WFHB Bloomington Community Radio
Love family history research? Join a group of fellow enthusiasts monthly at the History Center!
You’re invited to celebrate the ideas of legacy in African and African American cultures with the IU African American Dance Company, then view an exhibit to celebrate their 50th year! This interactive, high-spirited 45-minute lecture and performance combines the energizing dances of the legendary AADC with ideas about legacy in African and African American cultures. All ages.
In the lead up to winter holidays, we are offering a chance to learn or enhance a new skill, enjoy fresh sourdough with snacks that highlight all we’ve made and learned together in workshops over the course of the year, and share highlights from the Hub – all while also joining in our most popular recurring workshop, Sourdough 101. You’ll leave ready to bake fresh bread for your family gatherings and seasonal gifting.
Will it be a fun treat for yourself? An experience to gift a loved one? A sweet first or fiftieth date? We can’t wait to see what you decide!
This is a small, ticketed event giving you a chance to experience a Hub workshop while contributing to our ability to host free, low-barrier workshops for our community. Just 12 tickets are available. Snag yours today.
Martinsville resident Bobby Helms made “Jingle Bell Rock” famous in 1957 as the original artist of the well-known Christmas classic. Over 60 year sold, the song is now one of the biggest selling Christmas songs of ALL TIME! That holiday spirit lives on in Martinsville with the Bobby Helms Jingle Bell Rock Christmas Music Spectactular.
The big musical performance and tree lighting is on Sunday, but on Saturday AND Sunday, families are invited to come downtown and enjoy a FREE synthetic skating rink! The rink will be available on both Saturday (4-8 pm) and Sunday (3-8pm) and is open to all to participate.
The Muppets’ rendition of Charles Dickens’ classic tale puts a unique twist on that fateful Christmas Eve, when Scrooge (Michael Caine) is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Together with kind, humble Bob Cratchit (Kermit the Frog) and his family, the Spirits open Scrooge’s eyes—and his heart—to the true meaning of the holiday season. [85 min; holiday, drama, musical; English]
We are teaming up with our neighbors, Bloomington Farm Stop, to host our 2nd annual badknees Holiday Market Experiment + Annual Tradition of the Lighting of the Monolith! It is both an indoor and outdoor market! There will be artists selling their wares in both of our spaces. There will hopefully be even more artists outside in the parking lot where the live music will be. There will be beers and hot cocoa and food and propane heaters and giant Jenga and holiday lights and other stuff, too. There will be fun for the kids. There will be fun for adults. The weather will be perfect. Giant, fat snowflakes will begin falling around 7:30 when we light up our historic Monolith and really get into the holiday spirit. It will be just the right amount of snow and we will all agree about that after it stops.
MUSIC – MOON NEWS – STEP TWINS – KP & THE WLG’S – BUG EAT BUG
ARTS VENDORS!
Moon Bear Goods and Sundries / Whipped Cream Bobby / Mantis Herb Co /
Radical Seed / Silver Linings Rescue / MissBrennaBees / Soak Soapworks /
Elizabeth Studio / HIDEOUT PRESS / Alison Kingsley / Jordy minnick glass /
Rebel Purl / Made In Naptown / Quality Art and Design / CA VINTAGE /
Rebekah Spivey Wellinkedbooks / Purple Shamrock Farm / LLC – Pet Treats /
Larissa Danielle Designs / The Ranch Cat Rescue / DoodleGirl Designs
Doors at 5:30pm
HOLIDAY OF LIGHTS DRIVE THROUGH CHRISTMAS DISPLAY BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE MONROE COUNTY FAIR BOARD.
PACK THE CAR AND ENJOY A MAGICAL DRIVE THROUGH OF TWINKLING LIGHTS, FESTIVE DISPLAYS, AND HOLIDAY CHEER FOR ALL AGES. THEN STOP BY THE SANTA VILLAGE FOR SHOPPING, FOOD AND A VISIT WITH SANTA!
Enjoy, hundreds of lights, music and unique sites of Christmas along the self-guided trail. Warm your hands by the fire and enjoy a hot dog, hot chocolate, cookies and popcorn. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to take requests from the kiddies.
