BROOKVILLE, Ind. – The LEGO Expo is returning to the Brookville Library on April 18, offering a day of creativity and family-friendly fun from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Visitors can explore a variety of LEGO creations, enjoy a LEGO-themed movie, test their knowledge with trivia, and vote for their favorite builds.

Those interested in showcasing their own creations can drop off LEGO builds at the library between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 17. Both boxed sets and custom builds are welcome for display; however, only custom creations will be eligible for the Creative Build Competition.

LEGO builds can be boxed sets or custom builds. While all builds will be displayed, only the custom builds can be entered into the Creative Build Competition.

The competition is open for all ages, with participants grouped into four categories: ages 0-5, 6-12, 13-17, and 18 and older. Winners will receive trophies and prizes at the conclusion of the event.

Admission is free, and attendees do not need to be residents of Franklin County.

A second, smaller LEGO Expo is also scheduled for April 21 at 5 p.m. at the Laurel Library.

WINCHESTER, Ind. - All five Randolph County high school bands will perform with the Purdue Wind Ensemble on April 12 at 1 p.m. in Winchester.

The concert, titled From Revolution to National Pride: A Randolph County Concert Celebrating 250 Years of Our Great Experiment in Liberty, marks the county's contribution to America's 250th anniversary celebrations.

The event looks to bring together local students, schools, and community. It also highlights two music scholarship funds from the Community Foundation of Randolph County, which provide students with access to private lessons. The concert takes place in the Robert G. Jones Auditorium at Winchester Community High School. On the same day, the "Freedom Truck," a mobile museum funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, will be in Winchester.

The exhibit tells the story of America's independence and will be open to the public at the high school from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Image provided by Compass Public Relations.

RICHMOND, Ind. – The Richmond Community Orchestra will feature a nationally touring trumpet during a concert Sunday, March 8 at 3 p.m.

The trumpet, known as the Instrument of Hope, will be played following the orchestra’s performance of “An American Elegy.”

The instrument has appeared at venues and events across the country, including Broadway, Carnegie Hall, and the Sundance and Tribeca film festivals. It has also been performed by ensembles and artists such as Panic! at the Disco, Mannheim Steamroller and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

In addition to the special performance, the orchestra will present several classical selections by composers including Brahms, Schubert and Verdi, along with a lighthearted medley of children’s music.

Admission to the concert is free, and casual dress is welcome. The performance will last about one hour and will take place in Goddard Auditorium at Earlham College.

Following the performance, attendees are invited to a Richmond Symphony Orchestra recital at 5 p.m. at nearby Bethany Theological Seminary.

The recital will feature a quartet of flute, clarinet, piano and harp. Musical selections will incorporate birdsong-inspired pieces, as well as a flute made from Japanese bamboo.

Admission to the Richmond Symphony Orchestra recital is also free, though reservations are encouraged at richmondsymphony.org. 

WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. - The Reid Health Foundation is hosting a community ball to support cancer care and prevention.

“Kaleidoscope – Let’s Have a Ball” takes place on Saturday, March 21 at the First Bank Richmond Expo Hall on the Wayne County Fairgrounds.

The event plans to feature live music from the NKG Band, dancing, and food by Bernstein's Fine Catering.

“Kaleidoscope is about more than a night of celebration, it’s about standing with those who have been impacted by cancer, and their families, at every stage of their journey,” said Jason Troutwine, Reid Health Vice President/Foundation President in a press release.

Funds from the ball are used to support care, programming, and equipment needs, such as Reid's celebration of life in recognition of National Cancer Survivors Day.

For tickets or information on Kaleidoscope, visit https://reidhealth.org/Healthy-Communities/Community-Partnerships/Reid-Health-Foundation/Events/Kaleidoscope.
Image provided by Hali Cartee, Reid Health.

WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. – The second annual Black Expo takes place Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Kuhlman Center in Richmond.

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free.

This year’s theme, “Boots on the Ground,” highlights collective action, community presence, and new beginnings.

“It talks back to the resilience and perseverance of Black people in the community,” said Marlene Lindsey, founder of the Black Legacy Project. “We all have boots on the ground; this is just a festive way to celebrate that.”

