Shelbyville, IN — The City of Shelbyville is proud to share a robust schedule of free, family-oriented activities available throughout the community this summer. With opportunities ranging from outdoor concerts and pool events to library programs, historical experiences, nature exploration, and recreation, families can enjoy meaningful time together—without leaving town.
“This summer, we want residents to know they don’t have to go far to make memories,” said Mayor Scott Furgeson. “Our local organizations and partners have created an impressive lineup of free activities that allow families to enjoy quality time together while connecting to all that makes Shelbyville a great place to live.”
Here is a guide to free events and activities available in Shelbyville this summer (this list may be updated throughout the summer):
Parks, Pools, and Community Events
Music in the Park – Free Concert Series
Held at Blue River Memorial Park, each concert begins at 7:00 PM and features top regional and tribute acts. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy music alongside the splash pad and playground. Concessions/food trucks will be available.
Concert Dates:
June 27 – Monsters of Yacht
July 18 – Turn the Page (Bob Seger Tribute)
August 15 – Crush (Bon Jovi Tribute)
September 13 – The Four Horsemen (Metallica Tribute)
Location: 725 Lee Blvd
Details: shelbyparks.com/musicinthepark
Free Pool Events – Meridian Park Family Aquatic Center
- Community Day: Free admission on Wednesday, June 19, 12:00–6:00 PM
- Neon Knights Pool Night: Free admission on Friday, July 26, 7:30–10:00 PM
Location: 101 McKinley Street
More info: shelbyparks.com/pool
Blue River Memorial Park Splash Pad
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM and always free. Restrooms, playground, and shaded seating nearby.
Location: 725 Lee Blvd
Free Bike Rentals from Shelbyville Parks
Explore the city’s growing trail system and park network with Shelbyville’s free bike rental program. Bikes are available on a first-come, first-served basis for riders of all ages. Placing a credit card on file via the app is required for incidentals.
Pick-up locations: Blue River Trailhead, Blue River Memorial Park (Adjacent to the Splash Pad and Pavilion), Downtown Shelbyville Public Square (Sidewalk between Fifth-Third Bank and Mainstreet Shelbyville Inc.), Shelbyville High School
Rental hours: 5:00 AM–800 PM; daily
Details: shelbyparks.com/bikeshare
Education, Literacy, and Local History
Grover Center Museum and Historical Society
Free museum admission featuring local history exhibits and “Streets of Old Shelby.”
Root Beer Float Days: June 7, July 5, August 2, September 6, 12:00–3:00 PM
Free Storytime and Activities: In partnership with the Shelby County Public Library
Location: 52 W Broadway Street
Hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Website: grovercenter.org
Shelby County Public Library – Summer Reading Program
This year’s theme, Color Our World, includes reading incentives, crafts, and performances for children and teens.
Location: 57 W Broadway Street
Event calendar: https://myshelbylibrary.libnet.info/events
Recreation and Outdoor Exploration
Skyline Drive-In – Free Movies for Kids
In celebration of 75 years, children 12 and under receive free admission to Sunday movies in June and July.
Location: 3986 E Michigan Road
Movie listings: theskylinedrivein.com
Blue River Bowl – Kids Bowl Free Program
Kids registered for the program can bowl two free games daily.
Location: 1601 S Miller Street
Register: kidsbowlfree.com/blueriver
Shelby Sprouts – Weekly Kids Activity at the Farmers Market
Held Saturdays from 9:00–10:00 AM, this free program offers hands-on activities for children. Each participating family member receives two Sprout Bucks redeemable for edible items at the market.
Location: Downtown Shelbyville Public Square
Details: mainstreetshelbyville.org/farmers-market
Meltzer Woods Nature Preserve
A rare old-growth forest offering free hiking and nature exploration. Open dawn to dusk.
Location: 1522 S 600 E
More info: conservingindiana.org/preserves/meltzer-woods
To learn more about these programs and additional summer events, visit shelbyville.in.gov or follow the City of Shelbyville on Facebook and Instagram.
