Central Indiana Things to Do May - June 2021
Summertime means a return to some time outdoors enjoying events at venues around central Indiana. Though COVID-19 safety guidelines remain a priority, most communities intend to host events and celebrations, however abridged. But no worries — being outside and enjoying something that feels normal will be a welcome change for most anyone. Here are just a few things to consider:
Tastes of Indiana
Throughout downtown Indianapolis, some familiar and popular events will be brought back to the Circle City, said Jennifer Hanson, with Downtown Indy, Inc. Safe and measured will be the order of the day, and the events will include smaller concerts, food truck feasts, art markets and other socially-distant experiences.
One favorite returning in June is Indiana Grown Monumental Marketplace, presented in partnership with Downtown Indy. The sixth-annual event features products from members of Indiana Grown, a 1700-member strong statewide network of farmers, wineries, breweries, artisans and others whose products and wares are grown or prepared in Indiana.
At the Monumental Marketplace, marketgoers could find everything from beer to bacon, turkey to tomatoes. The offerings change each year, but growers promise fresh, locally-produced treats. Attendees will be asked to observe all recommended CDC and state and local COVID-19 health protocols.
10 am to 2 pm, June 18
www.downtownindy.org
Munch and Makers
The historic square in Noblesville will host the Nickel Plate Arts Maker Faire, showcasing the works of local makers and artisans.
Handmade books, locally-thrown pottery, one-of-a-kind jewelry and more will be on display, but you won’t have to shop on an empty stomach. The Faire is held in conjunction with the annual St. Michael’s Strawberry Festival. A draw for more than four decades, the festival features strawberry shortcake with fresh berries, decadent ice cream and whipped cream and is the biggest fundraiser for St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, where the proceeds fund community outreach efforts.
June 19
839 Conner St., Noblesville, IN 46060
www.nickelplatearts.org
BBQ with a side of Balloons
In Hendricks County, just west of Indianapolis, a touch of magic will take over the fairgrounds when the annual Rib Fest and Balloon Glow returns. The day starts with a Rib Run, and event attendees will be glad they logged some miles later on when they sink their teeth into the delectable tastes being grilled up for the masses.
For more than a decade, families have turned up to enjoy the efforts of local chefs vying for best rib or best sauce bragging rights. But the finger-licking food and live entertainment are merely the appetizer to the night’s main course. At dusk, the propane burners get fired up to light up the night with beautiful, multicolored hot air balloons — a dazzling end to a delicious day.
4 to 10 pm, June 26
Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds
1900 East Main Street
Danville, IN 46122
www.visithendrickscounty.com
Pictures in the park
On the southside of Indianapolis, the city’s oldest multi-use park will once again become a gathering space for summer movie nights starting in May. Garfield Park — which dates back to the 1870s — will play host to the family-friendly flick fests, and locals and visitors alike say watching movies in the park, sometimes in the Sunken Gardens and sometimes as a drive-in is something any self-respecting Indy ‘insider’ should experience.
Along with vintage movie nights, more contemporary favorites like Star Wars have brought people together on the lawn to enjoy a night like no other. the schedule of events will continue to evolve throughout the summer, so it’s recommended that visitors check the website before coming out to confirm locations and times. www.indyparks.org
