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Indiana's congressional delegation reacts to Iran strikes

Indiana's Republican delegation was largely supportive.

News

Indiana&#x27;s congressional delegation is reacting to the joint U.S.-Israel strikes that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="killed Iran&#x27;s supreme leader" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/28/iran-khamenei-killed-israel" data-vars-content-id="a7893fd8-6bb6-40d4-bf1e-998024f37ffe" data-vars-headline="Indiana&#x27;s congressional delegation reacts to Iran strikes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/28/iran-khamenei-killed-israel" target="_self">killed Iran&#x27;s supreme leader</a>, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Republicans largely supporting President Donald Trump.Why it matters: Trump is publicly bracing the country for a sustained, costly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="military campaign" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/01/iran-us-trump-israel-strikes-pope-leo" data-vars-content-id="a7893fd8-6bb6-40d4-bf1e-998024f37ffe" data-vars-headline="Indiana&#x27;s congressional delegation reacts to Iran strikes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/01/iran-us-trump-israel-strikes-pope-leo" target="_self">military campaign</a>, a sign America has entered an open-ended war with a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rising human cost" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/28/us-israel-strikes-iran-middle-east-dubai-airports" data-vars-content-id="a7893fd8-6bb6-40d4-bf1e-998024f37ffe" data-vars-headline="Indiana&#x27;s congressional delegation reacts to Iran strikes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/28/us-israel-strikes-iran-middle-east-dubai-airports" target="_self">rising human cost</a>.

Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans

Lawmakers are set to make one final attempt to advance a state THC ban as a federal delay faces uncertainty.

