Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra brings back beloved tradition with new Symphony in the Parks Series

This summer, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) reintroduces a cherished tradition with its new Symphony in the Parks series, a nod to the orchestra’s history of performing in parks across the city.

This new initiative launches with two free concerts in July: Garfield Park on July 8 and Rock the Ruins at Holliday Park on July 9, both beginning at 6:30 p.m. The Symphony in the Parks concerts are supported by the Margot L. Eccles Arts & Culture Fund, a fund of the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF).

“Bringing music to our community has always been part of the ISO’s mission,” CEO James Johnson said. “With Symphony in the Parks, we’re not just starting something new – we’re reconnecting with our roots and making world-class music more accessible to communities across Indianapolis.”

Garfield Park
Tuesday, July 8
6:30 p.m.

The MacAllister Amphitheater at Garfield Park, 2432 Conservatory Drive, Indianapolis, will once again come alive with the sounds of timeless classics and popular favorites as families, friends, and neighbors gather for a relaxed evening of music under the stars. Gates open at 5 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnics for the perfect summer night out. Some fixed seating is available.

Holliday Park
Wednesday, July 9
6:30 p.m.

In partnership with Rock the Ruins, the ISO will perform amid the stunning natural beauty and historic ruins of Holliday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis. Entry begins at 5 p.m., and guests are advised to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and arrive early to grab a great spot.

Led by conductor Daniel Wiley, the program features a vibrant blend of beloved orchestral pieces and film favorites, including:

• Star-Spangled Banner – Smith/Damrosch

• Ruslan and Lyudmila Overture – Glinka

• Selections from Carmen – Bizet

• Moon River – Mancini

• Hoedown – Copland

• Winter/Frozen Mashup – Everly (Featuring ISO Violinist Sherry Hong)

• “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess – Gershwin/Holcombe

• La Tarantelle Frétillante – Coleridge-Taylor

• Selections from West Side Story – Bernstein

• Star Wars Main Title – Williams

Each concert is free and open to the public. Reservations are encouraged but not required for the Garfield Park concert. Reservations are required for the Holliday Park concert.

“We’re thrilled to launch this series in two of Indy’s most beloved green spaces,” Johnson said. “These concerts are about community, joy, and connection through music – we hope to see you there.”

For more information, visit indysymphony.org/parks2025.