IBE Summer Celebration

Indiana Black Expo’s largest event showcases Black culture in Indiana and is in its 54th year.

All Events Open to The Public

As a pillar of the state, IBE’s priority focus areas include economics equity, education equity, community empowerment, and health equity. All proceeds from Summer Celebration help support IBE’s year-round initiatives, including its Education Conference, Black Business Training Institute, Scholarship Fund, Performing Arts Academy, Community Learning Hub, and more.

Engage with more than 250 exhibitors showcasing the best of corporations, small businesses, non-profits, educational institutions, authors, and government agencies. Step into the Exhibition Hall, a hub of cultural richness and community spirit, for a diverse range of activities and programs that highlight the Black community.

Discover and support more 300 Black-owned businesses, gain insights from leading corporations and stakeholders, and enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with music, fashion, and interactive activities.

Roster of Events

Film Festival

July 11, 2026

Each year, IBE screens independent films produced and written by African American and African filmmakers. These artists have a distinct message to share in their films about their culture and the challenges and triumphs of the human spirit. In addition to the films, there will be discussions about selected titles and filmmaking in general.

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IBE Business Conference

July 13-14, 2026

As Indiana corporations and organizations are committed to creating strategies to level the playing field, this conference will offer real and meaningful opportunities for black, brown, women, veterans, and disability business owners. Come meet and hear from key decision-makers about business development initiatives and multi-million dollar contracting opportunities.

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Youth Entrepreneur Series

July 14-15, 2026

This program serves as a dynamic platform for budding entrepreneurs to explore, innovate, and transform their ideas into viable business ventures. Through a series of workshops and competitions, participants are exposed to real-world business challenges and opportunities to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills. The program emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, encouraging participants to think globally while acting locally. With a focus on fostering a community of young innovators, IBX aims to contribute significantly to economic growth and job creation, preparing the next generation for the challenges and opportunities of the entrepreneurial world.

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Education Conference

July 16, 2026

Join IBE for one of the largest, most comprehensive educational summits in the country. The 2024 Indiana Black Expo Education Conference aims to delve deep into the theme of equity while propelling teaching practices to the next level and emphasizing collective impact. In addition engaging sessions, this year's keynote speakers are award-winning journalist and documentarian, Soledad O’Brien and Dr. Kymyona Burk, the Senior Policy Fellow for Early Literacy at the Foundation for Excellence in Education.

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Corporate Luncheon

July 17, 2026

Continuing the theme of Our Legacy, Our Influence, Our Future, the Pacers Sports and Entertainment Corporate Luncheon presented by Indiana University will honor those individuals who have made significant contributions to the Black community as well as those who continue to tell the story about who we are and pave the way for our communities.

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Music Heritage Festival

July 17, 2026

The legendary stars will be out for this year’s outdoor concert, at a new location at Carroll Stadium.

This year features Johnny Gill, Lalah Hathaway, Morris Day & The Time, Atlantic Starr, and Karyn White.

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Youth Leadership Summit

July 17-19, 2026

This 3-day annual leadership summit helps Indiana middle and high school students become more aware of STEM-related careers and college curriculum, have a better understanding of how they can play a role in the community affecting change.

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Pictured: IBE Summer Celebration's Cultural Arts Pavilion Events

Cultural Arts Pavilion

July 17-19, 2026

The Cultural Arts Pavilion, alongside The Arts Speaks Cafe, is where local and national artists and authors can exhibit their work, sharing the depth of African American creativity with attendees through live music, spoken word performances, and interactive sessions . This pavilion is part of a broader effort to celebrate Black culture, excellence, and community development, featuring engaging events such interactive exhibits on dance, music, acting, and more, aimed at both youth and families.

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All White Affair

July 18, 2026

Celebrating over five decades of Indiana Black Expo’s contributions to the African American community, this affair is more than just a party, it’s a showcase of culture, unity, and empowerment starring Ginuwine, Next, and DJ Kid Capri.

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