EatHere Brings Flavor, Inclusion, and Community to Downtown Indy
On Saturday, October 18, 2025, University Park in downtown Indianapolis will come alive with bold flavors, music, and community connection as the Chicken & Beer Festival – Indianapolis returns for its fifth anniversary celebration.
Founded by the local food-tech platform EatHere®, the festival has grown from a grassroots idea into one of the city’s most anticipated culinary experiences. What started as a celebration of chicken and beer has now become a cultural movement, spotlighting minority-owned, ethnic-owned, and international restaurants while elevating Indy’s diverse culinary scene.
“At its core, this festival has never been just about fried chicken and beer,” says Bradley Houser, Founder & CEO of EatHere. “It’s about redefining how we gather, breaking down stereotypes, and creating a space where diverse voices are celebrated. Food is our bridge—uniting communities, honoring culture, and reminding us that inclusion and entrepreneurship can be served at the same table.”
That purpose shows up in the festival’s structure: vendors pay no fees, and 100% of sales go directly back to participating businesses, many of which are immigrant- and minority-owned. To date, the event has generated over $2 million in local economic impact, strengthening Indiana’s $25 billion independent restaurant economy while ensuring dollars stay local.
For Business Equity for Indy (BEI), events like this align with our mission to amplify diverse entrepreneurs and create inclusive economic opportunities. The Chicken & Beer Festival doesn’t just showcase talent—it actively removes barriers to participation and gives vendors a platform to grow their visibility.
With over 30% of attendees traveling from outside Indiana, the festival also drives regional tourism, bringing new visitors to Indianapolis while boosting the profile of local chefs and food innovators.
The 2025 edition introduces a new “Family Style” format, encouraging togetherness at shared tables with dishes designed to be passed and savored. Attendees can also look forward to:
- The return of the Hot Wing Challenge, a spicy crowd favorite.
- Live DJs and music celebrating cultural energy.
- A wide range of food and drink experiences—from Filipino barbecue and Caribbean jerk chicken to plant-based comfort food, craft beverages, and locally made desserts
With more than 40 participating vendors—including longtime Indy favorites and new culinary entrepreneurs—the festival is a testament to how food can drive economic growth and cultural exchange.
The Chicken & Beer Festival – Indianapolis is more than a food event—it’s a celebration of equity, culture, and community. By showing up, you’re not just tasting incredible dishes; you’re supporting local entrepreneurs, fueling Indiana’s independent restaurant economy, and helping elevate diverse culinary voices.
Tickets are selling quickly, with the early bird and free general admission options already sold out. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this one-of-a-kind experience on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at University Park.
Get your tickets today, and come hungry, curious, and ready to celebrate Indy’s flavor and talent.
