Colors of Indianapolis - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Indianapolis (or Indy as locals informally call it) is a city, a stay in which will become a true holiday for every traveler who decides to visit it. Such factors as the friendliness of local people, interesting landmarks, and exciting festivals only add to the satisfaction of numerous guests. The city’s residents are always ready to help every tourist, so don’t be shy or scared to ask them to help. Politeness and tactfulness are among the major features of the national character, and locals expect tourists to act the same. Of course, it is necessary to follow the local rules.

“Sorry” is the most frequent word that one can hear in Indy. Local people always apologize before asking something or if, for example, bumping into someone slightly. Locals wear clothes they like, so tourists do not need to worry that their too colorful or extravagant outfit will cause problems or misunderstanding. Local people usually prefer to wear comfortable and cozy clothes. One more important feature of the local people – they always follow all the rules. Perhaps, that is connected with big fines for breaking the rules. Indeed, local fines are big.

It is hard to call festivals in Indianapolis boring. Not only numerous locals but also travelers from other countries enjoy visiting them. Indianapolis 500 (or Indi 500) is one of the most notable events in the festival life of the city. This is an automobile race that is usually held at such a giant race track as Indianapolis Motor Speedway at the end of May. This is one of the largest events of this type in the world, not only in the United States. All preparations start approximately a month before the start of the race. This is the time for various sports and entertainment events. Participants fight for the Borg-Warner Trophy that gives not only a monetary prize but also honor to the winner. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Vintage Indiana Wine & Food Fest, which is held at the beginning of June, offers all visitors to try authentic local cuisine and enjoy fabulous wine. Besides that, it is a great opportunity to participate in interesting master-classes and learn how to choose wine and various products needed to cook classical American cuisine. The festival’s atmosphere is a family-like because of cordial performances of numerous musicians who play different music, such as jazz, indie rock, and blues. The event is held at Military Park.

The end of June is the time for Eiteljorg Indian Market in Indianapolis. This is an event dedicated to the culture of Native Americans. This is one of the largest festivals of this kind in the States. It is a wonderful place to learn more about the culture of Native Americans. There are participants not only from the States but also from Canada. During Eiteljorg Indian Market, visitors can watch interesting dancing and music performances, participate in master classes, and attend a fair trade with artworks. Traditional crafts, ceramics, sculptures, and paintings – there are all these and many more items made by skilled Native American masters and available for sale during the festival. The festival is held at Eiteljorg Museum.

Indy Film Fest starts at the end of April and ends at the beginning of May. It is a wonderful opportunity to watch talented films and see the newest films among first. Music genres are absolutely different – comedies, drama, tragedies. In short, everything that a film fan wants. Both short films and full-length films participate in the festival. The festival takes place in different cinemas of the city. There is a special program on Fridays. As a rule, the total length of the participating films is around 48 hours.

In August, Indiana Farmers Coliseum becomes a venue of another amazing festival, Indiana State Fair. The event starts at the beginning of May and ends in the middle of the month. This is the time when people of all ages and with various interests will easily find something exciting that fits their taste. Without a doubt, it is an excellent chance to get acquainted with the local culture. That said, visitors can do that by trying local food at the end of July, when the city hosts another interesting festival called Taste of Indy. This event is usually held at Monument Circle. Besides the gastronomic program, numerous concerts and family-oriented activities await guests of the festival.

This is also the time for Hendricks County Rib Fest together with Avon Balloon Glow. It is one more event for the whole family that includes music, games, a fair trade, and fireworks. The entrance to the festival is free. The location is usually the same - Kingsway Christian Church and the adjacent area. The beginning of August is the time for another popular festival, Zionsville Street Dance. For the event, Main Street in Zionsville becomes an arena for everyone who likes dancing. Moreover, this event is a wonderful opportunity to try signature local food, locally brewed beer, and wine. There is a special playground for children.