program a valuable asset for anyone seeking to make a difference.

“Boone County is diverse in a variety of ways, so we want to make sure we include all components of our community,” Hope says.

The leadership cohort program, which paused during the pandemic, was revived this year. The organization aims to inspire participants to refine their leadership skills and broaden their perspective on

Writer & Photographer / Stephanie Duncan

what’s possible for themselves and their organizations.

This year’s cohort comprises a diverse group of individuals from various backgrounds, including construction, public relations, health services and more.

“It’s broad on purpose,” Hope says. “When creating this, we wanted it even to be open to a stay-at-home mom if she was looking to grow her leadership abilities and community impact, so there are no professional requirements.”

The group meets monthly, gathering at different locations across Boone County and covering a range of topics. Some meetings feature panels of local experts discussing subjects such as sustainable housing, while others allow members to explore different sites in person.

“We’re going to visit a farm in the community, and then we’re touring the simulation lab at Witham Hospital, so it’s not just hearing about the programs — it’s also seeing them,” Hope adds.

Leadership participants are consistently challenged to think differently, lead intentionally and build lasting community connections. The session topics help leaders

uncover blind spots and expand their capacity to lead in meaningful ways.

With more than 300 alumni from previous years, a robust network exists that serves as a lasting asset to participants both personally and professionally.

“Even seeing seasoned leaders’ willingness to learn and engage, and getting excited about grant making and thinking about the legacy they want to leave, has been pretty

cool to see,” Hope says.

Anyone who wants to be more effective in improving Boone County’s communities or is interested in growing their leadership skills is encouraged to apply for the next cohort.

For more information about how to join the next Boone County Leadership cohort, contact hope@communityfoundationbc. org or visit communityfoundationbc.org.

1600 West Main Street, Lebanon, IN 46052 www.AspireIndiana.org

FAMILY MEDICINE FOR BOONE COUNTY

Services:

• Same-Day Appointments Available

• Accepting New Patients

• Walk-ins Welcome Wellness Checks

• Pharmacy Services

• Behavioral Health Therapy

BENS’ RANCH FOUNDATION info@bensranch.org 1-877-66-FARMS BENSRANCH.ORG

WHAT IS YOUR MISSION STATEMENT?

Ben’s Ranch Foundation (a 501c3) serves the community by providing teens facing mental health challenges with meaningful, hands-on work-based learning experiences on farms, ranches, nurseries, and stables. Through part-time paid internships, small groups and school programs, we help youth build skills and self-confidence, creating a sense of responsibility, and purpose, leading to improved mental health, careers, and futures!

HOW DO YOU SERVE THE COMMUNITY?

At Ben’s Ranch Foundation, we give teens struggling with mental and emotional health issues a safe place to grow, connect, and thrive, while supporting local farms and strengthening our community. Together, we’re breaking down stigma and building brighter futures. We work with local schools, partners, referral sources, and families to create a new, local, accessible tool with which to combat the epidemic of mental health problems among youth.

HOW CAN THE COMMUNITY HELP YOUR ORGANIZATION

You can help Ben’s Ranch make a difference! Volunteer your time, donate, become a host-employer, or simply spread the word. Every bit of support helps teens grow, gain confidence, and thrive, all while strengthening our local farms and community. Learn more at www.bensranch.org.

hmmpl.org

ZIONSVILLE BRANCH

250 N. 5th Street

Zionsville, IN 46077

317.873.3149

WHITESTOWN BRANCH

6310 Albert S. White Drive

Whitestown, IN 46075

317.769.7930

MISSION STATEMENT

Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library seeks to inspire and welcome all people to learn, dream, and do.

HOW DO YOU SERVE THE COMMUNITY

The Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library serves the community by providing diverse programs and services for all ages, connecting people to information and resources through physical and digital collections, and fostering a sense of community. It offers everything from early literacy story times and adult book clubs to STEM programs, technology access, and a "Library of Things" with borrowable items. The Library also supports students, provides homebound services, and engages the community through outreach initiatives like its Bookmobile.

