indianapolis Archives • Page 2 of 6 • diy mama

by Shelly on May 22, 2019 Leave a Comment

Date Night: Ocean Prime Indianapolis

My husband and I do date night once per month and this month’s date night at Ocean Prime Indianapolis was one that will be hard to beat. The food, atmosphere and service were all exceptional. When Ocean Prime invited us to their nearby location at Keystone we couldn’t have been more excited to dress up and have some adult conversation (which of course consisted of talking about our kids).

Date Night: Ocean Prime Indianapolis

We’d just gotten back from a trip to Cedar Point where we had our first crab legs in years. Cue the Ocean Prime menu being set in front of me and my mouth started drooling at the prospect of more crab legs.

Beverages

First things first though, we had a hard time deciding on drinks because of the extensive award winning wine list. We both chose cocktails because of the fresh squeezed fruit and top shelf liquors. I highly recommend getting the Berries & Bubbles (recipe linked), a blackberry and blueberry cocktail that bubbles while you drink it!

Berries and Bubbles-
Photo Credit: Ocean Prime

Starters

For appetizers we started off with the Lobster Sushi and Calamari. The Judith Calamari with Sweet Chili Sauce is now my favorite appetizer of all time. I was so impressed with how fresh the calamari was.
Executive Chef Branden Pegg said few others have suppliers with such fresh seafood and I could tell. The fruit in the Lobster Roll had me intrigued with poached lobster tail, kiwi, pickled serrano, masago and spicy mango purée. It wasn’t my favorite sushi ever but it was still delicious.

Chillean Sea Bass-
Photo Credit: Ocean Prime

Warm Butter Cake- Photo Credit: Ocean Prime

Entres

Between our cocktails and appetizers we were having a wonderful evening. Out comes our entrees and somehow we made more room because it smelled heavenly. As I said, I got the King Crab Legs with asparagus and drawn butter and a side of Gouda Tots. I melted like the drawn butter with each bite. The Gouda Tots were a bar-only option until it gained so much popularity it made it to the menu (and rightfully so). My husband got the 7-year award winning Chillean Sea Bass on Whipped Potatoes and a Champagne Truffle Sauce with a side of Lobster Mashed Potatoes. We were on a seafood kick but their steaks are award winning as well. Next time we’re definitely trying their Bone-in Fillet.

Sweets

Finally, although we had to pack up half our dinner to go, we couldn’t leave without trying dessert. Our waiter could not have suggested better desserts for us because we both closed our eyes with the first bite! We ordered Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie which was Peanut Butter Mousse with a Bittersweet Chocolate Ganache.

Needless to say, both of us were extremely satisfied with the entire date night at Ocean Prime Indianapolis. We’re thinking of going back for their Father’s Day special or possible their Summer Fridays!

Dishes served during Happy Hour can be found here. For couples looking for a quick, weeknight date, it is always a great option as all small plates in the Lounge are offered for half off, Monday – Friday from 4 – 7 p.m.

Steak and Eggs Father’s Day Brunch: Brunch will be served from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. as well as its regular dinner menu throughout Father’s Day (June 16). Reservations can be secured at www.ocean-prime.com/reservations or by calling 317.569.0975.

A BIG thank you to Ocean Prime and their fabulous staff for having us in. We hope to see you soon!

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by Shelly on April 27, 2019 1 Comment

Summer Events at the Indiana State Museum

Summer Events at the Indiana State Museum- If you’ve ran out of time to book summer camps and are still looking for some fun activities this summer, here is a great list of activities going on at the Indiana State Museum. If you haven’t been to ISM in a couple years, it’s totally changed. There are enough family friendly exhibits to fill your entire day, not to mention all of the extra events going on throughout the year. Check out this list and see what inspires your family to get out and explore Indiana!

Summer Events at the Indiana State Museum

It’s About Time: The Art of Felrath Hines – open June 22 through Sept. 29

Discover the life and incredible art from Hoosier artist Felrath Hines, who graduated from Crispus Attucks High School and attended Saturday youth art classes at the John Herron School of Art. An abstract artist who used different shapes and colors to communicate, he also worked as an art conservator and restored noted artist Georgia O’Keeffe’s paintings. Explore interactives, listen to the jazz that inspired Hines and try your hand at creating an artwork with colorful shapes.

Hoosier Salon – open Aug. 2 through Oct. 13

Enjoy artworks from Hoosier artists from around the state in what’s considered to be the preeminent juried exhibition of Indiana art at the 95th annual Hoosier Salon.

