You probably know about the big hulabaloo that is INDIEana Handicraft Exchange in June - a giant indoor/outdoor shopping fair. But did you know they host a smaller version in December, which just so happens to (smartly) fall on First Friday? The one in June can be very hot and very crowded, so I preferred the wintertime version, although there were not as many vendors. The crowd favorites were still there, like Newfangled Confections, Homespun, Crimson Tate, Farizula Designs, Silver Linings Jewelry, Hoosier Proud, USI, Revival Food Co...the list goes on. Don't forget to check out vendors down in the basement and explore the open studio spaces! I love this bi-annual celebration of all things local and will put it on my calendar for 2016! read more

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I'm not one to dilly dally in flea markets or call myself a "shopper" but boy, oh boy, do I light up when there's an event that specifically celebrates local and creative businesses. Everything from up cycled jewelry and nostalgic candy to local meads and Hoosier themed apparel. It's essentially a one stop shop for all that is quirky and cool. And because I'm always down for some tasty eats, I have to add that you'll find some of the best at the Handicraft Exchange such as Duos, Scratchtruck, LICK ice cream, New Day Meadery, Sun King and more. Parking can get on the crazy side with the Talbott Art Fair going on just up the street. Give yourself time and have fun! read more

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LOVE the funky mixture of vendors, food, and music. All of my senses were buzzing at once. I could stay here all day. My favorite stops included the "Here's the Scoop" tent that serves ice cream in a handmade ceramic bowl that you get to pick out yourself (for only $5)! I also loved the Mint Lilly tent and couldn't keep my eyes off all of the beautiful jewelry and cool bohemian headbands. I wish I had gotten to stay here longer- can't wait for the next Handicraft Exchange! Parking can get tight but can be found on the surrounding streets or in the CVS parking lot close by. read more

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Despite the rain, there was a lot of amazing vendors at this event and I was so happy that I ended up attending with some friends! I was really impressed that the venue was able to move outdoor vendors inside last minute and allow them use of their basement space. The selection was gigantic- clothing, actual bugs, jewelry, art... even a mobile yarn shop? There was definitely something for everyone. I do wish there were a few more food options but it was a small event and the ice cream and Thai I had for lunch was still really delicious! We will definitely have to attend again next year and hope the weather cooperates a little better the next time around. :) read more

I found the winter event via Facebook last year, and was glad I did! This year was just as good, if not better, as I came a little more prepared. I was also happy to find out that there is a summer event, too! Glad I can purchase local goods all in one location twice a year. The building is a little confusing, and there are a lot of vendors (just under 60 according the website!), so I recommend giving yourself plenty of time to peruse. I parked on a side street both times, and wasn't too far from the venue, but I could see one might end up somewhat far if they came during peak time. I arrived early enough this time to pick up a goodie bag, which included a couple of items from vendors (wearing the nail polish I received right now - thanks Different Dimensions!) as well as some coupons (didn't see these until I got home - check your bag before you shop!). I checked out the vendor list before I came to expedite things, since it can be a bit crowded. Worked out great - I had purchased a ring last year from Sloane Jewelry and lost it, so wanted to get another because I loved it. I didn't see my ring at her booth, but I asked just in case, and sure enough she had the ring I was looking for behind the booth! So if you don't see quite what you're looking for, check with the vendor. There are lots of great things to see and buy - make sure you make it to both the gym and the basement! Various artist's studios, as well. read more

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I've been visiting this event for a few years now. Very much enjoy it as well as the art that is on display throughout the building. My favorite booth to visit is ArtMix. read more

