It seems the second the weather drops below 70 degrees, fall is in full effect with pumpkin spice everything and caramel apples. The quintessential autumn activity is spending a crisp fall afternoon at a pumpkin patch, picking the perfect one to adorn your porch.

Here are three pumpkin patches in Hamilton County, Indiana where you can get your fall fix with friends and family.

• Russell Farms

• Spencer Farm

• Stuckey Farm Orchard and Cider Mill

Russell Farms

Sept. 25 – Oct. 31, 2021

Weekdays: 1 – 4 p.m.

Weekends: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The Russell Family has owned and operated Russell Farms in Noblesville for more than 50 years, and as part of the annual fall festival, they make it their mission to educate guests about agriculture and farm life. At Russell Farms, you can enjoy hayrides to the pumpkin patch, two scavenger hunt corn mazes, miniature golf, a petting zoo, play area for the kids and more.

Admission is $10 on weekdays and $12 on weekends. Children two years and younger are free, and admission for veterans, active military members and those over age 65 is $8. Admission includes unlimited activities. Pumpkins are an additional charge.

There is no admission charge for anyone who wants to purchase pre-picked pumpkins, straw, fall decorations or shop in the Country Store.

Spencer Farm

If you want to pick the perfect pumpkin without all the hubbub of activities like other attractions, head to Spencer Farm in Noblesville. There are hayrides out to the pumpkin patch on the weekends, but other than that, the experience is up to you. Dig your own mum or visit the farm store to find pre-picked pumpkins and mums, corn, gourds and sweet treats like fudge.

There are no entry fees or parking fees.

Adults can enjoy a glass of wine or charcuterie board at Spencer Farm Winery, located in a restored farmhouse on the property.

Stuckey Farm Orchard and Cider Mill

Saturday and Sunday / Sept. 11 – Oct. 24, 2021

At Stuckey Farm Orchard and Cider Mill in Sheridan, you can get your pumpkin and apple fix at once. Stroll through the 4,000 trees to pick from 27 varieties of apples, and grab the perfect pumpkin in the 15-acre pumpkin patch. Inside the Country Market, watch cider pressed in front of your eyes and shop in-season Indiana produce, honey, jams and more. Don’t leave without a box of apple cider donuts, either.

Admission is $14.50 per person and children under the age of two are free. Parking is free, and admission includes unlimited wagon rides, and access to the corn maze, Adventures Acres and more.

The post Fall Tradition: The Best Local Pumpkin Patches for Hamilton County appeared first on Maple Knoll Apartments Blog.

The schedule for the 2022 Colts Training Camp was made public by the Indianapolis Colts today. The camp will begin on Wednesday, July 27, at the Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, Indiana, roughly 20 miles north of Indianapolis.
On July 27 at 12 p.m., the first practice will be accessible to spectators. Thursday, August 25, will be the last open practice.

Training camp is free to attend, however, visitors must get a free ticket at Colts.com/Camp to enter each day.

According to Kalen Jackson, Colts Vice Chair & Owner, "We are excited to be returning to Westfield and Grand Park for another summer of Colts Training Camp." "We're very thrilled that this year's Training Camp will mirror camps of the past when it comes to fan activities and player contact after living with stringent health regulations for the last two years."

Mayor Andy Cook of Westfield remarked, "I can't stress the significance of our connection with the Colts. "The yearly training camp's presence in Grand Park injects the city's businesses, residents, and numerous tourists with vitality and enthusiasm. We are prepared to provide another "Westfield Welcome" to our team and Colts Nation at Colts Training Camp, which is always a cause for joy."

The Colts also disclosed that Koorsen Fire & Security will serve as the camp's headline sponsor. Koorsen Fire & Security is a fourth-generation, family-owned company that was established in Indiana in 1946. Koorsen has grown to be one of the biggest and most reputable fire and security firms in the United States, with more than 24 facilities across five states and over 1,000 employees.

Keith Koorsen, executive vice president of Koorsen Fire & Security, stated, "We've been working with the Colts for 25 years, and we're very happy to extend our connection as the main sponsor of Colts Training Camp. "As a proud Indiana company, we are pleased to partner with the Colts to support our regional towns and provide Colts fans with a first-rate training camp experience this summer at Grand Park," the Colts said.