Presented by the Black Legacy Project of Wayne County, the expo highlights local history, culture, and achievement while bringing residents together during Black History Month.

More than 70 vendors will participate, offering education resources, retail items, and food. Organizers say the event continues to grow as a space to honor heritage and strengthen community connections.

Image Credit to the Richmond Art Museum

WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. - 

The Richmond Art Museum is proudly hosting its newest exhibition, Connection to Freedom: Works by Mason Archie. This exhibit highlights two bodies of work by Archie that peer into American history and collective memory.

Archie’s Underground Railroad Series explores historical sites and paints a narrative of courage, resistance, and liberation from the Midwest to the East Coast. These paintings invite viewers into landscapes that once bore witness to humanity’s moral crossroads, offering both aesthetic beauty and powerful educational insight.

The second body of work, Landscapes of the City of Indianapolis, reflects Archie’s contemporary engagement with place and history. These works capture quiet, often overlooked urban scenes, preserving them for present and future generations.

The exhibition is a unique opportunity for RAM to display works that are in private and public collections across the United States. Connection to Freedom is the first time all of these paintings are on display in the same location.

Archie’s command of realism serves not merely as technical virtuosity but as a vehicle for storytelling—bridging past and present, beauty and truth. His paintings invite reflection, foster understanding, and connect viewers to histories that continue to shape our collective identity.

It is with this concept of connectedness that brings RAM to include an interactive element to the exhibit. With looms on loan from Earlham College, collective textile art pieces are being created by Richmond High School students and patrons of the museum to be hung in the galleries during the exhibit. The Richmond Art Museum encourages all of their guests to participate in creating collaborative art pieces with members of the community. 

Connection to Freedom and the interactive textile exhibition will be on display at RAM until March 28th. Everyone is invited to come and experience the incredible work on display, and participate in creating lasting community art within the museum. It’s a great opportunity and a fun activity that won’t break the bank; RAM has been admission free since 1898!

RICHMOND, Ind. – The recent activity of harshly cold temperatures has allowed organizers of the Richmond Meltdown Winter Ice Festival to shift some plans.

Carvers will attempt a rare, large-scale Ice Alaska style ice sculpture.

In addition to carving smaller individual pieces, the festival’s six visiting carvers will combine ice blocks and build one major competition-style centerpiece.

Organizers say the unusually cold temperatures provide a window that may not return for years, especially after several warmer seasons and a rainy 2024.

The team includes world class competitors such as Dean DeMarais and Aaric Kendall, both Ice Alaska veterans.

Festival co-chair Alison Zajdel said traditional attractions, including the Play Zone, will still be available.

Updates will be posted on the Richmond Meltdown Facebook page and website.

Image credit: Stephanie Harrison Photography

WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. - The Boys & Girls Club of Wayne County is showcasing an annual art display.

The display, titled The Power of Us: Annual Art Show, focuses on amplifying the impact of kindness, teamwork, and unity.

Art instructors Percy Brown and Eli Howell helped organize the event. Guest judges included city officials and partners.

Oblivion Cinema & Arts provided art show winners with class vouchers.

The display is located in the Club's Jeffers Unit. Families can view the display during Family Night on January 22, from 6 to 7 p.m.

RICHMOND, Ind. – The Richmond Art Museum, also known as RAM, has a new art display that is making history.

The art display features both the original pen and ink drawing and a watercolor painting used for the cover artwork of E. B. White’s, Charlotte’s Web.

This is the first time these pieces of artwork have ever been on public display in a museum setting, a distinction the museum is humbled and honored by.

Lance Crow, Education Director with RAM, said the display was made possible by people who have a heart for Richmond and their hometown. “Kate Jetmore, former Richmond resident living now in Spain, knows the director of the Arts of Imagination Foundation, and she knew that Richmond Civic Theatre had just done a production of Charlotte's Web.”

After discussion with the Arts of Imagination Foundation in California, RAM was able to secure a loan for the artwork with the help of the foundation’s director, Brady Schwind.

