Summer’s winding down, but that doesn’t mean Downtown Indy is. Spend your weekends enjoying all of the fall cultural festivities in Downtown Indy. From biergartens at Oktoberfest, to dragon and lion dancers at the Indianapolis Chinese Festival, there is a festival for everyone to enjoy this fall.
Penrod Arts Fair
Take part in “Indiana’s Nicest Day” at the Penrod Arts Fair Saturday, Sept. 12 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on the grounds of the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The Fair showcases more than 300 artists and includes six stages and a special children’s area. Parents: don’t forget to visit the Indiana Craft Beer Garden while you’re there! Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.
Indianapolis Chinese Festival
Enjoy ethnic performances at the Indianapolis Chinese Festival Sept. 12 from noon – 6 p.m. at Military Park. Sample authentic Chinese and Asian food, watch tai chi and martial arts demonstrations and try your hand at Chinese games – all in celebration of the Chinese Moon Festival. Admission is FREE.
Indy Irish Fest
Be Irish for a weekend! The 20th annual Indy Irish Fest takes place in Military Park Sept. 17 – 20. Irish Fest offers cultural activities for the family: enjoy live Irish music, indulge in plenty ‘o Irish food or participate in a kilted mile run/walk. In the market for a new kilt? Shop the Irish market with Celtic clothing, jewelry and Irish accessories. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 day of; $10 for students; $5 for children 5 – 13 and military; and FREE for children 4 and under.
Indianapolis Sister Cities International Fest
Experience the cultures of Indianapolis’ seven “sister cities” from around the world at the Indianapolis Sister Cities International Fest on Georgia Street Sept. 19 from noon – 5 p.m. The festival offers interactive cultural booths, world sports, music and a kid’s zone – all for FREE admission.
Fiesta Indianapolis
Head to American Legion Mall for the FREE Fiesta Indianapolis Sept. 19 from noon – 10 p.m. Fiesta Indianapolis has become the largest Latino Festival in the state, celebrating Latino culture with art, music, dance, food and activities.
Hispanic Heritage Fiesta
Kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month with a trip to the Indianapolis Zoo for the annual Hispanic Heritage Fiesta Sept. 20 from noon – 4 p.m. This festival highlights Hispanic culture and achievements and features activities and crafts for kids, an animal scavenger hunt, a piñata every hour and Latin-inspired food and live entertainment. FREE for Zoo members.
Original and Fabulous GermanFest
Dust off your lederhosen and dirndl and head to the Original and Fabulous GermanFest at the Athenaeum Oct. 10 from noon – 8 p.m. Celebrate all things German with dancing, German bier and food, music, Wiener dog races, a strong man competition and more. Kids love ZwergenLand with traditional German games, music, dancing and a bounce house. Tickets are $8 in advance; $2 for kids.
