Proof Lit Fest Returns to Indianapolis With Free Family Fun and Midwest Storytelling
- Natalie Frank
- Sep 27
- 2 min read
Literature lovers of all ages will find inspiration, creativity, and connection at Indiana Humanities’ second annual festival
Natalie C. Frank, Ph.D September 27, 2025
INDIANAPOLIS - This fall, Indianapolis will once again bring together readers, writers, and families who value stories rooted in the Midwest. Indiana Humanities is returning with Proof: A Midwest Lit Fest for its second edition on October 10–11, offering a lineup of free events that celebrate the written word in all its forms.
Organizers promise a weekend that mixes serious literary talks with playful activities for kids and families. The festival is open to the public and free; register at events.humanitix.com/proof2025.
A Literary Weekend for Everyone
Most events will take place at The Harrison Center, 1505 N. Delaware Street, with nearby spots—including Indiana Humanities, Loudmouth Books, the Indianapolis Propylaeum, and Foundry Provisions—hosting special programs.
Expect a lively book fair with independent booksellers, readings by local and regional authors, and panels exploring what makes the Midwest fertile ground for storytelling. Writers can connect directly with publishers and literary magazine editors, and community mixers will bring creators and readers together.
Hands-On Activities for Families
Highlights include family-friendly programs that make literature interactive and fun. At Mapping Memories: A Family Write-In with author Katherine Higgs-Coulthard, families will create neighborhood maps, mark meaningful local landmarks, and craft collaborative stories. That session runs October 11 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in the Harrison Center’s Underground space.
Children can explore visual storytelling at a Zine-Making Workshop hosted by Listen to Our Future on October 11 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Indianapolis Propylaeum. After reading Listen to Our Future: Toy Drive, participants will design and build their own zines, mixing art and narrative to tell stories in their own voice.
