August Events in Indy: 10 Reasons to Get out During the Dog Days of Summer
August is a busy month—kids are sent back to school and the summer is winding down, but the weather is (usually) still warm and beautiful. Indy offers several entertainment options to fill your end-of-summer days, including the highly anticipated Gen Con and Indiana State Fair. Indy Monthly sifted through the city’s top events—there’s plenty going on all month long.
Gen Con – August 4–7
The biggest gaming convention in the country returns to the Indiana Convention Center. The city is flooded with the best costumes, from Star Wars’ Emperor Palpatine to Guardians of the Galaxy’s Nebula. Read through our post last year for guidance on proper Gen Con etiquette.
Summer Nights Films – August 5–26
A romantic lineup closes out the warm-weather movie season at the Indianapolis Museum of Art: Moulin Rouge!, Casablanca, West Side Story, and The Princess Bride. The rest of this summer is already sold out, so if you didn’t get your tickets, make sure to check the list early for next year.
Symphony on the Prairie – August 5–27
At Conner Prairie, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra will host tribute bands honoring Abba, The Beatles, and Michael Jackson. Toto (the original group, not a tribute) makes its Prairie debut as well. Never been? Read through our Unspoken Rules of the Symphony so you don’t make any rookie mistakes.
Indianapolis Indians – August 5–31
The tribe takes a swing at the Louisville Bats, Columbus Clippers, and Toledo Mud Hens at Victory Field. Enjoy a brew and hot dog at the ballpark to wind down the summer.
Indiana State Fair – August 5–21
Blues Traveler, 38 Special, and others play at the Free Stage at the Indiana State Fairgrounds as hundreds of thousands of Hoosiers munch on corn dogs. Plus, don’t miss the Hot Air Balloon Night Glow on August 5 or the Timberworks Lumberjack Show happening daily. This 17-day annual event has been around for a while—check out some advice from years past.
Beach Boys – August 19
You won’t find much sand along the White River, but you can spread out a blanket and listen to the Beach Boys at the Lawn. Sing along to the classics you can’t forget like “California Girls” and “Good Vibrations.”
Greek Fest – August 26–28
Get us to the Greek—Fest, that is. The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church’s annual event includes traditional music, dance, and incredible food. Make sure to catch the Hellenic Dance Program’s shows, with each age group performing all three days.
Hops & Flip Flops – August 27
One of the newer additions to the beer festival circuit, this happening at Daredevil Brewing Co. in Speedway focuses on IPAs. Breweries from across the country, as well as many local establishments, will offer their best cold drafts at the annual event.
Feast of Lanterns – August 27
Under new management this year, the Spades Park festival hopes to return to its former, illuminating glory. Paper lanterns lit up the sky on the city’s east side from the late 1800s to the 1940s. Now, after being resurrected in the early 2000s, the festival includes live music and local vendors.
Dig IN – August 28
Top local chefs, farms, breweries, and wineries descend on White River State Park to hand out samples. Tickets are available online now or at the gate. Every bit as good (and crowded) as it sounds.
