10 Big sports events happening in the Midwest in 2024
Is the Midwest, best? When it comes to hosting and pulling off some truly high-profile sports events in 2024, we’re going to say… yes. The lineup of big sports events happening in the Midwest this year is impressive, and if you’re not already adding this to your shared family Google calendar, well, you’re gonna miss out.
10 Big sports events happening in the Midwest in 2024:
1. NBA All-Star Weekend, Indianapolis
The NBA All-Star Weekend features the best talent from the National Basketball Association, including the All-Star Game, Slam Dunk Contest, and 3-Point Contest. While the public can purchase tickets for all events, Indianapolis also offers a family-friendly Fan Fest basketball festival at the Indiana Convention Center, a free BUTTER Art Fair highlighting local Black artists, and more. Info here.
Dates: 2/15-2/18
2. NFL Combine, Indianapolis
Hundreds of prospective players will travel to Indy for a chance to show off their skills to NFL coaches, teams, and staff in this 4-day long event. Fans can enjoy various activations, and the outdoor Combine Experience fan festival in the South Lot of Lucas Oil Stadium. Info here.
Dates: 2/29-3/3
3. NCAA Women’s Final Four, Cleveland
In what culminates a record-setting season of women’s college basketball, this will be exhilarating showcase of top teams vying for the national championship at Cleveland’s Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Dates: 4/5 and 4/7
4. NFL Draft, Detroit
The 2024 NFL Draft will take place in Detroit, MI in the downtown area and award-winning Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza. Fans can expect activations, watch parties, and plenty of family-friendly fun in the Motor City. More info.
Dates: 4/25-4/27
More Midwest fun, coming your way:
5. Kentucky Derby, Louisville
Known as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," this race gathers the finest Thoroughbred horses and jockeys from around the world, captivating fans with its rich history and thrilling competition. More info.
Date: 5/4
6. US Olympic Swim Trials, Indianapolis
A showcase of the nation's top swimmers competing for a spot on the Olympic team. For the first time ever (and ahead of the 2024 Summer Games in Paris) this event will be staged on a football field as Lucas Oil Stadium - home to the Indianapolis Colts football team! - hosts this nine day experience. More info.
Dates: 6/15-6/23
7. US Olympic Gymnastics Team Trials, Minneapolis
Taking place at the Target Center, these trials will showcase the country’s best gymnasts vying for a spot on the Olympic team. Ticketholders can enjoy watching athletes compete in uneven bars, vault, beam, and floor routines. More info.
Dates: 6/27-6/30
Sports szn is around the corner:
8. MLS All-Star Game, Columbus
The 2024 MLS All-Star Game brings together the best players from Major League Soccer to compete against a top international team. While the game opponent has yet to be named as of publication, fans should expect an exciting match at the Columbus Crew's home stadium, complemented by community events and the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge.. More info.
Date: 7/24
9. USA Lacrosse, Indianapolis
USA Lacrosse is heading to Indy to host the inaugural USA Lacrosse Experience! The festival-type atmosphere will feature international competition by the US National Teams, tournaments for players of all ages, and educational + training opportunities downtown. Get tickets.
Dates: 10/11-10/13
10. Big 10 Football Championship Game, Indianapolis
Indianapolis will host the highly-anticipated B1G Football Championship Game, where top conference teams battle for the coveted title and a chance to secure a spot in one of the College Football Playoff bowls, including the iconic Rose Bowl Game. More info.
Date: 12/7
Bonus!
English Premier League Mornings Fan Fest, Nashville
(Disclaimer: We know, we know, Nashville isn’t technically the Midwest but it’s such a darn convenient drive so we had to include this!) For soccer enthusiasts, get ready for an infusion of fun from the English Premier League. This April the Premier League Mornings Fan Fest will broadcast live from Nashville, allowing fans to come together and watch live Premier League matches, meet mascots, and other family-friendly activities. More info.
Dates: 4/6-4/7