The Hoosier hemp industry is up against a last-ditch effort from lawmakers to advance a state THC ban as an Indiana congressman&#x27;s attempt to delay federal restrictions this fall faces an uncertain future.Why it matters: A provision included in the federal spending bill that averted a government shutdown would criminalize certain hemp-derived THC products starting in November — a move industry leaders say could threaten the livelihood of thousands of Hoosiers.Catch up quick: The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight, a definition that industry groups say created a loophole for intoxicating hemp-derived THC products.<ul><li>Local business owners say the bill <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="would shutter their operations" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/11/25/indiana-thc-ban" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/11/25/indiana-thc-ban" target="_self">would shutter their operations</a>.</li></ul>By the numbers: Hemp-derived cannabinoids in Indiana have had a total economic impact of $1.78 billion, according to research released in October 2023 by Whitney Economics.• The industry comprises hundreds of businesses statewide, employing more than 11,000 workers.The latest: In an effort to align state law with the looming federal ban, Indiana lawmakers introduced Senate Bill 250 to enforce the ban statewide starting in July.<ul><li>SB 250 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="was effectively killed Monday" data-vars-click-url="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/2026/02/24/indiana-hemp-drug-ban-early-voting-restrictions-die-at-deadline/" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/2026/02/24/indiana-hemp-drug-ban-early-voting-restrictions-die-at-deadline/" target="_blank">was effectively killed Monday</a> when House lawmakers declined to call it down ahead of a second reading deadline.</li></ul>Yes, but: Language from that bill is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="set to be revived" data-vars-click-url="https://www.indystar.com/live-story/news/politics/2026/02/26/live-updates-indiana-general-assembly-chicago-bears-hammond-township-consolidation/88876879007/" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.indystar.com/live-story/news/politics/2026/02/26/live-updates-indiana-general-assembly-chicago-bears-hammond-township-consolidation/88876879007/" target="_blank">set to be revived</a> in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Senate Bill 144" data-vars-click-url="https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2026/bills/senate/144/details" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2026/bills/senate/144/details" target="_blank">Senate Bill 144</a>, which would have made it a misdemeanor to sell a product to a minor that contains THC.Zoom out: Standing in the way of November&#x27;s federal THC ban is the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hemp Planting Predictability Act" data-vars-click-url="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7024" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7024" target="_blank">Hemp Planting Predictability Act</a>, sponsored by Indiana Republican Rep. Jim Baird.<ul><li>The act would delay the restrictions to November 2028, providing additional time to develop a framework for an industry the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S. Hemp Roundtable calls" data-vars-click-url="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/us-hemp-roundtable-welcomes-introduction-of-bipartisan-hemp-planting-predictability-act-hr-7024-302660298.html" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/us-hemp-roundtable-welcomes-introduction-of-bipartisan-hemp-planting-predictability-act-hr-7024-302660298.html" target="_blank">U.S. Hemp Roundtable calls</a> a $28.4 billion economic engine supporting more than 328,000 American jobs.</li><li>Baird said the sudden introduction of the hemp provision disrupted planting decisions made by American hemp farms well in advance, and that &quot;Congress should not have passed such a sweeping policy change that upends a growing industry.&quot;</li><li>The House Agriculture Committee was initially scheduled to take up the measure this week before winter storms interrupted.</li></ul>Reality check: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ag Committee chairman Glenn Thompson said" data-vars-click-url="https://rollcall.com/2026/02/13/house-farm-bill-would-set-hemp-testing-pesticide-label-authority/" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://rollcall.com/2026/02/13/house-farm-bill-would-set-hemp-testing-pesticide-label-authority/" target="_blank">Ag Committee chairman Glenn Thompson said</a> the hemp ban falls outside their jurisdiction, making it unlikely that Baird&#x27;s act will receive a vote.<ul><li>The measure is not listed among the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="stand-alone legislation incorporated into the 2026 Farm Bill" data-vars-click-url="https://agriculture.house.gov/uploadedfiles/ffns26_markerbill_tally-by-title_final.pdf" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://agriculture.house.gov/uploadedfiles/ffns26_markerbill_tally-by-title_final.pdf" target="_blank">stand-alone legislation incorporated into the 2026 Farm Bill</a>, which is slated for a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="markup on Tuesday" data-vars-click-url="https://agriculture.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=8094" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://agriculture.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=8094" target="_blank">markup on Tuesday</a>.</li><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Baird also expressed doubt" data-vars-click-url="https://rollcall.com/2026/02/13/house-farm-bill-would-set-hemp-testing-pesticide-label-authority/" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://rollcall.com/2026/02/13/house-farm-bill-would-set-hemp-testing-pesticide-label-authority/" target="_blank">Baird also expressed doubt</a> about his ability to attach the legislation to the farm bill.</li></ul>What&#x27;s next: Justin Swanson, president of Midwest Hemp Council, told Axios those who want to see the hemp industry survive should <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="keep making noise" data-vars-click-url="https://www.trythehealthclub.com/pages/savehemp?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn-73zZhwNRMYF9lodagl7nRIGw_k73DSN2OfpxW8lD1_Piy-CxSqFqBmh4Kc_aem_tMxd6nCoRwMHz71LQ1nppA&amp;utm_content=link_in_bio&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=ig" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.trythehealthclub.com/pages/savehemp?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn-73zZhwNRMYF9lodagl7nRIGw_k73DSN2OfpxW8lD1_Piy-CxSqFqBmh4Kc_aem_tMxd6nCoRwMHz71LQ1nppA&amp;utm_content=link_in_bio&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=ig" target="_blank">keep making noise</a>.<ul><li>He credits public input for SB 250&#x27;s rocky path, and he encourages residents to reach out to their congressional representatives to delay the federal ban.</li><li>&quot;This isn&#x27;t an extension for extension&#x27;s sake,&quot; he said. &quot;This is an extension to give Congress time to set up that regulatory structure that meets consumer demand and makes life easier for law enforcement.&quot;</li></ul>Go deeper: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Taste-testing Sun King&#x27;s THC seltzers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/11/25/indiana-thc-ban" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/11/25/indiana-thc-ban" target="_self">Taste-testing Sun King&#x27;s THC seltzers</a><ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ending Dry January on a high note with Floral" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/01/27/ending-dry-january-floral" data-vars-content-id="9d0e3927-b7df-49be-897b-f706f90b65a1" data-vars-headline="Indiana hemp industry still fighting state and federal bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/01/27/ending-dry-january-floral" target="_self">Ending Dry January on a high note with Floral</a></li></ul>

Utility regulators call for investigation into affordability

The investigative inquiry next month will be open to the public.