Join us for a spectacular evening of twinkling lights and holiday magic at the annual Nashville Indiana Christmas Light Parade! Experience the enchanting sights and sounds of the holiday season as festive floats and vehicles adorned with dazzling Christmas lights glide through the heart of Nashville, Indiana.
At the heart of the Nashville, Indiana, Christmas Light Parade is the spirit of giving. In the true holiday tradition, we encourage all participants and attendees to bring new, unwrapped toys to donate to The Salvation Army Toy Shoppe and spread joy to those less fortunate during this particular time of year. Let’s unite as a community to make a difference and brighten the lives of children who deserve a magical Christmas.
Described by Jay Leno as the best joke writer in America and by Gary Delaney as the best joke writer in the world, Emo Philips has performed over seven thousand stand-up shows in comedy clubs, colleges, and theaters, including a multi-week run at the Playhouse Theatre in London’s West End. In 2018 and 2022-2023, Emo toured with “Weird Al” Yankovic (over two hundred concerts across three continents); Emo will forever remember the standing ovation he received at Carnegie Hall.
Andy Griggs often says his influences in music are like a pot of gumbo. Growing up in Monroe, LA, he was raised on Jerry Lee Lewis, Jimmy Swaggert, Waylon, Bill Monroe, hardcore blues, and hardcore rock’n roll, sprinkled with a touch of jazz. He often says, “there is no defining a style of song. As long as there’s soul, it has a place in music.”
This is production by the Owen County Theatre & Arts Alliance. Admission information at www.octaaa.org
Experience the irresistible energy of this Hollywood-favorite swing band as they bring their signature sound and style to Martinsville’s newest stage. Enjoy an evening of music, elegance, and community as we open the doors to a vibrant new era of local entertainment.
Adapted for the stage by James W. Rodgers. Presented with the permission of the Greatest Gift Corporation.
You’re invited to come to our winter concert for the choral textures and traditions of the season, to have some wassail, and even sing along with QMC on a medley of favorites called “Snows of Yesteryear.” Stay for a blend of Broadway, pop, rock, and oldies reimagined to illuminate the joys of the holidays: “Morning Glow” from PIPPIN, Jamie Cullum’s “Hang Your Lights,” “Shine” by 90s rockers Collective Soul, and the beautiful Beatles ballad “Golden Slumbers” to name just a few.
A singer-songwriter known for his lyrical acumen and plaintive harmonica style, Joe Pug dropped out of college and moved to Chicago where he worked as a carpenter before breaking into the city’s music scene. Since 2008 he has released a string of critically-acclaimed albums and toured heavily in the U.S. and abroad. Paste Magazine wrote of his music: “Unless your surname is Dylan, Waits, Ritter or Prine, you could face-palm yourself to death trying to pen songs half as inspired.”
Doors at 8pm
Plummer Jazz Sextet with Lenard Simpson
++Late Show after the The Splattertones++
Lenard Simpson- Alto
Zoey Thornburg, trumpet
Peter Goggin, alto saxophone
Takoda Collins, tenor saxophone
Alayna Ringsby, piano
Nolan Phillips, bass
Jackson Foerster, drums
Lenard Simpson is a saxophonist, composer and educator from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Lenard was mostly self-taught through high school, but his natural ability and musicianship earned him accolades such as membership in the esteemed Grammy Camp Jazz Session, and an outstanding soloist award at the Mingus Jazz Competition in New York City. Lenard has had the opportunity to play and travel with artists such as pianist and composer-Billy Childs, Kurt Elling, Marquis Hill, and Clayton Cameron. Lenard received a B.M in Jazz performance at Northern Illinois University. While studying at NIU, Lenard was awarded first place in Chicago’s esteemed Luminarts Jazz Competition.
Upon graduation, Lenard moved to Chicago and soon became one of the city’s top call saxophonists playing sideman to legendary local drummers, George Fludas and Charles Heath. Lenard’s trio has appeared at premier clubs and jazz festivals throughout the Chicago and Milwaukee area. Lenard recently graduated from the Thelonious Monk Institute Fellowship, which has since been renamed to the Herbie Hancock Institut where he was selected by a panel of Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, James Newton and Ambrose Akinmusire.