WHAT CAN THE COMMUNITY DO TO HELP YOUR ORGANIZATION

The Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library faces mission altering budget cuts of up to 50% by 2028 due to three major challenges: the proposed elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), changes to Indiana's property tax law, and alterations to local income tax policies. The IMLS elimination is jeopardizing funding for essential programs like literacy services, technology access, and digital resources such as Libby and INSPIRE databases that patrons depend on. Recent Indiana tax changes have already reduced the State Library’s funding by 30%, resulting in 6 layoffs, and similar cuts could force our Library to reduce hours, staff, programs, and digital services. The Library urges the community to contact local and state officials about the Library’s importance, attend upcoming fireside chats, and consider donating or sponsoring programs to help maintain services. The Library has implemented cost-saving measures like a hiring freeze, but community support and advocacy remain crucial to preserving our cornerstone of learning and discovery.

CHASING GRATITUDE

ANNUAL THANKSGIVING GRAVY CHASE RAISES FUNDS FOR BOONE COUNTY YOUTH

grandparents to children in strollers.

throughout the year.

The Boys & Girls Club of Boone County is gearing up for its biggest fundraiser of the year — the annual Thanksgiving morning Gravy Chase.

It’s been nine years since the event began in Zionsville, and just a few years later, a second Gravy Chase was launched in Lebanon — both growing exponentially.

“Last year, Zionsville had around 3,400 people in attendance. My three young children and my wife run the race every year. They enjoy it and love being a part of it,” says Eric Richards, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County. “I think many would call it a family and community tradition in both towns.”

Both races will begin at 8:30 a.m. Nov. 27. Participants can choose between a 2.2-mile walk or a 4-mile run, and all ages are welcome. Serious runners have the option for electronic timing, while walkers can bring the entire family — from

“The event is full of families, and it’s multigenerational too,” Richards adds. “It works well. We have college kids coming back into town, and now grandparents, parents and grandchildren are involved. It doesn’t take all day. If you’re cooking, there’s plenty of time to get back home, or even if you need to drive somewhere, you can participate in Gravy Chase and move on with your day pretty quickly.”

Awards go to the top performers in a variety of age group categories, and the funds raised go toward a meaningful cause.

“These funds go toward our day-to-day activities,” Richards says. “It’s extremely hard to raise dollars, and events like this are critical to keep the doors open at all three Boys & Girls Clubs in Boone County.”

The organization operates units in Lebanon, Whitestown and Zionsville, serving more than 425 youth each day and more than 6,000 members ages 5 to 18

“We are seeing a record number of scholarships at low or no charge for those who qualify,” Richards adds. “Funds from Gravy Chase help with transportation, staff salaries before and after school, and literally keeping the lights on.”

Funds also support building maintenance and ongoing facility needs.

“Lebanon opened its doors more than 70 years ago,” Richards says. “Zionsville opened more than 40 years ago. Not only does that create a need to update our physical facilities, but it also means most people have experienced the club in one way or another during their lifetime.”

Perhaps a grandparent, parent or grandchild participated in the largest rec basketball league in Boone County through the Boys & Girls Club, or maybe they attended summer camp or one of the middle school dances.

Writer / Melissa Gibson

Regardless of the program, Richards says the cost parents pay often doesn’t cover actual operating expenses.

“Fifty percent of our operating expenses come from philanthropic sources, which equals over one million dollars. That’s how we keep our doors open,” Richards says. “We really want to raise awareness about the need to increase philanthropic support. The more dollars we have, the more affordable these programs can be for families.”

Richards says to look for a special announcement in the fourth quarter of 2025 regarding a new partnership and exciting project forthcoming.

MISSION

765-482-6144 (Helpline) 765-482-6152

(Churches, Agencies, Volunteer Use Only) PO Box 368, Lebanon, IN 46052 office@loveincbc.org

MISSION

Our mission is to ensure that every individual and family has the opportunity to live in a safe, affordable home in a well-maintained neighborhood.

HOW DO YOU SERVE THE COMMUNITY?

Our team serves people across 10 counties including Boone. We provide education about budgeting and building financial stability, tenants rights and responsibilities, and offer homebuyer education.

