Indianapolis IN 2024-25

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.

neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.

The Social Glue: Connecting Through

Chuckles

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool. Evolutionary

The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair

When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a

scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.

When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.

The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In

Restaurants

Harry & Izzy’s

Upscale steakhouse with a notable wine selection & a contemporary spin on chops, seafood & pizza.

153 S Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46225

Phone: (317) 635-9594 | Web: harryandizzys.com

Daddy Jack’s Restaurant & Bar

Time-tested haunt for seafood & steak draws a lively crowd amid intimate booths & snug tables.

9419 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46260

Phone: (317) 843-1609 | Web: jacksarebetter.net

Union 50

Buzzy bar/eatery providing an innovative American menu & local beers in industrial-chic surrounds.

620 N East St, Indianapolis, IN 46202

Phone: (317) 610-0234 | Web: union-50.com

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Mimi Blue Restaurants

A stylish meatball joint offering a variety of meat & sauce options in a chill space with a patio.

870 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN

La Chinita Poblana

Brightly hued nook with creative tacos, including vegetarian & vegan options, plus bubble tea.

906 Carrollton Ave, Indianapolis, IN

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant

A menu of traditional Ethiopian dishes served over injera in a dining room with African wall art.

825 N Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis, IN

FortyFive Degrees

Sleek, funky locale for fusioninspired Japanese plates & sushi, plus cocktails & after-dinner DJs.

765 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN

Thaitanium

Relaxed, modern Thai cafe serving classic fare & desserts with beer, wine & cocktails.

735 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN

English Ivy’s

Gay-friendly neighborhood pub serving American fare, weekend brunch & late-night bites.

944 Alabama St, Indianapolis, IN

Tomo Japanese Steakhouse

Standard Japanese steakhouse with many meat entrees & a full menu of sushi & lunch specials.

7411 N Keystone Ave # A, Indianapolis, IN

Sam’s Gyros

No-frills Middle Eastern nook dishing out generous portions of shawarma, falafel & gyros.

5404 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN

EVENTS 2024

Apr 27

International Food Festival

Join favorite food vendors from last year, along with new vendors, new entertainment, new activities, and see new restaurants and service providers on the growing Saraga International Grocery & Food Court Campus. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Apr 27 7:00pm Beastside Brewfest

Join the Historic Irvington Community Council for the six months countdown to the 78th Irvington Halloween Festival with the annual Beastside Brewfest! Come watch this brawl of breweries for Best Beer and cast your vote for Attendee Favorite. Enjoy endless samples of amazing brews from local breweries with live entertainment and food trucks. Visit visitindy.com.

May 10

Sonsio Grand Prix

The Month of May shifts into gear as the stars of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES take on the action-packed IMS road course for the Sonsio Grand Prix. Will Power and Simon Pagenaud have a history of dominating the 14-turn, 2.439-mile track, but Scott Dixon, Rinus VeeKay and Romain Grosjean are trying to dethrone the masters. Experience your favorite drivers up-close-and-personal as they try to conquer the legendary Brickyard! Learn more at visitindy.com.

May 17

Indy Pride AAPI Pride

Our mission is to to provide a safe space to represent and celebrate the intersectionality of Asian American Pacific Islander and LGBTQ+ communities. As our communities face negativity from so many angles, it is not only our mission to bring us together, but a life-giving and loving response to CELEBRATE our joys and wins. Please join us! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

EVENTS 2024

Jun 3

Deaf Pride 2024

This is a night where LGBTQ+ Deaf community members come together to celebrate their authentic selves and to also be immersed in Deaf culture together. All community members are welcome to attend. We encourage the hearing community to come to learn about and experience Deaf culture! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Jun 8

Indy

Pride Parade and Festival

Indy’s first Pride Parade featured one float, an antique truck, a few drag queens, some antique cars, and a handful of walking groups. Back then, the parade barely lasted 15 minutes. Since then, it has grown to include well over 140 floats, vehicles, and walking groups, lasting nearly 2 hours! It has become one of the largest parades in Indianapolis and a testament to the hard work of the community to ensure our equality and celebrate Pride! Learn more at visitindy.com.

Jun 29

Official Indianapolis Pride Bar Crawl

Set off on a rainbow-colored adventure of self-expression and solidarity as you explore the city’s most lively venues, all conveniently awaiting for your arrival. The charm of this festivity is in its adaptability – experience the crawl at your own pace, making each pour a moment of sheer delight. Get ready for some prideful pours as you celebrate Pride month pub crawl style! Wear your amazing colorful outfits and bar hop unlocking amazing drink specials to quench your thirst! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Jul 2

The Kid LAROI

Australian rapper and singer The Kid LAROI announced his 2024 run of dates across North America on his ‘The First Time Tour’ with special guests glaive and Chase Shakur. Learn more at visitindy.com.