Indiana&#x27;s utility regulators are launching an investigation into the affordability of energy bills charged by the state&#x27;s five largest investor-owned utilities.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Skyrocketing energy costs have burdened" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/10/08/city-county-councilors-wants-city-to-buy-aes-indiana-electric-utility" data-vars-content-id="68747b73-6659-4778-a3d2-4d0c4d4c0ade" data-vars-headline="Utility regulators call for investigation into affordability" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/10/08/city-county-councilors-wants-city-to-buy-aes-indiana-electric-utility" target="_self">Skyrocketing energy costs have burdened</a> Hoosiers for years and policymakers have taken note.

Changes to judge selection and other new laws impacting Indianapolis

The legislative session is over, but the impacts are just getting started.

Now that the legislative session is over, Indianapolis will start feeling the impact of new laws.The big picture: Every year, the Indiana General Assembly passes legislation that has an outsized impact on the capital city, and this year was no different.<ul><li>Some of the issues addressed were <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="schools in Indianapolis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/02/27/whats-next-for-ips-after-new-governance-bill-passed" data-vars-content-id="d0c69072-94c2-451a-8d6b-01c9753cf8cf" data-vars-headline="Changes to judge selection and other new laws impacting Indianapolis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/02/27/whats-next-for-ips-after-new-governance-bill-passed" target="_self">schools in Indianapolis</a>, Marion County judges and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="road funding for the city" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/02/23/indy-road-funding-changes-moving-through-statehouse" data-vars-content-id="d0c69072-94c2-451a-8d6b-01c9753cf8cf" data-vars-headline="Changes to judge selection and other new laws impacting Indianapolis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/02/23/indy-road-funding-changes-moving-through-statehouse" target="_self">road funding for the city</a>.</li></ul>

Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, "Pete the Cat"

This weekend, embark on an alphabetized exploration of Indianapolis history.

