If you are staying in Bloomington for Thanksgiving this year, don’t worry about missing out. The town provides a vibrant mix of fun festivities, live music, community gatherings and many more events to keep you busy. From getting a head start on your feast with a 5K to ringing in the holiday season with the Canopy of Lights, there are many ways to enjoy the break while celebrating the local scene.
Traditionally, the days leading up to Thanksgiving present some of the biggest social nights of the year, with local venues ready with major parties featuring popular country artists and other events featuring local musicians of many different styles.
Two great country music options start at 8 p.m. Nov. 26. Country artist Jake Dodds will headline The Bluebird’s annual night before Thanksgiving party. Head just south of town for a different vibe at the Rusty Anchor Lakeside Saloon, where Cody Ikerd will also be playing a live concert. Both these shows offer chances to experience a country performance on the holiday’s eve.
B-Town Turkey Trot
Before you have your turkey, pie and festivities, you can participate in a local tradition that gives back and gets you moving. The B-Town Turkey Trot will start at 8:30 a.m. Nov. 27. The festive run and walk will take place at Switchyard Park and utilize the B-Line Trail. It’s the perfect way to kick off Thanksgiving Day and gives you a guilt-free reason to enjoy second helpings at Thanksgiving dinner.
Canopy of Lights
The Friday after Thanksgiving marks the official start of the winter holiday season with Bloomington’s most magical tradition. The Canopy of Lights ceremony is set for Nov. 28, with the lighting ceremony beginning around 6 p.m. at the Monroe County Courthouse Square. Santa flips the switch, illuminating the Courthouse Square with thousands of twinkling lights. This free event often includes music, crafts and a chance to meet Santa afterward, truly transforming downtown into a winter wonderland and making it a must-see event to transition into December.
“Celebrate the Season” concert
For a touch of cultural elegance and a holiday excitement, the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra adds a fantastic option to the break with their annual “Celebrate the Season” concert, taking place Nov. 28 at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater. They offer two showtimes — 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. — both featuring blends of traditional orchestral music, modern holiday music and this year, the local rock band, Don’t Call Me Betty. The 5 p.m. performance is timed to conclude before the Canopy of Lights ceremony on the square, making it the perfect way to spend the afternoon and then transition into the start of Bloomington’s winter holiday season.
For those dining out, several local restaurants offer special Thanksgiving Day menus. For instance, FARMbloomington and the Tudor Room at the Indiana Memorial Union typically host ticketed, prix-fixe feasts, but calling for reservations is essential.
If you still want a home-cooked feel without the full effort, places like Bloomingfoods and local caterers offer convenient pre-ordered turkeys, sides and pies for easy reheating at home.
On Thanksgiving Day, you also can join the community effort to ensure everyone has a meal this holiday. The Community Kitchen of Monroe County serves a traditional Thanksgiving dinner free of charge to anyone in need from 3-6 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day at both its main and express locations.
