Spending summer outdoors gives Indianapolis residents a ticket to some of the coolest community events this time of year. But what exactly is there to look forward to in Indy this summer? Festivals, fairs, and conventions — that’s what! Here are four upcoming events you don’t want to miss.
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National Bank of Indianapolis Summer Nights Film Series
The National Bank of Indianapolis Summer Nights Film Series is an event to unite movie lovers everywhere. Held from July 26-29 at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields amphitheater, guests will be rewarded with screenings of Oscar-nominated shorts the whole family can enjoy.
Tickets are $12, though members save $4 on admission, and children ages 5 and under enter for free. Be sure to order your tickets in advance to secure a spot! Food and beverages can be purchased on site, and all films start around 9:30 p.m. However, to get first dibs on the best seats in the house, early birds are welcome to arrive when the doors open at 7 p.m.
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Gen Con 2018
Are you ready for the largest gaming convention in North America? Gen Con 2018 isn’t just something for gamers, though; it appeals to kids and adults of all ages. Here you’ll find food trucks and a beer garden as well as events like a film festival, costume contest, art show, and author and artist hangouts.
Plus, 500 game companies will be in attendance, debuting of hundreds of new titles. You’ll also spot tables and booths that are set up throughout, encouraging gamers to put their skills to the test with the latest board games, card games, and video games. If interested, Gen Con 2018 will be held at the Indiana Convention Center from Aug. 2–5.
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Indiana State Fair
This circus-themed event will be held Aug. 3–19 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. You can expect plenty of amusement park rides and games, a diverse lineup of food trucks and stalls, and live entertainment. The latter includes acts such as country star Hunter Hayes, ’90s sibling trio Hanson, and ’80s heartthrob Rick Springfield.
Bringing the whole family along? Tickets for the Indiana State Fair are just $8 in advance with children ages 5 and under enter for free. Or grab a four-ticket Family Pack for $30 and save a few bucks. Don’t forget to snag your Midway wristbands either; they’re available for a $10 discount until Aug. 5, give you access to all the rides at the fair, and are a must for the kiddos.
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First Friday Food Truck Festival
This festival features 30 food trucks offering everything from Greek and Mediterranean dishes to tasty baked goods and a lineup that changes from month to month. Family games and prizes are aplenty, and on the Sam Ash Stage, entertainment is provided by music students. Performances range from crafty originals to impressive covers.
All events at the First Friday Food Truck Festival will take place at the Old National Centre parking lot on Friday, Sept. 7 from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the gate, but children ages 5 and under (and leashed dogs) enter for free.
Need plans for the summer? These top Indianapolis events will get your summer started right.
Image via Pixabay
