To help you wring the final few good times out of the summer, the Daily Journal has scoured the area’s best activities during the next three weeks. From festivals to food to local art, here is your roundup for Labor Day and beyond.
Southside Art League competitive art show
When: Friday through Oct. 6Where: Greenwood Public Library, 310 S. Meridian St.
What: For the past 25 years, members of the Southside Art League have been showing off their best work in their annual competitive show. Professionals, amateur artists, students and those working in photography and digital mediums will submit their finest creations vying for ribbons and cash rewards. An opening reception for the show will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, with awards at 7.
Savor the taste of summer
Franklin Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, corner of West Jefferson and South Jackson streetsGreenwood Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays, 525 N. Madison Ave.
What: The farm-fresh sweet corn is close to being done for the year, so be sure to pick up a few ears to go with tomatoes, peppers and other produce grown right here in the county. This will be the last weekend for Franklin’s market, while Greenwood’s will stretch through the second Saturday in October.
Take a dip
When:Freedom Springs: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Monday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday
Franklin Family Aquatic Center: Noon to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. Monday
What: This weekend marks the last chance to splish-splash in the pool for the season. Greenwood’s Freedom Springs and the Franklin Family Aquatic Center will both be open through Monday. Rush down the water slides, jump off the diving boards and soak up the sun one last time.
IMA Mini Golf
When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursdays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays.Where: Indianapolis Museum of Art, 4000 Michigan Ave.
What: Nothing says summer like a round of mini golf. And this course is a work of art. The museum worked with artists from all over Indiana and the U.S. to create 18 holes that each say something unique about Indiana — playing up the state’s rock ‘n’ roll history, Dungeons and Dragons and beloved local icon Willie the Whale. The course will be gone by the end of October, so get in your putts while you can.
Labor Fest
When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. SaturdayWhere: Georgia Street, downtown Indianapolis
What: In between the end-of-summer cookouts and lounging in the sun, take some time to recognize the reason you have a three-day weekend. Labor Fest is a free downtown Indianapolis festival celebrating the state’s workers. Participants will be able to visit with workers from around the state, as well as labor leaders. Live music from Yacht Rock Revue, kids activities and food trucks will add to the festive atmosphere.
Dulcimer Day
When: 2:30 to 5 p.m. SaturdayWhere: The Apple Works
What: Fall is the centerpiece season for The Apple Works. But before the pumpkins are stacked and the cider starts flowing, enjoy the farm’s fresh Indiana produce and beautiful grounds while enjoying the soothing sound of the dulcimer. The Corydon Dulcimer Society, dedicated to preserving the sound and style of early American folk instruments, will play popular favorites on their unique collection of stringed instruments.
Mallow Run Hog Roast
When: Noon to 9 p.m. Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday and MondayWhere: Mallow Run Winery, 6964 W. Whiteland Road, Bargersville
What: The smell of roasted pork closes out the summer season at the winery, where the yearly Labor Day hog roast has become an anniversary tradition. Dine on pulled pork and sides, sample Mallow Run’s wide array of wines and listen to music by groups such as Tastes Like Chicken, Exit 99 and HT3.
Roc & Row
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. MondayWhere: Broad Ripple Park, 1550 Broad Ripple Ave., Indianapolis
What: Reggae music is the soundtrack for the summer months, and on the unofficial last weekend of summer, this Indianapolis festival is serving up the best the region has to offer. Groove on the shores of the White River to the sounds of the Ark Band, as well as sets by Hero Jr., Sugar Moon Rabbit and children’s performer Ruditoonz. Other activities include child and adult yoga sessions, a wellness fair and a vendor market hosted by Indy Urban Flea. Proceeds benefit the Carl G. Fisher Society, which works to educate the community about the importance of the White River.
Greenwood Trail Trek 5K
When: 8 a.m. Sept. 10Where: Greenwood Community Center, 100 Surina Way
What: In a few months, an early morning run or walk in shorts and a T-shirt will be unthinkable. So take advantage of the pleasant weather while supporting the Greenwood trail system. The Trail Trek 5K features a flat, fast course starting and finishing in Craig Park, with proceeds from the event going to ensure the trails remain safe and environmentally friendly. Registration is $20 if done by Friday, and $25 afterwards.
Drumming with the Miami Nation of Indians
When: 1 p.m. Sept. 10Where: Johnson County Public Library White River Branch, 1664 Library Blvd., Greenwood
What: In celebration of Native American History Month, the Miami Nation of Indians of the State of Indiana will host a drumming workshop and performance. Participants will be able to learn about the culture of the Miami Nation, which had formerly lived throughout the state, through song, dance and percussion.
Take in an outdoor show
When: 7 p.m. Sept. 10Where: Mallow Run Winery
What: The annual concerts by virtuoso classical trio Time for Three have become a tradition at Mallow Run. Where else can you see Brahms and Bach blended with Michael Jackson and Kanye West? The performance will once again be part of the Art Uncorked!, serving as the release for the winery’s Artist Series wine, done in partnership with the Greater Greenwood Arts Council to support local art efforts. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 the day of the show.
