 Today we celebrated the ribbon cutting for the LaVern Gibson Championship Cross County Course climate controlled athletic medical building. Community leaders gathered alongside Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch to cut the ribbon, marking the official opening. “The climate-controlled athletic medical building is such a progressive and leading way to care for the athletes that run this renowned course,” stated David Patterson, Executive Director of the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We have athletes who compete on this course at local, state and national levels. Some compete when it’s snowing, some compete in extremely hot temperatures. This facility provides a space for athletes to be assessed out of the elements, out of spectator sight, and quite simply, comfortably.” The athletic medical building, funded by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation’s (IDDC) Destination Development grant with matching funds from the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau, will serve tens of thousands of runners across the nation who visit the course annually. The LaVern Gibson Championship Cross County Course is a true asset to the Terre Haute community and this new medical building will help athletic trainers and other medical personnel better serve the athletes.
 Fire up the grill! It’s the Fourth of July, which means there is plenty to celebrate here in Terre Haute, Indiana, as well as throughout Vigo County. Independence Day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a long weekend, burgers and hot dogs on the grill, beer, sunshine, music, boats, bonfires, and best of all fireworks with friends and family. Of course, all these festive activities grant us the much-needed reset of rest and relaxation from our daily routines, so grab your loved ones because the festivities begin now. You can use this time to get creative with your outdoor party recipes. Combining sweet and salty ingredients for a patriotic recipe this year is similar to the compilation of Fourth of July festivities offered throughout Terre Haute and Vigo County that we have to share with you! As the world continues to transition away from COVID regulations, this year is the perfect traditional Independence Day celebration as the firework shows must go on! Make your way to the Moon Lite Drive-In Theater in Terre Haute on July 1st for a firework show at 10:00 p.m. and a double-feature directly afterwards around 10:15 p.m. Bring your entire family to celebrate our nation and enjoy brand new movies, where Lightyear and Top Gun will likely play. On July 3rd, bring your lawn chairs and blankets to sit and relax at the New Covenant Fellowship Church, in Terre Haute for food, fellowship, and fireworks! All ages are welcome at this free event to celebrate Independence Day at the Sycamore Winery’s 5th anniversary! On Sunday, July 3rd, they will offer food and live music 6:00-10:00 p.m., then a fireworks show over the lake at dark. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, as no tents will be allowed. Also, at The Bridge celebrate the Fourth of July on Sunday, July 3rd from 6:00-9:00 p.m. with free food, face painting, and blow ups for the kids. The night will close out with a fireworks show at dark! The most dazzling fireworks display will take place in the Wabash Valley on July 4th at Fairbanks Park by the City of Terre Haute. The entertaining celebration will begin at the amphitheater at 8:00 p.m. with the Terre Haute Community band until the fireworks display begins at dusk, which is approximately 10:00 p.m. There are updates to come on events at American Legion Post #290, Rosedale and Rex Baseball, Terre Haute, Military Nights. If you host your own fireworks display, be sure to do so legally. Fireworks are not allowed within Terre Haute city limits. If you are outside of the city limits, ensuring safety is the number one priority. Simple tips that ensure everyone is kept safe is by buying high-quality fireworks from reputable retailers, keeping onlookers at a safe distance from the launch pad, as well as counting down before and after every lighting. Whether you prefer a large firework show or hand-held sparklers, remember to make memories with loved ones. However, you choose to celebrate the Fourth of July, enjoy the holiday filled with fireworks safely alongside great company. Source: Haute Happenings
 This week you can f – e – e – l summer! Although you may want to lessen your time in the outdoors with the relentless heat, it has us thinking about Terre Haute and the unique things our collective assets have to offer the outdoor enthusiasts. Perhaps this week and maybe next, the outdoor activities should include water, and lots of it! Kind of like somethin’ water needs to be a part of all your activities.
