Events in Gary today

Bingocize blends the classic game with gentle, low impact exercises that support strength and balance. It is suitable for anyone concerned about stability or the risk of falls, and it also offers chances to win prizes. This program runs for 10 weeks and meets twice each week. Registration packets are completed at Session 0 or at the first session attended. New participants are not admitted after the stated cutoff date. The program takes place in the Community Room. For details, contact Karissa Davison at davisonk@hammondlibrary.org or (219) 931-5100 ext. 355.

Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana hosts a networking mixer at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana focused on the Attainable Housing Tax Credit. Attendees can connect with community leaders, housing advocates, and prospective investors while exploring how this credit can expand affordable homeownership across Northwest Indiana. Registration is available, and all who register are entered for a chance to win a Caraway cookware set valued at $775 provided by the ReStore, and the winner must be present. The gathering emphasizes learning, relationship building, and channeling investment so tax credits become homes for local families.

This recurring Heroscape league brings local fans together for head to head battles. Participation is free. Players face off and put their skills to the test on the battlefield alongside fellow enthusiasts.

A weekly league for Gundum features a $5 entry fee, with promos included.

Move, stretch, and dance in a free class designed to get the blood flowing and muscles activated. No prior dance background is needed, and coordination is not required. All ages and abilities are welcome, and the focus is simply on having fun while getting active. Sessions take place weekly on Wednesdays, with additional Monday classes being added. For details, contact Anna Mamala at mamalaa@gohammond.com or 219-853-7705.

Each month, Portage Chamber members come together for a relaxed MidWeek Mingle held on the fourth Wednesday. Attendance is complimentary for members, and registration is required. Hosting is reserved for Chamber members, with only ten opportunities available each year on a first come, first served basis. Information on upcoming dates and host registration appears on the Chamber Events Calendar.

A weekly locals gathering centered on One Piece, with a $5 entry fee.

Designed for adults, this nature-focused book club blends conversation with seasonal activities that may take place indoors or outside. The group will read Aldo Leopold’s A Sand County Almanac throughout 2026, complemented by monthly supplemental readings to enrich each discussion. It offers a welcoming setting for exploring nature literature and learning together. Advance registration is required by calling 219-844-3188, and further details are provided after registering.

Farmed & Forged Hammond Market is a producers-first gathering in Downtown Hammond that celebrates local farms, fresh foods, and the small businesses that strengthen the community. Admission is free and all ages are welcome. Each week features farmers, producers, makers, and foragers alongside artisan vendors offering locally made food and drinks. Live music and rotating entertainment set the scene, family-friendly activities add to the fun, and every market supports a local nonprofit. SNAP shoppers can triple their benefits, with a $20 EBT purchase providing $60 in vouchers for eligible items.

Presented by the City of Portage, Food Truck Friday’s 2026 brings together a lineup of featured vendors to explore.

Enjoy an inviting evening of line dancing at Social Goat. Begin with an introductory lesson taught by Janet, and no experience is required. After the lesson, the floor opens for free dancing so you can practice and keep moving. The lesson is $5 per person, and the open dance time is free. All ages are welcome, whether you are new to line dancing or already comfortable on the floor.

Hyde Park’s monthly pancake breakfast invites the community to enjoy a complimentary morning meal and conversation. Freshly made pancakes are served in unlimited portions, along with sausage, orange juice, and milk. The gathering takes place at the church and offers a friendly setting to meet neighbors and connect with others. For more details, please contact the organizers.

A garden work day takes place at Stewart House Urban Farm and Garden. Board members will be on site to start the water system, provide access to tools, and share practical gardening tips with volunteers and gardeners.

Celebrate the season at the Harvest Festival at Portage Founders Square. Enjoy live music from Hicks Duo and High Street alongside a wide variety of food trucks. A beer garden will offer assorted beverages, and family-friendly games will be available. Browse booths featuring local artisans, bakers, and crafters for unique finds. Children can have fun with a bounce house, face painting, and time at Hannah’s Hope Playground. Admission is free, and parking is plentiful.

Dragon’s Lair hosts a free weekly Disney Lorcana open play night centered on player choice and a welcoming atmosphere. Illuminers of any experience level, format preference, or deck-building style are invited to hang out and play the way they like. Choose your opponents, set up multiplayer games, stick to Core only if you want to skip Infinity, learn the basics with help, or test a new list with a friend. There are no forced pairings or mismatched power levels, just find a group that fits and enjoy the games. Participation includes a promo and an entry in a weekly raffle for additional prizes, and if you need to leave early, raffle winnings can be picked up later. Framed as a relaxed alternative to weekly tournaments, this gathering emphasizes community, flexibility, and fun.

Tiny’s hosts Marco Villareal for an evening of jazz fusion that blends familiar pop favorites with classic jazz selections. The performance is shaped for a calm, easygoing evening, well suited to dinner and cocktails.

This monthly, award-winning spoken word showcase features hosts Red Rah and Big Sexii, a spotlighted poet, and live music. Enjoy the Dialogue Effect with unique handcrafted drinks, and expect CeeQ’s to satisfy taste buds before the night shifts into a dance party. Open mic sets are available, limited to 10 minutes per performance. Cover is $10 and attendees must be 21.

Open to ages 10 and up, this nature journaling session encourages participants to strengthen memory, find a sense of calm, and add a useful creative skill to everyday life. No prior experience is required. The plan is to be outside if the weather cooperates, with an indoor option available if needed. Bring a notebook or loose paper, a pen and a pencil, and a lawn chair. Pre-registration is recommended.