Those interested in getting a REAL taste of what Indianapolis has to offer, you must visit this awesome arts festival! A glimpse into the true heart of Indiana. A place where people of all colors, creeds and classes come together to appreciate the beauty and creativity of local artists. My first visit was also my first time as a vendor for the event. Even though it was ri-donk-ulously hot and humid, the Indy folk turned out in fine style! Everyone was so generous, considerate and chill. The booths are set up around the Harrison Art Center, as well as inside the art center halls and gymnasium. Even though the space is a bit tight throughout the grounds, you can still get some space in the indoor art galleries. Rooms and halls are lined with the most amazing glass works, paintings, and other creations from urban artists in the nearby neighborhoods. I took a quick break to grab a cider from New Day and check out the booths for a minute. The building is kind of a maze, but it was fun to explore President Benjamin Harrison's community church. Alas, I didn't get the chance to stop by the Yelp booth, but if you were one of the first 100 lucky chums to check in to the event, you received a super cute IHE canvas bag with some groovy swag from various vendors. So bummed I couldn't get one. There's also some good eats at the festival, thanks to many of Indy's rockin' food trucks! And where was my booth? Right next to Scratch Truck and the General American Donut Co. food truck. Great. The donut truck had the audacity to have a donut ice cream sandwich! Rob had two. He told everyone who came by our booth about the awesomeness that he just experienced. He should've received some sort of commission for pushing their food. Even better, this event is free! And most of the vendors use the Square readers, making it easier to impulse spend. The atmosphere is family-friendly, where people can get their artsy fartsy fix. The prices are quite affordable, and the goods are more utilitarian. Not just home and garden decor, but things that can be used on a daily basis. You will definitely walk away with something! The only downer is the parking. It's definitely slim pickens. There's a couple nearby lots that charge for parking, but they fill up fast. I'd definitely get there early for a decent spot. if you come out in the middle of the day, expect to park 3-5 blocks away. Most of the artists that participate in this event are also involved with the shop that hosts the festival, Homespun Indy. if you enjoyed the IHE, then you can get unique, local products year-round at their Mass Ave location. The festival continues to captivate the hearts, minds and support of the Indy community, and that's pretty awesome. read more

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The INDIEana Handicraft Exchange (super clever name might I add) offers a nice variety of locally made goods, including stuff for your home decor needs, local eats, and apparel. The location of the event is nice with ample street parking around the building and the vendors are always nice and welcoming. The layout creates a bit of a mess at times if there are too many people in the event, but there are lots of areas to discover local vendors so having them spread out throughout the building is nice. At times, they also offer giveback to local social service nonprofits so be sure to also keep in touch via social media to see if they're accepting donations during the event. Great event with lots of local vendors! read more

I happened upon this IHE after riding my bike up to Talbot St Art Fair. I almost had more fun @ the IHE than TS! The only way I can describe it is like a live version of pinterest/etsy, both which I adore. I spent a fair amount of time at each of the booths, and was really intrigued by a lot of what each vendor was selling. Did I also mention Sun King & New Day Meadery + a few food trucks + live music? Awesome event, wish it would come around more often! read more

Loads of vendor choices, tons of fun, and lots of art. Definitely a do over. read more

What a fun street/music festival! There were over 100 vendors with some of the coolest jewelry and hand crafted art pieces I have seen. This was a great set-up and easy to navigate. Live music, delicious treats, and amazing artists to check out! read more

INDIEana Handicraft Exchange - First 100 people to check in on Yelp get these awesome swag bags! - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Having somehow made it 9 years without attending, I knew that going this year was a must and I was not disappointed! Run by the folks that brought Indy Homespun: Modern Handmade, the amount and variety of vendors was impressive. I enjoyed speaking with the makers regarding their products. Booths were all over the Harrison Center both indoor and outdoor. One minor complaint is that it was difficult at times to move around in the gymnasium. Maybe putting more of the booths outside might help. Come prepared to eat, drink, shop, and walk! Don't forget to stop by at the raffle booth which supports two worthy charities. P.S.: Thanks to Yelp for being a sponsor and handing out great totes! read more

This has become a popular event for good reason. I have been attending for a few years. I first found it when I wandered away from the Talbot Street Fair. I made some purchases as did two friends who attended with me. We enjoyed Sun King beer and New Day mead while listening to music. There are many sellers outside the church and it did get a bit crowded but everyone was in good spirits read more

If you like to put a bird on it, this is the place for you. IHE happens once a year, and has grown from a lil' ol' craft show into a full-blown event with food, live acts, and booths upon booths of handmade goods, jewelry, trinkets, tschachkes, art, posters, toys, clothing...it is actually quite overwhelming with the amount of vendors they had this year. They have busted out of the Harrison Center and lined the streets with their non-traditional crafty goodness. No wooden American flags here! I think its great these artisans get to show off what they do to a large number of people, having the event the same day as the Talbot Street Art Fair is smart, smart, smart. But I almost think this should be a two day event, simply because for me, in all my ADD-ness, I really need one day to look around and soak everything in, process everything I've seen *then* go back and buy what I liked. There is just so much stuff and it is so spread out it is hard to decide what you really, really want. By the time I walked through the event and looked at everything, I had forgotten about whatever cool thing I was thinking about buying that I had seen earlier while wandering around. I also really enjoy the people watching - this thing attracts more hipsters than you can shake a stick at, you could capture a month's worth of photos to upload to http://www.latfh.com/. read more

