Good morning, Bloomington.

Bloomington will enjoy a busy weekend as the Monroe County Fair kicks off tomorrow with cruise in fireworks at 5700 W.

Airport Road (gates open at 7 p.m.) and features family contests; free outdoor movies and Bubblefest at WonderLab follow on Saturday, offering hands-on science and fun for all ages.

Local nonprofit Pillar Arts is proposing a $16 million creative hub at the former Herald-Times building at 1900 S.

Walnut St. MCCSC, which is selling the property, provided no sale updates on Tuesday, June 23, while Pillar Arts seeks a $4 million READI grant + community support.

The Hinkle-Garton Farmstead will host its monthly Museum Open Day at 2920 E.

10th St. on Saturday, June 27 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with farmhouse tours, live music, and a yard sale from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to honor 250 years of American music.

The State of the Bloomington Regional Economy program held on June 18 at the Convention Center offered a data-driven look at local job growth, wage declines, and challenges facing health care, construction, and education, with experts urging leaders to retain IU graduates and attract mid-sized companies to boost economic vitality.

The IU Board of Trustees approved a $4.7 billion operating budget for 2026-27 and revised academic policies at a June 12 meeting — the changes include faculty promotions and funding to renew Willkie Quadrangle in Bloomington, while details of new degree programs will be shared in early August.

Thunderstorms and 2 to 3 inches of rain are expected Thursday and Friday in Bloomington, increasing flood risks and keeping Monroe County roads closed from earlier storms + debris.

Next week, highs near 90 to 94 degrees are forecast and officials advise residents to check on neighbors and stay hydrated.

Monroe County Council awarded $190K in Sophia Travis grants Tuesday night to 42 nonprofits—Pantry 279 received the largest $13K award to support nutritional food for local families.

The grants also fund shelter, youth programs, and community services across the county.

A local report examines how many dogs live in the city and offers advice for local pet owners.

It details ways residents can help both their own pets and local shelters (a resource on dog care in the community).

Area golfers will compete in 36 holes at Cascades Golf Course on Saturday, June 27 at 7:30 a.m. in the 98th City Golf Tournament qualifier — battling for Championship flight spots while fields for the Indiana Amateur, Indiana Open and Boys State Championships continue to develop.

Bloomington Contra Dance

7:30 – 9:30 p.m. — Harmony School — Sliding scale donation from $3 to $20 — Enjoy a community dance experience that promotes safety and inclusion.

Music Masterclass at Indiana University

Event Title — Time Range — Indiana University Jacobs School of Music — Cost — Enhance your musical skills in a collaborative and expert-led environment.

Indiana University Golf Tournament

Tee time — The Pfau Course — Check online for fees — Play 5,634 yards of challenging golf at a beautiful venue.

Mama Said String Band Live

Time TBA — The Bluebird — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience the grassroots sound of Mama Said String Band bringing their unique style to Bloomington.

FISU America Games

7-11 p.m. — Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall — Average ticket price $83 — Experience thrilling international sports competition in Bloomington.

65 North Pickers Performance

8-11 p.m. — The Bishop Bar — 18+ entry — Experience a fusion of bluegrass and jam band vibes with lightning-fast picking and unforgettable originals.

Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop

10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Graduate by Hilton Bloomington — Book Now on Eventbrite! — Unleash your creativity making a traditional Turkish lamp while enjoying delightful snacks.