Little Learners at Indiana State Museum childrens program

May

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

Little Learners: Artful Play (ages 3-5)

9:45 to 11:30 a.m., May 7
$8/members, $10/non-members; free for children younger than age 3
Bring your littlest ones to a class where they’ll be inspired by art and create their own masterpieces. Children must be accompanied by an adult, younger siblings welcome.

Small Wonders: Plants & Seeds (ages 3-5)

10 to 11 a.m., May 8 & May 11
$9/members, $12/non-members
Bring your little one to learn, play and discover in the museum. This month, your child will explore nature with the help of leaf prints, create seed balls and more. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Young Explorers: Transportation (ages 4-6)

1 to 2:30 p.m., May 11
$10/members, $13/non-members
Drop your child off at a class to encourage creativity, exploration independence in an environment that fosters curiosity and imagination. This month, your child will explore different transportation, from Indy cars to airplanes. Children may attend on their own.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Homeschool Tuesdays: Abstract Art Extravaganza (ages 6-13)

9:30 to 11:30 a.m., May 7
$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, students will explore abstract art and create their own masterpiece.

Batik Fabric DIY (ages 5-12)

10 to 11:30 a.m., May 11
$15/members, $20/non-members
Be inspired by the vibrant clothing in Color of Style, then decorate your own piece of fabric in the ancient batik style. Use beautiful symbols to create an intricate print to represent your own personality.

PUBLIC PROGRAMS

Family Discovery Day: Gardening

10 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 11
Included with purchase of general admission
Gardening season is right around the corner! Meet local experts and get some tips from the pros on how to get the most out of your own garden. Discover key ingredients to great soil, and make seed bombs and paper pots to take home.

Color, Style and Tea

2 to 4 p.m., May 11
$15/members, $20/non-members, plus purchase of any menu items
Hear from the museum’s textile conservator as she talks about the fashions in Color of Style, all while enjoying a delicious lunch in the L.S. Ayres Tea Room™. Then, take an exclusive tour of the experience and hear the personal stories behind the clothing.

Cardboard 500 Indy 500 event at the Indiana State Museum — Cardboard 500

New Event: Cardboard 500

9 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 18
$50/team (2-5 youth members, plus 2 adults)
This race season, join the newest spectacle in racing. In Cardboard Alley, families will compete to design and build a cardboard body atop a pre-built push cart frame. Then, race to push your creation into the winner’s circle.

New Event: Great Chalk Out

10 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 26
$5/small sidewalk square, $10/large sidewalk square; $3/box of chalk
Get creative on the sidewalks around the museum! Create works of art and compete for prizes in the following categories: Best Family Art; Best Child Art (age 7 and younger), Best Youth Art (ages 8-15) and Best Adult Art (ages 16+). If it rains, the competition will move indoors. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org or by calling 317.232.1637, or at the door.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Atomic Movie Nights: Back to the Future (PG) (ages 21+)

7 to 10 p.m., May 2
$10/members, $12/non-members
Be a part of the conversation led by local experts as you travel through space and time to explore the unique influences these movies have had in today’s culture. Seating is first come, first serve. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org or by calling 317.232.1637, or at the door.

Eco Dyeing DIY (ages 18+)

7 to 10 p.m., May 3
$20/members, $25/non-members
Learn about eco-friendly dye techniques with items you can find in your home, supermarket or garden. Become inspired by the Color of Style, and make your own sustainably-dyed scarf to take with you.

June

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

Small Wonders: Toy Engineering (ages 3-5)

10 to 11 a.m., June 12 & June 15
$9/members, $12/non-members
Bring your little one to learn, play and discover in the museum. This month, your child will explore the creative process of toy design. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Young Explorers: Creating with Color (ages 4-6)

1 to 2:30 p.m., June 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 explore colors and textiles, creating their own designs. Children may attend on their own.

Canal Nights at Indiana State Museum family event

PUBLIC PROGRAMS

Signature Event: Canal Nights

6 to 8 p.m., June 5, 12, 19, 26
Free
Celebrate summer nights on the canal with free activities and family fun, Wednesday evenings in June and July. This month, explore color, nature, chemistry and more during different themed nights. For all themes and activities, visit indianamuseum.org/canal-nights.

