Rocks, fossils, crystals and hands-on science take over the Indiana State Museum during GEOfest, happening February 20–22, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This three-day, family-favorite event is packed with interactive geology fun, and in 2026, it includes a special America 250 theme as part of the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
Whether you have a dinosaur-obsessed kid, a crystal collector at home or just need a winter weekend activity in downtown Indy, GEOfest is one of the most engaging museum events of the season.
Why Families Love GEOfest
GEOfest fills three floors of the museum with rocks, minerals and fossils. Vendor booths offer cut and uncut gemstones, giant geodes, polished stones, fossils and jewelry. Hands-on science stations are set up throughout the museum, and kids can get up close with real dinosaur skeletons. All activities are included with museum admission.
This is not a “look but don’t touch” event. Kids can explore, dig, build and experiment all weekend long.
What’s New for 2026
As part of the museum system’s America 250 celebration, this year’s GEOfest connects geology to history in kid-friendly ways. Kids can learn which past U.S. presidents were fascinated with fossils, explore how scientific discovery has shaped the country over the last 250 years and discover how Indiana’s natural history connects to America’s story.
Hands-On Activities Kids Will Love
Throughout the weekend, families can move between activity stations across multiple floors of the museum. Highlights include the earthquake simulator where kids can test their building skills, the naturalists’ lab with fascinating specimens, sparkling geodes and ancient fossils in the galleries and a real moon rock. Community science partners will also be on hand sharing geology and paleontology activities.
GEOfest is especially great for elementary and middle school kids studying Earth science, but adults get just as into it.
Quick Info
GEOfest 2026
Date: February 20–22, 2026
Time: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Location: Indiana State Museum, 650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis
Cost: Free for members and included with museum admission. Members receive a 25% discount on select ticketed programs.
Website: indianamuseum.org
If you’re looking for a weather-proof, educational and genuinely fun February outing in Indianapolis, GEOfest is an easy yes.