So, what do we recommend? If you’re traveling around Indiana, you certainly don’t want to drive by Terre Haute. Instead, you want to drop-in, believe us! Let’s start with water, it makes sense. Just to name a few, and a few more…
Don’t take our word for it, take time to enjoy these unique amenities. Stop, swim, and celebrate the dog days of summer. If you’re looking to explore nearby be sure to also check out swimming at Sullivan Lake, boating at Racoon Lake, or even Canoeing at Turkey Run State Park. Within thirty miles you can explore most of West Central IN and its water activities. It’s Hot… Hot… Hot… Stay safe out there! 
Terre Haute is full of exciting pastimes and activities; however, did you know the community also offers an array of activities at no cost? From outdoor enthusiasts, to art lovers and everyone in between, this list of free things to do in Terre Haute are sure to keep you busy and exploring all facets of the community!
 If you haven’t noticed, the town has been painted pink and red for a very special heart-shaped holiday. It’s Valentine’s Day and local businesses in Terre Haute have just what you need to woo your sweetheart this year. Sugar Studio by Tiers of Elegance is offering customers a sugary sweet sampler box containing pink frosted cookies, cake pops, brownies and more!  Photo courtesy of Sugar Studio by Tiers Surprise your sweetie by bringing them a piping hot cup of coffee from Federal Coffee Company. Might I suggest The Winter Rose, a smooth espresso with rose cardamom syrup, textured milk, White Chocolate sauce and honey. I feel in love just thinking about it! Valentine’s Day isn’t just about chocolate hearts and sweets, it’s also about romantic evenings with your love. Consider taking your Valentine to Bar Bosco or Piloni’s for a plate of hand-made spaghetti and meatballs. You could re-enact the iconic scene from Lady and the Tramp! Tell me that wouldn’t be a cute photo-op.  Photo courtesy of Bar Bosco For those who convey their love in diamonds and pearls, Ross Elliott Jewelers, Terre Haute’s home for fine jewelry, is promoting a free box of truffles and flowers with any purchase of $199 or more! Quite literally a one-stop-shop for any last-minute Valentine’s Day purchases. If your honey likes the classics, you can never go wrong with a card and flowers. Select a beautiful bouquet from Maggie & Moe’s, Baesler’s Floral Market, or Cowan & Cook! These hand-crafted arrangements are sure to turn any budding romance into a full on bloom!  Photo courtesy of Maggie & Moe's Poplar Flower Shop No matter what you buy, or how you spend your Valentine’s Day, remember this is a day of love. Enjoy this romantic time with the ones who matter most, and maybe a few sweet treats. Happy Valentine’s Day, lovebugs!
 For a long time, outdoor concert lovers in Terre Haute had only one option if they wanted to see their favorite artists and musicians at an outdoor music venue, a drive to Noblesville. While the distance made for a fun night out in the city, it took away opportunities to have fun and make memories in our city. Terre Haute needed a new outdoor music venue, and it needed one quick.  Terre Haute resident Tim Drake saw this as an opportunity to provide his community with a state-of-the-art music venue. “I have lived here my whole life,” stated Drake. “You find the need, you fill the need.” Not only will this cater to residents, it will also increase tourism to the Terre Haute area. “It’s right here in our backyard,” Drake explained. “We’re bringing in some big artists next year.” The Mill Amphitheater is just over 65 acres and can hold between 4,000 and 5,000 people. This outdoor venue pays homage to a bit of Terre Haute history. “We wanted to pay tribute to what was here and tip our hat to where we want to go,” stated Drake. In 1917, the International Paper Plant opened for business. Over the 90 years it was in operation, the mill employed 170 people. In 2007, the corporate office decided to close the plant, leaving the property empty and desolate. In 2018, Drake placed a bid on the property with a plan to create the amphitheater.  