• The ever-popular “Presenting Irvington Artists” exhibit cannot be held at the Bona Thompson Center this year, due to a faulty HVAC system. However, Magpie Artspace in Irvington will host an event showcasing great local artists in November. Help fill their gallery with your wonderful art. Please send submissions to magpiegallery46219@gmail.com. All media and subject matter are welcome! (The only requirement is that you live or work in the Irvington area.) The show begins on First Friday in November, Nov. 1, from 6-9 p.m. at the Magpie Studio, 206 S. Audubon. The event is free and there will be refreshments.
• There will be a fall bike ride and Pogue’s Run Trail Grand Opening on Sunday, Oct. 27 beginning at 10:30 a.m. Ride the Pogue’s Run Trail and learn about the history and future on the ride from Spades Park by the Kan-Kan to the Pogue’s Run Art and Nature Park. Decorate your bike or helmet for some Halloween fun! Refreshments provided.
• Rita Spalding, Irvington-based artist, has a large painting included in the Stories of the Salon exhibit at the Indiana State Museum, which will run through October 20th. Her painting of her beloved dog Simon was requested, and won the People’s Choice Award (again). The exhibit highlights significant paintings from the previous 99 years of the Hoosier Salon’s history. Congratulations to the very talented Rita! If you want to see the paintings, visit the ISM at 650 W. Washington, Wednesday through Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets online are $13 — visit indianamuseum.org to order.
• There will be a Haunted House Scavenger Hunt at Ellenberger Park and Brookside Park on Oct. 24-26 from 5-9 p.m. Ten black painted rocks with a white ghost will be hidden around both parks — find a painted rock and you’ll get free admission to the house. Otherwise, the admission cost is $7. The house itself is at Ellenberger, 5301 E. St. Clair.
• The Indy EAP Utility Assistance program is open for applications. The program offers financial assistance to income-eligible households in Marion County to maintain utility services during the winter. Applications are being accepted for the 2024-25 heating season. If you think you might be eligible, visit indyeap.org for requirements.
• Garfield Park Conservatory is hosting Haunted Conservatory on Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. 23 and 24 from 5:30-9:00 p.m. Fee is $6 per person. From 5:30-7:00 p.m., the little ones are invited to a less haunted experience, with no scares, just fun. From 7-9 p.m., ages 8 and up can come in for a scary experience. No registration is necessary. Ages 2 and under are free. Costumes are encouraged. Garfield Park is located at 2505 Conservatory Dr.
• The Purple Line has officially opened, offering a fast way to get from Lawrence to Downtown. There have also been lots of sidewalk and roadway improvements along the route. Visit indygo.net for route information and fares.