“He felt the work would be safe and well taken care of given the rich history RAM has of exhibiting artwork for more than 125 years,” Crow said.

Crow said the planning and install of the work was simple, with artwork being shipped in. After verifying the art was in good condition, all they had to do was hang the work and create labels for the display. The artwork is on display at the Starr gallery in the Richmond Art Museum.

An unveiling event is set to take place on Wednesday, January 21 at 5 p.m. “We've invited many of the cast of Richmond Civic Theatre's Charlotte's Web to be present to help us welcome this historic work to our community. Shaun Dingwerth, RAM's Executive Director will say a few words about the loan and the significance of the work's presence in our community,” Crow said. All are welcome to attend.

RAM often will partner with interested parties to engage community involvement in art exhibits. For this display, the organization has partnered with Morrisson Reeves Library, Richmond Civic Theatre, and Every Child Can Read to bring programming to Richmond and Wayne County residents.

Since 1898, RAM has been Admission Free, meaning all are welcome and there is no cost. Throughout the year, RAM offers opportunities for people of all ages to engage with creative works and experiences. Community events include the Secret Garden Tour in June, Potterypalooza in September, and other year-round exhibitions.

Among upcoming exhibits, Connection To Freedom: Works by Mason Archie, will be on display starting on January 31. An opening reception will take place from 1 to 3 p.m., with an artist talk starting at 1:30. The artwork will present two major bodies of work that Crow said are deeply rooted in American history and collective memory. “The first is Archie’s acclaimed Underground Railroad Series, an ongoing exploration of historic sites and narratives of courage, resistance, and liberation spanning the Midwest to the East Coast,” said Crow. “The second body of work, Landscapes in the City of Indianapolis, reflects Archie’s contemporary engagement with place and history.”

More information can be found on the Richmond Art Museum website. The Charlotte’s Web exhibit will be on display until March 7, 2026.

“RAM's mission is to inspire a love for art through education, diversity, history and culture,” Crow said. “…there are many ways in which the community can enjoy the arts at the Richmond Art Museum.”

WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. – The Richmond Farmers Market has reopened for its winter season following a brief holiday break.

The market operates Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon inside the Starr Gennett Building, where more than 30 vendors are signed up for the season.

Offerings include locally produced food items, a beverage truck, farm products, herbal medicine, handmade crafts, and fresh flowers.

Organizers say the winter market provides an important opportunity to support small businesses and access fresh, locally made goods during the colder months.

The market is also continuing its food-access initiative, “Bridge the Gap.” Through support from Reid Health and Richmond UEA, shoppers who receive SNAP benefits can obtain $40 in market tokens each week for eligible products. The program is limited to 30 cardholders per market day, and participants must present a valid SNAP card and ID.

The Starr Gennett Building is located at 101 S. 1^st Street in Richmond.

RICHMOND, Ind. – After nearly six months of planning, the Meltdown Festival is gearing up for another year of winter fun in downtown Richmond.

The festival brings ice carvers from around the country to the local community, blending art, competition, small businesses, nonprofits, and food into one weekend-long celebration.

This year’s event takes place the last weekend of January at Elstro Plaza. Leading up to the weekend, there is a series of events each day starting on the 25. Saturday’s activities include an ice cream eating contest, hot chocolate, horse drawn trolly rides, the Meltdown Throwdown, and a fireworks show starting at 7:30 p.m.

The festival is free and open to all.

Organizers expect to use roughly 50,000 pounds of ice. A refrigerated semi-truck delivers and stores the blocks until carving begins.

“If the weather is too warm, they carve quickly, then load the sculpture back onto the refrigerated semi to preserve them until the festival starts,” said Alison Zajdel, organizer with the Meltdown Festival.

Zajdel said the carvers and their support crews are at the heart of the event. “They are so good to our community and so incredibly talented!”