The Mill officially opened to the public on June 5, 2021, with a sold-out show featuring two-time Grammy award-winning recording artist Nelly. The outdoor venue started their first year with a bang, hosting several acts including Riley Green, Three Dog Night, Summerland Tour, Lee Brice and Granger Smith. So far, the stage has seen many music stars, and this is only the beginning. “We’ve been working so hard for so many years, talking about it and dreaming about it,” explained Drake. “Seeing it come to life, it’s pretty crazy.” Drake is impressed with the progress he and his team have made. Every concert provides an opportunity to improve the venue, both for the artists and for the concert goers. In preparation for next season, The Mill has already started scouting out big names from talent agencies in Nashville and even New York City to fill the stage next season. “Talent agencies in big cities are very interested in who we are, where we came from and where we are going,” said Drake. “Lots of agencies have been very impressed with our progress.”  Drake and his staff at The Mill are happy with their first season, but they also realize the key to a great business, a great customer experience, is change. “Every time we have a concert we are constantly improving,” he said. “This venue is always changing for the better.” Drake plans to announce the lineup for next season within the next six months. Until then, he and his team will be hard at work perfecting the stage and working with engineers to create a one-of-a-kind concert experience that can only be found in Terre Haute. For more information on The Mill, including past acts, amenities and even keep up to date on next season’s line-up, check out their website! We’ll be seeing you… at The Mill.
 Alright, elves, the Christmas Countdown has officially begun. Black Friday deals have come and gone, and you still have lots of people to shop for on your list! What can be done? Not to worry, for I am a professional procrastinator and have developed a system for the season. Two words: stocking stuffers. People underestimate the power of an adorable stocking full of candy and trinkets! This last-minute gift idea only takes an hour to put together. Stop by your favorite local store, pick out a stocking, stuff it full of candy, gift cards, or any other trinket that aligns with your person’s favorite things! Maybe it’s nail polish, maybe it’s a CD (do people still listen to CDs?) or, my personal favorite, a set of Bass Farms bath and body products, which can be found at the 1921 Boutique. Can someone say spa night?  Photo Courtesy of the 1921 Boutique Facebook Page Stocking stuffers are a great last-minute gift idea, but if you would rather put a little more thought into the gift, try something homemade! Handmade gifts hold an extra spark of spirit that can’t be found in store bought gifts. In my research, I have come across some pretty cute gift ideas, many of which I plan to try myself! Ornaments are a great gift for family and friends, and a homemade fabric covered tree ornament will add a bit of DIY sparkle to any Christmas tree. For the tutorial from Alice & Lois, check out this link!  Photo Courtesy of aliceandlois.com Handmade gifts don’t always have to be made by you. Local businesses and artisans in Terre Haute offer a plethora of unique gifts for everyone in your life. Willow Gift & Home, The Burlap Penguin and the 1921 Boutique have just what you need for that extra special gift. For a full list of boutiques and businesses, click this link!  Photo Courtesy of Willow Gift & Home: Flour Sack Handle Towel – Terre Haute, Indiana Multi-dots Ornaments aren’t for everyone, and neither are trinkets. For any of the plant lovers in your life, have you considered a small succulent? Or maybe, and how festive is this? A Christmas Cactus?! How cute is this little lady? The Christmas Cactus is aptly named due to its unique bloom schedule. Three out of the four seasons, this plant is green and flat, but around Christmas, something magical happens! The cactus blooms with bright pink, red, white, purple, or orange flowers to celebrate the season. While her cactus name may confuse you, she needs to be watered regularly and prefers indirect sunlight. Terre Haute has a plethora of flower shops to choose from for your green thumbed friend. Check out Maggie & Moe’s Poplar Flower Shop, Apple House, Baesler’s Flower Market, or the District 6 Market! The Christmas Cactus will find herself most comfortable in a cozy window seat where she may be admired.  Photo Courtesy of iStock/Nadezhda_Nesterova Speaking of things to be admired, I believe it’s high time you start wrapping these presents to be put under the tree! I hope these hints have been helpful, I know I will be using a few. Here is wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas!