We are the only HUD certified reverse mortgage counselor in the state of Indiana. We also provide budget and credit, rental, and pre and post purchase mortgage counseling.

We also provide direct assistance to renters and homeowners at risk of losing their homes or who have significant repair needs.

Our Community Loan Center offers small dollar loans with low interest rates that are paid back via payroll deduction. This employee assistance program is free to employers.

HOW CAN THE COMMUNITY HELP YOUR ORGANIZATION

• Invite us to present to your school, church, or community organization! We can share our services or schedule a workshop for your group.

• Consider making a gift to support our critical work.

• Become a Community Loan Center Partner employer.

churches to transform lives and communities In the Name of Christ.

HOW WE SERVE

Love In the Name of Christ of Boone County is a unique network of churches and agencies that respond to the needs of ordinary people who need HOPE in the midst of a difficult time in life. We understand that unexpected events like the loss of a job, a serious health diagnosis, a failed relationship, or a major home repair can sometimes cause major disruptions to normal life. We partner with 40 churches throughout Boone County to assist people with needs and to do so In the Name of Christ. Through the churches, we offer assistance with items such as kids' and adult clothing, personal care items, cleaning supplies, food, laundry, furniture, educational classes, and more.

HOW THE COMMUNITY CAN HELP

We can't do what we do without our wonderful volunteers. If you would like to help, please visit our website and complete a talent survey. A staff member will then call to discuss your interests and help get you plugged in to serving. Financial support can be shared online through our website or by scanning the QR code in this ad. On February 28, 2026 we will be participating for the 3rd year in the "Coldest Night of the Year" fundraiser walk to bring awareness to the Hungry, Hurting and Homeless in our community. We would love for you to join us for the event, either as a participant or volunteer. Contact us for more information.

Our mission at Sylvia’s Child Advocacy Center is to reduce trauma to a child victim of abuse by allowing them to tell their story in a safe, comfortable and child-focused environment, with a trained forensic interviewer who will ask ageappropriate and non-leading questions.

The child’s multidisciplinary team of law enforcement, prosecutor’s office, child protective services, mental health provider, and victim advocate work together to shepherd the child and his or her family toward the first steps of healing

We provide, Outreach education on prevention, We provide victim advocacy services, referrals for mental health and medical exams, and we assist in the investigation of child abuse by providing forensic interviews.

All of our services can be found at www.sylviascac.org

THE CABIN COUNSELING AND RESOURCE CENTER

Writer / Renée Larr

When someone makes the courageous decision to seek mental health support, the last thing they should face is a months-long wait for help. At The Cabin Counseling and Resource Center, that’s never the case.

Under the guidance of Clinical Director Rob Kern, LMHC, ADHD-CCSP, The Cabin ensures immediate access to appointments, often with same-week or next-day availability. This quick scheduling is a lifeline for individuals and families throughout Boone County, providing relief and support when it’s needed most.

The Cabin’s team has grown to nearly 30 highly-trained clinicians, representing a full spectrum of credentials and specialties. Providers range from master’s level interns to associate-licensed clinicians working under supervision, to fully licensed professionals across all four major behavioral health disciplines: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs), and Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselors (LCACs). The practice even

includes a Licensed Clinical Psychologist.

This depth allows The Cabin to thoughtfully match clients with the provider best suited to their needs, whether that involves treating anxiety, depression, trauma, or family conflict. The practice also offers specialized care, including art therapy, equine therapy in partnership with Harmony in Horses, adventure therapy (also known as walk-andtalk), and VR-based therapy.

Accessibility is at the heart of The Cabin’s mission. With locations in Zionsville, Lebanon, and Westfield, and the option for telehealth appointments, clients can choose the format that works best for their lives. This flexibility, combined with a robust staff, is what makes quick scheduling possible.

“We want to remove barriers to care,” Kern says. “When people are ready to ask for help, they shouldn’t have to wait.”