Things to Do

This weekend, embark on an alphabetized exploration of Indianapolis history.What&#x27;s happening: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Indy A to Z" data-vars-click-url="https://www.indianamuseum.org/experience/indy-a-to-z/" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.indianamuseum.org/experience/indy-a-to-z/" target="_blank">Indy A to Z</a> is an immersive Indiana State Museum exhibition celebrating what makes the Circle City special.How it works: Inspired by a suggestion from local educators and developed by the museum&#x27;s experience team, Indy A to Z uses the alphabet as a framework to dig into 26 unique aspects of Indy&#x27;s culture and history one letter at a time.<ul><li>A giant Prozac pill signifies L for &quot;Lilly,&quot; and a sign for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Madam C.J. Walker&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/02/11/madam-walker-legacy-center-renovation-endowment" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/02/11/madam-walker-legacy-center-renovation-endowment" target="_self">Madam C.J. Walker&#x27;s</a> authorized agents signifies B for &quot;beauty,&quot; and &quot;N&quot; is represented by Indy&#x27;s &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="notorious&quot; natives like John Dillinger" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/01/14/old-news-the-dillinger-gangs-deadly-bank-heist" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/01/14/old-news-the-dillinger-gangs-deadly-bank-heist" target="_self">notorious&quot; natives like John Dillinger</a>.</li></ul>If you go: Indy A to Z&#x27;s four-month run starts Friday.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Museum admission" data-vars-click-url="https://9529a.blackbaudhosting.com/9529a/tickets?tab=3&amp;txobjid=ec16dc0b-45af-4c86-987b-2150481851de" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://9529a.blackbaudhosting.com/9529a/tickets?tab=3&amp;txobjid=ec16dc0b-45af-4c86-987b-2150481851de" target="_blank">Museum admission</a> is $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and $16 for kids 3-17.</li></ul>More weekend picks:🏈 Hang out with some NFL insiders while supporting Riley Children&#x27;s Foundation during the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="NFL Combine Meetup" data-vars-click-url="https://give.rileykids.org/event/sun-king-nfl-combine-event/e772207" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://give.rileykids.org/event/sun-king-nfl-combine-event/e772207" target="_blank">NFL Combine Meetup</a> at Sun King Brewery Downtown, 6pm Friday.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://give.rileykids.org/event/sun-king-nfl-combine-event/e772207/register/new/select-tickets" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://give.rileykids.org/event/sun-king-nfl-combine-event/e772207/register/new/select-tickets" target="_blank">Tickets</a> are $25.</li></ul>🎷 Experience a high-octane saxophone performance when <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Eric Darius" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ericdarius.com/" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ericdarius.com/" target="_blank">Eric Darius</a> plays the Jazz Kitchen, 7pm and 10pm Friday and Saturday.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://calendar.thejazzkitchen.com/shows/eric-darius-27-feb" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://calendar.thejazzkitchen.com/shows/eric-darius-27-feb" target="_blank">Tickets</a> start at $25.</li></ul>😂 Laugh the night away with award-winning stand-up Zoltan Kaszas at Helium Comedy Club, 7pm and 9:15pm Friday.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://indianapolis.heliumcomedy.com/shows/343582" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://indianapolis.heliumcomedy.com/shows/343582" target="_blank">Tickets</a> start at $32.</li></ul>🙌 Feel the power of contemporary worship music when the Elevation Nights Tour stops at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, 7pm Friday.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0500635F9BAB78FF?brand=fieldhouse&amp;camefrom=CFC_FIELDHOUSE_SITE_EVENT" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0500635F9BAB78FF?brand=fieldhouse&amp;camefrom=CFC_FIELDHOUSE_SITE_EVENT" target="_blank">Tickets</a> start at $45.</li></ul>🏒 Hit the ice with the Indy Fuel as they host a pair of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="special celebrations" data-vars-click-url="https://indyfuelhockey.com/games/2026/02/27/hockey-is-for-everyone" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://indyfuelhockey.com/games/2026/02/27/hockey-is-for-everyone" target="_blank">special celebrations</a> at Fishers Event Center against the Iowa Heartlands.<ul><li>Tickets for the inclusivity-focused <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hockey is for Everyone game" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ticketmaster.com/indy-fuel-vs-iowa-heartlanders-fishers-indiana-02-27-2026/event/0500630DC72435A1" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/indy-fuel-vs-iowa-heartlanders-fishers-indiana-02-27-2026/event/0500630DC72435A1" target="_blank">Hockey is for Everyone game</a> at 7pm Friday and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Blackhawks Night game" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ticketmaster.com/indy-fuel-vs-iowa-heartlanders-fishers-indiana-02-28-2026/event/0500630DC7EA363E" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/indy-fuel-vs-iowa-heartlanders-fishers-indiana-02-28-2026/event/0500630DC7EA363E" target="_blank">Blackhawks Night game</a> at 7pm Saturday start at $36.</li></ul>🎵 Fist pump with &quot;Jersey Shore&quot; star <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="DJ Pauly D" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/djpaulyd/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/djpaulyd/?hl=en" target="_blank">DJ Pauly D</a> when he spins at Old National Centre, 9pm Friday.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ticketmaster.com/dj-pauly-d-indianapolis-indiana-02-27-2026/event/05006339CB124E4E?_gl=1*1cs0blj*_ga*MzMzMjI4NDIzLjE3NjczNjU5NjE.*_ga_C1T806G4DF*czE3Njc5Njg0NzAkbzUkZzEkdDE3Njc5NzA1MTQkajYwJGwwJGgw*_ga_H1KKSGW33X*czE3Njc5Njg0NzAkbzUkZzEkdDE3Njc5NzA1MTQkajYwJGwwJGgw" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/dj-pauly-d-indianapolis-indiana-02-27-2026/event/05006339CB124E4E?_gl=1*1cs0blj*_ga*MzMzMjI4NDIzLjE3NjczNjU5NjE.*_ga_C1T806G4DF*czE3Njc5Njg0NzAkbzUkZzEkdDE3Njc5NzA1MTQkajYwJGwwJGgw*_ga_H1KKSGW33X*czE3Njc5Njg0NzAkbzUkZzEkdDE3Njc5NzA1MTQkajYwJGwwJGgw" target="_blank">Tickets</a> start at $72.</li></ul>🏀 See some of the state&#x27;s top high school basketball players in action when the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="IHSAA Girls Basketball State Finals" data-vars-click-url="https://www.gainbridgefieldhouse.com/events/detail/2025-26-ihsaa-girls-basketball-state-finals" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.gainbridgefieldhouse.com/events/detail/2025-26-ihsaa-girls-basketball-state-finals" target="_blank">IHSAA Girls Basketball State Finals</a> hit Gainbridge Fieldhouse.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ticketmaster.com/ihsaa-girls-basketball-state-finals-tickets/artist/2323941?venueId=41417&amp;brand=fieldhouse&amp;camefrom=CFC_FIELDHOUSE_SITE_EVENT" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/ihsaa-girls-basketball-state-finals-tickets/artist/2323941?venueId=41417&amp;brand=fieldhouse&amp;camefrom=CFC_FIELDHOUSE_SITE_EVENT" target="_blank">Tickets</a> for each session start at $25.</li><li>Doors for Session 1, the 1A (10:30am) and 2A (12:45pm) state championships, open at 9:30am.</li><li>Doors for Session 2, the 3A (6pm) and 4A (8:15pm) state championships, open at 5pm.</li></ul>🐈‍⬛ Treat the kids to some all-ages theater when <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Carmel&#x27;s Civic Theatre presents &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://thecenterpresents.org/tickets-events/events/2526/resident-companies/civic-pete-the-cat/" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://thecenterpresents.org/tickets-events/events/2526/resident-companies/civic-pete-the-cat/" target="_blank">Carmel&#x27;s Civic Theatre presents &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;</a> at The Tarkington, 10am and 2pm Saturday.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="http://thecenterpresents.org/tickets-events/events/2526/resident-companies/civic-pete-the-cat/" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="http://thecenterpresents.org/tickets-events/events/2526/resident-companies/civic-pete-the-cat/" target="_blank">Tickets</a> start at $25.</li></ul>🏐 Cheer for the Indy Ignite as they take on the Omaha Supernovas at Fishers Event Center, 2pm Sunday.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ticketmaster.com/indy-ignite-vs-omaha-supernovas-fishers-indiana-03-01-2026/event/0500635DE700B56F" data-vars-content-id="505d3779-c369-44a0-92b7-5f7d13ea0792" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, &quot;Pete the Cat&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/indy-ignite-vs-omaha-supernovas-fishers-indiana-03-01-2026/event/0500635DE700B56F" target="_blank">Tickets</a> start at $37.</li></ul>