Colts Camp at Grand Park is celebrating its fourth summer season this year. The same as in previous years, activities and events will emphasize increasing fan access and providing family-friendly entertainment. The camp's high points in 2022 will be:

• 16 open-to-the-public practices are scheduled for the team. In locations requiring a ticket, the NFL's "clean bag" rule will apply on gamedays. To learn more, go to NFL.com/allclear.

• A practice may be moved indoors to the Grand Park Event Center in case of bad weather. Only a select few spectators may be let inside to witness practice due to capacity restrictions. Later this summer, further details about this approach will be released.

• Theme Days. Colts camp will include a number of theme days that will promote various regional groups, organizations, and fans while offering entertaining family-friendly activities. Later this summer, specifics on each day will be made available. Themes planned include:

• Camp Kickoff, presented by Koorsen Fire & Security – Wed., July 27

• Kids' Day, presented by ­­­­­­­­­­­Riley Children's Health – Thurs., July 28

• "Back Together Saturday" – Sat., July 30

• Salute to Service Day – Wed., Aug. 3

• "Give Back Sunday," presented by Meijer – Sun., Aug. 7

• Fan Appreciation Day, presented by CenterPoint Energy – Wed., Aug. 17

• "Thirsty Thursday," presented by Bud Light – Thurs., Aug. 18

City of Colts. Fans will be able to more easily enjoy Colts City events and team practices thanks to an 85,000 square-foot multi-purpose asphalt pad and Play 60 grass field located next to the Colts practice grounds.
Through August 18, Colts City will be accessible each day that practice is free to the public. The following will be done:

• Colts In Motion, the team's interactive traveling experience, is presented by Belle Tire and includes football drills, a 40-yard dash, punt returns, Colts inflatables, a Colts Pro Shop, a social tent, photo opportunities with "Blue" and the Colts cheerleaders, and interactive partner displays and exhibits.

Shared workouts with the Detroit Lions. These public afternoon practices on Wednesday, August 17, and Thursday, August 18, will take place before the teams' preseason game on Saturday, August 20, at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Book Drive hosted by Cargo Services, Inc. for Books For Youth It's recommended for supporters to donate new or gently used books to the Colts Community collection points at Grand Park. Each kid will get a bag with 25 age-appropriate books thanks to all donations, which will support local youngsters in foster care.

Visit Colts.com/Camp.

The post Get Ready for the NFL and Indianapolis Colts Football: The Colts Training Camp Is Here In Westfield appeared first on Maple Knoll Apartments Blog.

Some things just scream summer: ice cream, beach suits, sunburn. There are also a number of locations in the Hoosier state that scream summer. Take a look at 10 must-see summer destinations for everyone in Indiana if you're wanting to squeeze in a fast day trip or spend a long weekend relaxing.

Clifty Falls State Park – Madison

Southern Indiana's Clifty Falls is an incredible tourist destination. The breathtaking paths and waterfalls here are a must-see. It's a terrific destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Patoka Lake – Dubois, Crawford, and Orange County

If you wish to relax or escape the stress of daily life, Patoka Lake is the ideal location for a summer getaway. They offer fantastic swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities, as well as floating cabins you may rent for a genuinely special summertime adventure!

Black Pine Animal Sanctuary – Albion

Visit the strange and fascinating animals at the Black Pine Animal Sanctuary if you want something a little more wild. Small and large Hoosiers alike will enjoy getting up close and personal with these amazing animals.

Conner Prairie – Fishers

Conner Prairie is the place to visit this summer if you enjoy history or learning about various cultures. This incredible "town," which focuses on pioneer life, makes studying our history interesting and engaging. There are also a ton of activities for youngsters and fantastic photo possibilities.

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari – Santa Claus

You know that everyone has this park with a Christmas theme on their summer bucket list! A Hoosier tradition is visiting Holiday World and Splashin' Safari. Additionally, how can a combined water park and entertainment park be beaten?

The IMA Gardens – Indianapolis

The Indianapolis Museum of Art's gardens is breathtaking. The well-known "LOVE" sculpture is also housed there. You must go to these gardens right away if you enjoy discovering excellent art in the wide outdoors.

