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Winter Events at The Indiana State Museum

Winter events at The Indiana State Museum- Each year I try to plan fun Christmas outings with my family but always seem to find out about them with too short notice. Here are a ton of awesome family events going on at the Indiana State Museum this holiday season!

Holiday Programs

Holiday Experience: Celebration Crossing

  • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Nov. 23 to Jan. 6
  • Included with general admission
  • Usher in the holiday season this winter at Celebration Crossing! Visit Santa at his house and share your wish list with him, hear festive music from local choirs, enjoy a delicious lunch at the L.S. Ayres Tea Room™ (reservations recommended), ride the Santa Claus Express train and more. Plus, see Santa arrive via helicopter on the museum’s front lawn at noon the day after Thanksgiving, Nov. 23.

Opening Day of Celebration Crossing

  • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Nov. 23
  • Included with purchase of general admission
  • Santa will arrive at the museum in style on Nov. 23, when he lands on the front lawn in a helicopter at noon alongside Mrs. Claus. The Indianapolis Children’s Choir sings in the Great Hall at 11 a.m. Be among the first to ride the Santa Claus Express train, hear holiday sounds in the Great Hall and even visit with Santa himself on this special day to kick off the holiday season in Indy.

Preschool Fridays

  • 9 to 10 a.m.; Nov. 30; Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28; Jan. 4
  • Included with purchase of general admission
  • Bring your little one ages 5 and younger for an hour of special activities, including interactive story time with elves, building a cardboard snowman and early access to the Santa Clause Express train. Pre-registration is not required. 

Santa’s Holiday Breakfast

  • Seatings at 8, 8:30 and 9 a.m., Dec. 1, 15, 22; seatings at 9, 9:30 and 10 a.m., Nov. 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23
  • $24.50/member adults, $15.75/member children ages 3-12; $33.00/non-member adults, $24.25/non-member children ages 3-12; free for children younger than age 3
  • Enjoy a delicious and festive breakfast featuring live music and goody bags in the nostalgic L.S. Ayres Tea Room™ or Farmers Market Cafe. After your meal, visit Santa in his house and take a ride on the Santa Claus Express train. Registration is required 24 hours before each event and can be made online at indianamuseum.org or by calling 317.232.1637. 

Celebration Crossing at Indiana State Museum- Winter Events- Indianapolis- DIY Mama

Bear’s First Snow

  • 11 to 11:30 a.m., Dec. 14-16, 28-30
  • $4/members, $5/non-members; free for children younger than age 3
  • Bears usually hibernate in the winter, but our bear really, really wants to see his first snowflake. So, Bear decided to skip hibernation – and celebrate. Can Bear stay up? Will Bear see his first snow? Learn what makes the wintertime cool and keep Bear awake during this interactive play for families with children ages 3-5. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org, by calling 317.232.1637, or at the ticket counter.

New Program: The 12 Days of Winter 

  • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 26 to Jan. 6
  • Included with purchase of general admission
  • Santa has returned to the North Pole, but the winter fun is still going strong! Come create cardboard snowmen, have an indoor snowball fight, participate in interactive story time in Santa’s house, help take care of Santa’s reindeer and more.

New Event: Tea and Theater with Your Lovey 

  • 2 to 4 p.m., Jan. 6
  • $4/members, $5/non-members, pay for menu items; museum admission not included
  • Bring your favorite stuffed animal and enjoy high tea in the L.S. Ayres Tea Room™, featuring delicate finger sandwiches, pastries and more, all served on elegant, tiered stands. Then, enjoy an exclusive showing of Bear’s First Snow in the auditorium. Registration is required 24 hours before each event and can be made online atindianamuseum.org or by calling 317.232.1637.

November 

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

Small Wonders: Matter Mysteries
10 to 11 a.m., Nov. 14 & 17

  • $9 members/$12 non-members
  • Bring your little ones to learn, play and discover in the museum. This month, they’ll get messy as they explore different states of matter, including a mysterious substance called “oobleck,” and conduct experiments. This program is for 3- to 5-year-olds and an adult.

Young Explorers: Building Blocks

  • 1 to 2:30 p.m., Nov. 17
  • $10 members/$13 non-members
  • Drop off your child at a class to encourage creativity, exploration and independence in an environment that fosters curiosity and imagination. This month, your child will be inspired by brick artwork and create their own art using blocks and paint. This program is for 4- to 6-year-olds to attend on their own. 