The NFL Combine returns to Indianapolis

Athletes from around the country are in town to prove they're NFL-ready.

Sports

As talk of a new NFL stadium <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="heats up in Northwest Indiana" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/02/19/indiana-illinois-chicago-bears-stadium-deal" data-vars-content-id="0832ab32-a1be-4be5-8fed-b049f388e416" data-vars-headline="The NFL Combine returns to Indianapolis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2026/02/19/indiana-illinois-chicago-bears-stadium-deal" target="_self">heats up in Northwest Indiana</a>, hundreds of NFL hopefuls are warming up in Indianapolis.Why it matters: More than just a place for players to impress pro scouts, the NFL Scouting Combine has been an annual downtown Indy tradition <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="for nearly four decades" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/02/26/nfl-combine-history" data-vars-content-id="0832ab32-a1be-4be5-8fed-b049f388e416" data-vars-headline="The NFL Combine returns to Indianapolis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/indianapolis/2025/02/26/nfl-combine-history" target="_self">for nearly four decades</a>.

Your weekend plans: GEOfest, Shen Yun, pet painting

GEOfest is back to bring another weekend of crystals, fossils and fun to the Indiana State Museum.

GEOfest is back to bring another weekend of crystals, fossils and fun to the Indiana State Museum.What&#x27;s happening: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="all-ages educational bash" data-vars-click-url="https://www.indianamuseum.org/event/geofest/" data-vars-content-id="018a3646-f1cd-4e15-bb2e-5d1fd60524d0" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: GEOfest, Shen Yun, pet painting" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.indianamuseum.org/event/geofest/" target="_blank">all-ages educational bash</a> has been one of the museum&#x27;s most popular annual events for the past 23 years.

Your weekend plans: 500 Festival Miler Series, Mike Epps, Dirty Dancing and more

Kick off your 500 Festival Mini-Marathon training this weekend with a brisk 3-mile run.

Kick off your 500 Festival Mini-Marathon training this weekend with a brisk 3-mile run.Driving the news: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="500 Festival Miler Series" data-vars-click-url="https://indymini.com/miler-series/" data-vars-content-id="43a46541-44dc-4910-a6ed-bcb2b9cae4f4" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: 500 Festival Miler Series, Mike Epps, Dirty Dancing and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://indymini.com/miler-series/" target="_blank">500 Festival Miler Series</a> starts Saturday to give local runners of all skill levels the chance to reconnect and warm up as winter wanes.

