Events in Merrillville today

This free, in-person lecture at the Merrillville Branch of the Lake County Public Library is for adults ages 60 and older. It explores how home assistants, smart appliances, and wearable devices can save time and money, support health management, and offer added peace of mind. The session also shares practical guidance on protecting privacy and maintaining security while using these technologies. This is a Senior Planet from AARP class offered through the Senior Planet licensing program. Details such as parking and room number are provided to registrants in a confirmation letter.

The Sioux Falls Canaries face the Gary SouthShore RailCats at U.S. Steel Yard in Gary, Indiana, a matchup between two American Association clubs. The ballpark is known for seats close to the field and a lively local vibe, bringing the nuances of the game...late bullpen calls, aggressive baserunning, and hard-hit balls down the line...into clear focus. A distinct regional baseball atmosphere keeps every moment within easy view.

Friday game nights invite adults 18 and older to enjoy board games, card games, puzzles, dominoes, ping pong, and possibly trading card games. It is a friendly setting to meet people, hang out, bring favorite games, or even start a club as the shared collection continues to grow. Admission is free. Space is limited. Food is not served, but ordering in is an option. Please check in at the front desk upon arrival.

Celebrate the end of the week and welcome the weekend.

The seventh annual VetRock concert brings live music to the front lawn with performances by Mr. Funnyman and NAWTY. Admission is free, and voluntary donations will support disabled veterans in Northwest Indiana.

This discussion group offers a welcoming space for like-minded people to explore metaphysical and spiritual beliefs in a respectful, judgment-free setting. Conversations are organic and cover a range of metaphysical topics, with discussion kept to metaphysics rather than politics or religion. There is a suggested love offering of $20.

Wiz Khalifa brings a live performance to Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana on the Hard Rock Live Northern Indiana stage, with DJ Cheech Beats opening the show. A limited flash sale offers $25 tickets while supplies last.

An evening with The B-Side awaits at Griffith Central Market, offering a relaxed outing for family and friends. Attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs for comfortable seating.

The Highway Band performs live at Fricke's Recreation.

Hobart Art Theatre and JL Entertainment present a high-energy salute to the Bee Gees with You Should Be Dancing. This all-ages concert features YSBD, a group celebrated for nailing the group’s signature harmonies while adding a vibrant visual show. Expect crowd favorites like Stayin’ Alive, You Should Be Dancing, More Than A Woman, Night Fever, and How Deep Is Your Love, plus Bee Gees hits written for artists such as Dolly Parton, Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand, Andy Gibb, Diana Ross, and Dionne Warwick. YSBD has appeared on ABC, CBS, and the CW, performed on major stages across the country, shared lineups with America, The Beach Boys, Boyz II Men, Chicago, Daryl Hall, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Smokey Robinson, collaborated with Yvonne Elliman and Ted Neeley, and opened for members of Cheap Trick, Def Leppard, and Guns N’ Roses. This event is open to all ages. No refunds.

In the greenhouse parking lot, find farm-fresh vegetables, homemade baked goods, and fruit from Garwood Orchards. Vendors also offer local honey, flowers, home goods, artwork, and other items.

At Johnson’s Farm, this festival brings fresh produce, family-friendly fun, and more than 40 activities for all ages. Attendees can pick their own watermelon, enjoy seasonal treats, and take part in attractions such as bounce pads, zip lines, an obstacle course, a foam party, pedal cars, baby farm animals, and tractor wagon rides to the fields. Raspberries are available for U-pick on select weekends. Watermelon U-Pick fields open only during festival weekends, with trams transporting guests to the fields and back to the market. Admission is $15 for General Admission, which includes most farm activities except the train and produce cannons, or $25 for an All-Access Pass that covers all activities. Children under 2 are free.

Bulldog Park in Crown Point hosts the Farmers Market for the community to enjoy.

Yoga instructor Sandra Tomera leads a free outdoor series in the park. Sessions are held on Saturdays, weather allowing, and are open to all ages. Classes take place on the lawn near the main entrance. Sponsored by North Township Trustee Adrian A. Santos. For details, call 219-718-9856.

Set aside a quiet stretch to make progress on a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem, or everyday work tasks. Pages remain private and no unsolicited feedback is given. This group meets weekly at Tiny's. Headphones are welcome for extra focus. Tiny's offers weekend brunch, espresso drinks, and cocktails, with table service available. Participants can drop in or sign up ahead of time.