One of the biggest obstacles to receiving care is cost. To bridge that gap, The Cabin created the Samaritan Fund, a sliding-scale program based on household income and family size. Since its founding in 2010, The Cabin has provided more than $2M

in assistance through the fund, including nearly $200,000 in 2024 alone.

This commitment reflects The Cabin’s nonprofit roots and mission-driven approach. The center combines private-pay options with charitable support to ensure that it turns away no one due to financial reasons. This dedication to breaking down economic barriers is a testament to The Cabin’s mission to provide accessible mental health care to all.

Beyond one-on-one therapy, The Cabin also works with local businesses through its Organizational Wellness program, offering mental health resources for employees. From group sessions to individual support, the program supports the center’s commitment to promoting healthy workplaces that foster healthier communities.

This fall, the community has an opportunity to give back to The Cabin’s mission. On Nov. 7, the center will host its annual fundraiser, Keys for Hope, at the Marriott Indianapolis North. The evening will feature dueling pianos, a spotlight speaker, and a silent auction, with all proceeds benefiting the Samaritan Fund.

With an experienced and diverse team, immediate access to appointments and a commitment to breaking down financial barriers, The Cabin Counseling remains a trusted resource for both traditional and innovative therapy in Boone County.

“Our goal is to meet people where they are, and help them move forward,” Kern says.

For more information, visit thecabin.org.

112 N. 9th Street Zionsville, IN 317-873-8140 thecabin.org

Photographer / Krystal Dailey

Discover SullivanMunce...

MISSION STATEMENT

Stabilizing families in crisis and moving those caught in poverty toward self sufficiency.

SullivanMunce Cultural Center, a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit nestled in the village of Zionsville, is a unique community resource comprised of a collecting history museum, genealogy library, and an art center, whose mission is to enrich our community through the preservation, education, and appreciation of history and the arts.

Since 1973, we have engaged visitors locally, nationally, and internationally in the culture of this region.

Cultural Center, Inc. 225 West Hawthorne Street Zionsville, IN 46077 317-873-4900

Stabilizing Families in Crisis and Poverty in Boone County, Indiana Since 1980.

HOW YOU SERVE THE COMMUNITY

♥ Food through our 30 hr. Week Food Pantry

♥ Clothing

♥ Personal Care Items

♥ Household Items

♥ Furniture

♥ Classes

♥ Thrift Store for the Community

♥ Fall Coat GiveAway

♥ Multiple Holiday Services and Events

WE WORK TO STABILIZE FAMILIES IN CRISIS.

HOW THE COMMUNITY CAN SUPPORT YOU Donate and Volunteer! (Donate money, food, clothing, personal care items, household items and furniture, Coats, Christmas Gifts and Holiday Foods)

The Caring Center in Lebanon, Indiana, works to stabilize families in crisis and to move those caught in poverty toward self-sufficiency. We’re a non-profit community service organization assisting others struggling financially. We are a needs based organization, and participation in our programs is based on assessment of needs.

We have many programs to accommodate the needs of our community. We help families and individuals living in situational and generational poverty and those who are food insecure. Services that are available at the Caring Center include food, clothing, personal care items, household items, furniture, food and educational classes, transitional housing, and many more services to families and individuals in need. We don’t discriminate based on ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender, age, or nationality. We are the umbrella organization for programs helping the needy of Boone County, Indiana.

Consider donating to help families in need during these challenging times!

SullivanMunce

Visit Our Home for the Holidays!

Boone County is home to some of Indiana’s most charming small town experiences and holiday fun. Whether you’re looking to find the perfect Christmas tree, experience holiday parades, or enjoy a shopping weekend with friends, there’s something for you here this holiday season.

SIGNATURE HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS

Zionsville’s beloved Christmas in the Village returns with a full calendar of events from the end of November up to Christmas. The celebration begins with Small Business Weekend (Nov. 28-29), encouraging visitors to shop locally while enjoying decorated storefronts and early holiday cheer. The

Holiday Parade (Nov. 29) brings families to Main Street, ending with the lighting of the tree and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Throughout the season, guests can stop for some Santa HouseSelfies on weekends from November 29 to December 21st for photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Additional events include the Makers Market (Dec. 6) with the Zionsville Parks Department, a festive evening out with Ladies Night (Dec. 11), and the 21+ Christmas Crawl (Dec. 18) throughout downtown Zionsville.

