Indianapolis Events in 2024
If you’re visiting Hendricks County this year, or even if you’re a born and bred local, Indianapolis and its surroundings offer a wide array of events in 2024. From culture-defining motorsports to football games, Pride celebrations, and the hotly anticipated Taylor Swift Eras Tour, locals and visitors alike are spoiled for choice in Indianapolis this year!
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Sporting Events
Since 1909, Indianapolis has been the world capital of motorsports. The tradition continues with the famed Brickyard 400 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 21st. This NASCAR race will surely be a highlight of the summer sporting calendar. Brickyard Weekend is poised to offer a full schedule of additional races, complemented by live entertainment to keep racing fans engaged. And then on Labor Day Weekend, August 28th - September 2nd, the world's most prestigious drag racing event also occurs right here in central Indiana with the NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park.
The USA Swimming Olympic Trials, set for June 15th to 23rd at Lucas Oil Stadium, are unmissable. Witness the nation's premier swimmers as they compete for spots on the Olympic team, displaying exceptional athleticism and determination!
If you’re into running outdoors, don't miss the 17th CNO Financial Group Monumental Marathon on November 9th. This race tests the endurance of its participants but also serves as a qualifier for major national marathons, drawing a mix of seasoned and aspiring runners to the heart of Indy.
As 2024 draws to a close, the intense action continues with the 15th annual Big Ten Football Championship Game on December 7th at Lucas Oil Stadium!
Culture and Community
Celebrate diversity and community at the Indy Pride Festival on June 8th. This vibrant festival, poised to draw thousands to Downtown Indianapolis, includes a parade and a street fair that showcases the spirit and culture of the LGBTQ+ community, providing a fun and inclusive environment for all attendees.
Film enthusiasts will delight in the 7th Annual Indy Shorts International Film Festival from July 23-28th, where short films from around the world compete and showcase the art of short cinema. In October, the 33rd Heartland International Film Festival, running from October 10-20th, offers a platform for filmmakers to display their work in an internationally recognized competition, enhancing Indianapolis's cultural landscape.
Fun and Games
Gen Con Indy is taking place August 1st to 4th at the Indiana Convention Center and serves as a sanctuary for tabletop gaming aficionados. Renowned as one of the world's largest gaming conventions, it showcases new games, hosts exciting tournaments, and offers insightful panels with leading game designers.
Hendricks County is also home to Who North America, the only retail store and museum dedicated to the hit TV show Doctor Who on this continent. Who North America also hosts Doctoberfest in late October, a must-see, two-day event for any Whovian.
Celebrating Indiana Traditions
The Indiana State Fair, set to return from August 2nd to 18th at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, is a cherished celebration that embodies the spirit of Indiana’s agricultural traditions. Visitors can expect to enjoy a wide range of live music performances, thrilling amusement rides, livestock competitions, and an assortment of food stalls offering everything from classic fair treats to gourmet local specialties. This action-packed month showcases Indiana's rich cultural and agricultural heritage, offering plenty of opportunities for community engagement.
Swifties in Indy
Perhaps one of the most eagerly awaited events of the year will be the Taylor Swift Eras Tour, which will grace the Lucas Oil Stadium for three spectacular dates starting November 1st.
This tour is a celebration of Swift’s extensive musical career, featuring songs from across all her albums in a show that promises to be an unforgettable journey through her different musical "eras." With each performance crafted to showcase her evolution as an artist, this tour has generated immense excitement. Check out our handy Hendricks County guide to making the most of seeing Taylor Swift this year!
Whether you're a local or a visitor exploring Hendricks County, 2024 promises to be action-packed, catering to every taste and interest. With major events in Indianapolis just a stone's throw from the heart of Hendricks County, you’re only minutes away from this year's main attractions.