These weekly One Piece store tournaments bring together the local TCG community for structured rounds, spirited matches, and official support. Newcomers and seasoned players can refine strategies, trade cards, and compete for prizes. Expect a friendly atmosphere, clear organization, and plenty of chances to connect with fellow fans. Bring a tournament-ready deck and be prepared for competitive play with rewards on the line. Players of every experience level are welcome. Seating may be limited, so early registration is recommended.

Author Ton Dworniczek will be at Miles Books in Highland, Indiana for a special signing of The Eli Effect. Get a copy signed during this in-store event.

Presented by the Hobart Chamber of Commerce, the 2nd Annual Fall Wine Walk offers a stroll through downtown Hobart with tastings of wine, spirits, and food from local businesses. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase at the Hobart Chamber of Commerce table. Admission is $45 per person. Please plan to check in upon arrival and bring a valid ID, which is required for all attendees. The event will take place rain or shine and there are no refunds.

Get to know the ambassador animals at the Douglas Center. Learn what sets them apart, the foods they eat, the environments they call home, and how park staff cares for them. Find clear answers to these topics and more.

This weekly Gundam TCG store tournament brings together pilots and collectors for organized play and spirited matches. It offers a friendly environment with set rounds where newcomers can learn the ropes and experienced players can refine strategy, try out new decks, and face fresh opponents. Expect competitive play rooted in the Gundam universe, along with opportunities to earn prizes and bragging rights each week. All skill levels are welcome. Seating may be limited, so early registration is recommended.

A live performance is part of Taste of Wicker 2026, a summertime outing where attendees can relax with food and adult beverages while taking in the music.

A cozy Girl’s Day Out at America’s Antique Mall spotlights vendors who specialize in cute, comforting finds. Attendees can discover a Blind Date with a Book experience, sample a variety of teas, and browse handmade covers for favorite reads. Expect hand poured candles, fairy tinsel hair clips, press on nails, and curated selections of stones and crystals. Crocheting with Alexandra adds a creative, hands on element. It is designed for book lovers, tea enthusiasts, and anyone drawn to soothing scents, stylish accessories, and relaxed, feel good shopping.

The 8th Annual Pete Breuckman Sr. Tradesman Scholarship Car Show brings a community celebration to Pete & Sons Auto Repair Inc in support of the Pete Breuckman Sr. Tradesman Scholarship. Festivities begin with a cruise, with the starting location to be announced, then continue with a Cruise Night gathering at the shop. Expect a wide variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, bikes, and both classic and custom builds. Families will find a Kids Power Wheels Car Show, Hot Wheels races, and trivia, along with food and plenty of raffle prizes. Proceeds benefit the scholarship, supporting future trades professionals.

Experience live jazz fusion at Tiny’s as Marco Villareal blends familiar pop songs with classic jazz, creating a mellow backdrop for dinner, cocktails, and a relaxed night out.

The award-winning spoken word showcase Wine and Words returns with its monthly edition on the last Saturday of the month. Hosts Red Rah and Big Sexii lead the night with dynamic wordplay, a featured poet, and live music. Expect the Dialogue Effect with handcrafted drinks, and look for CeeQ’s serving flavors to delight your taste buds. An open mic segment welcomes performers, with each set limited to 10 minutes. The evening concludes with a dance party. Early arrival is encouraged. There is a $10 cover, and attendees must be 21 or older.

Get ready for a dynamic mix and vibrant sound that keep you moving all night. Sing along, hit the dance floor, and raise a glass as the energy stays high.

Avenue 912 presents a SpongeBob-themed twist on the 1975 cult classic with The RockyBob HorrorPants Picture Show. A live shadow cast from Rocky Horror In Abundance performs alongside the film, turning the night into an interactive experience with singing and dancing in the aisles. Costumes are encouraged, and a contest with prizes will highlight standout looks. Survival kits to enhance the fun are available for $3. Event merchandise is cash only, and an ATM is on site. Guests 21 and over can enjoy signature cocktails The Frank N Furter and The Time Warp, plus a special nautical themed option, at the fully stocked bar where cards are accepted. A shot conga line is offered for $15 for three shots taken while dancing. Tickets are $12. Cash only at the door. This is an all ages show, and attendees under 17 must be accompanied by an adult as the experience is rated R. If purchasing a combo ticket with the Absolutely Dreadful Drag Show, please note the drag show is 17+ only.

Enjoy a lively day of shopping at the St. John Farmers Market, featuring a varied lineup of farmers and vendors. The market takes place rain or shine, and pets are welcome.

