Indianapolis, Indiana – Excitement is building on Indianapolis’ north side as Indy Parks and the Holliday Park Foundation (HPF) prepare to unveil a long-awaited addition to one of the city’s most beloved public spaces. The new Holliday Park playground, years in the making and fueled by community collaboration and philanthropy, will officially open to the public on Sunday, November 2, 2025, with a grand opening celebration from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at 6363 Spring Mill Road. The free, family-friendly event will include food, refreshments, and nature-inspired activities designed to introduce visitors to the park’s newest attraction.
For decades, Holliday Park has been a cornerstone of recreation, exploration, and childhood memories for families across Indianapolis. Now, thanks to a shared vision between Indy Parks, HPF, and generous donors, the playground has been completely reimagined to inspire the next generation of adventurers. The new design blends modern play features with the park’s natural landscape, offering children a space that celebrates discovery and imagination while honoring Holliday Park’s rich legacy.
“The playground at Holliday Park has been a northside family destination for generations,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “Thanks to the Lilly Endowment and the Holliday Park Foundation, generations to come will also get to build memories on the new playground. It is because of philanthropic efforts like these that more of our residents can experience new, revitalized spaces at our city parks.”
The newly constructed playground offers a variety of age-appropriate play zones, giving toddlers, young children, and older kids their own dedicated spaces to explore safely. It also features a redesigned entry court and gathering area, new parking facilities to improve accessibility, and nature-themed elements that reflect the beauty of the surrounding woods and White River. The result is a playground that feels both modern and timeless—an extension of the park’s landscape rather than an interruption of it.
The design team from Rundell Ernstberger Associates worked closely with the community during the planning process, gathering feedback and incorporating public input to ensure the playground met the diverse needs of families in the area. The team also made use of cutting-edge play equipment designed to promote inclusivity and accessibility for children of all abilities.
“This playground is a true reflection of what our community can accomplish together,” said Adam Barnes, Executive Director of the Holliday Park Foundation. “Lilly Endowment’s gift inspired us to dream big, and thanks to the support of donors, project partners, and friends of Holliday Park, we have a reimagined play space children will enjoy for generations.”
The new playground represents a major investment in one of Indianapolis’ most popular parks. The project began with a $3 million leadership gift from Lilly Endowment Inc., a contribution that set the stage for HPF and community partners to raise an additional $3 million in matching funds. Together, the $6 million total funded not only the new playground but also planning, design, and site improvements that will enhance the visitor experience for years to come.
HPF oversaw every phase of the project—from fundraising and community engagement to final construction—in close coordination with Indy Parks and other local partners. The collaboration reflects a growing citywide effort to revitalize park spaces and strengthen neighborhood connections through recreation and public investment.
“The Holliday Park playground has been more than just a playground for so many families; it’s been a place for kids to explore their limits and make lasting bonds,” said City-County Councilor Brienne Delaney. “The partnership between the Lilly Endowment and everyone who supported this project ensures that a new generation of kids will love coming to Holliday Park.”
The project also marks another milestone in Indy Parks’ ongoing initiative to update and modernize facilities across the city. According to the department, more than 40% of playgrounds in Indianapolis have been replaced or upgraded in recent years as part of a broader effort to improve access and safety. Altogether, the City of Indianapolis is investing over $150 million in new and upgraded park amenities across its 218 parks, a sweeping effort that underscores the city’s commitment to recreation and public wellness.
“The completion of this new playground is a testament to the Holliday Park community and what this park means to the city,” said Indy Parks Director Brittany Crone. “Indy Parks appreciates the generosity of the Lilly Endowment and every donor who made this project possible.”
A Gathering Place for the Future
When the playground officially opens on November 2, families will not only be able to enjoy the new equipment but also celebrate the spirit of collaboration that made it possible. The grand opening will include hands-on nature activities led by park staff, giving children and parents a chance to explore the connection between play and the natural environment that defines Holliday Park.
Free parking will be available in three lots throughout the park—one adjacent to the playground, one west of the iconic Ruins, and another near the Nature Center. Organizers expect a large turnout as families and park enthusiasts gather to be among the first to experience the new space.
For Indy Parks and HPF, the playground’s completion represents more than the end of a construction project—it’s the continuation of a legacy. Holliday Park, one of the city’s oldest and most cherished green spaces, has long been a place where generations of Hoosiers have come to hike, explore, and play. The new playground will extend that legacy, serving thousands of families each year while strengthening the park’s role as a gathering place for the Indianapolis community.
Residents can learn more about the playground and its development by visiting www.hollidaypark.org/playground.
As Mayor Hogsett reflected during the announcement, the heart of this project lies in the city’s shared commitment to its parks and people. With its blend of community spirit, philanthropy, and thoughtful design, the new Holliday Park playground stands as a symbol of what can happen when a city comes together to create something lasting—something that inspires joy, connection, and imagination for generations to come.