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Homeschool Tuesdays: Feasts of First Nations

  • 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Nov. 6
  • $8/members, $10/non-members
  • Dive into a world of investigation and discovery during these two-hour classes designed to stimulate a child’s interest in science, art, history and culture. This month, explore the feasts of Indiana’s First Nations through special programming. This program is for youth ages 6 to 13. Museum open to general public. 

PUBLIC PROGRAMS

Heroes from the Heartland

  • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Nov. 1-11
  • Included with general admission
  • Honor the contributions of Hoosier veterans and learn about the state’s military history with a visit to our Heroes from the Heartland display.

Family Discovery Days: Biology

  • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Nov. 10
  • Included with general admission
  • Join us as we explore life itself. Students from Butler University’s Department of Biological Sciences will be on-hand throughout the day to provide fascinating insights into the realm of biology. From cells and DNA to our human bodies and all living things, discover how all life is connected.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Bricks Night Out

  • 7 to 10 p.m., Nov. 13
  • $10/individual members, $15/individual non-members; $20/member couples, $25/non-member couples
  • Enjoy a night out at THE ART OF THE BRICK experience during adults-only, evening hours. Be inspired by more than 80 brick creations, then design your own brick masterpiece to add to our display and take home a small memento. Drinks and snacks available for purchase. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org, by calling 317.232.1637 or at the door.

Discovery on Draft

  • 7 to 9 p.m., Nov. 14
  • Indiana City Brewing Co., 24 Shelby St., Indianapolis
  • Free, donations encouraged
  • Adults (ages 21+) are invited to engage in conversations with local experts and academics on a variety of topics in this program series that takes place at breweries around Indianapolis. Check website for programming info. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org, by calling 317.232.1637 or at the door.

Ultimate Engineering Challenge

  • 7 to 10 p.m., Nov. 15
  • $10/member, $15/non-member
  • Do you have mad engineering or design skills? Then pull together a team of your best DIY friends (ages 21+) and put your skills to the test competing for the ultimate bragging rights. Your challenge will be to design, engineer and build a surprise cardboard creation in three hours. Drinks and snacks available for purchase. 

Books, Booze & Brains

  • 6:30 to 8 p.m., Nov. 27
  • Centerpoint Brewing Company, 1125 E. Brookside Ave., Suite 2B, Indianapolis
  • Free
  • In this adults-only (ages 21+) science book club, join an expert for a facilitated discussion about a popular science-themed book while sipping a drink or eating a snack from Centerpoint Brewing. This month, join the discussion of “Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen,” by Christopher McDougall.

Celebration Crossing at Indiana State Museum- Winter Events- Indianapolis- DIY Mama

December

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

Small Wonders: Winter Wonderland

  • 10 to 11 a.m., Dec. 12 & Dec. 15
  • $9 members/$12 non-members
  • Bring your little one to learn, play and discover in the museum. This month, your child will be inspired by the winter world around them by investigating snowflakes and more.This program is for 3- to 5-year-olds with an adult. 

Young Explorers: Winter Exploration

  • 1 to 2:30 p.m., Dec. 15
  • $10 members/$13 non-members
  • Drop your child off at a class to encourage creativity, exploration and independence in an environment that fosters curiosity and imagination. This month, your child will investigate the winter wonderland around us. This program is for 4- to 6-year-olds to attend on their own.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Brick Art and Design Studios

  • 10 to 11 a.m.; Dec. 1, 8, 15
  • $12/members, $15/non-members
  • Youth ages 5-12 are invited to discover new ways to use building bricks to create works of art. Join our partners from Snapology and learn to create your own unique masterpiece based on a variety of topics, from pop art to sculpture.

Homeschool Tuesdays: Celebrating Cultures

  • 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Dec. 4
  • $8/members, $10/non-members
  • Dive into a world of investigation and discovery during these two-hour classes designed to stimulate a child’s interest in science, art, history and culture. This month, learn how different cultures celebrate and how they compare to one another. This program is for youth ages 6 to 13.

PUBLIC PROGRAMS

Sensory-friendly Mornings at the Museum

  • 9 to 10 a.m., Dec. 3
  • Included with purchase of general admission
  • This morning allows children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and sensory processing differences to have a fun, enjoyable and interactive learning experience in a comfortable and accepting environment. During this special hour, museum lights will be at a lower level, extra sounds will be limited, and distracting motions or equipment will be paused. The morning will also include sensory-friendly activities in the galleries. No registration required. 

Explore Without Boundaries

  • 10 to 11 a.m., Dec. 3
  • $7/member children ages 3-10, $10/non-member children ages 3-10
  • Extend your family’s sensory-friendly morning by attending this special program specifically designed for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), sensory processing differences and other special needs. Enjoy musical storytelling, sensory art and other activities.

