From June 6 through Sept. 27, 2026, SPARK on the Circle will once again transform the northwest quadrant of Monument Circle into a free, welcoming, and art-filled public gathering space in the heart of Downtown Indianapolis.
Open daily from 11 a.m. until dusk, SPARK offers shaded seating, free games like ping-pong and chess, artist workshops and activations, live music performances, public art experiences, and opportunities to gather with others while spending time Downtown.
New offerings in 2026 include an expanded food and beverage experience through a partnership with Coat Check Coffee. Hanger Coffee presented by Coat Check Coffee at the Athenaeum, will operate the container café, serving coffee, soft drinks, and — during select hours — alcoholic beverages. Hanger Coffee will also partner with local businesses throughout the season to offer food for purchase. Additional programming includes the Lunch & Learn series, taking place on Tuesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. through Aug. 4. Hosted by Downtown Indy Alliance President & CEO Taylor Schaffer, the series features conversations with leaders from local nonprofit organizations. A partnership with the Athenaeum also brings Yoga with Turner Gym to the Circle on Tuesday mornings from 8 to 8:45 a.m. SPARK Happy Hour will take place on Thursday evenings, with local DJs providing music in a relaxed after-work atmosphere and beverages available for purchase from Hanger Coffee.
Returning favorites at SPARK on the Circle include the Wagon of Wonders, the Postcard Project, interactive games, blue play blocks for kids, and relaxing places to sit and spend time on Monument Circle. Free artist activations and creative workshops will continue throughout the season, along with Lunch Break Live! presented by Lake City Bank, which returns on Wednesdays with performances by local musicians from noon to 1 p.m. The Original Farmers’ Market will also return to the south half of Monument Circle on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Whether you live or work Downtown, or are visiting for a special event, SPARK offers a place to gather, relax, and connect. Accessible by foot, bicycle, public transit, or car, the space is designed for people of all ages from Indianapolis and beyond.
SPARK on the Circle is an ongoing partnership between Big Car Collaborative, Downtown Indy Alliance, and the City of Indianapolis Department of Metropolitan Development, in cooperation with Indiana War Memorials.
Find upcoming events here, and follow @SparkPlaces on Instagram for updates throughout the season.