New Event: Flair in the Air Kite Fest

10 a.m. to 5 p.m., June 15
Included with purchase of general admission
Is it a bird, or a plane? No, it’s Kite Fest! Visit with local kite groups, check out kite displays and borrow one of our small kites to set soaring for yourself. For a challenge, join a kite building workshop and create your own kite. Additional cost of $2-10 for kite workshops.

Courageous Conversations

6:30 to 8 p.m., June 27
$5/person, $2/student with student ID
Join your neighbors to talk about contemporary community topics in this moderated discussion. Explore the challenges that contemporary African American artists face. This program is for high school-aged students and adults. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org or by calling 317.232.1637, or at the door.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Mats and Mastodons (ages 18+)

6:15 to 7:15 a.m. & 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., June 6 & 20; 1:15 to 2:15 p.m., June 15
$10/members, $12/non-members
Bring your own mat and relax with yoga at the museum. Each session, meet at the Indiana obelisk and move to different areas of the museum to take in the skyline, sunrise or view of the canal. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org or by calling 317.232.1637, or at the door.
New Event: Techno-Color (ages 21+)

8 to 11 p.m., June 28
Presale tickets: $45/members, $50/non-members; At the door tickets: $55/members, $60/non-members
Get ready for a color explosion at this adults-only, after-hours event that’s all about style, bold colors and fashion. Come dressed in your most vibrant outfit and take selfies galore in front of photo ops outside of Color of Style. Add to a mural, sip a themed cocktail and dance the night away. Ticket purchase includes one free cocktail. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org or by calling 317.232.1637, or at the door.

July

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

Small Wonders: Space Exploration (ages 3-5)

10 to 11 a.m., July 10 & 13
$9/members, $12/non-members
Bring your little one to learn, play and discover in the museum. This month, your child will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Young Explorers: Astronauts in Training (ages 4-6)

1 to 2:30 p.m., July 13
$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 launch rockets and discover planets and stars in honor of Apollo 11’s 50th anniversary. Children may attend on their own.

PUBLIC PROGRAMS

Signature Event: Canal Nights

6 to 8 p.m., July 3, 10, 17, 31
Free
Celebrate summer nights on the canal with free activities and family fun, Wednesday evenings in June and July. This month, explore fireworks, gardens, Apollo 11 and more during different themed nights. For all themes and activities, visit indianamuseum.org/canal-nights.
Family Discovery Days: Apollo 11

10 a.m. to 5 p.m., July 20
Included with purchase of general admission
Celebrate the “giant leap for mankind” on this day honoring the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11. Design and launch your own rocket, learn to land spacecraft and explore the geology of the moon. Plus, hear from local experts about our next steps into space.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Atomic Movie Nights: Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure (PG) (ages 21+)

7 to 10 p.m., July 11
$10/members, $12/non-members
Be a part of the conversation led by local experts as you travel through space and time to explore the unique influences these movies have had in today’s culture. Seating is first come, first serve. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org or by calling 317.232.1637, or at the door.

Mats and Mastodons (ages 18+)

6:15 to 7:15 a.m. & 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., July 11, July 25; 1:15 to 2:15 p.m., July 13
$10/members, $12/non-members
Bring your own mat and relax with yoga at the museum. Each session, meet at the Indiana obelisk and then move to different areas of the museum to take in the skyline, sunrise or views of the canal. Tickets can be purchased in advance at indianamuseum.org or by calling 317.232.1637, or at the door.

New Event: RESPONSE: A Celebration of Felrath Hines (ages 15+)

7 to 9:30 p.m., July 16
$5/visitors (ages 15-17); $10/members (ages 18+),$15/non-members (ages 18+)
Often, Hoosier artist Felrath Hines found inspiration from music or poetry. Honor his spirit by joining spoken word poet and multi-talented artist, Tony Styxx, along with other guest performers, as they respond to Hines’ art with their own. Then, respond yourself with painting, dance, poetry or other performances.

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.

Related Posts to Summer Events at the Indiana State Museum

Color of Style at the Indiana State Museum

by Shelly on March 17, 2019 Leave a Comment

xZooberance Festival Debuting at the Indianapolis Zoo

We’re so excited about Spring just around the corner and one of our favorite spring adventures is to head to the Indianapolis Zoo. The weather is perfect for playful animals and low crowds. This year they’ve got a fun festival in store called xZooberance that we’ll be checking out this weekend! Here are the details:

xZooberance

Debuting just in time for spring break, the Indianapolis Zoo’s brand-new festival begins March 21 and continues every Thursday through Sunday until April 7. The Zoo will be open 9am-5pm with event activities running from 10am-4pm. The cheerful spirit of the season will shine throughout the Bicentennial Pavilion, where oversized pinwheels spin in the breeze and brightly colored kites float overhead. Amid a vibrant landscape filled with larger animal-shaped topiaries and a living wall of plant life, visitors can enjoy continuous live entertainment with a changing lineup for all 12 days.

