Indianapolis Society, Culture and Community
The Indianapolis Cultural Districts are the spice of Indy, balancing the modern and the classic, the nuevo and the classique. Each one delivers something different and new for Hoosiers. We get a sense of the true depth of Indianapolis history from some, while others take us into the future of this great city. Every year, Indianapolis celebrates a melting pot of diversity in their cultural events. Have a look at the lists below and you’ll see how much more diverse the Circle City is than you would ever expect:
Indianapolis Cultural Districts
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Broad Ripple Village Broad Ripple Village, and Broad Ripple Park, also enjoy the soothing beauty of the White River. Lots of cool places to explore and lots of Indianapolis art happen at the busy Indianapolis Art Center. |
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Canal and White River State Park This lovely tribute to nature is the only urban state park in the United States. |
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Fountain Square Pure energy, with tons of kicky specialty shops and restaurants, plus frequent live events. |
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Indiana Avenue Framed by the Central Canal and the White River, this large and historic district also contains the bustling IUPUI campus. |
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Mass Ave Characterized by unique and eclectic shops and restaurants, this sector is also known as the Arts and Theatre District of Indianapolis. |
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The Wholesale District Wholesale district: Once the locale of an enormous hive of railroad connections, the Wholesale District is now a center for entertainment, commerce and, of course, art in Indianapolis. |
Indianapolis Societies
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Athenaeum Damenverein The German women’s group that is part of the foundation of the famous Das Deutsche Haus Athenaeum in downtown Indy. |
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Athenaeum Docent Club This group is responsible for the public tours of the grand old Athenaeum. |
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Athenaeum Foundation This is the organization that oversees the Athenaeum, a favorite landmark in downtown Indy. |
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Indiana Black Expo The IBE is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the enhancement of the quality of life for African Americans in Indianapolis. |
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Indiana German Heritage Society This apolitical group has been a big part of the Indianapolis community since day one, and shares in its foundation from the past and its German-influenced culture of today. |
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Indianapolis Propylaeum Since 1888, this women’s club has been nourishing the entire city in general, and helping women in particular to find their best paths in society, business, culture and the home. |
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The Rotary Club of Indianapolis is an organization for members of the Indianapolis business community, who are dedicated to service in the community. |
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The Northside Knights of Columbus is a social organization for the people of Indianapolis with many gatherings, festivals and activities throughout the year. |
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The Woodruff Place Civic League protects and promotes the interests of the historic Woodruff Place neighborhood. |
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The Lions Club of Indiana is a part of an international service organization working to better our community. |
Indianapolis Cultural Events
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Art Shows Indianapolis The world of art in Indianapolis is one that residents of the Circle City take very seriously, and Indianapolis art shows are a favorite activity around here. |
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Circle City Classic Circle City classic: An important part of the Indiana Black Expo, this event features the best of the best in black college football. |
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Fiesta Indianapolis Honoring the large Latino base in Indy and its strong and bountiful history, the “Fiesta” is held in late September annually. |
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Indiana Black Expo Circle City Classic This is a wonderful fall festival that draws nearly 200,000 every year to see the very best in black college football. |
See many more intriguing Indianapolis events



























