Free events in Indianapolis, IN

Step into a cool, air conditioned big top at the Indiana State Fair for a circus packed with high flying stunts, daring acrobatics, high energy acts, and plenty of family friendly laughs. New performances created for 2026 add fresh excitement to the lineup. Shows take place each day and are included with Fair admission, and box or reserved seating upgrades are available.

Open play for Bandai trading card games, featuring options from Gundam to One Piece. Participation is free.

Enjoy a free, family-friendly street festival celebrating global marching music at the heart of Indianapolis. The event features international performers and a fun atmosphere with music, performances, and activities. Food and drink purchased at the festival are not permitted inside the stadium, and a clear bag policy is in effect for access to the DCI Festival Marketplace.

Grits & Groove presents a special Juneteenth edition with live music, brunch favorites, and an upbeat patio vibe at Nine Ten North Event Center. Entry is complimentary with an RSVP or as a walk-in, and food and drinks are available for purchase. Settle in for good tunes, great flavors, and a relaxed setting that invites you to eat, groove, and enjoy the atmosphere.

This monthly neighborhood dog walk gathers Broad Ripple neighbors and their pups at Upland Brewery’s dog-friendly patio in SoBro. The group heads out together along nearby, pup-friendly routes and then returns to the patio, where participants can relax over brunch, enjoy a beer, or chat with fellow dog lovers. Dogs should be on fixed leashes and comfortable in social settings, and attendees are encouraged to bring waste bags and any other essentials their pups may need. Pack leaders from Uptown Pup provide basic safety and first aid supplies, water, and treats. To keep everyone safe in hot weather, the walk is canceled if temperatures reach 80 degrees or higher. Sponsored by Upland Brewery, Uptown Pup, and Royal Paws Pet Sitting.

Spend time with pets available for adoption at the Irvington Farmers Market. Visitors can enjoy some furry companionship, consider whether welcoming a new pet into the family is the right fit, and learn how to support ARPO.

Every Sunday features a family-friendly offer where children 12 and under receive a complimentary kids entrée, valued up to $15, with the purchase of an adult entrée. The promotion is limited to one free kids entrée for each adult entrée purchased and cannot be combined with other offers, specials, or dip certificates. It is not available on holidays.

B&B Mothership hosts a bingo night that is free to play, with prizes available, and it is open to all ages. Seating is first come, first served.

Game Night Social at The Garage centers on tabletop play and easy conversation, featuring a curated library of games with the option to bring a favorite from home. Hosted by Lou Harry, it encourages connection, whether catching up with friends or meeting new people over a friendly match. Participation is free and all ages are welcome. The gathering takes place inside The Garage Food Hall near Great Legs Wine + Spirits and Rolli.

Designed for homeschoolers, this Owls of Indiana program invites ages 5 to 18 to examine owl pellets to discover what these birds have been eating, then head out on an owl-focused hike. There is no fee to participate, and because space is limited, advance registration is required.

Books & Brews hosts a live trivia night with Krista. There is no cost to play, and you can compete solo or team up with friends. The event is open to all ages. Teams that come out on top earn a $20 voucher redeemable on a future purchase.