Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra brings back beloved tradition with new Symphony in the Parks Series
INDIANAPOLIS – This summer, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra proudly 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 proudly 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,” said CEO James Johnson. “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 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 5:00 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnics for the perfect summer night out. Some fixed seating is available.
Location: 2432 Conservatory Drive / Indianapolis, IN 46203
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. Entry begins at 5 p.m., and guests are advised to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and arrive early to grab a great spot.
Location: 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260
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,” said Johnson. “These concerts are about community, joy, and connection through music—we hope to see you there.”
For more information, visit https://indysymphony.org/parks2025.
About the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, at home and thriving in the heart of Indianapolis, offers an exceptional artistic and musical experience. The orchestra is open to all and dedicated to creating an inclusive and innovative experiential environment that is inspiring, educational, and welcoming. The ISO celebrates historically beloved performances while engaging audiences by introducing new voices through programming including the IU Health Classical Series, the Printing Partners Pops Series, the holiday traditions of AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration and the popular Film Series presented by Bank of America. For more information, visit the ISO website.
Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
45 Monument Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Hours: M, W-F 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tues. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., and 2 hours before each performance
317-639-4300