In Lebanon, Christmas on the Square (Dec. 6) invites locals and visitors to experience some holiday magic around the historic

courthouse square. Step into the Merry & Bright Market to find unique gifts and enjoy live performances, petting zoo with life reindeer, kid-friendly activities, and witness the crowning of the Snowflake Princess. As the evening unfolds, visitors can enjoy the Christmas Light Parade followed by the tree lighting ceremony and special visit from Santa himself. Don’t forget to stop into some of the local shops and restaurants around the square as you get into the holiday spirit.

Whitestown’s Merry at Main (Nov. 29) at Main Street Park brings the park to life as it’s lit up to celebrate the start of the holidays. Experience delicious food and treats and come meet with Santa in his workshop for an evening of festive cheer for everyone.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING AND CHRISTMAS TREE FUN

Get some holiday shopping done at the Whitestown Winter Market (Nov. 15 and Dec. 18). Featuring local artisans, handmade goods, baked treats, and seasonal décor, the market is a favorite for those seeking one-ofa-kind gifts in a fun, cozy atmosphere.

A trip to Dull’s Tree Farm in Thorntown is a must this holiday season during their Christmas Tree Season (Opens Nov. 28). Dull’s is a full holiday experience where families can choose and cut their own Christmas trees, enjoy fresh cider and hot cocoa by the fire, and shop for handmade wreaths and gifts. Kids can explore outdoor play areas, enjoy apple cider donuts, and more fun holiday fun around every corner.

Whether you’re here visiting family or looking for the perfect weekend getaway, Boone County has something for everyone this holiday season.

Plan your trip today at www.discoverboonecounty.com

A FREE GIFT TO THE COMMUNITY

The Park at Traders Point Christian Church is just that — a free gift for families. This indoor playground was created as a safe, welcoming place where kids can play, explore, and laugh, while parents get a chance to rest, connect, or simply catch their breath.

At the heart of The Park is a five-story play structure packed with tunnels, slides, climbing nets, and even a ground-level zip track. Little ones have their own toddler zone, made just for them. Grown-ups can spread out at nearby picnic tables, relax with free Wi-Fi, and knock out some work while the kids explore.

Open to the public Wednesday through Sunday during select hours, The Park requires a government-issued ID for check-in and socks for the kids. Before heading out, guests can check the real-time occupancy status on The Park’s website at tpcc.org/the-park to avoid any surprises.

Whether you’re chasing adventure or just a peaceful moment while your kids play, The Park offers a little something for everyone. Grab your socks, check the crowd tracker, and go have fun!

Small Business Weekend

Friday - Sunday November 28th - November 30th

Holiday Events 2025 Holiday Events 2025

Celebrate Black Friday and Small Business Saturday right here in Zionsville! Shop local, support your favorite small businesses, and receive a FREE Chamber Tote Bag while supplies last!

Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting

Saturday November 29th

Santa is coming to Zionsville! Don’t miss the magic as he arrives during our Holiday Parade 5:00 PM – Holiday Parade begins! Followed by the Tree Lighting Ceremony at Pine & Main Streets

Santa Selfies – Snap a photo with Santa after the parade! He’ll be available until 8:00 PM

Bring the whole family and kick off the holiday season in downtown Zionsville!

Santa House Selfies

Saturdays and Sundays November 29th - December 21st

Visit Santa in His House on Main Street! Saturdays & Sundays | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Bring your camera for festive selfies with Santa!

Note: On Saturday, December 13th, Santa will arrive at Noon and stay until 3:00 PM

Make magical family memories all month long in downtown Zionsville!

Makers Market with Zionsville Parks Dept.

Saturday December 6th

In partnership with Zionsville Parks & Recreation! On the bricks near Pine & Main Street Shop local and support talented makers, crafters, and artisans offering one-of-a-kind gifts just in time for the holidays! Find the perfect present and enjoy the festive charm of downtown Zionsville. 9:00 AM – Noon.