Signature Event: Family New Year’s Eve 

  • 6 to 9 p.m., Dec. 31
  • $10/members, $16/non-members, free for children younger than age 3
  • Start the new year with a bang at this family-friendly New Year’s Eve party! Your family will bring in 2019 with face painting, magic, music, dancing, and a balloon drop at 8 p.m. Be sure to reserve your spot early so you don’t miss out. This is an alcohol-free event. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org, by calling 317.232.1637 or at the door. 

ADULT PROGRAMS

New Event: 1940s Dance Hall 

  • 7 to 10 p.m., Dec. 7
  • $25/members, $30/non-members; ticket prices increase by $5 if purchased at the door
  • Join us for an evening of food, dancing, drinks and fun as we take you back to the USO dances that defined 1940s America. Take a selfie with Rosie the Riveter and get an airbrush tattoo to cap off the night. No previous dance experience required. This event is for adults ages 21+ with drinks available for purchase. Light appetizers and fresh donuts included with ticket purchase. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org, by calling 317.232.1637, or by credit card at the door.

Bricks Night Out

  • 7 to 10 p.m., Dec. 11
  • $10/individual members, $15/individual non-members; $15/member couples, $25/non-member couples
  • Enjoy a night out at THE ART OF THE BRICK experience during adults-only, evening hours. Be inspired by more than 80 brick creations, then design your own brick masterpiece to add to our display and take home a small memento. This event is for ages 21+ with drinks and snacks available for purchase. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org or by calling 317.232.1637, or by credit card at the door.

Ultimate Engineering Challenge

  • 7 to 10 p.m., Dec. 20
  • $10/member, $15/non-member
  • Do you have mad engineering or design skills? Then pull together a team of your five best DIY friends and put your skills to the test competing for the ultimate bragging rights. Your challenge will be to design, engineer and build a Santa-inspired glider that can actually sail. This event is for ages 21+ with drinks and snacks available for purchase. 

January

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

New Program: Little Learners: Becoming Scientists

  • 9:45 to 11:30 a.m., Jan. 8
  • $8/members, $10/non-members; free for children younger than age 3
  • Homeschool families can bring their littlest learners to this class just for them. This month, little ones will become scientists through hands-on experiments, interactive story time and free-choice play, which inspires creativity and fosters decision making. This class is for 3- to 5-year-olds with an adult, with younger siblings welcome. 

Small Wonders: Light Exploration

  • 10 to 11 a.m., Jan. 9 & Jan. 12
  • $9 members/$12 non-members
  • Bring your little one to learn, play and discover in the museum. This month, your child will explore light through shadow art, glow-in-the-dark activities and light table play.This program is for 3- to 5-year-olds with an adult. 

Young Explorers: Music & Movement

  • 1 to 2:30 p.m., Jan. 12
  • $10 members/$13 non-members
  • Drop your child off at a class to encourage creativity, exploration and independence in an environment that fosters curiosity and imagination. This month, your child will explore music by making their own instrument, exploring sound waves and helping with an art project. This program is for 4- to 6-year-olds to attend on their own. 

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Homeschool Tuesdays: Famous Hoosier Scientists

  • 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Jan. 8
  • $8/members, $10/non-members
  • Dive into a world of investigation and discovery during these two-hour classes designed to stimulate a child’s interest in science, art, history and culture. This month, learn about Hoosier scientists and how their research shaped the world. This program is for youth ages 6 to 13. 

Winter Break Day Camps

  • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Jan. 2 to 4
  • $45/members per day, $50/non-members per day; $5 sibling discount; before and after care available for an additional fee
  • This winter break, explore a range of topics from art, science, culture and more during these special day camps. Each day will feature a different theme, so campers can attend as many days as they’d like. This camp is for youth in kindergarten to sixth grade. 

PUBLIC PROGRAMS

New Event: Fashion Luncheon 

  • 12 to 2 p.m., Jan. 3
  • $10/members, $12/non-members, plus purchase of any menu items; does not include museum admission
  • Get a sneak peek from a museum conservator of what’s to come in The Color of Style experience over lunch in the L.S. Ayres Tea Room. Then, take an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of some of the stunning fashions from our fabulous collection. This program is open to all ages. 