EVENTS 2024

Jul 13

Indianapolis Water Lantern Festival

The Indianapolis Water Lantern Festival is bringing people together for a celebration of light and community! This unforgettable evening will be filled with tasty food trucks, fun music, activities, and thousands of lanterns lighting up the night with love, hope, and happiness. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Jul 25

Post. Festival

Post. Festival gathers the finest assemblage of niche rock artists to take place on American soil. Following the examples set by like-minded European events, the Post. Festival is as much about community and respect and support as it is about music and culture. It is a celebration both for fans and artists, an opportunity to come together and revel in a scene that has built itself from within to the point of global presence, without the aid of commercial status. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Jul 27

Alanis Morissette

Seven-time GRAMMY® Award-winning singer/songwriter Alanis Morissette announced The Triple Moon Tour with special guest Rock and Roll Hall of Fame icon Joan Jett & the Blackhearts along with support from Morgan Wade. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Aug 1

Gen Con - The Best Four Days In Gaming

For 57 years, Gen Con has created a home for games and for more than a decade, it has brought its unique atmosphere to Indianapolis. With numerous programs and events for those of every interest, Gen Con has something for everyone! Learn more at visitindy.com.

the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.

cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This contagious nature of laugh ter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we observe someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.

The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being:

Stress Reduction: Laugh ter reduces the production of stress hormones like

Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.

Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.

Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.

Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social

bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.

The Laughter Prescription: Make Time for Chuckles

Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles:

Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.

Spend Time with Funny

Friends: Surround yourself with peo ple who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.

Laughter

Find Humor in Everyday Life:

Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.

Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.

Embrace the Chuckles

Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.

Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost. Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!

EVENTS 2024

Aug 7

Tate McRae

Multi-platinum singer/songwriter Tate McRae is releasing her sophomore album THINK LATER. Executive produced with hitmaker Ryan Tedder (Taylor Swift, Beyoncé), THINK LATER and its songs are steeped in pop appeal and infectious toplines. Showcasing Tate’s boundless vocal talent and evolution as a songwriter, this new body of work explores the all-toorelatable feelings of falling in love and embracing the raw emotions that you experience as a result of leading with your intuition and heart. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Aug 24

The Feast of Lanterns

The Feast of Lanterns is a free and family-friendly festival featuring hundreds of colorful and glowing paper lanterns strung from tree to tree throughout the park. The lantern lighting at dusk is a great sight to see. This colorful and visually-appealing one-day festival features live music, over 80 artisans and vendors selling their work alongside sponsor and community booths, favorite food trucks, and the beer garden. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Sep 7

Luke Bryan - Mind Of A Cowboy Tour

Five-time Entertainer of the Year and American Idol celebrity judge Luke Bryan kicks off his 2024 “Mind Of A Country Boy Tour” this April featuring special guests George Birge, Larry Fleet, and Ella Langley. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Sep 13

Staind and Breaking Benjamin

Staind and Breaking Benjamin, two titans of the early 2000s rock scene, are thrilled to announce their highly anticipated co-headline tour with special guests are Daughtry and Lakeview. Learn more at visitindy.com.

EVENTS 2024

Sep 21

Art Squared

Art Squared includes four unique art events on one day. Art Fair is a festival marketplace for local artists to showcase their creative talents and display items for purchase. Masterpiece in a Day is a day-long art competition, where locals, professional artists, students, neighbors, and friends create works of art to be judged for cash prizes. It’s free to participate and open to the public – just bring your favorite supplies and start creating. The Block Party, located in the parking lot behind Turchetti’s Delicatessen, is where we celebrate arts of all types through live performances, food and beverages. Food will be provided by local merchants. Finally Art Parade is a living art show through the festival grounds and promises to be the funkiest thing in town! This year’s theme is decades and participating groups will showcase their best eras in a walking art show. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Oct 2

Two Door Cinema Club

Two Door Cinema Club mix guitar-driven post-punk hooks with dancey, electronic polish. They first gained attention with their 2010 debut album Tourist History and singles ‘Something Good Can Work’ and ‘Undercover Martyn’. With a back catalogue of five hugely successful records, sold out shows and headline festival slots across the globe, the band returned last year in 2023 with new single ‘Sure Enough’, alongside brand new U.S tour dates and additional UK arena dates in Hull, Doncaster and Liverpool. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Oct 5

Broad Ripple Fall Art Walk

The walk features Broad Ripple galleries, boutiques and shops, each hosting their own unique art exhibit. Participating businesses are scattered throughout the Village, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful evening experiencing Broad Ripple and supporting the arts community. Learn more at visitindy.com.