 The holidays are sneaking up on us! Have you decorated your home yet? Are your stockings hung by the chimney with care? Have you participated in any fun holiday activities yet? If not, boy, do I have a blog for you. Every December, Terre Haute comes to life. Bright red and green lights take over Downtown, Christmas decorations fill every storefront and the spirit of the season flows throughout the entire city. The Twelve Points area is ready to welcome visitors into their cozy shops for the season. Ferm Fresh will be hosting an Ugly Christmas Sweater party on December 18th from 3pm-6pm. Visitors are encouraged to wear their ugliest Christmas sweater and take part in crafts, yummy food and delectable drinks! A contest will decide which little elf has the ugliest sweater and the winner will receive a $20 gift card!  The Terre Haute Parks and Recreation Department is definitely in the Christmas spirit! The department will host their annual ornament decorating event on December 20th from 2pm-3:30pm. Residents from near and far are invited to decorate an extra special ornament for their extra special Christmas trees. You will find more details in their flyer below!  If big public events aren’t your ideal place for holiday cheer, don’t fret. I have a few ideas for you. Downtown Terre Haute is beautiful this time of year, and you should definitely check it out. Take this time to call up family and friends and arrange a fun night of shopping and food in our Downtown. Take a picture next to the giant Christmas tree and marvel at the festive street decorations.
Speaking of decorations, have you visited Deming Park yet? Every year, organizations all over Terre Haute put their best creative feet forward and contribute beautifully designed displays to the park. Rumor has it, the line to get into Christmas in the Park has been outrageous! How amazing is that? Community members all over the city are itching to see the festive lights and creative displays. Call your honey up, grab a seasonal sip, and drive through the park blasting Christmas music. Now that is the ideal holiday season date night! The holidays are a wonderful time to make memories with family and friends. This is a season for togetherness. No matter where you decide to spend your time together, do so with the intention that any event, any place, can be special, as long as you are with the right people. We’ll See You in Terre Haute this holiday season.  Imagine if you will, spending the evening with loved ones, in a cozy sweater, listening to Christmas music. A beautifully wrapped gift in one hand, and, what’s this? A seasonal sip from one of Terre Haute’s many coffee shops in the other hand? It’s a Christmas Miracle! Nothing jump starts the Christmas spirit faster than a belly full of warm sweet treats and caffeinated beverages. Each coffee shop has specially curated a list of original and classic drinks. Each sip delivers the rich taste only coffee from a Terre Haute barista can offer! Below you will find a comprehensive list of each shop’s delectable menu. Might I suggest pairing your coffee choice with a fun day of shopping? It is much easier to spend money on gifts when you have a warm drink in your hand.   Nothing kicks off the Christmas season quite like a living room full of family and a belly full of turkey and mashed potatoes. As we know very well, the Thanksgiving feast is basically carbo-loading for Black Friday shopping. But, before you raise yourself from your turkey coma to be first in line at Best Buy, consider this, don’t spend all your money on Black Friday. Okay, I’ll further explain before the hate mail comes in. Save your Christmas money for local businesses! Enjoy the Friday after Thanksgiving with family and gear up for a marathon of shopping on Small Business Saturday! Think of it this way, small businesses offer unique gifts for everyone on your list. The money spent at a small business stays local, which will in turn help your community. What does it mean to shop small? Shopping small supports artisans in your community. Think about it, these business owners have put everything into their shops. They do so with care and with a vision to improve the place they call home. Take a moment to consider who you make a purchase from. The CEO of Walmart isn't going to cheer on your kiddo at a baseball game. Amazon isn’t going to buy Girl Scout Cookies from your daughter. You know who will? Small business owners. We owe it to them to support their livelihood, because they support ours. Below you will find a complete list of small businesses in Terre Haute who are offering Small Business Saturday deals you simply cannot miss. 2021 Small Business Saturday Deals
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