Beyond the Binary returns with your charming hosts, Oliver Closeoff & Kitt St. Clair! BTB always features an all trans and non-binary cast!
December stars, STRAWBERRY PANIC, VANITY REX, IZZY OMEGA, and VANTA BLACK!
Bar opens at 7
Show at 9
Dance party at 11 with DJ GOOD PEOPLES
The Brown County Christkindl Market is an annual celebration of Christmas during Advent. Initially held in Germany, these popular holiday markets are now held worldwide.
You’re invited to stop by to browse a festive collection of handmade goods from talented local artists and makers. From unique artwork to handcrafted gifts, it’s the perfect place to find something special for the loved ones on your list while supporting the creative community right here at home.
You’re invited to visit with St. Nick and Belsnickel and take your own photos, make Christmas crafts, enjoy cookies and warm cider, visit the House of the Singing Winds and Large Studio decorated for Christmas, and enjoy live holiday tunes!
Begin the ticketed tour at the UAW Hall, and spend the afternoon touring 7 homes in the Bedford area.
The homes vary in style and size. Some are modern; some are historical – each is unique. You’ll want to see them all. Each homeowner has different styles which make the tour fun. If you’re not in the Christmas spirit when you start the tour- you’ll be humming Christmas music and in the Christmas spirit when you finish!
All proceeds go to help cancer patients in Lawrence County. For more information about the tour contact Debi Deer at 812-583-6246 or Cassie Root at 812-278- 4383.
DIY Folded Book Vase
With Lois Sauder
Join us Sunday, December 7th at 1pm for a cozy afternoon of creativity and connection. Together, we’ll transform books provided by our friends at local bookstore Caveat Emptor into charming folded book vases—perfect for adding a touch of handmade beauty to your space or gifting to someone special.
Gather is delighted to host this workshop, providing the space and all the general supplies you’ll need. Lois Sauder will guide you through each step, making it easy and fun for all skill levels.
All materials are included, and refreshments can be ordered to keep the good vibes flowing as you craft and connect with fellow makers.
Come for the creativity, stay for the community—we can’t wait to fold, sip, and connect with you!
Step into the rich history of chocolate with this hands-on workshop! Participants will craft, taste, and take home a seventeenth-century drinking chocolate recipe—a treat perfect for cozy winter evenings or holiday gifting. Along the way, we’ll delve into chocolate’s transformation from a Mesoamerican ritual to a European indulgence.
Blend of active participant and demonstration style class with Dr. Sarah Peters Kernan. Kids are welcome. You take home hot chocolate mix that’s perfect for gifting and sharing— or not, we don’t judge!
We encourage you to sign up for classes online. When you register online, you’ll also pay online. While we will accept walk-ins before class if capacity allows, registering ahead of time secures your spot and creates a more seamless class experience.
This is production by the Owen County Theatre & Arts Alliance. Admission information at www.octaaa.org
Adapted for the stage by James W. Rodgers. Presented with the permission of the Greatest Gift Corporation.
You’re invited to come to our winter concert for the choral textures and traditions of the season, to have some wassail, and even sing along with QMC on a medley of favorites called “Snows of Yesteryear.” Stay for a blend of Broadway, pop, rock, and oldies reimagined to illuminate the joys of the holidays: “Morning Glow” from PIPPIN, Jamie Cullum’s “Hang Your Lights,” “Shine” by 90s rockers Collective Soul, and the beautiful Beatles ballad “Golden Slumbers” to name just a few.
Martinsville resident Bobby Helms made “Jingle Bell Rock” famous in 1957 as the original artist of the well-known Christmas classic. Over 60 year sold, the song is now one of the biggest selling Christmas songs of ALL TIME! That holiday spirit lives on in Martinsville with the Bobby Helms Jingle Bell Rock Christmas Music Spectactular.
The big musical performance and tree lighting is on Sunday, but on Saturday AND Sunday, families are invited to come downtown and enjoy a FREE synthetic skating rink! The rink will be available on both Saturday (4-8 pm) and Sunday (3-8pm) and is open to all to participate.
