20 Free things to do this September in Indianapolis

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.

 

Chess Club for Kids

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.

 

Be a Junior Firefighter

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.


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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.

 

Family Astronomy Session

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!

 

Fiesta Indianapolis

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.

 

Hispanic Heritage Fiesta

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.


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Art Adventure: Shrinky Dinks

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!

 

Smithsonian Museum Day Live

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.

 

Indianapolis Chinese Festival

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.

 

Rocky Ripple Festival

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 SidekickedMinionsThe 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.

 

Family Friday Night Campfires

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!

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