Courageous Conversations

  • 6:30 to 8 p.m., Jan. 17
  • $5/person
  • Join your neighbors to talk about contemporary community topics in this moderated discussion. A variety of topics such as food justice, how youth can help end the cycle of violence, bridging the wage gap and institutional racism will be discussed. Panel representatives will offer a wide array of opinions. This program is intended for high school-aged students and adults. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org, by calling 317.232.1637, or by credit card at the door.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 

  • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Jan. 21
  • FREE with donation of a canned good for Gleaners Food Bank
  • Celebrate Dr. King’s dream and explore the struggle for civil rights. See highlights from Dr. King’s most iconic speeches, explore activities pertaining to civil and human rights, help create a “Dream” mural, and reflect on what you can do to ensure the dream lives on.

New Event: CREATE!

  • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Jan. 26
  • Included with purchase of general admission; some activities may include an additional fee
  • Join us as we celebrate art, film, theater, comedy, music, science and so much more in this NEW event all about creativity. See artistic displays, sing along to musical performances or invent something new. Sit back and enjoy the creativity, or jump in and create something yourself.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Ultimate Engineering Challenge

  • 7 to 10 p.m., Jan. 10
  • $10/member, $15/non-member
  • Do you have mad engineering or design skills? Then pull together a team of your five best DIY friends and put your skills to the test competing for the ultimate bragging rights. Your challenge will be to design, engineer and build a winter fort that can weather an epic “snowball” challenge at the end of the night. This event is for ages 21+ with drinks and snacks available for purchase. 

Discovery on Draft: Unlucky in Love

  • 7 to 9 p.m., Jan. 16
  • Free, donations encouraged
  • Round Town Brewery, 950 S. White River Pkwy West Drive, Indianapolis
  • Adults (ages 21+) are invited to engage in conversations with local experts and academics on a variety of topics in this program series that takes place at breweries around Indianapolis. During the month when break-ups peak, join a discussion all about relationships, how dating has changed over time and the role technology plays in modern courtship.

Books, Booze & Brains

  • 6:30 to 8 p.m., Jan. 29
  • Free, donations encouraged
  • Centerpoint Brewing Company, 1125 E. Brookside Ave., Suite 2B, Indianapolis
  • In this adults-only (ages 21+) science book club, join an expert for a facilitated discussion about a popular science-themed and purchase a drink or snack from Centerpoint Brewing. Visit indianamuseum.org for a full list of upcoming topics.

 

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The Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites is located in White River State Park in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. It is Indiana’s museum for science, art and culture, offering a place where you can celebrate, investigate, remember, learn and take pride in Indiana’s story in the context of the broader world. Even the building is a showcase of the best Indiana has to offer in architecture, materials and sculpture. Easy and convenient parking is available in the attached underground garage. 

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Fall Fun at The Indiana State Museum

Fall fun for everyone at the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites.– It’s almost September, and that means one thing: Fall is nearly here.

This autumn, the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites has everything your family needs to get into the fall spirit. From beautiful leaf-viewing destinations to spooky nights out, it’s time to grab your boots, throw on a cozy sweater and hit the road.

We’ve got your fall checklist covered – and we promise these are events and opportunities you won’t want to miss.

You can learn about all of our historic sites, including hours and locations, at this link.

Fall Pumpkin Flower Arrangement

Fall foliage? Check.

Nothing says fall like the spread of gorgeous fall colors across the trees, and what better place to see the colors of autumn than Brown County?

This location is a destination for lovers of fall leaves, and T.C. Steele State Historic Site is the perfect place to take in the beauty so breathtaking it inspired Hoosier artist T.C. Steele himself. Just over an hour south of Indy, your family can visit the gardens for free, or take a tour of his home and stuio with purchase of general admission.

If you’re looking for more fall foliage photo ops, travel north to Gene Stratton-Porter State Historic Site or Limberlost State Historic Site. The sight of the leaves across gorgeous Sylvan Lake at Gene Stratton-Porter or in the woods surrounding Limberlost isn’t something you’ll want to miss. Plus – admission to the grounds at Gene Stratton-Porter is free as well.

Hayride? Check.

It’s not fall without a hayride – or a full-on Halloween festival.

At Angel Mounds State Historic Site, attend the Halloween Hullabaloo on Oct. 20 and 27 for just $5 per person. Take a haunted hayride and enjoy games and crafts, plus see if you can escape the Mummy’s curse in “The Tomb.” Visitors are invited to dress in costume and collect candy in trick-or-treat bags throughout the night.

PS: You can also take a haunted hayride at Vincennes State Historic Sites during Fort Fright.

Events Happening this Fall at the Indiana State Museum

Costume contest? Check.