First Sunday of the month, except for holidays when it is pushed to the second Sunday.
This is your chance to hear firsthand what they’re doing and contribute to the conversation.
In this two-part series, Tim Londergan, Professor Emeritus of Physics, and Steve Vigdor, will present the basic science behind global warming and climate change . The presentation will emphasize empirical data rather than complex climate models. They will discuss short-term impacts of climate change that are already being felt, and long-term concerns about potential irreversible changes to Earth systems. They will then outline steps that could be taken to mitigate the most severe impacts of climate change, if the civic will to do so can be mustered. Questions and comments from the audience are welcome!
This second lecture will focus on the following questions:
Climate tipping points: what may change irreversibly?
How can humans mitigate climate change impacts?
HOLIDAY OF LIGHTS DRIVE THROUGH CHRISTMAS DISPLAY BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE MONROE COUNTY FAIR BOARD.
PACK THE CAR AND ENJOY A MAGICAL DRIVE THROUGH OF TWINKLING LIGHTS, FESTIVE DISPLAYS, AND HOLIDAY CHEER FOR ALL AGES. THEN STOP BY THE SANTA VILLAGE FOR SHOPPING, FOOD AND A VISIT WITH SANTA!
Doors at 5:30pm
George Bailey (James Stewart) sets aside his dreams of world travel to run his father’s small community bank, and protect the people of Bedford Falls from greedy businessman Mr. Potter (Lionel Barrymore). When a costly mistake pushes George to the brink of despair, a visit from a kindly angel (Henry Travers) will show George how the life of one good man can change the world forever.
1946
RATED: PG
Doors at 6pm
Join us for an enchanting evening of holiday jazz and cheer at Oak, nestled in a magical little plant shop on the downtown square. Pianist Monika Herzig and bassist Peter Kleinle will perform curated arrangements from Monika’s Peace on Earth CD—a musical celebration inspired by the spirit of peace we so dearly need.
In honor of St. Nikolaus Day (December 6), Monika will share stories about traditional German Nikolaus celebrations, accompanied by delicious German cookies to enjoy. The evening will culminate in a joyful sing-along to spread the holiday warmth.
Come down to the Downtown Library for a family-friendly movie viewing of “Elio” (2025). All ages.
Registration is requested.
Every Monday includes fun skating, cardio challenges, dance moves, skills lessons, a good stretch, and support from veteran roller derby skaters.
Activities are focused on advanced beginner to skilled skaters. ALL adults are welcome
Every Monday, the Swing Dance Club hosts lessons for its club members followed by a social dance.
Email: [email protected]
You’re invited to join us in the beautiful sanctuary of Trinity Episcopal Church for a curated collection of works that bring to life the ancient resonances of pagan European practice in the Christian yuletide season. Set to stunning music from Christian sources, this fascinating repertoire illuminates the connection between astronomically significant dates such as the winter solstice, magic, and music in the Renaissance, particularly as found in the work of famed 15th-century humanist, scholar, and Catholic priest Marsilio Ficino. Come enjoy with us a concert of a very different and curious sort as we celebrate the season!
Various selections from across two hundred years of European musical history will be capped off by a truly monumental Kyrie & Gloria featuring voices, viols, sackbuts, violins, recorder, cornetto, cornettino, and organ.
Ficinian White Magic & the Winter Solstice is curated & led by cornettist, recorder player, and HPI affiliate Sam Motter.
Babe Haven is a queer punk band known for their riot grrrl attitude and nu-metal edge. Formed in Boone, NC by Lillie Della Penna and Naomi Poesel, the band creates anthems of empowerment and resistance brimming with raw aggression. With a mission to uplift femme, queer, and BIPOC voices, Babe Haven turns every show into a space of radical inclusion and catharsis.
Babe Haven has been setting stages ablaze and selling out shows, quickly becoming an iconic staple in the modern punk scene, shared stages with the likes of Mannequin Pussy, Otoboke Beaver, Soft Play, Teen Mortgage, Pinkshift & Pollyanna. They have also appeared at popular tastemaker festivals such as L7’s Fast and Frightening Takeover, Punk Rock Bowling & Jorts Fest.
