INDIANAPOLIS – This weekend certainly has no theme as there is a little bit of every kind of event taking place. You’ll have the chance to eat gourmet food and donuts, work up a sweat during a marathon, see just how big tiny houses really are and much more.
Here are your top things to do in Indianapolis this weekend:
1. Set your own pace
So you’ve been training all year, hitting the gym and eating right and the time is finally here. The Indianapolis Monumental Marathon is this Saturday and features a scenic course through the city. You’ll get the chance to run through neighborhoods like Broad Ripple, Meridian-Kessler and Fall Creek Place. The event begins at 8 a.m. in downtown Indy and features a marathon (of course) along with a half marathon, 5K and kids race. Unfortunately, the race is sold out and has an overflowed waiting list but you can always cheer on your community and participate in the Health & Fitness Expo with more than 40 vendors at the Indiana Convention Center from 11 a.m.- 8p.m. Friday. If you’re really that upset about not being able to participate, be on the lookout for next year’s race. It sells out each year.
More information can be found at monumentalmarathon.com.
2. Yes, a donut festival
So maybe running and exercise isn’t your thing, but donuts certainly are. Visit The Speak Easy this Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. for the inaugural Indy Donut Festival, hosted by the American Cancer Society. Be sure to come hungry because you’ll have the opportunity to sample donuts and coffee from Indy-based donut shops and bakeries. From there you’ll be able to vote on the best creation, enjoy live music and more. The event will raise money for cancer research and awareness of Indianapolis-based patient programs and services. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $40 for VIP. Children age 5 and under are free.
More information can be found at acsevents.org.
3. The minimalist lifestyle
Obsessed with the HGTV tiny house TV shows? Well here is your chance to see 20 of them in person. The Tiny House Roadshow is coming to Indy this weekend as part of the Ann Katz Festival of Books & Arts. The roadshow was created by tiny house designer, Dale Geist who has been featured on “Tiny House Hunters” several times. You’ll be able to explore some of his designs and chat with other designers and builders. If you’re really curious about the lifestyle, those who have already made the switch to tiny living will be in attendance as well. Feel free to pick their brains.
More information can be found at jccindy.org.
4. Spirit & Place
A unique festival that explores the arts, religion and humanities returns to Indy, The Spirit & Place Festival 2016, beginning Friday through Nov. 13. This year’s theme is “Home” and features performances, exhibits, documentaries, conversations, and more that aim to spark meaningful discussions. The opening night event at Big Car’s Tube Factory Artspace highlights a variety of artists and games. A full list of events can be found on the Spirit & Place website.
More information can be found at spiritandplace.org.
5. Gourmet style
If you’ve never been to Conner Prairie without the kids, here’s your chance. Students from Ivy Tech’s hospitality administration program will prepare a gourmet brunch with ingredients found within a 100-mile radius at Prairie Plates: 100 Mile Brunch with Ivy Tech. The event, hosted this Saturday beginning at 11 a.m., will celebrate the farm-to-table food and craft drink movement with appetizers, cocktails and a three-course meal. Only those 21 years and up are welcome.
More information can be found at connerprairie.org.
6. Costumes and comics
Into comics and cosplay? The Midwest Toy Fest just might make your list of events for the weekend. You’ll have more than 25,000 square feet to explore where you will find collectibles, toys, games and more at the Wyndham Indianapolis West Hotel. In addition, the Indy Brick Expo, happening within the festival, will include tables with more than 20,000 LEGOs, speed building competitions, mosaic creations and more. Chances are if you find this event interesting, you’re thrilled about ThinkGeek coming to Indianapolis and Greenwood.
More information on the toy fest can be found on the event’s Facebook page.
