Hiiii September. Well you sure snuck up fast after the hullabaloo of back-to-school and summer-end. Pools are closed, and naturally we’re now focused ahead on Fall.
So here’s to September! And to all the free things for the family to do this September in Indianapolis.
Community Tuesdays in Downtown Indy
September 6
Kids are admitted into the Eiteljorg Museum for free on Community Tuesdays, a special celebration at White River State Park attractions on the first Tuesday of every month. Other hotspots like the NCAA Hall of Champions and Indiana State Museum also offer discounted admission.
September 6
On Tuesdays, professional chess instructor Colin Hargreaves facilitates a chess club for kids at Indy Reads Books in downtown Indy using a unique and exciting method that makes learning super easy and fun. They will provide plenty of boards and sets.
September 7
Toddlers and preschoolers ages 18 months-6 years old are invited to hear a firefighter story and get tips on fire safety from special guests with the Indianapolis Fire Department. There’ll also be an opportunity for grown ups to take their child’s picture next to the fire truck.
Coxhall Children’s Garden Tour
September 8
Take a tour of the Children’s Garden located at Coxhall Gardens with a Naturalist and discover the inspiration behind this magical little spot. All sorts of ideas went into designing this children’s area and our Naturalist will let you in on the story as we walk around and “play.” This program will meet at the entrance of the Children’s Garden.
Big Kickoff with the Colts and United Way
September 9
Fun, family-friednly event that will feature live musical entertainment, opportunities to find out about volunteering at United Way and its agencies, limited edition Colts kickoff posters, autographs from Colts Alumni players, interactive inflatables, a visit from Colts Cheerleaders, Blue and more.
NEED MORE FALL FUN? Take a look at our list of 50 Fall Bucket List Ideas!
Glow In The Park with Fishers Parks and Recreation
September 9
Stay up late and light up the night! Glow in the Park is back by popular demand inviting families to make a mess in the Nickel Plate District. A live DJ will play summer’s top hits while guests enjoy face painting, a graffiti wall and a neon splash zone! Black lights and lasers are staged throughout the event so be sure to wear white and get ready to glow. Glow sticks and costumes welcome during this event, and parents, we encourage a towel for the ride home.
September 10
Beyond the realm of our solar system are some of the most spectacular objects you’ll ever see! Learn to identify and observe them in the deep night sky above McCloud Nature Park! The Indiana Astronomical Society will present a brief informational session, rain or shine, describing the celestial objects to be observed, followed by outdoor stargazing, under clear skies only. Learn to use the powerful telescopes provided to share, or bring your own.
Indy’s Child POP-UP Playdate at Goldfish Swim School of Fishers
September 12
Come enjoy a fun and FREE POP-UP Playdate with Indy’s Child and Goldfish Swim School of Fishers. We’ll provide the entertainment, warm pool for swimming and smiles, you provide the swimsuits and kiddos. Stay tuned for RSVP information – this event is limited to 40 families.
African Dance: Preschool Workshop
September 13
Preschoolers are invited for a journey through the regions of Mali, Senegal, Gambia and Guinea to learn cultural traditions of song and dance. Be ready to move your body!
September 17
More than 15,000 people will attend the FREE Fiesta Indianapolis Sept. 17 from noon – 10 p.m. at American Legion Mall. Fiesta Indianapolis has become the largest Latino Festival in the state, celebrating Latino culture with art, music, dance, food and activities.
Classical Concerts at Central Library
September 17
Adults and families are invited to experience the dynamic world of chamber music with members of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. This program will be held in Central Library’s Clowes Auditorium in downtown Indianapolis.
September 18
This fun Fiesta – held at the Indianapolis Zoo – celebrates Latin culture during the independence period for the Latin American countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Free for Zoo members; general admission applies to other attendees.
Children’s author event with Mike Curato
September 18
Author and illustrator of the Little Elliot books Mike Curato will visit Kids Ink Bookstore – located in the shops at 56th and Illinois – and will read, lead activities, and sign copies of his renowned book series. This event is open to the public and offered for free to visitors.
BOOKMARK THIS: Your guide to apple orchards near Indianapolis
September 22
Time for a special craft session with the Zionsville Public Library. Color a piece of special plastic and see what happens after it bakes!
September 24
In the spirit of the Smithsonian Museums, which offer free admission every day, Museum Day Live is an annual event hosted by Smithsonian Magazine during which participating museums across the country offer free admission to anyone with a Museum Day Live ticket. Local museums include Conner Prairie, Rhythm Discovery Center and more.
September 24
The seventh annual Indianapolis Chinese Festival celebrates the Chinese Moon Festival. From 12-6pm at IUPUI’s Wood Plaza, guests can sample authentic Chinese and Asian food, watch tai chi and martial arts demonstrations and try your hand at Chinese games.
September 24
The 17th Annual Rocky Ripple Festival is an art filled high energy day of live music, local art, multi-generational creative activities, delicious local food, craft beer and wine. Voted the most family friendly local festival of its kind, this is the destination event for the last Saturday in September. Over 70 artists booths, 6+ bands, childrens area, drum circle, food, dancing, fun, fun, fun.
Carmel Public Library presents children’s author John David Anderson
September 25
Author John David Anderson will chat about making time to read and write, being creative, and crafting his latest project – the highly praised Ms. Bixby’s Last Day. Mr. Anderson is also the author of popular novels Sidekicked, Minions, The Dungeoneers, and Standard Hero Behavior. Bringing a notebook and favorite writing utensil is encouraged, but not required.
Harp Songs and Stories: Infant and Toddler Music Class
September 29
Babies and toddlers under the age of three and an adult are invited to the College Avenue Branch Library for a special introduction to the concert harp. They’ll explore the connection between language and music and share stories.
September 30
Join the folks at Holliday Park for a fun family Friday night adventure around the campfire. Each night focuses on a different topic {the 30th will explore the world of fossils}, starts around the campfire, and ends with a hike. Roasting sticks and s’mores provided, bring your own hot dogs and make a meal of it!
There are always tons of things to do in Indianapolis, and we’ve got our eyes and ears out there for you. Check out the Indy’s Child September Calendar of Events!
