Summer’s almost here and Indy is so ready. From live music and Memorial Day celebrations to hiking and festivals, summer is when the Circle City comes alive.
Get ready to get outside with this guide featuring 10+ summer events — including ideas for the Fourth of July — happening between May and August.
Concerts and live music
I Made Rock ‘n’ Roll | Saturday, May 18 | 1 p.m. | American Legion Mall | $75+ | This new music festival created in partnership with GANGGANG and Forty5 honors Black artistry and authorship in rock music. Headliners include Janelle Monae and Gary Clark Jr.
Rock the Ruins | Various dates | Holliday Park | $45+ | Check out this summer-long outdoor concert series that launched in 2021 + has grown bigger and bigger each year.
Fairs and festivals
Broad Ripple Art Fair | Saturday, May 18-Sunday, May 19 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Indianapolis Art Center, 820 E. 67th St. | $10+ | Support the arts at this 52nd annual fair and shop from 150+ local, regional, and national artists.
The Juneteenth Foodways Festival is back for its second year at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site.
Photo by INDYtoday team
Foodie favorites
Juneteenth Foodways Festival | Friday, June 14 | 4:30-8 p.m. | Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site | This third annual festival celebrates the many ways in which Black culinary traditions have influenced American culture by exploring the story of White House Chef Dolly Johnson + promoting local Black-owned businesses.
Uncork Me Indiana | Saturday, June 22 | 2-7 p.m. | Military Park | $10+ | Check out this second annual event — your hub to try Indiana-only wine, cider, and mead.
Taste of Indy | Saturday, July 6 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. | White River State Park | $15| This family-friendly event is a culinary + musical journey that promises delicious bites, live entertainment, and a vibrant display of community spirit.
Baby Got Brunch | Saturday, Aug. 10 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Victory Field | $65+ | This foodie event is all about brunch that not only satisfies your appetite, but fills your heart with gratitude for all of the culinary talent in our city.
Holiday happenings
Indy 500 Race Day | Sunday, May 26 | Indianapolis Motor Speedway | $45+ | It’s the greatest spectacle in racing — celebrate Memorial Day weekend with the 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500.
Downtown Indy’s Fourth Fest | Thursday, July 4 | 6 p.m. | Downtown, North Street between Meridian Street and Pennsylvania | Kick off the Fourth of July celebration with food trucks, ice cream, and beverages, plus a festival stage with live musical performances before fireworks begin at 10 p.m.
Be proud of Indy.
Photo via @larsmillerphotography
Pride events
Indy Pride Parade | Saturday, June 8 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 748 Massachusetts Ave. | Watch as colorful floats, lively performers, and community organizations fill the streets, showcasing the true essence of pride and acceptance.
Indy Pride Festival | Saturday, June 8 | 11 a.m.-10 p.m. | Military Park | $10+ | Join a vibrant and unforgettable experience filled with music, entertainment, and a rainbow of festivities.
Seasonal essentials
- Tired of losing your sunglasses in the water? These floating sunglasses provide optimal clarity and comfort for all your summer adventures.
- Shield yourself from the sun while adding a touch of flair to your outfit with one of our hats .
- This iceless cooler keeps your drinks cold for 7 hours.