Nothing says summer quite like the Fourth of July. Cookouts and fireworks and (if you’re lucky enough) a day off of work allowing everyone to take some time to be with family and enjoy a day under what will hopefully be a sunny sky with a soft breeze.
Independence Day became a federal holiday in 1941. The day is meant to commemorate the day the Declaration of Independence was ratified in 1776. The declaration announced that the 13 British colonies would become 13 independent states, no longer under British rule. It served as a formal explanation for why the colonies were seeking independence from Britain, more than a year after the American Revolutionary War started.
The Fourth of July is most commonly associated with fireworks that light up the night sky — a tradition that some historians believe started as a morale booster during the war — but there is plenty more fun to be had around Indianapolis.
IPL Downtown Freedom Fest
When: 6:30 p.m. July 4
Where: Indiana War Memorial,
55 E. Michigan St.
Cost: Free
Learn more: downtownindy.org or 317-232-7615
IPL’s freedom fest features entertainment from the Indianapolis Colts Stage, as well as a small business festival at the Indiana Originals Marketplace. The Royal Pin Leisure Centers Kids Area will have bounce houses and adults can spend time listening to live music and selecting from an array of food trucks. Fireworks begin at 10 p.m. on Regions Tower.
Rhythm and Poetry Thursdays at Phiri
When: 6:30-10:30 p.m. July 4
Where: Phiri Art Gallery, 120 E. Market St.
Cost: $10, early bird tickets available at eventbrite.com
Learn more: phirillc.com or 404-759-0530
Rhythm and Poetry Thursdays have resumed at the Phiri Art Gallery. This event will display local artists and offer a wine tasting, as well as different styles of art and music. Attendees will have access to discounts to upcoming events at the gallery.
Independence Day Celebration at Victory Field
When: 6:15 p.m. July 4
(gates open at 4:30 p.m.)
Where: Victory Field, 501 W. Maryland St.
Cost: Tickets range from $13 to $40 at milb.com
Learn more: milb.com or 317-269-3545
The Indianapolis Indians will host a fireworks show after their game against the Toledo Mud Hens. Fans can also see fireworks from the Regions Tower show. The game will have multiple Fourth of July themes, including special “Stars and Stripes” jerseys worn by players and coaches. The first 12,500 fans will also receive an Indiana rally towel.
Firecracker 6
When: 8 a.m. July 4
Where: City Market, 222 E. Market St.
Cost: $30 late registration, $35 race week, $40 race day; children 14 and under,
seniors 65 and older and military can get a $6 discount
Learn more: firecracker6.com or 317-721-3476
This 10th annual event includes a six-mile and six-kilometer run and walk throughout downtown Indianapolis. The race begins at the City Market and concludes at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. The race will take runners through other landmarks such as Lucas Oil Stadium and Fountain Square.
2019 Party on the Plaza
When: 7-11 p.m. July 4
Where: City Market, 222 E. Market St.
Cost: Adults $6, seniors 65 and older $4, children 12 and under are free
Learn more: downtownindy.org or 317-634-9266
The Party on the Plaza is in its fifth year as an Independence Day fundraiser to support the Indianapolis City Market Corporation. The event will include live entertainment and family games and activities. The Tomlinson Tap Room beer garden will also be open. Guests can view the firework display from Regions Tower.
4th of July Party at Indiana City
When: noon-10 p.m. July 4
Where: Indiana City Brewing Co, 24 Shelby St.
Cost: Free
Learn more: indianacitybeer.com or 317-643-1103
Indiana City features classic Independence Day activities, including a corn hole tournament and beer releases. DJ Rusty Redenbacher will provide live entertainment, and food trucks will be available. Families can watch the fireworks display from Regions Tower.
