The winter holiday season is the favorite time of year for Tina St. Aubin, and with good reason. “Even though it might seem that I say every event

we do is my favorite event, I have to admit that our holiday festive downtown annual event really is a favorite because everyone is in such a wonderful mood

and good spirit at this time of year,” said St. Aubin, the executive director of Valparaiso Community Festivals and Events. “It's an extra reason to see smiles when surrounded by carolers and hot chocolate all framed by Valparaiso's downtown landscape of lights.” St. Aubin, who has worked in her position since 2008, said the launch to the holiday season celebration has grown each year. The latest highlight is an outdoor ice skating rink in downtown's Central Park Plaza. The “big tree focal point” and lighting ceremony were added last year. The following are 10 fun holiday highlights for igniting the season spirit around Northwest Indiana and beyond, starting with the details of the Valparaiso magical must-see heralded by St. Aubin.

Helicopter Arrival of Santa Crown Point Celebration Who needs a sleigh and reindeer when a whirlybird can provide an even more exciting welcome to the holiday season? Each year, Santa Claus arrives by helicopter, landing at Pointe Plaza on North Main Street to an awaiting firetruck to be whisked to Crown Point's landmark courthouse to greet guests and pose for photos. He joins Mrs. Claus at the courthouse Dec. 3-4, 9-10 and 16-17, from noon to 4 p.m. each day. The Nov. 26 date is extra special because it includes a Santa Parade, vendors, food and a winter market of special crafts and custom items. Each day ends with the evening enchantment of the focal point courthouse lit with a dazzling holiday light display. 10 a.m. Nov. 26, Downtown Courthouse Square. FYI: 219-662-3290 or www.crownpoint.in.gov