Top 5 Events for People Who Are Visiting Indianapolis

Indiana’s capital city is one of the most fun places to explore, not only in the state, but in the country. Those who haven’t visited Circle City are missing out on the incredible culture, food, entertainment, and experiences that this wonderful city has to offer.

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Whether you’re in the market for Indianapolis apartments for rent or just looking to spend a weekend exploring the most exciting areas of the Midwest, here are 5 annual events you need to put on your calendar ASAP. The best of Indianapolis is waiting for you!

Indianapolis 500
The Indy 500 is one of the most iconic events in the state of Indiana, and likely the first thing you think of when you think of Indianapolis. This annual auto race is one of the oldest of its kind in the country, with the first one having taken place in 1911. The Indy 500 is more than an event, it’s a piece of history and culture. Some reports say it’s the largest single-day sporting event in the world, but regardless of its size, you can’t deny its importance and cultural relevance in Indiana culture. Anyone visiting Indianapolis should try to plan their trip around this once-in-a-lifetime event.

Indiana State Fair
One of the most popular events in Indianapolis each year is the Indiana State Fair. Families come from all over the state to enjoy one of the country’s largest fairs. The Indiana State Fair runs for three weeks each August, and features something for everyone. If you’re a true foodie like me, the fair will reel you in with the delicious eats available like BBQ, ice cream, corn dogs, burgers and more. Kids and kids-at-heart will enjoy the amusement rides as well as the daily entertainment. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a visit to the fair without a trip to the livestock barns to check out the cows, sheep, and horses.

Indiana Black Expo
The Indiana Black Expo (IBE) has been around for over 50 years and remains one of the largest events celebrating black culture in the country. During this 11-day event, the diversity of Indianapolis is in full display, bringing together members of the community in the appreciation and celebration of black heritage.

The IBE is truly a do-not-miss event for individuals, couples, and families around the globe. With an extensive selection of food, entertainment, and interactive experiences, there’s no better way to spend your July than learning about the importance of diversity and celebrating black culture in our society.

Circle City Classic
In partnership with the Indiana Black Expo, the Indiana Sports Corporation hosts its annual Circle CIty Classic at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Circle City Classic is a football game with two  historically black colleges and universities that began in 1984. The event aims to raise money for college scholarships for students in need, and since the event began, there has been over $3 million raised. Thousands of people attend each year, not only to enjoy the game, but to take part in the parade, pageant, and other festivities that occur over the weekend as well as to celebrate black excellence in sports, education, and in the community overall. Indianapolis is truly a city that puts diversity at the top of its list of priorities.

Circle of Lights
Monument Circle in Indianapolis is one of the most iconic places in the city, and each November, the city gathers here to celebrate the Circle of Lights Tree Lighting event. This tradition has been in effect for 60 years as a way to welcome in the holiday season. While there is no real “tree” involved in the tree lighting ceremony, the Soldiers & Sailors monument in the center of town is decorated to look like a Christmas tree, and thousands of attendees gather hear each year to enjoy this free event each year.

Have you been to Indianapolis? Are you planning on visiting for the first time? What events would you like to see? Since I love fairs, the Indiana State Fair is on the top of my list. I’d love to hear your thoughts!