For some, fall is all about Halloween – and the costumes. On Oct. 5, strut your ghoulish stuff in a costume contest during Family Fright Night right here in Indy at the Indiana State Museum. During this night of spooky fun, you can compete in a costume contest, conduct spooky science experiments, create your own monster mask and more. Admission for this event is just $10 for members, $16 for non-members, and free for children age 3 and younger.

Haunted house? Check.

Most haunted houses may be totally fake, but we’ll do you one better with “Literally, A Haunted House” at Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site. Here, visitors have been scared since 1985 as they explore the haunted Carriage House of Culbertson Mansion. After the mansion was auctioned off years ago, it fell into disuse, and dark legends abound concerning tragic fires, spiritual activity and even demonic possession. This haunted house is not for the faint of heart, and it’s recommended for attendees age 10 and older – if they dare.

Or, in a twist on the usual haunted house, visit Fort Fright at Vincennes State Historic Sites, where visitors of all ages can explore the haunted trail around Fort Knox II. During no-scare hours, visitors can enjoy games, a hayride and more. But, once the spookier hours hit, be prepared to test your courage with dramatic scare scenes around the fort.

Spooky stories? Check.

Maybe a haunted house just isn’t your scene – and that’s okay! Instead, enjoy spooky story programs at two of our locations, with tons of Halloween fun for the entire family.

Limberlost State Historic Site will offer spooky stories in a Spooks and Spirits program on Oct. 20 at the Loblolly Marsh, where visitors can enjoy Halloween-themed stories, roast marshmallows and take a night hike through the marsh. At Whitewater Canal State Historic Site on Oct. 13 and 20, visitors can take a Halloween-themed boat ride on the canal while hearing family-friendly spooky stories from a professional storyteller, all in conjunction with the Haunted Village of Metamora.

Ghost walk? Check.

For die-hard Halloween lovers, several of our events take the spookiness to the next level by featuring haunted happenings about real historical events – or even, possibly, real spirits.

You can investigate the paranormal for yourself at New Harmony State Historic Site during after-hours tours where you can use real paranormal equipment. Or, take a ghost walk at Lanier Mansion State Historic Site or Corydon Capitol State Historic Site. At Lanier Mansion, you’ll tour the home and hear the chilling tales related to the house and its former residents. At Corydon, staff will tell you about their own supernatural encounters and take you on a tour to the alleged haunts throughout the town.

Fall fun at the Indiana State Museum

Fall-themed date night? Check.

Adults need fall fun, too – and we have two date nights perfect for a fall night out.

“The Dark Parlour” at Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site is sure to entertain, with an evening of “spirit theatre” that will make you question what you see – and what you believe. This event is open to all ages, and cocktails are available for purchase for those 21 and older.

High Spirits at T.C. Steele State Historic Site will explore the Victorian fascination with ghosts and spiritualism, and attendees will also see a magic show. Plus, enjoy cocktails and hors d’oervres, as well as a twilight stroll through Steele’s studio and home.

# # #

The Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites is located in White River State Park in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. It is Indiana’s museum for science, art and culture, offering a place where you can celebrate, investigate, remember, learn and take pride in Indiana’s story in the context of the broader world. Even the building is a showcase of the best Indiana has to offer in architecture, materials and sculpture. Easy and convenient parking is available in the attached underground garage.

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The Art of the Brick at The Indiana State Museum

The Art of the Brick at Indiana State Museum- Starting Sept. 29, visitors to the Indiana State Museum will be able to see the blockbuster traveling exhibit THE ART OF THE BRICK – an exhibition featuring more than 80 works of art made entirely from LEGO® bricks.

The Art of the Brick at The Indiana State Museum- DIY Mama- Shelly Bergman

The Art of the BRICK

Designed to inspire ingenuity and creativity, THE ART OF THE BRICK features original pieces from artist Nathan Sawaya, as well as LEGO brick interpretations of some of the world’s most famous art masterpieces, such as Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. Visitors will have the opportunity to get up-close with the fan favorite, Yellow, a life-size sculpture of a man ripping his chest open with thousands of yellow LEGO bricks cascading from the cavity. In addition, visitors will marvel at the David statue made entirely of LEGO bricks, come face-to-face with a 20-foot long T-Rex skeleton and more.

The traveling exhibit will also feature a special activity area where visitors can see what they can build for themselves using LEGO bricks.

“This experience captures the wonder of seeing the unexpected,” said Cathy Ferree, president and CEO of the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. “Integrating a toy into artwork allows the exhibit to appeal to visitors across different ages and interests, and this turn of perspective will inspire visitors to look for other nontraditional outlets for creativity.”

