By Michelle Kinsey—
MUNCIE, IN—The $2 Tour of the Village returns on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 3 to 7 p.m. on University Avenue between Calvert and Dill Streets near the Ball State University campus.
Admission is free and the first 100 people through the gates will get a $2 bill to spend on several special $2 items – including T-shirts, food, goodie bags and more – at participating Village businesses.
The event, now in its sixth year, is hosted by the Riverside-Normal City Neighborhood Association, Muncie Action Plan, and Ball State University’s Office of Community Engagement.
“We love offering this event as an opportunity to welcome new students – and the community — into the Village early in the school year,” said Krista Flynn of the Office of Community Engagement. “It’s a great way for everyone to explore all the wonderful things the Village has to offer!”
There will be so much to see and do! Visit more than 40 vendor and organization booths lining the street. Play lawn games at one of the “grassy” gathering spots. Try your throwing hand at the dunk tank, ride the mechanical bull, grab a fun balloon from B.O.B., or cool off in the water play area.
Two stages will offer entertainment. On the WCRD East Stage, check out live performances from singers/songwriters Jess Jones, Kole Ruder and DUNCAN, and the local band Rangeline Hill.
On the West Stage, enjoy performances by Code Red dancers, a Hot Pepper Eating Contest, Pet Prince/Princess Contest, cake walk, DJ David Bond III, Harmony Dance demos, and more.
The first 500 attendees will receive a $2 Tour of the Village “passport.” Get it stamped at designated Village businesses, then turn it in at the Welcome Tent to be entered in drawings for great prizes.
A short walk from the Village, there’s another party going on as well. Be sure to stop by the Back to School Bash at University Green for lots of water-themed fun, as well as a DJ and petting zoo. This free event is 5 to 8 p.m.
And there’s more! Head over to Ball State’s Brown Family Amphitheater at 7 p.m. for a free Muncie Three Trails concert featuring saxophone player Vanessa Collier, 2024 Blues Music Award “Horn Player of the Year” winner. Local band The Fierce will open the show.
For more $2 Tour of the Village info, go to muncieneighborhoods.org.
