Monthly Downtown Programs to Highlight Local Restaurants, Shops, Families, and Artists

The City of Bloomington, with sponsorship support from Downtown Bloomington Inc., will organize a series of recurring downtown activation events now through November 2026.

The programming is designed to encourage residents and visitors to spend time downtown, support local businesses, and participate in family-friendly and community-centered activities. Events will take place monthly and will include restaurant promotions, family activities, extended shopping hours, and live street performances. Programming includes:

Bloomington Bites Bingo — begins first week of each month: Bloomington Bites Bingo encourages participants to visit downtown restaurants, complete squares on a bingo card, and explore a variety of local dining options. Completed bingo cards may be entered for prizes such as restaurant gift cards and local treats. Details for June Bloomington Bites Bingo, including participating businesses, bingo card information, and prizes, will be released soon.

Family Night Out on Kirkwood — second Wednesday of each month, 5–8:30 p.m: In partnership with the Monroe County Public Library, Family Night Out on Kirkwood invites families to spend an evening downtown with family-friendly games and activities, entertainment, and opportunities to visit businesses and restaurants along Kirkwood Avenue. The street will be lined with tables and chairs for community-style dining.

• May 13
• June 10
• July 8
• August 12
• September 9
• October 14

Downtown Shop Night & Busk at Dusk — third Wednesday of each month, 4–7 p.m: Downtown Shop Night encourages residents and visitors to shop local and explore downtown retailers during extended evening hours. Participating businesses may offer refreshments, specials, or in-store experiences. Busk at Dusk will feature local musicians and performers in downtown public spaces and along downtown corridors. The event is intended to support local artists and create a more active evening atmosphere for residents and visitors.

• May 20
• June 17
• July 15
• August 19
• September 16
• October 21

Downtown Activation programming is organized by the City of Bloomington and sponsored by Downtown Bloomington Inc.