The Art of the Brick at The Indiana State Museum- DIY Mama- Shelly Bergman

In the exhibition, artist Sawaya transforms LEGO bricks into tremendous and thought-provoking sculptures, elevating one of the world’s most recognizable toys to the realm of art.

“THE ART OF THE BRICK takes LEGO somewhere you wouldn’t expect and shows you things you have never seen before,” said artist Sawaya. “The goal with this collection of art is to demonstrate the potential of imagination and the power of creativity.”

THE ART OF THE BRICK will be at the Indiana State Museum from Sept. 29, 2018, through Jan. 6, 2019, and the exhibit is included with purchase of general museum admission, which is free for members.

Photos courtesy of Indiana State Museum

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ABOUT NATHAN SAWAYA & THE ART OF THE BRICK

Former NYC corporate lawyer turned contemporary artist, Nathan Sawaya is the first artist ever to take the LEGO brick into the art world as a medium. Sawaya has earned a top position in the world of contemporary art and has created a new dimension by merging Pop Art and Surrealism in awe-inspiring and groundbreaking ways. Sawaya’s touring exhibition – THE ART OF THE BRICK® – has entertained and inspired millions of art lovers and enthusiasts around the world. CNN heralded, THE ART OF THE BRICK is one of the top ten “must-see exhibits in the world!” Sawaya is an author, speaker and one of the most popular, award-winning contemporary artists of our time. For more information visit www.brickartist.com.

ABOUT THE INDIANA STATE MUSEUM

The Indiana State Museum is located in White River State Park in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. It is Indiana’s museum for science, art and culture, offering a place where you can celebrate, investigate, remember, learn and take pride in Indiana’s story in the context of the broader world. Even the building is a showcase of the best Indiana has to offer in architecture, materials and sculpture. Easy and convenient parking is available in the attached underground garage.

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Events Happening at the Indiana State Museum This Fall

Events Happening at the Indiana State Museum This Fall- Just like summer, there is no shortage of fun going on in Indianapolis this fall for families. Here is the line up for September through October. Be sure to check out all the free events as well!

Events Happening at the Indiana State Museum This Fall

Fall – September through October

NEW ISM Experience: The Art of the Brick®

  • When: Sept. 29 – Jan. 6
  • Price: Included with admission
  • What: Children and adults alike will marvel at the incredible art made from millions of LEGO bricks in this traveling exhibit from artist Nathan Sawaya. The Art of the Brick® has traveled around the world to locations such as Australia, Taiwan, Singapore and China, and it will be coming to the Indiana State Museum beginning September 29. Visitors will see more than 70 creations from Sawaya, then be able to build their own LEGO creations in a special LEGO play area. The exhibit is the first-ever art exhibition to focus exclusively on LEGO bricks as an art medium.  More info to follow.

 

Canal Nights at Indiana State Museum

NEW ISM Experience: Cardboard Engineering

  • When: Sept. 29 – May 27
  • Price: Included with admission
  • What: Imaginations will run wild in the Indiana State Museum’s Cardboard Engineering experience opening Sept. 29, where visitors will find a room filled with the raw materials to turn fantastic ideas into incredible cardboard creations. Whether building a house or a spaceship, a school bus or sculpture, visitors will be inspired to dream up whatever they’d like to build in this area of free creation. More info to follow.

 

ISM Event: Family Night Out: Spooky Science

  • When: 6 to 8 p.m., Oct. 5
  • Price: $8/member, $15/non-member
  • What: Dress in your Halloween best for a night of Spooky Science at the Indiana State Museum. See a shocking demonstration on static electricity, make things bubble, glow and ooze, create your own eerie decorations and meet a mad scientist. Strut your stuff in a costume contest, and enter to win prizes in categories like “spookiest costume,” “best science costume,” “best homemade costume,” and “best Indiana connection costume.”

Events Happening this Fall at the Indiana State Museum

Angel Mounds State Historic Site: Halloween Hullabaloo

  • When: 6 to 9 p.m., Oct. 20 and 27
  • Price: $5/person, free for children under 3
  • What: Visitors are invited to evenings of spooky fun at Angel Mounds State Historic Site this October. Test your bravery in the Haunted Maze and escape the Mummy’s Curse in “The Tomb.” For those less brave, spend time working on games and crafts, get lost in the corn maze and take a tour of our property on our haunted hayride. Don’t forget to stop by the concession stand to warm up with a mug of hot chocolate. Visitors are invited to bring their trick-or-treat bags to collect candy throughout the night.

