Top Annual Events in Indianapolis

Top Annual Events in Indianapolis

Book Indianapolis hotels today to enjoy some of the city’s top annual events, including the Indianapolis 500, 500 Festival, Broad Ripple Art Fair, and more.

Indianapolis 500

For over 100 years, the Indy 500 has been one of the biggest events on the Indianapolis scene. Typically scheduled on the last Sunday in May every year, this race is known as the Greatest Spectacle in Racing and is one of the largest single-day events on earth. Over 300,000 fans turn up to show their support for the drivers as they race around the curves of the track at over 200 miles per hour.

500 Festival

Since the Indy 500 is such a huge affair, it makes sense that the city would need some time to prep for the event. That’s mostly the point of the 500 Festival, a month-long celebration that culminates in the ultimate race. Throughout the month, visitors will be treated to a parade featuring all of the drivers, additional celebrities, and plenty of bands and floats. You’ll also be able to take part in a community day drive around the Speedway track, a gala ball, and a mini-marathon if you choose.

Broad Ripple Art Fair

For those of more cultured sensibilities, the Broad Ripple Art Fair features visual art and music from over 225 artists and craftsmen. Held every May along 67th St. and College Avenue, the fair has a little something for everyone. Peruse the juried displays, enjoy the live entertainment happening every day, and feast on numerous different types of delicious food.

Indiana State Fair

The Indiana State Fair is Indianapolis’s tribute to the end of summer, happening every year in the month of August. As one of the country’s largest fairs, it’s held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds and lasts three full weekends, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the festivities. You can stroll through the animal displays, go on some carnival rides, relax while listening to musical entertainment, or simply eat your heart out with a variety of culinary options.

Circle of Lights

Indianapolis turns it up a notch for the holiday season with the Circle of Lights. It’s a display featuring the world’s largest Christmas tree at the Soldier’s and Sailor’s Monument. The tree lighting ceremony takes place on the day after Thanksgiving, with over 100,000 people joining in the festivities. If you don’t feel like braving the crowd, the tree stays lit all the way through New Year’s Day.

To ensure you get quality hotels in Indianapolis during these event times, make sure you book early. Otherwise, you might be stuck in a faraway location with poor amenities.