Hidden Independent Artist Market in Indy! You can completely bypass the overly crowded Talbot Street art fair and just head down to the IHE at the corner of 16th and Delaware for some unique handmade goods. Lots of local artists as well as people from surrounding states like Ohio and Illinois. I picked up some cute earrings, a little bag for my daughter made from recycled jeans, and a hand-screened tshirt all for about $35. There were lots of other things I thought were cool and fun, but just wasn't needing at the time. Plus you can peruse all the unique Indy artists whose galleries are in the Harrison Center. The food is also superior, as in Sun King Brewery and DUO's Slow Food Fast, instead of your typical fried everything fair fare. read more

Super easy event to attend. The IMAF is an annual tradition of low fuss, high quality art, music, and food on Indy's Old Northside. The density of quality exhibitors coupled with convenience make this a very worthy event to put on the calendar and repeat. read more

INDIEana Handicraft Exchange - Listening to local singer songwriters while awaiting the opening of the event. - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Great and varied vendors and location. It was very well organized and I was able to knock out all of my Christmas shopping there. I will definitely go again. read more

I love, love, love this event!!! I look forward to it each year. The variety of vendors is amazing. Paper products, yarn goods, wood crafter's, even nail polish. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. These are all artist that are near and dear to Indiana. Wonderful people with fabulous products. There's a lot of ground to cover so come early and stay all day. There is food, ice cream, beer and mead. And recharge while listening to local musicians. If you are looking for home items or gifts that you won't find at the local mall or big box store, this is the place. read more

INDIEana Handicraft Exchange - A sampling of goodies. - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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I love all the events they do! You can always find something special or different! Most important you are shopping local and supporting artist! read more

This is another summer staple for me! I love perusing all of the vendors. There's so many quirky and fun things to see. I didn't realize Snarky Things was in Indy so it's really cool to know that they are local or nearby. I love that there's two stages for various local bands. I thoroughly enjoy hanging out for a bit and checking out all the sights. I would definitely recommend this event! read more

What an awesome fair! We were on our way to the Talbott Street Art Fair and came across the IMAP/INDIEana Handicraft Exchange. Part of me cringed that they were riding the mojo of the Talbott Fair but once I got over it I complete enjoyed the music, the eats and all the crafts. I need to get on some mailing list for this because I am not missing it ever again! Highly, highly recommend this fair! And it's dog friendly! Vendors: 5/5 - Great local businesses, awesome crafts. It was all my favorite Indy things in one lovely Saturday afternoon. Music: 5/5 - Two stages, great music Eats: 5/5 - I'll rate these on their Yelp pages read more

Last night was my first time checking out the INDIEana handicraft exchange. I was amazed about how many people were at this little hidden gem and how I hadn't heard of it prior to this week. It was busy and when I say busy I mean shuffling with the crowd, hoping there is another exit on the other side of the room busy, This is why I deducted a star because when it is that busy, it is hard to enjoy yourself. One of the other challenges if you don't live within walk-able distance is parking. Just be prepared to walk a couple of blocks if you don't get there right at the beginning. There was a variety of local vendors available with everything from Frittle (one of my favs) to jewelry to lotions. There was allot of pride being shown to the Hoosier state with vendors carrying many Indiana and Indianapolis themed items available for purchase. All of the vendors are super friendly and almost all have square (I never think to carry cash). In addition to visiting the Handicraft Exchange vendors, you can also wander through the galleries of the Harrison Center to see and purchase the works of art displayed. They also had different food creation demonstrations available to watch throughout the night. Speaking of food, Duos food truck was available outside to purchase food and there was other food to sample plus wine and Sun King beer. Although the winter version of the exchange was a bit crowded, I will certainly return to the summer version to see what they have to offer. read more

I went to the winter exchange and it was super fun (and super busy- even early) lots of fun stuff for mostly reasonable prices given the quality. I only ended up getting a cider but it was delicious! I also stopped by the Eastern Orthodox Church market across the street- it was interesting... worth a look if you're curious! read more

This was the first festival I was able to attend in Indianapolis and it was amazing! There were a ton of booths set up and it was a beautiful day. It was a lot bigger than I'd imagined and we had a great time looking at the goods people were selling. There were also a lot of great deals going on. read more

What fun! The INDIEana Handicraft Exchange features some fantastic artisans. Prices for many of the vendors are very reasonable as well, but it's worth attending even if you're just "window shopping". Plus, there's live music and good eats from some of Indy's best food trucks! Looking forward to the 2016 INDIEana Handicraft Exchange--hoping it will have even more vendors! read more

This is my second year and it is one of my favorites! Great local business and products. Some of my favorite t-shots has come from this event. The selection of music is incredible. I cannot wait for the event each year. read more

I loved the variety of vendors that were at the event. I was able to purchase many of my favorite products at great prices.

