2023 Summer Indianapolis Concerts | Free or Cheap Music for Families

Written by Jessica Deubner, with contributions from Ashley Dykton and Sara Keller

Indianapolis concerts on warm summer days are the perfect opportunity to take in some of the best local music that our area has to offer. Pack up your chairs and check out a multitude of shows throughout the city. One of the best parts is that most of these events are free (or very inexpensive).

Indianapolis Concerts Summer 2023

Clowes Lawn Concert Series

Clowes Hall at Butler University, 4602 Sunset Ave., Indianapolis

Unconfirmed for 2023. The 2022 season was announced in mid-June.

Head to the lawn outside Clowes Memorial Hall for free Thursday night Indianapolis concerts. Each of the six weekly concerts is free to attend and will be another platform for local artists of multiple genres. There will also be food trucks on-site, along with beer and wine sales, and coolers are welcome as well.

Fridays at the Fort

Fort Ben Cultural Campus, 8920 Otis Ave, Lawrence

Concerts are on Fridays, June 16 & 30, July 14, and August 11 & 25, from 6-9 pm.

Fridays at the Fort is sure to be a blast to check out this summer. These free Indianapolis concerts include live music, a beer tent, food trucks, and even some activities for the kids.

Indiana Historical Society: Concerts on the Canal

450 W. Ohio St, Indianapolis

Concerts are on Thursdays, June 1-July 27, from 6-8 pm.

The Indiana Historical Society really knows how to throw a free concert. Grab a grassy spot on the canal to relax and listen to music ranging from jazz to rock ‘n’ roll to blues at one of these Indianapolis concerts. Parking at the Historical Society is free but fills up quickly, so get there early. Street parking is also available (be sure to pay the meter!). Food trucks and drinks are available for purchase as well as tables for 4- or 8-person groups. Another added benefit is that the Historical Society is also free on concert days, so head inside to check out the exhibits and get a break from the heat.

Garfield Park Biergarten

2505 Conservatory Dr, Indianapolis

Concerts are on Thursdays, May 18, June 8, July 20, August 17, and September 21, from 5:30-7:30 pm.

Enjoy a beautiful evening under the Pagoda in the park with the Garfield Brewery. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Outside food and drinks are not permitted. These are family-friendly Indianapolis concerts.

Garfield Park MacAllister Amphitheater Series

2425 Conservatory Dr, Indianapolis

Pops Series concerts are on Wednesdays, May 31-September 6 (except June 14), at 7 pm.

Alt Indy Series concerts are on Thursdays, June-August (except June 15), at 7 pm.

Indianapolis Parks and Recreation presents an extensive lineup of jazz, orchestral, contemporary, and popular music throughout the summer at Garfield Park. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs to enjoy free music twice a week. Mark your calendar for the free Garfield Park Art and Music Festival on August 12 from 4-9 pm.

Riverside Park Taggart Amphitheater

1856 Burdsal Pkwy, Indianapolis

Monumental Series concerts are on Thursdays and Fridays, June 1-2, 8, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30, July 6 & 13, August 10, 17-18, 24-25, 31, and September 1, 7, 22, & 29, at 7:30 pm.

Gospel Series concerts are on Sundays, June 18, July 2, August 20, and September 3, at 4 pm.

Riverside Park’s Monumental Concert Series hosted by Indianapolis Parks and Recreation features new and varied music two nights every week. The Gospel Series promises a unique experience in the city one Sunday each month, June-September.

Broad Ripple Park Original Music Series

1426 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis

Concerts are on Fridays, June 16, July 7 & 28, and August 18, at 7 pm.

The June 16 Songwriters Circle performance will be held in the Family Center. All other performances in this free series will be at the Main Shelter. Enjoy four chances throughout the summer to listen to live music in Broad Ripple Park, courtesy of Indianapolis Parks and Recreation.

