Bingo, outdoor family nights and nights of shopping are some of the new events happening in downtown Bloomington as part of a five-year strategic plan to strengthen the area’s economic and programming.
The events are the result of the Downtown Strategies plan, which aims to “connect the dots” in downtown Bloomington, according to Talisha Coppock, executive director of Downtown Bloomington Inc.
“Input sessions and surveys conducted last year indicated that local businesses seek small, regular opportunities to co-promote one another and for individuals to connect with the community and understand all available offerings,” Coppock said in an email. “While downtown already hosts many large, special events, these new activations are designed to create experiences focused on a more relaxing summer vibe and highlighting diverse interests.”
The all-ages events have already begun — with many more scheduled for May and beyond. Talia Halliday, a downtown business owner, is helping with the events.
Bloomington Bingo
Bloomington Bingo — an interactive event encouraging people to explore downtown restaurants and shops — is happening April 26 through May 9. Participants visit locations, make a purchase, take a photo and post it on social media, filling out an online bingo card. Use #bbbingo on Facebook or share in the Bloomington Foodies group using #bbbingo. Once they complete a bingo line, they email confirmation to Talia.Bloomington.Activation@gmail.com to be entered to win. There will be least three prizes.
Family Night Out
The second event is Family Night Out, held on the second Wednesday of each month from 4:30 to 8 p.m., rain or shine, with no rain date. The first event is May 13 in the 300 block of East Kirkwood Avenuein front of the Monroe County Public Library. The street will be lined with tables and chairs for community-style dining. Families are encouraged to grab carryout from local restaurants and enjoy their meals together downtown. There will be live music in the library courtyard, community booths, artist vendors and interactive activities for all ages.
Entertainment on May 13 will include DJ Yolanda playing dance music, Kid Kazooie, and a Hurdy Gurdy performance.
Family Night Out showcases a diverse group of local vendors and organizations offering interactive activities, creative experiences and community resources. Participating vendors include:
The Front Porch Trailer will provide yard games such as cornhole and there will be face-painting. Carryout specials with some of the downtown restaurants will be available.
Downtown Shop Night and Busk at Dusk
Downtown Shop Night and Busk at Dusk, will happen on the third Wednesday of every month from 4 to 7 p.m., next happening on May 20. Participating shops will remain open late and offer refreshments, treats or snacks. Local musicians and buskers will be paired with retailers throughout the downtown corridor, creating a lively, walkable experience that encourages guests to shop local, enjoy live music and dine downtown.
Contact Carol Kugler at ckugler@heraldt.com.
This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Downtown Bloomington adds bingo, family nights, shop nights and music
Reporting by Carol Kugler, The Herald-Times / The Herald-Times
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