Like The Super Bowl, The Final Four Has Outgrown The Games Themselves And Become A Cultural Phenomenon.
March Madness comes to a close this weekend at Lucas Oil Stadium in downtown Indianapolis.
The term (well, trademarked term) March Madness has come to mean much more than college basketball teams competing in a single-elimination bracket. Just like the events in the Super Bowl Village, the Final Four will take over downtown Indianapolis with a host of activities. Here’s a look at the Indy events surrounding the Final Four.
Fan Fest
The “everything March Madness” event for fans of all ages, the Fan Fest returns to the Indiana Convention Center Friday through Monday. Autograph sessions for coaches and former players, youth clinics, sports exhibits from more than just basketball, and the popular Final Four Pep Rally with bands and cheerleaders from the participating schools. Admission is $10
Reese’s® Final Four Friday
The Final Four tradition of open practices for all teams continues with Reese’s Final Four Friday. It’s basketball-centric, as players get the feel for the stadium, coaches address fans, and promotions abound. The event concludes with the College All-Star Game. Event admission is free!
Howl at the Moon Tent Party on Georgia Street
Once again, the multi-use Georgia Street corridor plays host to a pregame party all weekend long (Friday through Monday) at the Howl at the Moon Tent Party with live music all four days. Free admission with food and beverages available for purchase.
March Madness Music Festival
For three nights, White River State Park will be filled with free outdoor music for the March Madness Music Festival. Friday’s lineup has yet to be announced; Saturday features contemporary acts Rihanna and Bleachers; Sunday is covered by country superstars Zac Brown Band, Lady Antebellum, Kacey Musgraves, and Cole Swindell. The event is free and all-ages.
Northwestern Mutual Road to the Final Four® 5K
What event or holiday is complete without its own 5K run? The Final Four has the “Road to the Final Four 5K” on Saturday morning. The event starts and ends at the NCAA Hall of Champions in White River State Park.