Martin Luther King Jr. Park Main Pavilion

1702 Broadway St, Indianapolis

Concerts are on Fridays, June 9 & 30, July 21, and August 11, at 7 pm.

Pack the lawn chairs and a picnic and plan to enjoy free music at Martin Luther King Jr. Park on these four summer nights.

Watkins Park Main Shelter

2360 Doctor M.L.K. Jr St, Indianapolis

Concerts are on Sundays, June 11, July 9, August 13, and September 10, at 5 pm.

Get in one last free weekend concert before the workweek begins at Watkins Park Main Shelter. Live music begins a bit earlier than most other summer concerts — note the 5 pm start time!

Eagle Creek Park Beach

7602 Eagle Beach Dr, Indianapolis

In Concert With Nature is on Wednesdays, May 31, June 14 & 28, July 12 & 26, and August 9 & 23, at 6:30 pm.

Jazz at the Beach is on Wednesdays, June 7 & 21, July 5, and August 2, 16, & 30, at 6:30 pm.

All the concerts at Eagle Creek are on Wednesdays, but two separate concert series will be alternating throughout the summer. Relax at the beach with a free midweek concert most weeks from June through August. Please note that you will need to pay the current entry fee for Eagle Creek Park, which is $5 per car for Marion County residents and $6 per car for non-residents.

Bartholomew County Summer Concerts

Columbus: Salute!

234 Washington Street, Columbus

May 26 from 7-9 pm.

This event features a free pops concert from the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic. It is located at the Bartholomew County Veterans Memorial and will be a salute to those who have served or are serving in the United States Armed Forces.

Boone County Summer Concerts

ZCD Summer Concert Series

June-July: Lions Park, 115 S. Elm Street, Zionsville
August: Lincoln Park, 41 S 2nd Street, Zionsville

Concerts are on Wednesdays, June-August, at 7 pm. Mr. Daniel performances begin at 6:30 at each June-July event.

Mr. Daniel is a favorite for kids and is an excellent way to introduce them to what an outdoor concert is like. Mr. Daniel will be coming to Zionsville Lions Park to play before the Zionsville Cultural District Summer Concerts in June and July. Come out to dance and sing along with the fun upbeat music, then stick around for a show for the whole family.

Whitestown Summer Concert Series

Whitestown Municipal Complex, 6210 Veterans Drive, Whitestown

Concerts are on Fridays, June 2-July 28, doors open at 6 pm and music begins at 7 pm.

Whitestown is once again hosting their summer concert series and this is one to be sure to check out. Located at the Whitestown Municipal Complex, this event features music, food vendors, and a pop-up park for the kids. This is definitely going to be a fun time!

Hamilton County Summer Concerts

Family Concert Series at the Gazebo

1 Civic Square, Carmel

Concerts are on Wednesdays, June-September, from 7-9 pm.

This concert series encourages families to enjoy the arts and culture of their local community. Bring your chairs and get there early to find a spot around the gazebo to listen to some great tunes. It is also recommended that you bring a picnic dinner.

Midtown Music Mondays

Midtown Plaza, 340 1st Ave SW, Carmel

Concerts are on Mondays, May-October, from 5-7 pm.

Midtown Plaza is a lively place to hang out any day of the week, but Mondays throughout the summer and fall have the added benefit of live music! Catch a concert on the Main Stage while playing ping pong, pool, or corn hole, or just relaxing on one of the bench swings. Grab food and drinks from SunKing or one of the other restaurants surrounding the plaza. Bring the kids in swimsuits so they can splash in the fountains located on the Monon within sight of the stage.

Summer Concert Series at Clay Terrace

The lawn at Clay Terrace between Kona Grill and US 31, 14390 Clay Terrace Boulevard Suite 165, Carmel

Concerts are on Thursdays, June 15-July 20, from 6-9 pm.