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Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:

1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice

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In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote

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Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,

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EVENTS 2024

Oct 12

P!nk Summer Carnival Tour

Fans can expect to see P!NK perform an epic high-energy set including her biggest hits like “So What”, “TRUSTFALL”, “Just Give Me A Reason”, and more. The tour’s production will feature P!NK descending from the rafters, including jaw-dropping aerial acrobatics, pumping dance routines and vibrant costume changes. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Oct 18

Tango, Mambo, and Salsa

Lessons

$30 Ticket includes 1 hour dance lesson, 1 complimentary margarita, beer, or glass of wine, and chips & salsa provided by Social Cantina! Learn more at visitindy.com.

Nov 8

World Food Championships

Food champs will be racing to Food Sport’s finish line like never before in 2024. That’s because the World Food Championships just announced that it is shifting gears and taking its Main Event this November to Indianapolis, a city recognized internationally as the “racing capital of the world.” Learn more at visitindy.com.

Nov

16

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol

Banish your bah humbugs and celebrate the season at the Indiana Repertory Theatre! A Christmas Carol shines a light on the power of kindness and love in this uplifting tale of one man’s journey to redemption. As the weather turns cold, warm your heart with story and song at the IRT. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Dec 12 Christmas At The Zoo

Dating back to 1967, the Indianapolis Zoo was the first zoo in the nation to hold a holiday lights event. Year after year, Christmas at the Zoo continues

cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~ Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~ Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

GENDERNEXUS

We empower gender-diverse people and their loved ones to live healthy, authentic, and joyful lives. Since 2014, GenderNexus has served Indiana as a safe, inclusive space for gender-diverse people and their loved ones to find the support they need.

GENDERNEXUS.ORG | (317) 650-5988

PRIDE LAFAYETTE

Pride Lafayette seeks to become the premier link to the Greater Lafayette LGBTQIA+ community. We hope to build bridges within the community and forge new bonds among young and old, life-long residents and newcomers, and community members living on both sides of the Wabash. We celebrate the strength and diversity of our community, and we foster an increased sense of well-being in the lives we touch.

PRIDELAFAYETTE.ORG | (765) 423-7579

INDIANAPOLIS PFLAG

Indianapolis PFLAG ensures that all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people are valued by society and take pride in themselves. We do this by providing peer-to-peer support, educating people on the crucial issues to the community, and advocating for inclusive policies and laws.

INDYPFLAG.ORG | (317) 759-3397

MUNCIE OUTREACH

Muncie OUTreach’s mission is to provide an accepting environment to enhance the personal growth of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth in the Delaware County area. We provide programming for LGBTQ youth, as well as advocate for community awareness and acceptance of young people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

MUNCIEOUTREACH.ORG | (765) 273-3465

EVENTS 2024

to grow. For our 55th year, we’re adding beautiful new décor to enhance your holiday experience and TEN events to participate in. And the best part is it’s all included with regular admission! Learn more at visitindy.com.

Dec 16

Justin Timberlake - The Forget Tomorrow World Tour

Renowned musician, actor, and entertainer Justin Timberlake is on his momentous The Forget Tomorrow World Tour. This announcement follows a notable month for Justin, with two one-night-only underplay performances in Memphis & New York, a surprise tour announcement on Jimmy Fallon, and a musical guest appearance on SNL. On Justin’s first tour in 5 years, fans can expect to hear songs from his forthcoming new album Everything I Thought It Was, his latest single “Selfish” out now, and everyone’s favorite hits. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Dec 20

A Christmas Story: The Musical

Based on the movie classic! Set in the 1940s in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana, the musical follows 9-year-old Ralphie and his quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts — an Official Red Ryder carbineaction 200-shot Range Model air rifle. Ralphie plots numerous schemes to receive the coveted BB gun. All the iconic scenes from the movie are here, together with a versatile score! Learn more at visitindy.com.

Dec 22

Elf The Musical

ELF The Musical is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern-day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner ELF. Learn more at visitindy.com.

EVENTS 2025

Jan 14

Moulin Rouge!

Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur, and glory! A world where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Welcome to Moulin Rouge! The Musical! Learn more at visitindy.com.

Jan 20

Mind Tripping Show

The best comedy mind reading show in Indy! You will laugh one minute and scratch your head the next. That’s why they call the show a mix of Candid Camera and the Twilight Zone. Learn more at visitindy.com.

Feb 12

Wednesday Night Trivia Night

Join us every Wednesday for Trivia Night. Hosted by Hambone’s Trivia and free to play. Gift Card prizes to the top three teams, family friendly, food available! Learn more at visitindy.com.

Mar 10

Six The Musical

From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over! Learn more at visitindy.com.

Apr 8

Beetlejuice

It’s showtime! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. Learn more at visitindy.com.