Bridges' Scoreboard is organizing a luxury coach trip to Wrigley Field for the Chicago Cubs vs Cincinnati Reds, coinciding with Harry Caray Bobblehead Day. The package is $175 per person and includes transportation by luxury bus, a ticket in Section 225, a lunch buffet at Bridges' Scoreboard before departure, and beer, seltzers, soda, and water available on the bus. Drop-off is planned for Gallagher Way next to the stadium. Capacity is limited to the first 52 people who pay in full. To reserve a spot, stop in or call Bridges' Scoreboard at 219-924-2206.

The Sioux Falls Canaries travel to U.S. Steel Yard to take on the Gary SouthShore RailCats in an independent baseball showdown. Expect an intimate ballpark setting where the action is close and players compete for every inning. It offers an easygoing outing with genuine competition and a classic ballpark atmosphere.

An evening centered on the music of Led Zeppelin, led by Jason Bonham, takes place at Hard Rock Live Northern Indiana in Gary, Indiana.

Treat yourself to a relaxing day tailored for older adults at Wellness & Retreats, Inc. For $50, each guest enjoys three pampering services along with light refreshments. Options include massage, facial, ear candling, ionic foot detox, a paraffin dip for hands or feet, or chakra testing. The experience is designed to encourage relaxation, support circulation, assist with detoxification, and nurture overall well-being. It is also an easy way to connect with others in a welcoming setting, with time set aside for self-care and friendly conversation. To reserve a spot, text the word Senior to 219-440-6612.

The Crown Point Car Cruise brings car enthusiasts to Bulldog Park for a relaxed showcase of automobiles and community. West Street between Joliet and Walnut closes to traffic during the cruise to accommodate the event. Participants should wait until the gates open before entering the Franciscan Health Pavilion via the West Street entrance near the north end of the complex. Vehicles parked under the pavilion or along the east side of West Street must be moved by closing, as the gates lock for the night and the street reopens after the event. Visitor parking is first come, first served along West Street, in the West Street municipal lot, the Bulldog Park lot, the municipal lot across from the park, and the Wheeler Middle School lot. The Chase Bank lot is reserved for visitors later in the day and classic cars are not allowed to park there. Admission is free and no tickets are required. For questions, contact the PACE Department at 219-661-2271, and be cautious of any posts or messages requesting payment or tickets.

The Gary SouthShore RailCats take on the Lake Country DockHounds at U.S. Steel Yard. Look for a clash of contrasting styles, where quick pitching moves, late-inning tactics, and clutch hits could rapidly change the course of play. Expect a competitive game shaped by strategy and momentum swings.

A cacao ceremony centered on reflection and self healing welcomes participants into a calm, supportive setting. Facilitated guidance encourages each person to choose a personal intention, open the heart center, and release thoughts or habits that may be limiting empowerment. Rooted in Mesoamerican tradition, including Mayan and Aztec reverence for cacao as a sacred plant with spiritual and medicinal significance, the experience blends intention setting, drinking cacao, a brief meditation, mindful journaling, and sharing in a safe space. Space is limited, so registration is required. A $20 per person fee is due at the time of registration to reserve a place.

Night Zumba classes at the St. John Community Center offer a lively, dance-based workout for every fitness level. Move to the music, break a sweat, and keep it fun from start to finish. The cost is $32 per participant.

The Gary SouthShore RailCats host the Lake Country DockHounds at U.S. Steel Yard in a meeting of two clubs with contrasting styles. The setting keeps the action close, so every pitch, defensive play, and late-inning tactic is easy to follow as it unfolds. This game spotlights different approaches on the field and invites fans to watch the strategy develop inning by inning.

Enjoy live music from Hutch Acoustics at Tiny's, with a set of well loved songs from across the decades. The performance features guitar, harmonica, and the occasional kazoo, adding a playful twist. Look for sing along moments, a few laughs, audience interaction, and maybe a trivia question or two. Pair the music with dinner, appetizers, a craft cocktail, or all three, and relax with friends for a laid back good time.

An all-ages, family-friendly open mic at Off Square Brewing is hosted by Nicholas Kazonis. The night showcases a wide range of talents, including acoustic solo performers, duos and small acts, singers and songwriters, comedians, and spoken word artists. Every participant receives an audio recording of their set to take home and share. It is open to seasoned performers and first timers alike, and offers a chance for attendees to connect with the local creative community. There is no cover charge.

Wind down after work at Dialogue Cocktail Bar as DJ Dark Nite crafts a laid back soundtrack. Expect a heavy dose of neo soul, R&B and blue eyed soul, with touches of jazz, funk and house. The focus is on deep cuts and selections you will not hear on mainstream radio, all set against mellow vibes in an upgraded space. Enjoy one of a kind cocktails and food from the event’s vendors. There is no cover.