The Backstage Blog

Due in large part to the diverse student and faculty population of Indiana University, Bloomington is a veritable melting pot of wonderous sights, mouth-watering aromas, and cultural sites representing countries around the world. Leave the Midwest behind in favor of flavors from a rich community of... Read More

The Square is the heart of downtown Bloomington, lined with over 30 locally-owned businesses including shops, restaurants, art galleries, and more. There's so much to do directly on The Square, but there are even more incredible businesses and attractions surrounding it. Venture off the beaten-path... Read More

The Boy Who Lived captured the hearts of millions, and over a decade after the last novel was published, Harry Potter continues to do so. The series may be over, but we can't let go of the whimsical magic associated with it — especially since Bloomington is home to many places that have an uncanny... Read More

There's always something going on in B-Town! Check out the top events happening in June 2022, and consider spending two or three days with us this season. Use this list to easily navigate from section-to-section:​ Limestone Month Events Limestone Month Festival Date: Saturday, June 4 Time: 10:00... Read More

You might not think of a small Midwestern city as a melting pot for people of every race, culture, and identity, but that’s exactly what Bloomington is. Our progressive town has been ranked as the fourth gayest city in the country, received a perfect score on the Human Rights Commission's Municipal... Read More

Bloomington offers an abundance of venues, events, and activities for those who are 21 & older, but that doesn't mean there isn't a ton of fun to be had in the 20 & under crowd! B-Town offers more than you think for those who have yet to reach the milestone birthday — from outdoor recreation to... Read More

There's always something going on in B-Town! Check out the top events happening in May 2022, and consider spending two or three days with us this season. Use this list to easily navigate from section-to-section:​ FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS Pili's Cinco de Mayo Block Party Date: Thursday, May 5... Read More

Sometimes you want to get out of the house and roam around town without spending any money, and Bloomington is the perfect place to do just that. Our community offers a long list of free things to do for a variety of interests, from activities for kids and live music performances to nature... Read More

There are so many fun ways to discover and experience Bloomington's eclectic mix of attractions, local businesses, restaurants, and activities, including by the alphabet. Whether you have kids or are a kid at heart, you're in for a load of fun with this A-through-Z B-Town adventure. A is for... Read More

Spring is a special time in Bloomington. Rising temperatures allow us to get back out in nature, dine on outdoor patios, browse farmers' markets under the sun's rays, and explore the glory of Old IU once more. Simply being witness to the miles-upon-miles of beautiful blooming landscape is enough to... Read More