Galentine's Day: How to celebrate friendship in Indy

Treat yo&#x27;self! Galentine&#x27;s Day, the better half of Valentine&#x27;s Day, is on Feb. 13.Why it matters: Inspired by the show &quot;Parks and Recreation,&quot; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Galentine&#x27;s Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYv1zjBOMew" data-vars-content-id="131a2ee0-d622-40f9-84e9-48ec60717706" data-vars-headline="Galentine&#x27;s Day: How to celebrate friendship in Indy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYv1zjBOMew" target="_blank">Galentine&#x27;s Day</a> is a celebration of female friendships. It&#x27;s a reminder that while a valentine may come and go, our closest girls are often the true loves of our lives.<ul><li>Friendship comes in many forms and genders, and the celebration of platonic love and camaraderie is sometimes known as Palentine&#x27;s Day.</li></ul>Zoom in: Grab your closest pals — gals or otherwise — and celebrate at one of these events around Indianapolis.

Your weekend plans: Winterfest, Blue Man Group, Rascal Flatts and more

See what the best Hoosier brewers are pouring in 2026 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.

The best place to get a taste of what the state&#x27;s best brewers are pouring is the Indiana State Fairgrounds this weekend.Driving the brews: The Indiana Brewers Guild is hosting the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="17th annual Winterfest" data-vars-click-url="https://drinkin.beer/event/winterfest/" data-vars-content-id="ad4cf96c-ec29-44a1-b08b-38b88655f032" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Winterfest, Blue Man Group, Rascal Flatts and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://drinkin.beer/event/winterfest/" target="_blank">17th annual Winterfest</a> Saturday in the West Pavilion.

5 unique ways to spend Valentine's Day in Indianapolis

Love is in the air — and on the calendar.Why it matters: We&#x27;re less than two weeks from Valentine&#x27;s Day, and if you haven&#x27;t made plans, don&#x27;t worry. Your pals at Axios Indy have you covered.

IndyPL kicks off annual Black art celebration

The "Meet the Artists" exhibit is one of the city's longest-running showcases of local creators of color.

Black History Month starts Sunday, but the Central Library&#x27;s annual celebration of Black art is already underway.Why it matters: The annual &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Meet the Artists" data-vars-click-url="https://www.indypl.org/programs-events/meet-the-artists" data-vars-content-id="fb01c13b-3d89-4ff5-bff1-606511a92085" data-vars-headline="IndyPL kicks off annual Black art celebration" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.indypl.org/programs-events/meet-the-artists" target="_blank">Meet the Artists</a>&quot; exhibit is a cultural event that stands as one of the city&#x27;s longest-running showcases of local creators of color.

Your weekend plans: Winter Classic Dog Show and Batman in Concert

Plus: "Batman in Concert" and Indy Ignite.

This weekend, Indianapolis is a great place to see some good dogs.What&#x27;s happening: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Indy Winter Classic Dog Show" data-vars-click-url="https://hoosierkennelclub.org/vendors.html" data-vars-content-id="af0b0a3a-1715-495e-8ba2-535d38d6c700" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Winter Classic Dog Show and Batman in Concert" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://hoosierkennelclub.org/vendors.html" target="_blank">Indy Winter Classic Dog Show</a> continues at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, putting thousands of pooches center stage to show their skills and strut their stuff.

Meet the Maker: Juan Francisco Ramos Aguilar

A mime and puppeteering pro who is introducing Spanish-speaking kids to the joys of theater.

Culture

Meet Juan Francisco Ramos Aguilar, a mime and puppeteering pro who is introducing Spanish-speaking kids in Indy to the joys of theater.The inspo: Born in El Salvador, Aguilar&#x27;s 44-year acting career began on an amateur theater stage at the age of 16.

Things to Do 🗓

Your weekend plans: Indy A to Z, IHSAA basketball finals, "Pete the Cat"

The NFL Combine returns to Indianapolis

Your weekend plans: GEOfest, Shen Yun, pet painting

Your weekend plans: 500 Festival Miler Series, Mike Epps, Dirty Dancing and more

Galentine's Day: How to celebrate friendship in Indy