Their sophomore album, Nuisance, showcases a bold evolution in sound—blending nu-metal, thrash, and punk into a visceral, genre-defying statement that cements their place as one of punk’s most vital rising voices.
Hey smart people!! Trivia Nights are now your favorite thing to do on Mondays! We promise to keep the sports to a minimum!
Baby Brilliance is a weekly program for children. Each week participants will explore themes related to infant development. Inspired by the book, ” Experimenting with Babies” by Shaun Gallagher.
Recommended Ages: Children ages 0-18 months and their caregivers
New English speakers will practice everyday language skills in a relaxed, informal atmosphere.
Join us for a winter writing extravaganza! Write letters, postcards, or create cards. Learn how to address an envelope. Little ones can also make a handprint. All supplies will be provided. All ages.
We are a steel tip dart & social club. You do not have to be a member to play. All are welcome.
You’re invited to celebrate the season and enjoy an enchanting evening filled with holiday favorites, timeless classics, and the magic of live symphonic music.
Immense in intellect and scope, Reds is simultaneously an intimate study of the rightfully idealistic and a sweeping epic chronicling the tumultuous revolutionary change and the passion of those dedicated to it. Based on the real life of journalist John Reed (author of Ten Days That Shook the World), Reds follows Warren Beatty (who directed and co-wrote the film) as Reed. Radicalized by injustice, he commits his personal and professional life to progressive politics, leading him to feminist icon and activist Louise Bryant, played ferociously by the late Diane Keaton. Reds is a rare film that seamlessly blends the literary, the political, and the romantic for a deeply complex and eminently watchable portrayal of those who demand change. Also starring Jack Nicholson, Maureen Stapleton, Paul Sorvino, Gene Hackman, and Edward Herrmann. [195 min; drama; English]
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for 40 years! Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound and will bring this show to Bloomington this upcoming holiday season.
The program includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects—capturing the spirit of the season in an immersive yet intimate setting.
With student soloists Katherine Schwab, soprano; Laura Looper, soprano; Bryce Zimmerman, countertenor; and Robbie Erickson, tenor.
About the Conductor:
Recognized with The American Prizes in both Choral Composition (2014) and Choral Performance (2019, with NOTUS), Dominick DiOrio is an imaginative, enthusiastic, and energetic conductor and composer who has won widespread acclaim for his contributions to American music. He is professor of music and chair of the department in choral conducting at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, where he joined the faculty in 2012, and where he serves as director of NOTUS, IU’s storied contemporary vocal ensemble, which has been invited to perform at regional, national, and international choral conferences, and with which he has released three commercial albums to critical acclaim.
Discovery Time activities are designed by early childhood specialists specifically to nurture and challenge the rapid development of preschool-aged children. Activities vary monthly.
Recommended Ages: Children ages 2 – 6 and their caregivers
Wilt thou find victory astride thy noble steed in this grandest of tournaments, or suffer bitterest defeat?! Ages 12-19.
No registration required for this hands-on class that teaches kids of all ages confidence and curiosity in the kitchen. Try new recipes, inspired by the pantry and the garden, each week.
Registration is requested
Don’t always get the book read? This club is for you. This month’s selection is “Your Guide to Not Getting Murdered in a Quaint English Village.” Age 18 and up.
Shadows Without Bodies: Willful Blindness, Revolutionary Nostalgia, and The 18th Brumaire in Mexico
Assistant District Attorney John Sargent (Fred MacMurray) , knowing that women are harder to convict during the holidays, moves to have his case against shoplifter, Lee Leander (Barbara Stanwyck), postponed to January, potentially leaving Lee alone in jail on Christmas. Feeling guilty, John posts her bail, and the two go on a whirlwind roadtrip from New York to Indiana to celebrate the holiday with their families, only to fall for one another along the way. Will their budding romance get in the way of John’s conviction?
Festivals/venues the band has performed at include 1810 Ojeman in Houston, NMASS Festival, Sahara Lounge in Austin, Rubber Gloves in Denton, Handlebar in San Juan, PR, and C-Note Jazz Club in Luquillo Beach, PR.
Beginner lesson 7-7:30pm
Feature dance 7:30-9:30pm