The Athenaeum Presents: your next favorite thing!

Looking for family-friendly fun in one of the city’s most iconic historical destinations? Introducing Athenaeum Presents. Here, you’ll find one-of-a-kind experiences you’re not going to see anywhere else in the city. Our lineup of arts, history and culturally focused events are designed to engage the community and meet residents where they live: in the heart of Indy’s Mass Ave district. Explore our annual must-see favorites, and don’t miss the next big things!

March 24, 2023

Sponsored by the AAF, the American Advertising Awards honor excellence in advertising and cultivate the highest creative standards in the industry. With 60,000 entries, the American Advertising Awards are the…

Find out more »
March 25, 2023

Do you believe in ghosts? Have you dreamed of being a paranormal investigator? Are you ready to meet the spirits who've been living in our building for over 100 years?…

Find out more »
March 26, 2023

The Inner Beauty Pageant was established in 2002 by Chrystal Hines, President/CEO.  The Inner Beauty Pageant is committed to encourage and inspire young ladies to value their inner attributes in…

Find out more »
April 15, 2023

St. Benno Fest is BOCK and better than ever! Join the Athenaeum in the Rathskeller on Saturday, April 15 as they celebrate a classic German-American event over 110 years in…

Find out more »
April 15, 2023

Big Man on Campus presented by Zeta Tau Alpha Lambda Epsilon is taking place on Saturday April 15th at 7pm at the Basile Theatre at the Historic Athenaeum in Indianapolis…

Find out more »
April 30, 2023

The Soul Lounge Band Presents: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin Indianapolis, get ready for an evening of powerhouse vocalist covering the best of Aretha Franklin’s greatest hits. This show is…

Find out more »
May 13, 2023

Cereal Cinema combines two of the best things about Saturday mornings: cereal and a great movie CARS In a world where the towns are peopled with cars, and even the…

Find out more »
June 11, 2023

We’re going hog wild! If you’ve never been to a real hog roast (or as the Germans call it...a spanferkel), now’s your chance! Help us ring in a new summer…

Find out more »
October 07, 2023

Indy's Best Haus Party Is Back! Join us on October 7 for the 15th annual GermanFest!  Again this year, we're taking GermanFest to the streets! Michigan and New Jersey Streets…

Find out more »

It’s not a place, it’s a vibe.

From a historically preserved theater and celebrated coffee shop to a chestnut-lined Biergarten and authentic German dining experience, this is a place where community gathers. For more than a century, the Athenaeum has been connected not only to the city but also to the needs of the people who call Indianapolis home. Since 1898, we’ve made it our mission to look after the physical and mental well-being of our guests, as reflected in our commitment to “sound mind in a sound body.” Today, that vision extends to showcasing everything from performing arts and musical performances to hosting game nights and film series designed to help you maintain a balanced, healthy lifestyle. It’s at the core of everything we do.

Celebrating culture. Preserving heritage.

Our generous donors, sponsors and supporters are the lifeblood of the Athenaeum Foundation. Whether it’s for operational and structural upgrades or for new events and programming, every dollar of your donation cycles back into our historic building. When it comes to preserving a century-old mission, we keep good company. Won’t you join us? Learn more about all of our giving opportunities.

Good people, doing good things.

Whether it’s a retail shop, professional service or arts organization, you’ll find the Athenaeum is a space for innovative creators and visionaries looking to make this city a better place to live, work and play. Pop in and discover the next local pioneers bringing their passion to (your) life.

Athenaeum Foundation401 EAST MICHIGAN STREET
INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46204
317.655.2755

Our Mission

The Athenaeum Foundation preserves a treasured historic landmark that welcomes all to nurture a sound mind and a sound body through arts & culture, wellness and community.

The Athenaeum Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization.