Looking for the best things to do this weekend in Indianapolis with kids? You’re in the right place. For April 17–19, 2026, we rounded up our top picks for family events across Indy and the surrounding suburbs, from Purdue’s Bug Bowl and kite flying to harp music, storytime in the garden, and the final weekend of xZOOberance. Start with our curated picks below, then check out the full Indy family events calendar for even more options.
Things to Do This Weekend in Indianapolis with Kids | April 17–19, 2026
All Weekend
xZOOberance Spring Festival | March 19–April 19 | Indianapolis Zoo | Included with Admission
This is the final weekend to catch xZOOberance at the Indianapolis Zoo! The outdoor spring festival features vibrant blooms, animal encounters with chickens and goats, face painting, a live DJ, karaoke, animal-inspired yoga, flower arranging, life-size animal topiaries, and plenty of photo ops with giant pinwheels and towering flowers.
Agape Theater Company Presents: Godspell Jr. | April 17-19 | Theatre at the Fort
Agape Theater Company presents a joyful production of Godspell Jr., performed by a cast of young actors from across the Indianapolis area. The family-friendly musical brings stories to life through humor and songs like “Prepare Ye,” “Day by Day,” and “All Good Gifts.”
Friday, April 17
Garden Storytime | Garfield Park Conservatory | 10–11 a.m. | FREE
Garfield Park invites visitors to Blake’s Children’s Garden for a nature-themed story reading. Following the reading, children are encouraged to explore the garden. Best for ages 2–8. In case of inclement weather, the program may be cancelled.
Harp Music & Stories | Indianapolis Public Library, Pike Branch | 11–11:30 a.m. | FREE
Babies and toddlers can explore the sound of a concert harp in this program led by Arts for Learning teaching artist Melissa Gallant. Through music and storytelling, young children will be introduced to how music can bring stories to life through feelings and emotions.
Saturday, April 18
2026 Bug Bowl | Purdue University, West Lafayette | 9 a.m.–4 p.m. | FREE
Bug Bowl is one of the largest insect festivals in the USA. Preschoolers through retirees can take part in hands-on insect activities and visit the bug zoo. Bug Bowl is part of Purdue Spring Fest weekend.
Family Day at the IMS Museum | Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum | 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | $25 adults, $18 youth (6–16), under 5 free
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum’s Family Day invites families to enjoy a full day of fun and learning with hands-on activities including crafts, 3D printing, coding, and gallery talks about the Speedway’s history. All activities are included with Museum admission.
Family Grooves with HobeeLuv on Saxophone | College Avenue Library | 11 a.m.–12 p.m. | FREE
Families can enjoy a free concert at the College Avenue Branch featuring HobeeLuv on saxophone. The program introduces kids to patterns and rhythms in music while giving the whole family a chance to listen, move, and groove together.
Lakeshore Learning: Ocean Discovery | Lakeshore Learning Store | 11 a.m.–3 p.m. | FREE
Kids can dive into ocean-themed creativity and discovery with this free in-store event. Children can decorate an ocean-themed craft with Do-A-Dot Art painters, watch science demos, and try out featured products. Parents who check in upon arrival have a chance to win a $100 Lakeshore E-Gift Card.
Sunday, April 19
National Go Fly A Kite Day | Geist Waterfront Park, Fishers | 12–3 p.m. | FREE
National Go Fly A Kite Day invites families to Geist Waterfront Park for a free afternoon of kite flying on the beach. Guests can bring their own kite or use one provided at the event. No registration required.
Michaels In-Store Craft: Clay Pencil & Paintbrush Pals | Participating Michaels Stores | 1–3 p.m. | FREE
Make clay creatures you can use to rest your pencil or paintbrush on! All supplies included.
Sensory Friendly Afternoon | Indiana State Museum | 3–5 p.m.
Visit the Indiana State Museum during Sensory Friendly Afternoon for an experience tailored to individuals with sensory processing needs. The afternoon features reduced sensory stimulation, sensory-based activities spaced throughout the museum, and sensory bags available for checkout at the ticket counter.
No matter what you choose, there’s plenty of fun to be had this weekend. For even more options, check out our full calendar of Indianapolis family events and our guide to free things to do in Indianapolis this month.
Things to do near Indianapolis this weekend (April 17–19, 2026):
