Fall in Bloomington is just as packed with entertainment and things to do as any other season! Take advantage of the many events happening on campus and around the community. Here are some suggestions!
Get Active
Skate and Scare
The Franklin Southern Ice Arena is hosting a fun Halloween event, so grab a group of friends and head to the rink! Cost of entry is $6 plus $3 for skate rentals.
When: Saturday, October 26, 7-9PM
Go on a Hike
Fall is arguably the most gorgeous time to go and explore the vast parks and wilderness areas around Bloomington. Hit up Brown County State Park, the Hoosier National Forest, Hickory Ridge Fire Tower, or Cascades Park for some nature time. I recently hiked a trail that ran along a peninsula of Lake Monroe. It was absolutely gorgeous and I highly recommend it!
Films and Entertainment
Robin Williams: Come Inside my Mind
This documentary film explores the life and career of Robin Williams. His son, Zak Williams, is scheduled to attend. Reserve your free ticket by visiting the IU Cinema’s website.
When: October 25, 7PM
Do the Right Thing
Do the Right Thing takes place in the heat of the New York City summer. For the 30th anniversary of its making, Spike Lee’s film is being screened at the IU Cinema. Tickets are $4 and can be purchased on the IU Cinema website.
When: Monday, November 4, 7PM
Anderson Cooper
CNN anchor and CBS correspondent Anderson Cooper is coming to Indiana University as part of The Media School’s Speaker Series. This event will take place at the Musical Arts Center, and tickets are free for students if ordered in-person.
When: Sunday October 27, 7PM
IMU Late Nite Laughs
Big fan of comedy? If so, this event is a must-do. The IMU is holding their Late Nite Laughs event in Alumni Hall, where a multitude of campus comedy groups will be performing. The headliner of the evening is Lewberger, a comedy band that includes former Buzzfeed internet sensation and current member of the Try Guys, Keith Habersberger. Another bonus: this event is FREE!
When: Friday, November 1, 9PM
Big Fish
The Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance’s production of Big Fish is taking place this fall. The musical follows a son as he attempts to uncover the truth of his father’s exaggerated stories. Tickets are $10 and all shows take place in the Ruth N. Halls Theatre.
When: October 23-November 2, 7:30PM
Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience
Theresa Caputo from TLC’s Long Island Medium is coming to the IU Auditorium. Her show is sure to be interactive, so get your tickets on the IU Auditorium’s website.
When: Saturday, November 16, 7:30PM
21 & Up
The Queer Cabaret: Hallowqueen
The Back Door is hosting a drag queen performance event with a Halloween theme. Come wearing your costume and stay for the dance party. Cost of entry is $5.
When: Saturday, October 26, 11PM
A Day at Oliver Winery
Head up to Oliver Winery for the afternoon to enjoy a picnic, wine tasting, and live music.
When: Saturday, October 26 (Live music: 1PM-4PM) and Sunday, October 27 (Live music: 2PM-5PM)
Spooky Things
Festival of Ghost Stories
If you’re looking to get a few chills, head over to Bryan Park to listen to a series of ghost stories shared by the Bloomington Storytellers Guild.
When: Friday, October 25, 7PM
The Barn of Terror
In the mood for a fright? Grab a group of friends and hit up the Barn of Terror, located on Old State Rd. 37. It’s a great Halloween-themed activity.
When: Fridays and Saturdays, 8PM-12-AM; October 31, 8PM-10PM
Get Crafty with Pumpkins
If you’re less into the spook and more into Halloween decoration, have a pumpkin carving or painting party. Some of the residence halls are hosting free pumpkin painting events. Check to see for campus events near you.
Día de los Muertos
Learn about this cultural tradition while enjoying free food!
When: Wednesday, October 30, 7PM
Where: La Casa Latino Cultural Center
Bloomington Pumpkin Launch
Have you ever wondered what would happen to a pumpkin if it were launched by a catapult? Well, you can find out this fall at the Monroe County Fairgrounds. The event is free but parking is $10.
When: Saturday, October 26, 12PM
Fairs, Markets, and Fun Events
One of my favorite things to do this time of year is to check out artist markets and attend fall festivals. Something about viewing handmade work while sipping cider really puts in me in that autumnal mood. Here are a few fun activities that fall under this category.
When: Saturday, November 9, 10AM-4PM
Where: Monroe Convention Center
When: Saturday, November 9 9AM-3PM
Where: Monroe County Fairgrounds
When: Friday, November 15, 9PM
Where: IMU Alumni Hall
When: Every Saturday until November 23, 9AM-1PM
Where: 401 N. Morton St.
When: Saturday, November 30, 10AM-3PM
Where: City Hall
There you have it; an extensive list of fall things to do in and around Bloomington. Get out there and enjoy this beautiful town!
