August Arts in Indianapolis: Exhibits, Festivals, and Cultural Celebrations You Won’t Want to Miss

BUTTER FINE ART FAIR - Photo by Kaylon Outlaw

August in Indianapolis is bursting with creative energy, offering a vibrant lineup of arts and culture events for every interest. From thought-provoking gallery exhibitions and soulful live performances to dynamic festivals celebrating Black, Mexican, and LGBTQ+ communities, the city comes alive with expression and connection. Whether you're drawn to the cutting-edge works at Gallery 924, the rhythms of Chreece Hip-Hop Festival, or the storytelling of the Indianapolis Black Documentary Film Festival, this month is all about celebrating the voices that shape Indy’s cultural landscape.

Madiha Siraj "Sacred Garden, American Soil" \ First Friday Reception: 6-9 p.m. August 1 (exhibition runs through September 18) Gallery 924 | 924 N Pennsylvania St | FREE

This solo exhibition by Madiha Siraj harnesses tradition and contradiction to craft artworks that evoke the metaphysical while embracing personal whimsy – reflecting a Muslim’s striving for transcendence within their own mythos.

Art & Soul in the Alley | 6-8 p.m. August 1- The Alley at The Cabaret | 924 N Pennsylvania St | FREE

Akili Ni Mali, Brandon Lott, and PsyWrn Simone will take the stage on August 1 with a performance celebrating Black excellence in the arts. Please note that reserved seating is sold out, but guests are still welcome to join without reservations – just bring your own chair!

Art & Soul Sundays featuring The Gospel of Morris | 3-4 p.m. August 3 -Indianapolis Artsgarden | 110 W Washington St | FREE

Musician and arranger Morris Kimble invites you to The Gospel of Morris, a dynamic live performance showcasing his unique musical arrangements and original compositions.

August Event Spotlight 

Indianapolis Black Documentary Film Festival | August 15-17- Indy Art Center and Kan-Kan Cinema & Restaurant | $10-$30

The Indianapolis Black Documentary Film Festival will showcase documentaries about the African American experience that inspire socially conscious cultural discourse. The festival aims to create an appreciation for documentary films by maintaining a platform for filmmakers to share their work as catalysts for meaningful dialogue.

Chreece Hip-Hop Festival | noon - 11 p.m. August 23 - Fountain Square (various venues) | $55-$90

Indy’s premier hip-hop festival returns on August 23. Enjoy acts including headliners Smino, MAVI, and Audrey Nuna.

Indianapolis Mariachi & Folklore Festival | 10 a.m. - 5.p.m. August 23 - Indiana State Museum | 650 W Washington St | FREE

Bring your family and friends to celebrate Mexican culture and folklore with a fun-filled day packed with live music, dance performances from the Folkloric Dance Groups of the Midwest, storytelling, craft booths, community partner activities and more.  

IndyFringe Theatre Festival | August 14-24 (various times) - IF Theatre, The District Theatre, The Athenaeum, VisionLoft | $10-$22

Come see a variety of 45-to-60-minute shows ranging from magic, musicals, and comedy. There’s something for everyone at this 11-day theatre festival taking place at venues across Mass Ave.

BUTTER Fine Art Fair | August 28-31The Stutz | 1060 N Capitol Ave | $55+

Celebrating five years of fine art, BUTTER Fine Art Fair, hosted by GANGGANG, will return on Labor Day Weekend (August 28–31) for the exhibit’s fifth iteration. The art fair showcases the work of established, independent, and emerging Black artists from Indiana and across the globe, representing as a new model for economic justice in the arts.

Find more arts and culture festivals here.