 

Corydon Capitol State Historic Site: The Capitol Ball

  • When: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Sept. 8
  • Price: $15/individual, $25/couple
  • What: Guests at the ball will learn dances that could have been danced during Indiana’s first capital period (1816-1825). Dances will be called, so no prior experience is needed. Live music will be provided by Keltricity. Prior to the ball, free practice sessions will be offered for those who would like some practice beforehand. Attendees are encouraged to dress in period costume, and light refreshments will be served. This event will be held at the Harrison County YMCA. Reservations are preferred and can be made by calling 812-738-4890.

 

Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site: Literally, A Haunted House

  • When: Opens at 7 p.m. each night, Sept. 28, 29; Oct. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27
  • Price: TBD
  • What: Scaring since 1985, the Culbertson Mansion’s annual haunted house has all of the thrills and chills you would expect of a haunted house. This haunting takes place in the Carriage House of the Culbertson Mansion. Originally, the carriage house sheltered the family’s horse, buggy and the male servants to the household. After the Mansion was auctioned off, the carriage house fell into disuse…but dark legends abound concerning tragic fires, spiritual activity and even demonic possessions. Are you brave enough to traverse the haunted carriage house of the Culbertson Mansion? Come, if you dare!

 

Gene Stratton-Porter State Historic Site: Sip and Create

  • When: 6 p.m. to about 8 p.m., Sept. 8 and Nov. 10
  • Price: $25.00/person, for adults 21+
  • What: Join this program to design and create take-home pieces inspired by Gene Stratton-Porter and her love of nature. Staff and volunteers will guide you as you create pieces using natural elements that Gene showcased at her home in Wildflower Woods. September will feature milkweed pods to create unique ornaments, and November will feature family photographs in the creation of a beautiful holiday wreath. Each session includes supplies, snacks and Indiana-made wine.

 

Lanier Mansion State Historic Site: Ghost Walks

  • When: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Sept. 15, 22, 29; Oct. 13, 20, 26, 27
  • Price: $15/adult, $7/youth ages 12 to 17, not recommended for those under 12 years of age
  • What: Is Lanier Mansion haunted? Visitors can find out for themselves during a ghost walk on select nights in September and October. Visitors will go inside the mansion and enjoy a nighttime, behind-the-scenes tour of the home, hearing spooky stories related to the house and its former inhabitants. After the tour, visitors can journey on to three other locations to hear stories about those sites as well, with the final stop at the Broadway Tavern – where participants age 21 and older can enjoy an additional “spirit” if they wish.

 

Levi and Catharine Coffin State Historic Site: At the Underground Railroad’s Grand Central Station: A Poetry Workshop for Kids

  • When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 22 and Oct. 27
  • Price: $5/youth in grades 1 through 8; reservations required by calling 765-847-1691.
  • What: Youth are invited to spend a day with Indiana poet Shari Wagner for a poetry workshop at the Levi & Catharine Coffin State Historic Site. At the workshop, they will get familiar with the story of Levi & Catharine Coffin, Quakers whose 1839 home was at one time known at the “Grand Central Station of the Underground Railroad.” Children will enjoy a guided tour of the Coffin home and then work one-on-one with Wagner, where they will acquire insight into how they can express their reactions to the Coffin story and the history of the Underground Railroad. This program is supported by the Indiana Arts Commission.

 

Limberlost State Historic Site: Twilight Adventure

  • When: 7 to 9 p.m., Sept. 22
  • Price: $4/adult, $3/youth ages 3-17, free for those under 3 years of age
  • What: Explore the Loblolly Marsh as the sun goes down. Take a twilight hike, enjoy an animal presentation with skulls, furs and nests, and roast marshmallows around a campfire to cap off the evening. This event starts at the Loblolly Marsh Pavilion.

 

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New Harmony State Historic Sites: Paranormal Investigations

  • When: 6:30 to 11 p.m., Sept. 28; Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26; Nov. 2
  • Price: $50/person. Tickets can be purchased at www.hauntednewharmony.com.
  • What: Explore the historic buildings of New Harmony after-hours alongside a host of paranormal investigators. This hands-on experience will allow you to communicate with the souls who may inhabit the space using a variety of real paranormal equipment.

