Holiday Nostalgia Returns to Indiana Welcome Center
- By: South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority
- Last Updated: November 14, 2025
“A Christmas Story” Comes Home Exhibit Returns for Eighteenth Year
The South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority will open its doors for the 18th year of the “A Christmas Story” Comes Home Exhibit on November 15, 2025, at the Indiana Welcome Center. The exhibit will run through December 30. The exhibit is free and open to the public daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with special hours for events.
The exhibit will showcase six animated window displays, each depicting a classic scene from the holiday classic, “A Christmas Story.” Visitors are welcome to relive their own childhood memories of Santa and that long-sought-after Christmas present while strolling through the exhibit, admiring the decorated Christmas trees or visiting with Santa. Be sure to vote for your favorite tree at the front desk!
“Bringing the iconic ‘A Christmas Story’ window displays to Hammond is our way of celebrating the film’s heritage that calls Northwest Indiana home,” said Phil Tallion, CEO of the South Shore CVA. “We want families to walk through the exhibit, smile, and feel the same holiday joy that generations of visitors have felt. This exhibit is more than just scenes from a beloved movie—it’s a gift back to our community. We’re proud to shine a spotlight on Hammond’s special connection to the story and welcome visitors from near and far to experience it together.”
Families are welcome to schedule a visit with Santa on select dates leading up to Christmas; November 28 through December 23. Each session is five minutes and includes a printed photo with Santa. The cost is $10 per photo and $6 for each additional.
Schedule your photo with Santa at AChristmasStoryComesHome.com. Walk-ins are welcome, but we strongly suggest making an appointment.
All is Calm
Santa invites families who may benefit from a sensory-friendly environment to visit on Tuesday, December 2, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and again from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. This special session is designed to make everyone feel comfortable, with accommodations for guests who need extra support.
Wag Your Tail Wednesdays
Bring your pets for photos with Santa on December 3, 10, and 17 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. We will also be accepting donations for local shelters.
Holiday for Heroes
First responders (police, fire, EMT), Hoosier Helpers, veterans, and active military are invited to experience the exhibit with their family and visit with Santa on December 4 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Other special events include a Santa’s Secret Pop-up Shop (Nov 22-23 & 28-30), Paint & Sip (Dec 9), cookie decorating (Dec 13-14), viewing of the movie “A Christmas Story” all day in the theater (Dec 23), and local musical performances on select weekends. Follow “A Christmas Story” Comes Home on Facebook for updates!
Visit AChristmasStoryComesHome.com for additional details. The Indiana Welcome Center is located at 7770 Corinne Drive in Hammond, Indiana. The Welcome Center Gift Shop offers a variety of movie memorabilia including the infamous leg lamp!
