Good morning, Lafayette.

The Ellison family in Lafayette preserves a unique Thanksgiving tradition by preparing oyster dressing from a recipe once written on a Burger King coupon—this cherished dish has been passed down for decades and remains a central part of their holiday celebrations.

Indiana deer hunting season starts in mid-September in reduction zones and offers distinct periods for youth (Sept 27 and 28), archery (Oct 1 to Jan 4), firearm (Nov 15 to Nov 30), and muzzleloader (Dec 6 to Dec 21) hunts, with new rules that set a state bag limit and limit antlerless firearm hunts on select properties (which are enforced on designated areas). Hunters may purchase licenses online, in person, or at local retailers and must follow safety rules including wearing hunter orange during youth, firearm, and muzzleloader seasons.

Lafayette area sports fans saw top plays from Lafayette Jeff's 5A regional football final against Concord and from the IU Health Hoops Classic girls basketball contest.

The highlights underscored strong athletic performances from local student-athletes—key moments that boosted the competitive events.

LUM Turkey Trot 5K Run

1:30-2:30 p.m. — 2541 Cumberland Ave, West Lafayette, IN — Registration fee applies — Celebrate Thanksgiving with a fun and inclusive 5K that welcomes all ages and abilities.

Santa at Bennett's Greenhouse

11 AM – 3 PM — Bennett's Greenhouse — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday spirit with a magical visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus amid blooming festive cheer.

Purdue Christmas Show

12:00 – 1:30 PM — Elliott Hall of Music — Tickets required — Experience a holiday tradition with performances by the Varsity Glee Club and Purduettes.

Purdue Christmas Show

2-3:30 p.m. — Elliott Hall of Music — Cost info not provided — Celebrate the festive season with delightful performances at Purdue's annual Christmas show.

The Winter Makers Market 2025

11:30 AM – 6:30 PM — The Union Club Hotel at Purdue University — Cost TBD — Explore unique crafts and local creations this winter at a festive market.

A Christmas Carol - A Live Radio Play

2:30-4:00 p.m. — Lafayette Theater at the Long Center — Ticketed event — Experience a timeless holiday classic brought to life as a live radio play.

Help Hounds Live Performance with Jon St. Bourbon

6-9 p.m. — People's Brewing Company & Taproom — Free entry — Help Hounds returns with Jon St. Bourbon for an evening of Americana tunes in a cozy brewery setting.

Christmas Eve Pancake Walk/Run 5K

1-5 p.m. — 500 Sagamore Pkwy W, West Lafayette, IN — Registration fee required — Enjoy a festive 5K run/walk followed by delicious pancakes on Christmas Eve.