It’s time to bid goodbye to the winter blues and head into warmer, longer spring days. Although you can never tell when winter will end in Indiana, these springtime activities will help get anyone into the long-awaited spring spirit.
1. GIVE YOUR GREEN THUMB A WORKOUT
Whether you’re a seasoned-pro in the garden or a weekend warrior, head to Alice’s Garden where you can get supplies and/or sign up for an upcoming event from repotting classes to fairy garden-making workshops.
2. GO TO THE THEATRE
The lineup of shows at Indiana Repertory Theatre this year is fire. From “The Folks at Home” (through March 16) and “Frida…A Self-Portrait” on the Upperstage (March 12-April 7) to the theatre’s first musical, “A Little Shop of Horrors” on the OneAmerica Mainstage (April 17-May 19). Don’t forget — Indy Maven members receive $15 off tickets to any show during the 2023-2024 Season; Valid on tickets priced $40 and higher. Not a member yet? Join and save!
3. RUN, WALK, OR HIKE AT HOLLIDAY PARK
Head to Holliday Park on March 15 and 16 for the annual Holliday Park Trail Run, including fun events for the whole family including a bonfire with s’mores, a 5-mile run, and a 3-mile hike on Saturday morning. The trail run is the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy the nature scene in Indianapolis. Participants must register for each event online.
4. WORK ON A WARDROBE A REFRESH
Whether you choose to spring clean your entire house or not is up to you but if there’s one room you focus on, why not make it the one that’s extension of you and give your closet—and your clothes—a refresh. Here are some tips to help you along the way.
5. SNAG SOMETHING NEW AT STYLE SWAP
Speaking of wardrobe refresh, find something new-to-you at our first ever Spring Style Swap on Thursday, April 18 at Maven Space. Your ticket gets you access to the clothing swap, a reusable bag, hair styles with Dry Bar, a chair massage, 360 photo booth fun, and more! Tarot readings and permanent jewelry will also be on site. Get your tickets now!
6. SPEND A DAY AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis has fun experiences for people of all ages! The Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience is filled with both indoor and outdoor immersive experiences and will reopen on March 16, 2024, while the recently opened Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Exhibit is now open through Sept. 2, 2024.
7. TRY A NEW OUTDOOR ACTIVITY
When’s the last time you play outside? Grab a hoola hoop, a bicycle, a paddle board—anything that gets you moving and enjoying the glorious outdoors. Here are a few ideas for inspiration.
8. STEP INTO SPRING AT THE ZOO
New this year at the annual xZooberance Spring Festival at the Indianapolis Zoo, step inside Blooming Cottage and combine your green thumb with creativity with fun flower sorting activities. Along with interactive experiences, xZooberance will offer a seasonal menu for guests and feature a variety of acts for entertainment each day. The festival runs from March 21-April 14.
9. GET YOUR GARAGE SALE ON
It’s garage sale season! You know what to do. And don’t miss McNamara Florist’s Huge Annual Garage Sale March 22-23 with up to 60% off home decor, furniture, silk arrangements and more.
10. TAKE YOURSELF OUT TO A BALL GAME
Opening night for the Indianapolis Indians season is on April 2 (with a 60 Degree Weather Guarantee on Opening Night—if the temperature is below 60 degrees at first pitch, all fans in attendance will receive a ticket to another April home game of their choice).The Indianapolis Indians are always hosting themed nights and executing fun promos during the season, making for great memories at Victory Field. Outdoor games are a blast for evening fun with friends and daytime outings with family. Tickets for the Indians can be purchased online.
11. SEE THE SOLAR ECLIPSE
Indianapolis is buzzing with places to view The Great American Eclipse on April 8, 2024 at 3:06 p.m. From Total Eclipse of the Art at Newfields and Fort Ben to a full day of events at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Conner Prairie.
12. POST UP AT A BREWERY
Outdoor breweries are a great outing idea for a warm day, and Indianapolis is full of different spots. Check out St. Joseph Brewery & Public House for a unique sipping experience in what was once a Catholic church, try something local at Sun King Brewing Company, or make your way to a perfect outdoor space that includes a dog park at Metazoa Brewing Co. The options are endless!
13. CELEBRATE PEONY SEASON
Head to Noblesville for the 4th annual Indiana Peony Festival on Saturday, May 18, 2024. The festival is FREE and open to the public with a variety of additional events happening during Festival weekend, from Brunch and Blooms to Peonies in the Park.
14. FIND SOMETHING NEW AT A FARMERS’ MARKET
Farmers’ market season is around the corner with fresh and artisanal products from local vendors. Local favorites include Broad Ripple Farmers’ Market, Garfield Park Farmers’ Market, and Zionsville Farmers’ Market.
15. GATHER FRIENDS AT GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY
What better way to get in touch with spring nature than a visit to Garfield Park Conservatory? Spending time outdoors is the perfect way to make up all the time spent indoors during winter. The park offers various programs and events throughout spring, including gardening workshops, bird walks, and programs geared toward kids/families. Average event prices range from $5-12 and can be registered online.
16. EXPLORE A NEW PARK
As warm weather creeps up, outdoor parks like Eagle Creek Park are a must-visit. With 16 miles of trails, picnic and playground sites, water activities, and so much more, Eagle Creek is perfect for all outdoor adventures. Other great parks to explore in Indy include White River State Park and Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park.
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