15 Free things to do this October in Indianapolis

It’s here! October has officially arrived!

And along with the perfect weather to hit the pumpkin patches, the corn mazes and fun events, there are oodles of other free things to do in the Circle City.

Here’s a roundup of 15 absolutely free things to do this October in Indianapolis!

 

Tot Art at Southport

October 4, 10:30 am
Southport Branch Library

Babies and toddlers up to age 3 and adult are invited for a process art program. They can stick around after the art activity for socialization and playtime. Come dressed for a mess!

Monument Circle Art Fair

October 7, 10 am-5 pm
Downtown Indy

Browse the works of more than 70 regional artists who will be showcasing their work around the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument in downtown Indianapolis. Visual artists and musical entertainment will be available at this free, public event, along with food trucks.

Feast of Tabernacles

October 8, 1-5 pm
Broad Ripple Park

Messianic Jewish Congregation Shaarey Yeshua invites you to come and learn about Sukkot, the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles. Head to Broad Ripple Park to celebrate and enjoy live music, singing, dancing, an “Ask the Rabbi” booth, kids activities, and lots of fun for all ages.

African Dance

October 10, 10:30 am
College Avenue Branch Library

Preschoolers are invited to journey through the regions of Mali, Senegal, Gambia and Guinea to learn cultural traditions of song and dance along the way. Be ready to move your body!


NEED MORE FALL FUN? Take a look at our list of 50 Fall Bucket List Ideas!


Broad Ripple Fall Art Walk

October 13, 5-9 pm
Broad Ripple Village

This evening walk features Broad Ripple galleries, boutiques and shops, each hosting their own unique art exhibit. Participating businesses are scattered throughout the Village, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful evening experiencing Broad Ripple and supporting the arts community.

Re-Boo, Re-Wear, Re-Scare

October 14 and 21, 1-4 pm

Cool Creek Nature Center

Join Hamilton County Parks & Recreation for their annual Halloween costume swap. Bring an unwanted costume or accessory and SWAP it for another one. This is a great way to reuse costumes that no longer fit and save money at the same time.

Indiana State Police Museum Annual Trick or Treat

October 21, 3-5 pm
Indiana State Police Museum

Trunk or Treat with the Indiana State Police and other agencies from around Marion County at the Indiana State Police Museum. This is a free event for the whole family – they’ll offer carnival games, a DJ, and troopers and local law enforcement handing out candy to visitors.

Garfield Park Conservatory Visitor Appreciation Day

October 22, 1pm
Garfield Park Conservatory

In appreciation of all of their wonderful visitors and supporters, admission to the Conservatory is free on this day. Enjoy the unique tropical experience, including waterfalls, orchids, animals and more.

Slightly Haunted Puppet Show

October 24-25, 6 pm
Irving Theater, Historic Irvington

Enjoy a free performance by Peewinkles Puppet Studio as part of the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival. Gertrude, the Witch, will let you into her kitchen and even visit with her ghoulish marionette friends. A classic Halloween show, ideal for the whole family!

Family Fright Festival

October 26, 3:30-5:30 pm
Brightwood Branch Library

Families and children of all ages are invited for a hauntingly good time. Come dressed up in family-friendly costumes or just hang out with other ghouls. There’ll be games, face and nail painting, crafts, coloring pages, mask making, goodies and children’s stories of Haunted Indiana with local award-winning young adult author Saundra Mitchell.

Boo Bash

October 27, 6:30-8:30 pm (A Sensory Friendly Hour be held from 5:30 – 6:30 pm)
Central Green in front of Fishers City Hall

One of our favorite events – the Fishers Parks and Recreation Boo Bash is a fun Halloween Village filled with local businesses, games, music, costume contests and candy – and it is all FREE! Note the new location this year due to construction at the Nickel Plate Amphitheatre.

Historic Irvington Street Fair

October 28, 10 am-5 pm
Historic Irvington

Enjoy a parade, food trucks, and plenty of vendor booths! Wear your spookiest costumes. East Washington Street between Ritter Avenue (to the West) and Bolton (to the East), Audubon Street from Washington (to the North) to South Irving Circle, and Bonna Avenue from Audubon Street to Ritter Avenue.

Dia de los Muertos celebration at the Eiteljorg Museum

October 28, 11 am-4 pm
Eiteljorg Museum

The Eiteljorg will offer FREE admission to experience Día de los Muertos/Day of the Dead with partner, Nopal Cultural Center, a multicultural arts organization that seeks to enhance Latino-American arts in Indianapolis and surrounding cities. See traditional papel picado, the cut paper decorations hung for Hispanic celebrations and get ideas for your own memorial by seeing the elements on the community ofrenda (offering place). Watch performances, meet artists in residence, explore artwork and a variety of altars, browse the marketplace and create art.


BOOKMARK THIS: Where to find a pumpkin patch in Indianapolis


Super Hero Palooza

October 29, 2-4 pm
Arthur M. Glick JCC

Enjoy a family celebration for adults and kids of all ages at the Arthur M. Glick JCC. Create your own super-powers, come in costume, enjoy our superhero photo booth, read super hero books and so much more. This event is in partnership with Barnes & Noble.

Mass Ave Monster Mash

October 29, 4-7 pm
Mass Ave, downtown Indy

Mark your calendar for this is a fun event. Shops on Mass Ave in downtown Indy open their doors to trick or treaters and typically feature fun activities at each stop.

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