Indianapolis, December 5, 2025
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is preparing to mark its 100th anniversary in 2025, highlighted by a grand Birthday Bash event. The year-long celebration includes special exhibits, community engagement initiatives, and a collection campaign for local food pantries. The museum’s transformation from a local institution to the largest children’s museum in the world signifies its vital role in fostering curiosity and education among children. Visitors are invited to participate in the festivities and support community service efforts throughout the year.
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is poised to celebrate a remarkable milestone—its 100th anniversary in 2025. This occasion marks not only a century of fostering curiosity and learning among children but also showcases the enduring strength of local institutions in the realm of civic engagement. As the largest children’s museum in the world, it exemplifies how proactive community leadership and reduced bureaucratic obstacles can enhance event coordination and community participation.
Throughout 2025, the museum will host an exciting lineup of special events and exhibits culminating in a grand Birthday Bash on December 6. By inviting the public to join in the festivities, the museum aims to unite the community in celebrating a cherished local institution that has inspired generations and fostered a love of learning among children and families alike.
Centennial Birthday Bash
On December 6, 2025, the Children’s Museum will culminate its centennial celebrations with a Birthday Bash featuring a variety of immersive activities, special giveaways, and even a giant birthday card for visitors to sign. The event is included with regular museum admission and will conclude at 3 p.m. Additionally, visitors can create an exclusive Centennial Photo Frame at The Museum Store, which can be personalized with family photos and museum-themed charms, available for $15 per frame. In a thoughtful gesture of community support, the museum will also collect shelf-stable birthday cake ingredients to distribute to local food pantries, with collection bins located in the Welcome Center. Donations can be made up until the day of the event.
Year-Long Centennial Celebrations
The celebrations commenced on December 31, 2024, with a Countdown to Noon event filled with engaging activities that highlight the museum’s historical journey. This year will see introduction of several limited-time experiences, designed to engage children and families in unique and educational ways.
- Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: The Exhibit (February 22 – September 1, 2025): An interactive exhibit featuring themed activities from the popular children’s show.
- Centennial Ferris Wheel (March 15 – November 2, 2025): A towering 12-story Ferris wheel offering unparalleled views of the museum grounds and downtown Indianapolis.
- Afrofuturism in Costume (March 22, 2025): An exhibit showcasing the innovative designs of Hollywood costume designer Ruth E. Carter, recognized for her work in films like “Black Panther.”
Community Engagement and Giving Back
The museum’s centennial provides a platform for significant community engagement through a campaign that aims to collect 5,000 birthday cake kits for local food pantries. This initiative seeks to bring joy to children celebrating their birthdays by providing essential items like cake mix, candles, and icing. The museum encourages visitors to contribute by donating these items at the Welcome Center throughout the year, culminating on December 6.
Historical Milestones
Founded on December 5, 1925, by local visionary Mary Stewart Carey and a small group of community members, the Children’s Museum has evolved from humble beginnings into a renowned educational resource. Its growth over the years includes the expansion of its exhibits and facilities, with noteworthy additions such as the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience in 2018, solidifying its place as a premier destination for family fun and learning.
Conclusion
In celebrating its 100th anniversary, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis not only reflects on its rich history but also reinforces the importance of community involvement and support in fostering local culture. As these centennial events unfold, the museum continues to serve as a beacon of civic pride and a testament to the power of education in empowering the next generation. Local residents are encouraged to participate in the celebrations and to support initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis celebrating?
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025.
When is the Birthday Bash event?
The Birthday Bash is scheduled for December 6, 2025, and is included with regular museum admission.
How can I participate in the birthday cake kit donation campaign?
Visitors can donate items such as boxes of cake mix, birthday candles, and 16 oz containers of icing at the museum’s Welcome Center. The final day to donate items is December 6, 2025.
What special exhibits are part of the centennial celebrations?
Special exhibits include Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: The Exhibit (February 22 – September 1, 2025), Centennial Ferris Wheel (March 15 – November 2, 2025), and Afrofuturism in Costume (March 22, 2025).
How can I get more information about the museum’s centennial events?
For more information on the museum’s centennial events and exhibits, visit their official website.
Key Features of the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis’ 100th Anniversary Celebrations
| Event/Exhibit | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Birthday Bash | December 6, 2025 | A grand celebration featuring immersive activities, special giveaways, and a giant birthday card for visitors to sign. Included with regular museum admission. |
| Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: The Exhibit | February 22 – September 1, 2025 | An interactive exhibit based on the popular children’s show, featuring themed activities and characters. |
| Centennial Ferris Wheel | March 15 – November 2, 2025 | A 12-story-tall Ferris wheel offering unique views of the museum grounds and downtown Indianapolis. Tickets are $6 for museum members and $8 for non-members. |
| Afrofuturism in Costume | March 22, 2025 | An exhibit showcasing the work of Hollywood costume designer Ruth E. Carter, known for her contributions to films like “Black Panther.” |
| Birthday Cake Kit Donation Campaign | Throughout 2025 | A campaign to collect 5,000 birthday cake kits for local food pantries, aiming to spread joy to children on their birthdays. Visitors can donate items at the museum’s Welcome Center. |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