Ladies’ Night

Thursday December 11th

Grab your friends and head to downtown Zionsville for a fun-filled evening of shopping, dining, and laughter! Stroll the charming streets, discover great deals, and treat yourself to a night out you deserve it! 5:00 PM – 9:00PM

Christmas Crawl

Title Sponsor Title

Main Street Momentum

How Thorntown, Indiana Is Reviving Its Downtown Through Incremental, Homegrown Development

Writer / Shelby E. Farthing

THE ENDURING VALUE OF MAIN STREET

Main Streets have long been the heart of small-town Indiana. Yet, over the past several decades, many of these downtown corridors have fallen quiet, worn by economic shifts, suburban expansion, and the loss of locally owned businesses.

Across Indiana, a new generation of community leaders, entrepreneurs, and incremental developers are proving that Main Streets still matter. Thorntown, Indiana, illustrates this movement, blending historic preservation, entrepreneurship, and public art to renew its downtown.

INCREMENTAL CHANGE AND LOCAL VISION

Thorntown’s story is one of steady, incremental progress. The current wave of redevelopment began when a longtime Boone County family purchased several historic properties along Main Street, including the Odd Fellows Building and neighboring storefronts at 110–112 W. Main Street.

The family approached the Thorntown Town Council to ask what the community needed most. The council’s requests were clear, new main street retail spaces, a coffee shop where people could gather, upperlevel apartments on Main Street, and help addressing a nearby blighted property that risked demolition if left to decay.

RECLAIMING HISTORIC SPACES FOR MODERN LIVING

The newly purchased and refurbished apartments breathe life into the historic character and charm. Exposed brick, vaulted ceilings, and Juliet balconies overlook Main Street. At 111 and 113 E. Main Street, two newly finished units now offer full laundry, office spaces, and open layouts. Additional apartments at 110 and 112 W. Main Street provide equally elegant spaces, and the ongoing restoration of the Odd Fellows Building will soon add four more two-story lofts with high ceilings, custom ironwork, and expansive views of either Main Street or a private garden next to the Thorntown Library. This update also includes a refreshed streetscape featuring trees, benches, and public art.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND COMMUNITY AT THE CORE

Revitalization has created new opportunities for entrepreneurship, providing space for three women-owned businesses to open their doors along Main Street. Welcome to the Country Antiques and Home Décor, owned by Thorntown native Peggy Beck, offers a mix of antiques and modern home goods in a space filled with history and heart. Sweet Linen, owned by another Thorntown native Stephany Jackson, curates classic apparel and refined home goods that elevate everyday living. Soon, Robin’z Nest, a 3,600-square-foot café owned by Boone County resident Robin Wornhoff, will open its doors as a cozy gathering place offering coffee, breakfast, and lunch, along with private meeting and event space.

ART AS A CATALYST FOR CONNECTION

Through a collaboration between the Town of Thorntown, the Boone County Economic Development Corporation (Boone EDC), the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), and local artist Anita Gordon of the Sugar Creek Art Center, three new murals now bring color and inspiration to Main Street.

Part of the statewide READI 1.0 initiative, the murals: “Welcome Home,” “So Glad You’re Here,” and “Dream Big”, combine message and place. “Welcome Home,” an abstract landscape, faces the library and Lions Park, greeting families and children alike. “Dream Big,” looks over the routes taken by local students each day. “So Glad You’re Here” welcomes everyone entering town from the east, a friendly reminder that Thorntown values every visitor and resident who passes through.

LOOKING AHEAD: LESSONS FROM THORNTOWN

Incremental urbanism allows communities to adapt, experiment, and grow organically, while maintaining authenticity and control. The heart of Thorntown beats along Main Street, where the past and present meet in brick, light, and color. Through the tenacity of local entrepreneurs, the vision of community-minded investors, and the creativity of local artists; Thorntown has reclaimed its commercial center and as a living, breathing symbol of small-town Indiana’s enduring spirit.

If you would like to learn more please reach out to hello@betterinboone.org