Indianapolis is set for a dynamic mid-July celebration, merging the 2025 WNBA All‑Star Weekend with the Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration. From July 11 to 20, the Black Expo’s Summer Celebration brings ecumenical services, gospel performances, an educational conference on July 17, and a closing Gospel Explosion. Beginning July 18, the WNBA All‑Star Weekend takes over with high-energy basketball and entertainment.
The All‑Star Weekend kicks off July 18 with the WNBA 3‑Point Contest and Kia Skills Challenge inside Gainbridge Fieldhouse, leading up to the headline AT&T WNBA All‑Star Game on July 19 at 8:30 p.m., televised on ABC. Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Minnesota’s Napheesa Collier, the top fan vote recipients, will captain the two teams.
Meanwhile, Fever Fest—an inaugural all-star concert and comedy festival—takes place July 19 at Everwise Amphitheatre (White River State Park), featuring performances from The Kid Laroi, G-Eazy, Cedric the Entertainer, Leslie Jones, and a stand-up debut from Indiana Fever’s Sydney Colson.
The Black Expo event has a strong community focus. Over $1 million in grants are being distributed to four local nonprofits, along with support for women entrepreneurs through business certifications and wellness programming like free Zumba classes citywide.
Indiana leaders are emphasizing both celebration and safety. Law enforcement—including IMPD, Indiana State Police, and federal agencies—will boost presence downtown. IMPD Chief Chris Bailey is urging calm among the tens of thousands expected, while Mayor Joe Hogsett and Pacers Sports & Entertainment work to ensure peace throughout summer.
A variety of official and fan-focused events will be held citywide: WNBA Live at the Convention Center (July 18–19) featuring player meet-and-greets, panels, merch, and interactive games; pop-up art markets, cultural installations, walking tours, and family‑friendly activities like the WNBA All-Star Bounce for youths. Public transit will be enhanced—IndyGo bus routes are free, and Pacers Bikeshare is discounted to help fans navigate downtown safely and conveniently.
This combined celebration of sports, culture, and community exemplifies Indianapolis’ ambition to shine as both a major host city and blueprint for inclusive event planning. With basketball’s brightest stars on court, gospel reverberating across venues, grants fostering local impact, and safety measures in full effect, the city is delivering an unforgettable experience—with heart, unity, and purpose at its core.
