During the WNBA All-Star Weekend, a highlight of the festivities was Fever Fest, organized by Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E) and Kevin Hart’s entertainment company, Hartbeat. This event marked not only an enjoyable evening but also the launch of a broader partnership aimed at enhancing the sports and entertainment scene in Indianapolis.
Fever Fest kicked off on July 19 with line dancing, hosted by comedians Deon Cole and Sydney Colson, and featured performances from prominent artists such as The Kid LAROI, G-Eazy, and Bia. The concert also included a watch party for the WNBA All-Star Game, creating a dynamic atmosphere that celebrated both basketball and entertainment.
In a promising development for fans, PS&E and Hartbeat have signed a five-year agreement for Hartbeat to serve as “cultural curator” for events at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, home to both the Indiana Fever and the Indiana Pacers. This partnership is set to integrate basketball with music and comedy throughout the year, reflecting the evolving landscape of fan engagement in sports. Joey Graziano, EVP of strategy and new business ventures at PS&E, emphasized the importance of catering to the Fever’s passionate fanbase, many of whom travel significant distances for games.
The Fever’s recent successes, including a playoff run and the addition of Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark, have drawn attention from fans across the nation, significantly boosting attendance at games. Graziano noted that less than 10% of Fever fans also attend Pacers games, underscoring the unique identity and loyalty of the Fever fanbase.
Cultural events like Fever Fest are pivotal in attracting visitors to Indianapolis, which saw over 30 million visitors last year. With ongoing developments in the city’s infrastructure, including upgrades to the Indiana Convention Center, indications are strong for continued growth in tourism and entertainment.
The partnership between PS&E and Hartbeat aims not just for one-off events but looks to establish an annual tradition in Fever Fest. The approach is targeted toward younger fans, built around a vibrant and easily accessible area in downtown Indianapolis that hosts various attractions, making it an appealing destination year-round.
Plans also hint at the potential for more comedy venues and expanded entertainment offerings in the future, aligning with the broader ambitions of both entities to diversify local entertainment and engage fans in innovative ways. This collaborative effort at Fever Fest is just the beginning of an exciting chapter for sports, music, and community in Indianapolis, reflecting a positive trajectory for the city’s cultural landscape and sports fandom.