A list of those participating includes:

Aaric Kendall Argenta, IL

• Dean DeMarais, Fate, TX
• Harvey Russell, St Lous, MO
• Josh Niven, Buchanan, MI
• Danny Bloss, Niles, MI
• Sammy Moore, Elkhart, IN
• Bill Thistlethwaite, South Bend, IN
• Kyle Finke, Argenta, IL
• Nathan Thistlethwaite, San Antonio, TX

Weather and fundraising remain two of the biggest challenges each year. The festival requires more than $60,000 to operate, and Zajdel said community support makes it possible.

“We have sponsors from $250 all the way to $10,000 and they are critical,” said Zajdel. “We don’t make any money off the festival; we just cover expenses. So, renewing our sponsors, and in-kind supporters, and finding new sponsors each year is super important.”

As the festival approaches, Zajdel said the goal is to bring joy to the community. “Winter can be so gloomy in the Midwest, so embracing that cold and turning it into something we can all look forward to is important!”

Image source: Alison Zajdel, taken by Stephanie Harrison

RICHMOND, Ind. - The Winter Wonders Vendor Expo is returning for its second year, offering two days of local shopping and seasonal fun.

The event will be held January 17 and 18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the First Bank Kuhlman Center. Admission is free.

Organizers say the expo will feature a wide range of local vendors, including handmade goods, crafts, and specialty treats. The event is designed to highlight small businesses while giving families a chance to enjoy a cozy winter shopping experience.

Attendees are encouraged to bring friends and family as they browse one-of-a-kind items and kick off the new year with a community-focused event.

More information can be found here: https://waynecountyfairgrounds.org/upcoming-events/winter-wonders-vendor-expo-2026.

2025 is coming to an end this week, with the ringing in of the New Year taking place Wednesday evening into Thursday morning. Here are some ways to enjoy the celebration:

5 Arch Brewing Company is hosting a NYE All-Day Breakfast. The day will be full of breakfast food made from scratch, games, and crafts. If you plan to attend, you can bring board games, crafts, a portable game console, or join the staff on some Mario Kart.

129 E Main St, Centerville, IN

The Skate is celebrating with all-night skating. A $15 admission includes skating from 7:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., along with the addition of a small drink option and slice of pizza. A $25 admission includes skating from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with the addition of a small drink, slice of pizza, donut, and juice. The celebration includes a massive balloon drop, party hats, prizes, and more.

475 Commerce Rd, Richmond, IN

InConcert New Year’s Eve Party is rocking in the new year with music. The night will feature music, dancing, and celebrations at the 4^th Floor Blues Club. Charle’s Pocket is performing and drinks will be served. A champagne toast and breakfast will be served at midnight. Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 at the door.

923 North E Street, Richmond, IN

Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary offers a First day Hike to start the New Year. A healthy hike will cover 1.5 miles of trails. It takes place on January 1, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The event is free, but registration is required for snack and drink assortments.

3499 S. Bird Sanctuary Rd. Connersville, IN

Whatever your plans, the Whitewater Valley offers ways to welcome 2026.

WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. – Cope Environmental center is gearing up for a unique Valentine’s celebration with its upcoming event, Love Gone Wild.

The event is set for February 11 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sponsored by North Mechanical, the evening is designed to blend wildlife education, connection, and a light-hearted night out.

The program will feature Brian Badger, Director of Conservation and Outreach for the Cheetah Conservation Fund.

Badger will guide guests through a talk on wildlife facts, including the world of animal mating rituals.

Guests will also enjoy cocktails and appetizers throughout the evening, creating a relaxed atmosphere suited for date night or a fun outing with friends. Organizers say the event offers a chance to learn something new while celebrating love in all its forms.

Tickets are $60 for two or $35 for individuals. Attendees must be at least 21 years old, and advance registration and payment are required.

More information and registration are available at Cope Environmental Center.

WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. - The final countdown to Christmas is here, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate around town. If you’re looking for ways to soak in the season before the big day, here are five festive picks:

1. Catch a Holiday Concert

On December 17, Centerville High School hosts Home for the Holidays at 7 p.m.

2. Run (or Walk) Through the Lights

On December 18, the Holiday Lights: The Rails 5k and Kids Dash lets you exercise while surrounded by light displays

3. Cozy Up with a Classic Movie

On December 19, the Golay Community Center screens Home Alone at 6:30 p.m., a float-in movie night that’s fun for the whole family.