This popular series at Clay Terrace returns for another season. Get ready to dance and have some fun with all the activities and vendors. There is something for everyone here: face painting for the kids, bar service for the adults, a pet zone for your favorite dog, and tasty treats for all. Varying food trucks will be on site each evening, or guests are encouraged to order take-out from on of Clay Terrace’s restaurants to enjoy on the lawn.

Cool Creek Concert Series

Cool Creek Park, 2000 E. 151st Street, Carmel

Concerts are on Fridays, June 23 & 30, July 7 & 28, and August 4 & 11, doors open at 6 pm and music begins at 7 pm.

Not only will you be able to listen to great music at Cool Creek Park, but you will also have access to fun family-engaging activities in the kid zone. Food and beverage vendors are offered on the concert grounds, but outside food is allowed as well. Adults are $5 and children under the age of 12 are free. Bringing a group? Buy five pre-sale tickets for the same concert and get one free!

Music at the Market

Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, 6 Municipal Drive, Fishers

Concerts are on Farmer’s Market Saturdays, May-September, from 8 am-12 pm.

Saxony, 13578 E. 131st St, Fishers

Concerts are on Farmer’s Market Wednesdays, June-August, from 4:30-7:30 pm

Summer brings farmers market season and Fishers provides two opportunities throughout the week to purchase fresh produce and enjoy the sounds of summer. Bring along a blanket and when you are done shopping, enjoy some live music!

Free Tuesdays at Nickel Plate District Amphitheater

Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, 6 Municipal Drive, Fishers

Concerts are on Tuesdays, June-July, at 7 pm (July 4 show begins at 8 and is followed by fireworks).

The NPD Amphitheater hosts performers for paid concerts throughout the summer, but Tuesdays are reserved for totally free community entertainment. Pack a picnic or purchase refreshments from vendors on-site. Don’t forget your lawn chairs or blanket!

Noblesville Parks and Recreation Summer Concerts

Dillon Park, 6351 Midland Lane, Noblesville

Concerts are on Thursdays, June 8-July 20, at 7 pm

On Thursdays in June and July, Noblesville Parks and Recreation invites you out to see incredible live music. Each evening at Dillon Park promises to be exciting with amazing local talent taking the stage.

Concerts at the Commons

Federal Hill Commons 175 Logan Street, Noblesville

Concerts are on Saturdays, June 10 & 24, July 8 & 15, August 12 & 26, and September 9 & 23, from 7-10 pm.

Concerts at the Commons feature musicians paying tribute to famous performers and bands from a variety of genres. Each event also includes a different opening act you won’t want to miss.

Jams at the Junction

Grand Junction Plaza, 225 S Union St, Westfield

Concerts are on Fridays, June 2 & 9, July 14 & 21, August 25, and September 1 & 8, at 7 pm.

Head to Westfield for these free summer concerts on the Great Lawn at Grand Junction Plaza. Outside food is allowed, and blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged.

Spencer Farm Winery

7015 E 161st Street, Noblesville

Concerts are held on weekends throughout the summer, times vary.

Spend a weekend afternoon or evening relaxing at Spencer Farm Winery. The lineup is slowly being rolled out, but you can expect family-friendly live performances most Fridays-Sundays. Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are welcome, but wine and cider must be purchased from the winery.

Hancock County Summer Concerts

Daniel’s Vineyard Summer Concert Series

9061 N 700 W, McCordsville

Concerts are on Fridays, June-September, from 7-10 pm.

Join Daniel’s Family Vineyard and Winery for an unforgettable summer concert series under the stars and beside the vines. Enjoy wine, pizzas, and a wonderful evening with friends and family. Concerts start at 7 pm, and you can arrive for seating as early as 6 pm. Tickets are rain or shine. Valet Service is available for purchase in advance.

Depot Street Park Concerts

Depot Street Park, 251 Depot St, Greenfield

Concerts are on Fridays and Saturdays, June 9, 17, & 23, July 14, 22, & 28, August 11-12 & 25-26, and September 9 & 23, beginning at 6 pm.

