One of Indianapolis’ biggest arts events takes over the grounds of Newfields this September, bringing more than 1,000 artists, live performances, food and a large children’s area together for one day.
The 59th Annual CBIZ Penrod Arts Fair, often called “Indiana’s Nicest Day,” is Saturday, Sept. 12, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The annual fair draws more than 20,000 people to Newfields and is billed by organizers as the largest single-day arts fair in the country.
Children ages 10 and younger receive free admission.
This year’s fair features over 1,000 visual and performing artists from across the country.
The Penrod Arts Fair spreads throughout the gardens at Newfields with visual artists from around the country along with performances across five stages.
Families can browse art while also visiting more than 40 arts-related nonprofit organizations and an extensive children’s area. Local food and drinks will be available from Indianapolis restaurants and businesses including Bazbeaux Pizza, Indi Taco, Market Square Popcorn Company, Filigree Bakery, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Slapfish and Tinker Coffee Co.
Strollers and wagons are allowed at the fair, which is good to know before heading into a full day at Newfields with younger kids.
Evening with Penrod takes place Friday night
The weekend begins Friday, Sept. 11, with the 13th Annual Merchants Bank Evening with Penrod Presented by Valeo Financial Advisors.
The gala-style preview runs from 5:30 to 11 p.m. and is limited to guests ages 21 and older. Attendees get the first chance to purchase work from select artists participating in Saturday’s fair, along with live performances, food and drinks.
Each Evening with Penrod ticket also includes admission to the Penrod Arts Fair the following day.
Where to park for the Penrod Arts Fair
Both events take place at Newfields, 4000 N. Michigan Road in Indianapolis.
On Saturday, accessible parking is available at Newfields for vehicles with a valid handicap placard. Paid parking is also available onsite, but spaces are subject to availability.
Free shuttles will run between Newfields and offsite parking locations at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, Light of the World Church and the International School.
Penrod supports Central Indiana arts organizations
The Penrod Arts Fair has been an Indianapolis tradition since 1967. The organization says the event now hosts more than 20,000 visitors each year.
The fair is also a fundraiser for arts and cultural organizations throughout Central Indiana. Following last year’s events, Penrod awarded $315,000 to more than 90 organizations, including Riley Children’s Foundation, Big Car Collective, Joseph Maley Foundation and Ballet INitiative.
Since its founding, the all-volunteer nonprofit says it has distributed more than $5.5 million in grants to arts and arts-related organizations in Central Indiana.
Plan Your Visit to the Penrod Arts Fair
Penrod Arts Fair
Saturday, Sept. 12
9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Newfields, 4000 N. Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46208
All ages; children ages 10 and younger are free
Evening with Penrod
Friday, Sept. 11
5:30–11 p.m.
Ages 21 and older
Admission includes entry to Saturday’s Penrod Arts Fair
For tickets and additional information, visit the Penrod Arts Fair website.