4. Visit Santa One Last Time

On December 21, Sundays with Santa at Station Road Farm (1–3 p.m.) gives kids a final chance to share their wish lists.

5. Take in the Lights Around Town

From courthouse squares to neighborhood displays, December evenings are perfect for a drive or stroll to admire the twinkling decorations.

From lights to movies to Santa visits, these simple joys can make the season memorable.

December (all month)

• Christmas Display — Dynamite Dreams Farm, 6 to 9 p.m.

Dec. 2 (Tuesday)

• Holidays at Gresham — Meridian Health Services Suzanne Gresham Center, 6 to 9 p.m.

Dec. 4 (Thursday)

• Chamber Christmas Walk — Downtown New Castle, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 5 (Friday)

• Historic Downtown Connersville’s Winterfest — Downtown Connersville, 3:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• A Storybook Christmas Parade — Main Street Richmond, 7 p.m.
• Enchanted Luminaria Walk — Minnetrista Museum & Gardens, 5 to 9 p.m.

Dec. 6 (Saturday)

• Christmas in Centerville — Centerville, 4 to 7 p.m.
• The Greenery Workshop — Cope Environmental Center, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Angel House Christmas Bazaar — Tipp City Global Methodist Church, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Eaton Boosters Holiday Craft Show & Musical Festival — Eaton High School, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Historic Downtown Connersville’s Winterfest — Connersville, 12:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Enchanted Luminaria Walk— Muncie, 5 to 9 p.m.
• Union County Christmas — Liberty Courthouse Square, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Fountain City Forward: Hometown Holiday Celebration & Lighted Parade — Fountain City Park, parade at 5:30 p.m., celebration at 6 p.m. with tree lighting.

Dec. 7 (Sunday)

• Sundays with Santa — Station Road Farm, 1 to 3 p.m. (also Dec. 14 & 21)
• Holiday Concert — St. John’s Lutheran Church, Vandalia, OH, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Dec. 10 (Wednesday)

• Photos with Santa — Friends Fellowship Community, 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 11 (Thursday)

• Christmas Party in the Park — Miller Building at Roberts Park, 5 to 7 p.m.
• The Sugar Stroll — Greenville, OH, 5 to 8 p.m.

Dec. 12 (Friday)

• Holly & Hearth Night — Heritage Village Museum, 6 to 9 p.m.

Dec. 13 (Saturday)

• Holiday Open House — Centerville Antique Mall & Auction House, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• LifeSpring Christmas Community Giveaway Event — LifeSpring South, 2 to 7 p.m.

Dec. 14 (Sunday)

• Christkindlmarkt — Dayton Liederkranz Turner German Club, 12 to 4 p.m.
• Sundays with Santa — Station Road Farm, 1 to 3 p.m.

Dec. 17 (Wednesday)

• Home for the Holidays — Centerville High School, 7 p.m.

Dec. 18 (Thursday)

• Holiday Lights: The Rails 5k and Kids Dash — 6 to 8 p.m.

Dec. 19 (Friday)

• Christmas Float in Movie: Home Alone — Golay Community Center, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 21 (Sunday)

• Sundays with Santa — Station Road Farm, 1 to 3 p.m.

For even more holiday happenings, visit local community calendars and join in the season's celebrations.

CONNERSVILLE, Ind. – Reid Health, in partnership with Q7 Associates, is inviting local and regional artists to submit original artwork in the new Reid Health – Connersville facility.

The initiative seeks to create a healing environment through art inspired by wellness, tranquility, and regional identity.

Preference will be given to artists who live or work in Connersville, Richmond, and surrounding communities within the Whitewater Valley region.

Reid Health is accepting unframed original works in a variety of media, including watercolor, photography, oil or acrylic on canvas, mixed media and textile art. Submissions should feature soothing, nature-inspired imagery and uplifting themes to reflect community.

Artists are asked to avoid imagery that could evoke stress or discomfort, including harsh abstractions, aggressive color contrasts, or depictions of isolation.