Music headliner Hiss Golden Messenger will bring their unique blend of folk, country and rock music to the main stage at 6pm March 30, with the Jai Baker 3 opening at 5pm. The Zoo will stay open late for this special concert so that guests can dance into the evening hours.

Additionally, the festival main stage will host local acts like Dance Kaleidoscope, Dumpster Drummers, Cathy Morris and more. At The Perch, guests can interact with storytellers, meet chickens, learn about nature and create their own musical sounds.

Food & Beverage

Nearby in the Cheer Garden, guests can unwind and sample specialty food items, like Bavarian pretzels, kettle chips and picnic snacks, plus craft beer, wine and kid-friendly refreshments. Extra activities like animal-inspired yoga and a sculpture scavenger hunt will have guests moving all over the Zoo. Children will enjoy making a beautiful pinwheel craft, and guests can even create spring-themed enrichment for the Zoo’s animals.

Adding xZOOberance in with moderate seasonal temperatures, active animals and the return of the Zoo’s seasonal exhibit, Butterfly Kaleidoscope presented by Citizens Energy Group, makes spring an ideal time of year to visit the Zoo. Plus, xZOOberance attendees will be among the first to experience the new dolphin presentation, which introduces audiences to the Zoo’s pod as well as Central Indiana families who are taking simple steps to help dolphins in the wild.

Best of all, xZOOberance as well as the other exhibits and activities are all free for Zoo members and included with regular admission. Guests are encouraged to save time and money by planning their visit in advance at IndianapolisZoo.com

About the Indianapolis Zoo
The Indianapolis Zoo empowers people and communities, both locally and globally, to advance animal conservation. Located in White River State Park downtown, the Indianapolis Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Alliance of Museums as a zoo, aquarium and botanical garden. Visit IndianapolisZoo.com

by Shelly on November 8, 2018 Leave a Comment

Macaron Bar Downtown Indianapolis

Macaron Bar Downtown Indianapolis- There’s a new sweet shop on Mass Ave nestled right in between The Flying Cupcake and Sub Zero. Mass Ave is now your one stop shop for ice cream, cupcakes, chocolates and now macarons! This place is darling with a shop to buy macarons up front and a kitchen in back where you can see them make macarons.

Macaron Bar

Macaron Bar opened originally in Cincinnati in 2014 but has since expanded to Louisville Pennsylvania and Indy. The Indy location I visited had pastry chef Nathan (co-owner) demonstrating how to make macarons. Nathan has a B.S. from Xavier University and is a Cincinnati native. He has a passion for baking and is well versed in the pastry arts. He has studied pastry with a focus on macarons at The Gourmandise School in Santa Monica, California, and studied privately at several of the finest macaron shops in New York and Los Angeles. The ‘pièce de résistance’ of his training was a macarons master class at Ecole Lenôtre in Paris, France.

Offerings

At the blogger event I attended we were able to learn the delicacies of macaron making and why they’re so highly coveted. The Macaron Bar gives classes throughout the year for adults as well as children 8-12. They’ve also got champagne pairing classes and macaron decorating classes. If you can’t get enough macarons you can sign up for a subscription or order an entire tower for your next upcoming wedding or baby shower. They have standard basic flavors such as chocolate, vanilla and pistacio but they also rotate out seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice, hazelnut praline, eggnog and gingerbread.

If you’d like to learn how to make these decadent treats, book here.

For a tasty treat, the Macaron Bar Indy is located at 425 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN, 46204, open:

Monday – Thursday: 12 pm – 9 pm
Friday: 11 am – 10 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 10 pm
Sunday: 11 am – 8 pm

Be sure to check them out on Instagram for local updates and seasonal flavor additions: Macaron Bar on Instagram and like them on Facebook!

Thanks so much for stopping by! And thank you to the Macaron Bar for having me!

Check out other hot spots around Indy:

Indy is the new Chicago for Holiday Shopping

Kids and Art Galleries| It’s Fun!

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by Shelly on November 1, 2018 Leave a Comment

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.

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.

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.