Bloomington is full of opportunities to get involved in the local arts and culture scene. With events ranging from concerts to art workshops, there is something for everyone in Bloomington.
Whether you enjoy playing an instrument or simply listening to live music, IU has plenty of opportunities. For musicians that want to continue playing in college, Bloomington Delta Music Club is a popular option.
The club allows all IU students to get involved in IU’s music scene. They host many events throughout the school year from small jam sessions to large concerts and offer varying levels of involvement for those interested in joining. Many local bands such as The Free Riders who frequently play at The Bluebird and Always Late began through the club.
Outside of BDMC, IU also holds many live music events at the Musical Arts Center, located on Eagleson Avenue, which frequently hosts talent from the Jacobs School of Music. There are often recitals and concerts from students and professors in the school. Some events are already scheduled for next semester, but more will be added to their calendar throughout the summer.
Looking off campus, there are many other opportunities to listen to live music in town. Though you must be 21 or older, The Bluebird, which is a bar and music venue, regularly hosts both local and touring musicians. Another option is The Orbit Room, an all ages venue that often has concerts with smaller musicians for cheap admission fees, offering food at the venue.
Bloomington also hosts a variety of art and cultural events. Many of which take place at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater. They hold different events, from concerts to theatrical performances.
Bring Your Own Business is an IU club that allows students to sell items at the club’s monthly events. While many students choose to sell secondhand clothing, some booths sell handmade items like wood carvings, jewelry and knitted goods. For those interested, this regular event provides many opportunities to either sell handmade items or purchase crafts locally. Interested students can sign up from the link in their Instagram bio.
Similar to BYOB, the IU Arts and Humanities Council hosts First Thursdays, which includes art vendors, food trucks and performances from local groups. True to its name, the event takes place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month, from September through November and then February through April.
The Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art is another on campus destination for those interested in visual art. With seven different galleries visitors can take a self-guided tour through the museum or participate in one of their events and workshops.
No matter what your interestests are, Bloomington likely has something that will pique your interest.
This story was originally published in the Indiana Daily Student's 2026 Orienter.