Up to five digital images can be submitted for review. Each entry should include the artist’s name, artwork, title, medium, dimensions, price, and an optional artist statement. Files must be submitted in JPEG or PDF format and named using the artist’s last name and artwork title.

The deadline for entries is Dec. 5, with the selection notification coming by Dec. 19.

If chosen, artwork will need to be delivered by Dec. 29.

Entries can be submitted at https://www.q7associates.com/artwork-submissions.

RICHMOND, Ind. – Kimberly Shipley has been named the new Performing Arts Manager at Civic Hall in Richmond.

Shipley brings experience in fundraising, production coordination, and leadership to the role. A Richmond native, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Earlham and previously served as the Devilette Director at Richmond High School.

Prior to stepping into this position, Shipley was actively involved with Richmond Civic Theatre, assisting with numerous productions. Over the years, she has participated in countless performances at both Civic Hall and Civic Theatre.

“The arts have always been a huge part of my life, and as I’ve gotten older, I’ve developed an even deeper appreciation for the magic that happens behind the scenes,” Shipley said.

Civic Hall plays a key role in the community of Richmond, offering performances and cultural experiences for more than 30 years. Shipley said her goal is to build on that legacy.

“My goal is to preserve the integrity and tradition of this esteemed venue while expanding its reach by introducing diverse and engaging entertainment that appeals to audiences of all ages,” she said.

In a recent interview on 101.7 The Point with Dave Paxton, Jenie Lahman discussed why it’s important to choose someone heavy in an arts background.

“She has a real vision for our community and how they can come in and use Civic Hall, and make it even more well known,” Lahman said.

When asked about her leadership style, Shipley said she values kindness, gratitude, and respect above all. As she steps into this new role, she said she hopes to inspire individuals to become more involved in the local arts scene, no matter the size or amount of support.

“Get out and get involved! Richmond is home to many wonderful businesses and organizations that thrive when the community engages with them,” Shipley said. “And who knows, maybe along the way you’ll make new friends.”

Shipley believes every role contributes to the shared mission of success at Civic Hall.

“While I may serve as the public face of Civic Hall, I deeply recognize our success depends on the many dedicated individuals working behind the scenes to create exceptional experiences for our community,” Shipley said.

Those interested in getting involved can find more information on their website.

The project is part of an effort by the 4^th Street Fair Foundation to preserve street trees marked for removal, transforming them into lasting works of art. Dayle Lewis, the artist behind the carving, hopes the piece will connect residents with the city’s history.

Residents and visitors are invited to attend the unveiling and see how a simple tree can become a piece of art.

Image courtesy of Jessi Thornburg.

OXFORD, Ohio - The Oxford Community Arts Center is hosting its annual Howl at the Moon event tonight, Oct. 28, from 5 to 8 p.m.

The family-friendly celebration features Halloween-themed activities, with a trick-or-treat for younger children starting at 6 p.m.

Costumes are encouraged, and if it rains, all activities will move indoors at the Arts Center.

This event is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Oxford and the Ernst J. Bever Fund of the Oxford Community Foundation.

Libraries continue to evolve in the digital age, remaining vital community hubs that offer spaces for learning, creativity and connection. This October, libraries across the region are hosting a variety of fall-themed programs aimed at engaging residents of all ages in both educational and recreational activities.

From pumpkin decorating to Halloween-themed STEM experiments, events throughout the month are designed to blend fun with learning. Here's a look at some highlights from area libraries.

Fall programming 2025

Morrison-Reeves Library, Richmond, Ind.

• Mini-Pumpkin Decorating & Fall Crafts
  Oct. 8, 22 and 25 | 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
  Kids ages 9 to 12 can decorate mini pumpkins with seasonal materials.
• Spooky Science: Surface Tension
  Oct. 14 | 4 to 4:30 p.m.
  Children ages 6 to 12 explore STEM concepts through spooky science.
• Candy Corn Grab-and-Go Kits
  Oct. 15 | All day
  Free candy corn kits are available for all ages while supplies last.
• Haunted High Escape Room
  Oct. 16 | 5 to 6 p.m.
  Teens ages 12 to 18 solve puzzles in a Halloween-themed escape room.
• Fangtastic Fall Festival
  Oct. 30 | 6 to 6:30 p.m.
  Trick-or-treating fun for the whole family.

