Things to do in Indy for free this MLK Day
Jan 16, 2025
INDIANAPOLIS The city of Indianapolis is celebrating the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on January 20, 2025, with a series of vibrant, inspiring events that honor his legacy. Heres a list of free events you can look forward to:Madam Walker Legacy CenterFree admission Event: 43rd Annual Day of Celebration Time: 12:00 p.m. EST Location: Walker Theatre Details: Enjoy an inspiring keynote address by Caroline Wanga, President & CEO of Essence Ventures. Tickets are free, but registration is required. More info: 43rd Annual MLK Day of Celebration with Caroline Wanga - Madam Walker Legacy CenterConner PrairieFree admission Details: Participate in the "BE Love" pledge featuring winning student essays that explore Dr. King's legacy. Enjoy various inspirational programs throughout the day. More info: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Conner PrairieIndianapolis ZooFree admission Admission: Free with a donation (monetary donations accepted for Gleaners Food Bank). Details: Explore the zoo and engage with activities that promote community service and awareness. More info: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Indianapolis ZooIndiana Historical SocietyFree admission Time: Activities from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; museum open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Details: Contribute to the Charity Cares Clothing Closet by designing shopping bags, collaborate on a community mural, and enjoy Dr. Kings speeches in the theater. Donations of new socks and underwear in all sizes are encouraged. More info: Martin Luther King Jr. Day Free AdmissionThe Children's Museum of IndianapolisFree admission Griot Drum Ensemble Performances: 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Activities: Birthday Card Decorating: 10:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m. (donations of cake mix and frosting accepted). Words of Inspiration: 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. with storyteller Portia Sholar Jackson. Mixed Media Workshop with Rebecca Robinson: 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. More info: Martin Luther King Jr. Day | The Children's Museum of IndianapolisWhite River State ParkFree admission Details: Attractions including the Indiana State Museum and Eiteljorg Museum will offer free access. Donations for Gleaners Food Bank will be collected throughout the park. More info: Free Admission: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - White River State ParkNewFieldsFree admission Event: MLK Day: Mission Possible Time: 11:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. Location: Indianapolis Museum of Art Details: Participate in hands-on workshops led by local artists, enjoy the sounds of Deckademics DJ & Production School, and attend story time in Star Studio. Highlights include spoken word by Bruce Ford and "The Audacity to Believe I Am Free" performance in DeBoest Lecture Hall. Wrap up with a screening of Mission: JoyFinding Happiness in Troubled Times (2021, dirs. Louie Psihoyos & Peggy Callahan, 90 mins, NR). More info: MLK Day: Mission Possible :: NewfieldsEiteljorg MuseumFree admission Time: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Details: Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with FREE admission! Enjoy a community drum circle, hands-on art activities, and your last chance to see the Fifth Third Bank Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure model train exhibit. More info: Martin Luther King Jr. FREE Day - EiteljorgNCAA Hall of ChampionsFree admission Details: The NCAA Hall of Champions is offering free admission on MLK Day. Explore two levels of interactive exhibits, making it a must-visit destination for college sports fans. More info: Event Space in Indianapolis | NCAA Hall of Champions