Great as always! I may have paid over $40 for Indy coasters. I don't feel bad about that decision.

I love supporting local craftspeople and getting my Christmas shopping done in one swoop. I also enjoy the variety of handmade items, instead of having several vendors sell the same thing. read more

This was held in the Harrison Arts Center, on December's "First Friday" (a.k.a. gallery night). While that seems like a good idea and seems like it would generate more business, in practice I do not think it does, because it forces people who would otherwise like to attend multiple events to choose between them or commit an entire evening to it. This is the problem with most other events in Indianapolis, especially the festivals: Instead of being spread out so that there is always something to do, everything is always crammed into the same day at the same time. But, I digress. . . Back to the INDIEana Handicraft Exchange: The various booths were all confined to a room the size of a school gym, and it was difficult (to the point of irritation) to move through the crowds and peruse the goods. This event would be much better off expanding to a larger area (which would enable more vendors) and being held on a day that does not conflict with other major local art events, or even being held outdoors on 16th St. on the same day as the Talbott Street Art Fair, as it has been on at least one occasion in the past. Some of the products sold were: Indiana-themed shirts and onesies and jewelry; scented candles in unique scents like "leather," "bourbon," etc.; art prints; jewelry; homemade soaps; wood toys; and decorative coasters. read more

I look forward to this event every year. The selection at the Handicraft Exchange is unmatched and you are sure to find a unique piece of art. Yelp was there this year passing out tote bags filled with fantastic goodies and coupons from many of the vendors. My favorite art at the Handicraft Exchange is all the locally inspired art. This year I purchased a fantastic print of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. I love bringing pieces of Indy into my home to display. read more

What a fun event! I attended my first INDIEana Handicraft Exchange this winter and enjoyed seeing all of the beautiful items from local vendors. The timing for the event was perfect for holiday shopping and the hand crafted items make for unique gifts. The event was held at The Harrison Center for the Arts off of Delaware street in downtown Indy. This venue was nice but parking was difficult (mainly parking on nearby side streets) and the vendor booths quickly became very congested. read more

Lots of neat stuff here, much more affordable than anything you can find over at the Talbot Street Art Fair. Love events like this!

This is my favorite event of the year! All of the unique craft booths, the food, and music (as it is held in conjunction with the Independent Music and Arts Festival) are so amazing! read more

We look forward to going to this event every time they have it! I feel like I'm at a local ETSY shop every step I take and I love it. The fact that you can go and check out local art both before and after checking out the handicraft exchange seals the deal. If you are artsy whatsoever this is a must go to event for you! read more

This is an amazing annual craft fair. It's my 7th year attending and is always a great! Different vendors each time and always lovely.

I stopped by mid-afternoon and it was SUPER BUSY. Like, so busy that I gave up, tired of plodding along in a mass of people. BUT ... the IHE consistently has quality products that are hard to find elsewhere. There were a fair amount of booths outside, and I did spend time perusing those goods. A friend went later in the day and said the crowds had thinned out quite a bit by then. I live nearby so I could have just gone back, but I didn't. Now I'm kicking myself for it! read more

Fun, interesting, and lots of neat products! Food trucks were available, which was nice. Would like to see a few more options....I enjoy supporting local craftsmen and this festival has plenty to choose from. Can't wait to go next year! read more

This is absolutely without a doubt my favorite event of the year. I first stumbled upon the Exchange after visiting the Talbott St Art Fair. The Handicraft Exchange was a revelation. Here - finally - was stuff I wanted to buy, stuff I wouldn't be embarrassed to have in my home, stuff I could confidently give as gifts. It's booth after booth of cool stuff! It can be a little overwhelming at times. But if you take your time and plan to spend the whole day you'll be fine. I left the Talbott St. Art Fair that day and I've never looked back! read more

I'm a big fan of the INDIEana Handicraft Exchange, much moreso than the Art Fair nearby. The organizers curate a good variety of vendors and price-points. There are good food trucks and bands, and it is one of my favorite Indianapolis events. The only thing holding this back from 5 stars is the fact that it is not the easiest to navigate, as there are booths both outside and inside, on the front of the building and in the back parking lot. Previous years have had the indoor booths in different rooms, so you can't even make assumptions about where the vendors are from previous experience. Long story short, it is possible to miss a lot of the vendors. This could be remedied by having signs indicating that there are vendors in other places, having a free map available, or by putting the vendors all together (for instance, reorganizing things to be more in the parking lot - like, a band there instead of two bands out front). read more