INDIANAPOLIS (June 2025) – Chicken & Beer Festival – Indianapolis returns for its 5th anniversary celebration on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at University Park in the heart of downtown. Founded by local food-tech platform EatHere, this high-energy culinary festival has featured over 45 Indiana-based food and drink vendors, live music, and thousands of attendees for a day that celebrates culture, community, and bold flavor.
Supported by organizations such as LISC Indianapolis, GangGang, and Be Nimble Co, Bank of America, Visit Indy, Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Indiana Sports Corp, the festival has grown from a grassroots concept into one of the city’s most anticipated culinary experiences—featuring minority-owned, ethnic-owned, and international chefs serving cuisines ranging from Filipino and Venezuelan to Indian and American comfort food.
“If you think this festival is about fried chicken and beer, you’re highly mistaken! It’s about challenging stereotypes, elevating diverse voices, and using food as a bridge to bring people together,” said Bradley Houser, Founder & CEO of EatHere. “For me personally, it’s an artistic expression of equity, culture, and entrepreneurship.”
Why It Matters
Independent restaurants generate over $4.5 billion annually in Indiana, making them a vital part of the state’s economy. The Chicken & Beer Festival helps keep those dollars local by spotlighting and supporting the culinary entrepreneurs who power our communities.
Indiana also ranks among the top poultry-producing states in the U.S., making it the perfect home for a fried chicken celebration that honors both flavor and agricultural heritage.
What sets this festival apart is its commitment to equity: there are no vendor fees, and 100% of sales go directly back to the participating businesses, many of which are minority- or immigrant-owned.
With over 30% of attendees traveling from cities like Miami, Atlanta, and Chicago, the festival is quickly becoming a regional tourism driver—bringing new visitors to Indianapolis and boosting visibility for local vendors.
To date, the event has generated over $530,000 in local economic activity, supporting restaurants, vendors, creatives, and the downtown hospitality ecosystem.
What to Expect This Year
- Free tastings from participating chefs during a sampling window, then buy your favorites directly
- The new “Family Style” format—focused on togetherness, shared tables, and food meant to be passed, enjoyed, and talked about
- The return of the “Hot Wing Challenge”, a crowd-favorite competition blending culinary heat with Indy’s sports spirit
- A live DJ and music lineup curated to showcase cultural talent and energy
Ticket Pricing:
- $25 Early Bird (limited supply) Available NOW
- $40 General Admission – includes 4 food tickets + 3 drink tickets
- $55 VIP – includes 5 food tickets + 4 drink tickets, plus 1-hour early access to the festival
All attendees enjoy a 2.5-hour sampling window, so come early to maximize your tastings! After the sampling period, vendors will continue selling food and drinks directly.
Below, see the full current list of participating names:
- Ale Emporium
- Joella’s Hot Chicken
- Herculean Prepared Meals
- STIX BARBEQUE
- Gip Got Tips
- Shake Shack
- City BBQ
- ClusterTruck
- That Vegan Joint
- Huge Impact
- Paul’s Kitchen
- Indi Taco
- Meats & Sweets
- Bay Area Bistro
- T Street Eatz
- Biscuit Baby
- Meats & Sweets
- LiftOff Creamery
- The Cheesecake Lady
- Tasty Treats Bakery
- Salamat Cookies
- Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream
- Sip & Share Wines
- HI & Mighty / Shake-Up
- Juice w/Jos
- Amiracle Aid Lemonade
- Tea’s Me Cafe
+more to TBA
If you’re interested in participating as a food or beverage vendor, please Sign up here.
Opportunities to Get Involved
Chicken & Beer Festival offers in-kind and paid sponsorship packages, with custom activations available for corporate partners, food brands, and local organizations. For companies seeking to engage Indianapolis residents and visitors in a high-impact, culturally relevant setting, the festival presents a uniquely valuable platform.
Bulk ticket packages are also available, ideal for corporate groups or staff outings looking to participate in a vibrant, community-driven experience.
Those interested in getting involved behind the scenes can explore volunteer opportunities by signing up here: Volunteer Form.
