Historic Irvington’s strength is in its strong sense of community. Residents take pride in their winding (if sometimes confusing) streets, the many architectural styles of homes, the diversity of its population, it’s creative energy, and the quirkiness of the people who choose to live there. During Discover Irvington, Saturday, May 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., merchants in Irvington will have many special events that help show off the uniqueness of the community.
Not just for Irvingtonians, Discover Irvington is a day for anyone in the greater Indianapolis area to see the special qualities of the most diverse of Indianapolis neighborhoods.
The Alternative Gift Fair will kick off at the Irving Theater (5505 E. Washington St.) from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The pre-Mother’s Day event features the work of 30 local artists for one-of-a-kind gifts.
Stroll along Johnson Ave. and you’ll discover Bookmamas and Irvington Vinyl for your book and record needs at 9 S. Johnson. Special events include an adult coloring table and sidewalk chalk art beginning at noon, Mike Hansen’s book signing at 3 p.m. for When Life Gives You a Lemon, and much more. On the corner of Johnson and East Washington St. come in to play toy instruments.
Along East Washington, there’s lots more to explore, such as a music listening party at ReTulled, 5607 E. Washington, where you can hear 78s played on a Victrola from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.. Check out the re-launch of Day Ja Voo as a vintage clothing store just past Bittersweet, the latest restaurant to open in Irvington. The Irvington Library, always a busy spot at 5625 E, Washington St., will feature face painting for kids at 10 a.m., a green thumb event for kids 6-12 presented by Indy Science Fun at 2 p.m. and sidewalk chalk art outside.
On the north side of East Washington, check out Irvington Wellness Center at the corner of Layman at 9 a.m. for a 100 Candle Metta Meditation, or Vintage Motifs at 5612 E. Washington for a game of hopscotch. The Irvington Garden Club will be selling 12-14 species of wildflowers for $3.50 and up on the sidewalk.
A quick, brisk walk south on Ritter will bring you to the newly paved Bonna Ave., the latest avenue of discovery in Irvington. Check out Coal Yard Coffee at 5547 Bonna Ave., then hang out at Playground Productions Studio right behind for a musical petting zoo for the kids from 10 a.m. -4 p.m.. Angel Burlesque will perform there in a more adult show at 8 p.m. Go east on Bonna to the intersection with Audubon to visit the Magic Candle and the Bonna Shops in the old Irvington commercial district. A couple of blocks north, and you’re back on East Washington, ready to try one of the unique restaurants like Chef Dan’s or Jockamo, or an ice cream cone at Wyliepalooza’s. Continued page A8
A short hop to the Hilltop Tavern at 6500 E. 10th in the evening will bring you to the outskirts of the neighborhood to a tavern that has been a staple for the east side. Blues Rock guitarist Django Knight will be performing a Prince tribute at 11 p.m. — 21 and over only, please.
On May 7, come on out to Irvington and discover all the neighborhood has to offer.