Hagerstown Public Library, Hagerstown, Ind.

• Teen Late Night Halloween Costume Party
  Oct. 24 | 7 to 11 p.m.
  Teens ages 12 to 19 are invited to a costume party. Registration is required in advance.

New Castle-Henry County Public Library, New Castle, Ind.

• Teen Tuesday: Spooky Head in a Jar
  Oct. 28 | 4 to 5 p.m.
  Students in grades 6 through 12 can register to create their own spooky "head in a jar" craft.

Friends of the Library, Winchester, Ind.

• FOWL Book Sale
  Oct. 23 | 1 to 6 p.m.
  Oct. 24 | Noon to 3 p.m.
  Oct. 25 | 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Libraries as Community Spaces

These free events highlight the role of libraries as more than just places to borrow books. They serve as community hubs that promote engagement, creativity and learning for all ages.

Some programs require registration. Visit your local library's website or contact staff for more information.

Local Venues Highlighted

Civic Hall Performing Arts Center
With a seating capacity of 936, Civic Hall plays host to touring performance acts, holiday concerts, and local productions. 

Richmond Art Museum
Established in 1898, the museum houses an extensive collection of American Impressionist paintings, including works by the Hoosier and Richmond Groups, as well as ceramics by the Overbeck Sisters.

Whitewater Valley Arts Association

Founded in 1962, this Connersville-based nonprofit promotes visual arts through exhibits, workshops, and community programs. Its downtown gallery hosts local and regional shows, including members' exhibits and juried competitions. WVAA also offers affordable classes, open studios, and social events, making it a creative hub for artists and art lovers alike.

Preble Players & Star Theatre at Eagles Point

In Preble County, the Preble Players community theater group and the Star Theatre at Eagles Point play crucial roles in bringing live theater productions to the area. Preble Players is a nonprofit theatre group that first started in 2018. The Star Theatre opened in October 2022, in the former Eaton High School. It is home to live productions, music, and movies.

Darke County Center for the Arts

Located in Greenville, Ohio, this is a major hub for performing arts in western Ohio. First formed in 1978, DCCA hosts performances and community events.

Art Association of Randolph County

The Arts Depot in Union City, founded in 1955, is a vibrant hub for visual and performing arts. It hosts a diverse range of events, including jazz and bluegrass concerts, dance and theater productions, art classes and exhibitions, poetry readings, and photography displays.

Upcoming Events

Richmond, Indiana

• Ryan & Ryan: Going Gershwin — November 1 at Civic Hall Performing Arts Center

• 127th Annual Exhibition of Indiana & Ohio Artists — November 6 through January 10 at the Richmond Art Museum

• Cello Voci: A Christmas Performance — December 6 at Civic Hall Performing Arts Center

Connersville, Indiana

• Ongoing rotating gallery exhibits, workshops, and opening receptions at the Whitewater Valley Arts Association

Greenville, Darke County, Ohio

• Yellow Bird Chase — November 2 at the Darke County Center for the Arts

• Rochelle Clark & Jason Dennie — November 6 at the Darke County Center for the Arts

• SideShow Band — October 11, hosted by Darke County Singles

Eaton, Preble County, Ohio

• Seasonal concerts and plays usually held at Preble Arts and the Star Theatre at Eagles Point (dates to be announced)

Union City, Randolph and Union Counties, Indiana

• Night Gallery: A Celebration of the Macabre — October 25 at the Arts Depot

• Palline Plum Exhibit Opening — November 7 at the Arts Depot

• The Listening Room (storytelling night) — Mid-November at the Arts Depot (date TBD)

Tips for Enjoying the Venues

• Check for pre-sale or early-bird tickets.
• Arrive a bit early if there’s a reception; food or local refreshments often accompany art openings.
• Follow venues on social media or sign up for newsletters—they often have last-minute events or artist-talks that don't make the big calendar yet.