Fans of live music have plenty of options throughout the summer at Depot Street Park in Greenfield. With some concerts held on Fridays and others on Saturdays, everyone can find a date to fit their schedule. A variety of genres will be featured throughout the summer, ranging from bluegrass to rock to Motown.

Hendricks County Summer Concerts

West of Indianapolis, Hendricks County offers a great lineup of free summer entertainment.

Murphy Aquatic Park Free Summer Concerts

Murphy Aquatic Park, 753 S County Road 625 E, Avon

Concerts are on June 16, July 2, and August 11, from 7-9 pm.

This summer, Murphy Aquatic Park is hosting their first-ever free Summer Concert series. The July 2 concert will feature fireworks after the show. Gates for the concerts open at 6:00 pm and guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot, as space and chairs are limited. You can bring your own chairs as well. Guests will have access to the waterpark and pool for free throughout the night. No outside food and drinks will be allowed, but concessions will be available for purchase at the Compass Café and adult beverages will be served by Hoppy Vines.

Amphitheater Series

Washington Park Amphitheater, ​115 S. County Road 575, Avon

Concerts are on Fridays, July 21 and August 18, from 7-9 pm.

Enjoy live music at the Washington Park Amphitheater. Bring blankets and chairs to sit on the lawn and there will be food trucks on-site offering a variety of refreshments to purchase. The concerts are for all ages and are free to attend. The amphitheater is located at the lower end of the park by the event building and fishing pond. This area also features a covered pavilion with picnic tables and bathrooms, a splash pad, and a playground.

Summer Soundtracks

Arbuckle Acres Park, 200 N Green St, Brownsburg

Concerts are on Saturdays, June 3 and August 12, from 6-8 pm.

Town Hall Green, 61 N Green St, Brownsburg

Concerts are on Thursdays, June 29, July 27, and August 31, from 5-7 pm. 

The Town of Brownsburg Parks’ “Summer Soundtracks” free concert series includes five concerts from June through August featuring national and up-and-coming artists. Be sure to note the location of the event you’re planning to attend! Arbuckle Acres Park offers plenty of parking, a playground, and a large open space to bring chairs and blankets for lawn seating. There will also be lawn games and food and drink vendors. The concerts on the Brownsburg Town Hall Green will be held during the weekly farmer’s market. Families are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets to the concerts to enjoy the live entertainment.

Evenings in Ellis

Ellis Park Amphitheater, 600 E Main St, Danville

Concerts are on Fridays, June 9, July 14, and August 11, from 7-9 pm.

Enjoy free concerts in Danville throughout the summer at Ellis Park, made possible by Danville Parks and Recreation, the Town of Danville, and the Danville Chamber of Commerce. The Evenings in Ellis concerts offer food vendors and Indy Beer Taps will be on-site with beer and wine for purchase. Ellis Park also has a fun playground and the Gill Family Aquatic Center is nearby, which you can plan to enjoy before the concert.

Bluegrass Festival

130 East Main Street, Pittsboro

The concert is on July 8, from 2-7 pm.

The second annual Pittsboro Parks Department Bluegrass Festival will take place at Scamahorn Park and will feature three of the finest Bluegrass bands in the Midwest. This free festival will take place on July 8. Scamahorn Park also offers a playground and sports courts to enjoy as well. The event will have food trucks, area vendors, and more. More details regarding the bands and event information will be available soon.

Hummel Park Summer Concert Series

Performing Arts Center, 1500 S. Center St., Plainfield

Concerts are on Saturdays, June 3, July 22, August 26, and September 9, at 7 pm.

These concerts at Hummel Park offer free fun for the whole family and will also feature food vendors. There is a large grass field for seating more than 1,500 people, so bring chairs and blankets. The amphitheater can be accessed by crossing the bridge by the basketball courts or from Sugar Grove Road. There are plenty of parking spaces. Hummel Park offers a restroom facility by the Performing Arts Center, two separate playgrounds, sports courts, walking trails, creek stomping, and a splash pad.

