2026 Spirit and Place Festival

Inspired by the storytelling spirit of Humans of New York, this interactive experience invites the Indianapolis community to slow down, listen deeply, and build connection through real stories.

The day will be divided into a morning and afternoon session. You are welcome to attend one or both.

• Full Day registration: 9:30 AM – 4:15 PM

• AM registration: 9:30 AM – 12:45 PM

• PM registration: 1:00 PM – 4:15 PM

Across four sessions, four Hoosiers from diverse backgrounds will each share a personal story lasting fifteen to twenty minutes. These stories may center around moments of joy, challenge, identity, or transformation. They are not performances, but honest reflections of lived experience that offer a window into each person’s world.

Each story will be intentionally paired with a guided reflection experience designed to deepen connection and help participants process what they have heard. Rather than choosing from multiple options, participants will move together through each story and its corresponding reflection.

Pairings may include a movement workshop, nature journaling, a guided hike, watercolor expression, or a restorative sound bath. Each reflection is thoughtfully matched to the tone and themes of the story, offering a meaningful pathway to explore emotional responses, personal connections, and new perspectives.

A lunch break will be built into the experience. Participants are encouraged to bring their own picnic style lunch and enjoy time outdoors in community.

This experience centers the belief that connection begins with listening. By pairing storytelling with creative and embodied reflection, Come Sit With Me creates space for empathy, curiosity, and shared understanding.

Participants will leave not only having heard powerful stories, but having reflected on their own in relation to others, reminded that even in our differences, there is always something that connects us.