 

T.C. Steele State Historic Site: 30th Annual Great Outdoor Art Contest

  • When: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 8
  • Price/Registration: Early bird registration (Aug. 1-31) is $10/adult, $5/youth under age 17. Regular admission (Sept. 1-8) is $15/adult, $10/youth under age 17. Registration materials available beginning Aug. 1 at www.tcsteele.org/programs. Day-of registration allowed.
  • What: The oldest plein air painting competition in Indiana celebrates its 30th year in 2018! Gates open at 7 a.m. for artists to bring their blank pages and canvases to be stamped in the site classroom, then it’s off to work. Artwork is judged at 2 p.m. beside the Formal Garden, and awards for child and adult categories are announced starting at 3:15 p.m. First place and People’s Choice winners will be displayed at the Brown County Art Guild following the competition. Brozinni Pizzeria will sell pizza by the slice and salads for lunch. The Great Outdoor Art Contest is part of Brown County Art Colony Weekend, Sept. 7-9.

 

T.C. Steele State Historic Site: Opening of new Visitors Center and Studio Wagon

  • When: Opening dates TBD
  • What: This fall, visitors to the T.C. Steele State Historic Site will enjoy a brand new Visitors Center as well as an interactive studio wagon experience based on Steele’s own studio wagon that he used to paint in various locations. More info to follow.

 

Vincennes State Historic Sites: Fort Fright

  • When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. (no-scare hours) and 7:30 to 11 p.m. (haunted trail), Oct. 18-20
  • Price: $8/adult, $5/child under the age of 12
  • What: Have a “spooktacular” time at the haunted trail around Fort Knox II and experience scare scenes based on local lore and legend. During the “no-scare hours,” little ones can enjoy games, a hay ride and more. During the “haunted trail hours,” families can test their courage with spooky experiences at dramatic stations around Fort Knox II.

 

Whitewater Canal State Historic Site: Spooky Halloween Cruises

  • When: 7:30, 8 and 8:30 p.m., Oct. 13 and 20
  • Price: $5/person
  • What: The Ben Franklin III canal boat will be hauntingly decorated for night cruises and staff will be dressed in costumes for the occasion. A professional storyteller will be on board to tell family-friendly spooky stories.  Held in conjunction with the Haunted Village of Metamora.

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Hoosier Salon Returns to Indiana State Museum

Hoosier Salon returns to Indiana State Museum 

INDIANAPOLIS– The annual Hoosier Salon exhibition, featuring artwork from more than 120 Indiana artists, returns to the Indiana State Museum for its 94th run beginning Aug. 3. The competition is Indiana’s longest-running art exhibition and is considered to be the preeminent juried exhibition of Indiana art by Indiana artists. While the art will be on display to the public Aug. 3 through Oct. 14, it will also be for sale – and the bidding begins on Aug. 2 at a special preview event that starts at 6 p.m.

Hoosier Salon Returns to Indiana State MuseumArt by Amos Carol

Hoosier Salon Returns to Indiana State Museum

During the preview event, the winners will be announced for this year’s show, and the artwork will officially go on sale. Tickets for the preview event can be purchased online through July 27 athoosiersalon.org.

This year, more than 250 artists applied to the show, including several who are in their 20s, and the show has more young and up-and-coming artists than in previous years.

“The jurors did an excellent job,” said Jim May, executive director of the Hoosier Salon. “In addition to bringing back some long-time participants, 22 of the artists selected are first-timers, helping us to gain ground on our goal of getting new and younger artists from across the state to become members and enter.”

Hoosier Salon Returns to Indiana State Museum

Hoosier Salon Returns to Indiana State Museum

This is the second year back at the Indiana State Museum after a five-year run at the Indiana Historical Society, and the museum is honored to host the show once again.

“We are delighted to partner with the Hoosier Salon again this year at the Indiana State Museum,” said Cathy Ferree, president and CEO of the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. “The show offers us an opportunity to give visitors access to the best art representing Indiana artists from across the state and around the country.”

In conjunction with the Hoosier Salon exhibition, a kids’ show will be on display in the museum: the Indiana Electric Cooperatives’ Calendar of Student Art Contest. This show features artwork from K-12 students that will be displayed in the cooperative’s annual wall calendar, with a first-place winner selected from each grade to go into the calendar. The winners of the kids’ show will also be announced on Aug. 2 during a 2 p.m. event.

The cost of both shows is included with the purchase of general museum admission, which is free for Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites members.

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The Hoosier Salon is a statewide, nonprofit artist-service organization whose mission is to create an appreciation of visual art by promoting Indiana artists and their work. The organization has locations in Carmel and New Harmony. 

The Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites is located in White River State Park in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. It is Indiana’s museum for science, art and culture, offering a place where you can celebrate, investigate, remember, learn and take pride in Indiana’s story in the context of the broader world. Even the building is a showcase of the best Indiana has to offer in architecture, materials and sculpture. Easy and convenient parking is available in the attached underground garage. 

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Hoosier Salon returns to Indiana State Museum.

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