If you’re looking for a family trip that blends Disney magic with hands-on learning, there’s a brand-new reason to put The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis on your travel list.
Now open through January 3, 2027, Tiana’s Joyful Celebration is the first-ever museum exhibition dedicated to Princess Tiana—and it’s more than just an exhibit. It’s a full-on interactive experience that brings the heart of New Orleans to life.
A Celebration You Help Create
From the moment you step inside, you’re part of the story. Produced by Walt Disney Imagineering in collaboration with the museum, this exhibit invites families to help Tiana prepare for a vibrant Mardi Gras parade in her childhood neighborhood.
This isn’t a “look but don’t touch” kind of experience. Instead, it’s all about participation:
- Design colorful Mardi Gras floats
- Create costumes and masks
- Join a community band rehearsal
- Learn festive dances
- Cook up a pot of gumbo
- Work together to bring the parade to life
Everything centers around teamwork and creativity—what the exhibit calls adding your “special spice.”
A Cultural Journey Through New Orleans
Fans of The Princess and the Frog will instantly recognize the inspiration, but you don’t need to know the film to enjoy this experience.
The exhibit highlights the rich culture of New Orleans through:
- Music and rhythm
- Food traditions
- Art and design
- Community storytelling
It’s also bilingual, with English and Spanish labels, making it accessible to even more families.
Why This Exhibit Feels Different
What makes Tiana’s Joyful Celebration stand out is how it blends Disney storytelling with real-world cultural education. It’s not just about meeting a princess—it’s about understanding the world she comes from.
This exhibit also builds on Tiana’s growing presence beyond the screen, especially following the debut of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, expanding her story into new immersive environments.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re considering a trip, here’s why it’s worth it:
- It’s a limited-time exhibit before it tours nationwide in 2027
- Perfect for families with kids who love interactive play
- A unique mix of Disney magic and educational value
- Located in one of the largest children’s museums in the world
After its Indianapolis run, the exhibit will travel to multiple cities, including stops like The Center of Science and Industry and Glazer Children’s Museum—great news if you’re closer to those areas.
Final Thoughts
Tiana’s Joyful Celebration feels like the kind of experience that sticks with you. It’s colorful, energetic, and meaningful—bringing together food, music, and culture in a way that encourages families to connect and create together.
If your travels take you to Indianapolis this year, this is one stop that’s absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.