INDIANAPOLIS – No matter what you're interested in doing this weekend, it seems as if the Indiana State Fairgrounds will be your go-to place, among others.
Let's face it, this place has (unofficially) won the award for holding the most events this weekend (you’ll see why below).
Over the next 48 hours you'll be able to start your holiday shopping, get a taste of the south side, see live bands perform and possibly bring home a furry friend (or two) during the process.
Here are your top six things to do in Indianapolis this weekend:
1. Your chance to gain a furry friend
Looking to add a furry friend to your family? Take a detour on your way to the pet store and visit the Great Indy Pet Expo this Saturday and Sunday at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. This year’s event will feature the Doxie Derby, a dog stunt show, dog grooming competition, over 100 vendors and more. Even if you’re not looking for a pet but want your furry friend to mingle with others, they are welcome as long as they are on a short leash (no retractable leashes allowed). Event times vary and tickets are $8 for adults. Be sure to bring cash because it will be the only form of payment accepted at the door.
More information can be found at greatindypetexpo.com.
2. Start shopping early
Put on your comfy shoes and get ready for Indiana’s largest holiday shopping event - the annual Christmas Gift & Hobby Show happening now through Sunday. This event gives you more than 180,000 square feet of shopping space under one roof. Browse through more than 350 vendors, see shows on the holiday entertainment stage, tell Santa what’s on your holiday wishlist and more.
More information can be found at hsishows.com.
3. Get a taste of the south side
You’ve got to admit it, there are a lot of restaurants on the south side, particularly the Greenwood area. If you’ve ever driven past and been stumped on which eatery to visit, you’re going to be thrilled about this Sunday’s event – Taste of Southside. The event, held at the Primo Banquet and Conference Center, will offer more than 100 food and drink samples from more than 40 restaurants, caterers, bakeries, breweries and wine distributors. General admission is $40 and for early access, pay just an extra $5.
More information can be found at greenwoodchamber.com.
4. Learn some culture
Explore homes from around the world at the Indy International Festival this Saturday. This annual event, taking place at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, gives you the opportunity to explore the world in just a few steps. You’ll have the chance to absorb different cultures through colorful displays, music, dance, food, drink and art. This 40th annual event will showcase over 50 ethnic organizations.
More information can be found at on.spingo.com.
5. Music to your ears
Fourteen Indiana bands are among the 100 high school ensembles competing for America’s national champion title, and you’ll get the opportunity to see them perform this Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Music for All’s Bands of America Grand National Championships’ semi-finals and finals competition will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium and expected to attract thousands of people. Some of the Indiana high schools involved include: Avon High School, Ben Davis High School, Carmel High School, Carroll High School, Castle High School and others.
More information can be found at musicforall.org.
6. A new kind of fall fest
The weather is finally beginning to feel like fall and that means the season’s festivals continue. The Indianapolis Public Library’s Fall Fest will feature on-stage performances and free family activities. In addition, the fest will welcome 2015 Newbery Medal winner, Kwame Alexander, who is a poet, educator and New York Times bestselling author of 21 books for children. Alexander will help honor the winners in grades 7 - 12 of the Slammin' Rhymes Challenge. The event will be held in Central Library’s Clowes Auditorium from noon until 4 p.m. and is free of charge.
More information can be found at indypl.org.