Johnson County Summer Concerts

Greenwood Summer Concert Series

Greenwood Amphitheater at Craig Park, 10 E. Smith Valley Road, Greenwood

Concerts are on Saturdays, June 3-August 12 (with the exception of June 24 & July 1), at 7 pm. 

Get here early to stake out a good spot for these concerts! Bring your own food and drink or buy some goodies from the vendors. Oaken Barrel Brewing Co. and Mallow Run Winery will be on-site with all of your favorites. Food vendors will be available as well!

Mallow Run Winery Picnic Concert Series

6964 W. Whiteland Road, Bargersville

Concerts are scheduled every weekend beginning May 27-September 16.

Mallow Run is one of the most well-known summer concert locations on the south side. Every Saturday evening throughout the summer (and some Sundays as well), you can head over and enjoy live music. Be sure to check their Facebook page or website for an up-to-date list of performers. Many are free and family-friendly. Enjoy some amazing wine and food from local establishments. If you come out the weekend of June 3-4, you can experience the Mallow Run Strawberry Festival complete with strawberry wine and strawberry shortcake.

Franklin Summer Concert Series

237 W. Monroe Street, Franklin

Concerts are on various dates, May 19, June 10 & 23, July 3 & 28, and August 11 & 25, most begin at 5:30.

Located at the amphitheater at Young Creek Park, this concert series is sure to provide you with a great evening! Be sure to visit the Franklin Parks and Recreation Facebook page for each date’s specific details. Many of the concerts are in conjunction with other festivals that Franklin has to offer. Food trucks will be available for each of the concerts. The venue is within walking distance of all of the great boutiques and eateries that make downtown Franklin so memorable.

Morgan County Summer Concerts

Mooresville Free Summer Concert Series

Pioneer Park, 1101 N. Indianapolis Road, Mooresville

Concerts are on Fridays, May 19, June 9 & 23, and July 14 & 28, at 7 pm. 

Come out each month to enjoy exciting evenings of live music. These shows are completely free and food vendors will offer delicious eats for an additional price. Outside food and drinks are permitted with the exception of alcohol, and guests are encouraged to bring their own seating.

Drink at the Creek Concert Series

Cedar Creek Winery, 3820 Leonard Road, Martinsville

Concerts are on Saturdays, May 20 & 27, June 10 & 24, July 8 & 22, August 5 & 26, September 2 & 16, and October 7 & 14, at 5 pm.

This popular family-friendly series at Cedar Creek Winery keeps the music going long into autumn. Admission is $15 in advance and $20 at the gate, but children 12 and under are free. Food and beverages are available for purchase, and you can snag a season pass to enjoy the fun all summer long. Overflow parking with a free shuttle is located at Hoosier Harvest Church.

City of Martinsville Downtown Free Summer Concerts

The Courthouse Square, at the corner of Jefferson and Pike Streets, Martinsville

Concerts are on various dates, May 12 & 25, June 1, 22, & 30, July 21, and August 3 & 20, at 7:30 pm (except August 20 Christian Music Concert, 2 pm).

Admission is free at these Martinsville Concerts. Bring your own seating and take advantage of the food and drink vendors onsite, or order take-out from one of downtown Martinsville’s delicious eateries. Food vendors open one hour prior to start time.

Bicentennial Park Concert Series

2 E Main St, Mooresville

Concerts are on Saturdays, June 3, July 15, August 12, and September 9, gates open at 6 pm and music starts at 7 pm.

Enjoy a free concert each month all summer long in downtown Mooresville. Guests can bring their own food, but no outside alcohol will be permitted.

Grab some friends and plan a fun, family-friendly summer night with awesome music at one of these Indianapolis concerts. With this packed schedule of events, you can find a place to jam almost any night of the week. Get ready to sing and dance with the family all season long!

For more summer fun, check out creek stomping, public pools, or our favorite splash pads.

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