Indiana Beach – Monticello

Without a trip to Indiana Beach, summer simply cannot come to an end. This fantastic water park has roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, water slides, and much more, and it was recently updated. Consider it a weekend excursion and stay at their campground.

Indiana Dunes – Porter County

Visiting the renowned Indiana Dunes at least a few times during the summer is a given. There are numerous beaches to choose from (some with lifeguards to keep youngsters safe), in addition to camping, hiking paths, and a ton of other alternatives.

Pokagon State Park – Angola

Are you up for a challenge? The ideal location to go exploring and fall in love with the breathtaking Indiana woods is Pokagon State Park. This park, which is close to Lake James, has the best land and water sports in the area.

Amish Acres – Nappanee

Are you prepared to relax and take in some of life's finest moments, like nature? This is the place for you: Amish Acres. You and your family will fall in love with the stunning property in Nappanee thanks to the fantastic food and live theatrical performances held in their circular barn.

Hoosier National Forest – Bedford

You're missing out if you've never visited the Hoosier National Forest. This magnificent forest, which covers more than 200,000 acres, has fantastic hiking routes, camping, lodges, and other amenities.
What do you think of these incredible summer vacation spots?

The post Indy Summer Fun: 12 Places Everyone In Indiana Should Visit This Summer appeared first on Maple Knoll Apartments Blog.

Vessels performed in “The Big Bang” 19 years ago in South Florida.

“Much to my terror, I played the other guy, so now I have to learn the entire show over again,” he said, laughing.

Vessels, a Lawrence resident, plays lyricist Boyd Graham in Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of the comedy musical set to run Jan. 28 to Feb. 20 at the Studio Theatre at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. He previously played composer Jed Feuer in the musical.

The musical is about Jed and Boyd, along with their pal Albert on the piano, staging a backers’ audition for an $83.5 million, 12-hour long musical depicting the history of the world from creation to the present.

The two writers portray everything from Adam and Eve, Julius Caesar to Woodstock to give potential investors a view of the production.

“It’s really a lot of fun,” Vessels said. “It’s breakneck speed, just crazy antics. You cover everything from the beginning of time to the end of time, it feels like. It’s really fun. It’s a great way to wreck an apartment because that is what we spend the show doing. I’ve been doing comedy for pretty much most of my career. I went to college for opera, so I joke they taught me to sing high, cry and die.

“I’ve been kind of a cut-up my whole life, so comedy is where I land and love them.”

This will be Vessels’ first performance since the start of the COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020. Vessels has taught at Ball State University the past 1 1/2 years.

The musical is directed by Michael Blatt.

“It’s a fun, happy piece, and right now we can use some fun,” Blatt said.

Darrin Murrell, who lives on a farm in Parker City, portrays Jed, and Brent E. Marty joins on stage as the piano player.

Unlike Vessels, Murrell had never heard of the musical.

“It’s always a thrill to find material that you haven’t done before. Having been in the business so long there is hardly a musical I haven’t done three or four times,” Murrell said. “Working with ATI is what always interests me. I’m a big fan of ATI and everything they’ve built and done here over the years. I’ve had the experience of working with them a few times and it’s always one of the greatest experiences that I’ve had.

“Any time there is an opportunity to come back, I know whatever the process is, (it’s) going to be quality, highly entertaining, and if they are calling me to be involved, it’s usually going to be something pretty funny. That’s what drove me.”

Murrell last appeared in “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” in 2018.

“I had the great opportunity to do one of the roles that I dreamed of doing since I was young, but I had never aged into it,” Murrell said. “But when they did ‘My Fair Lady,’ I got a chance to play Alfred Doolittle. He’s one of the great characters, not just in theater, but in literature. To get my teeth into that was a thrill of a lifetime.”

Murrell said he has played multiple roles in shows before.

“This is a great challenge to keep the mental acuity in tune to jump from character to character and all the way through history,” he said. “It’s a fun challenge. It’s very different than what I usually do. My lot in life in theater is a character actor.”

Murrell, 55, said he usually has one or two impactful scenes or a signature song.

“That’s my comfort zone,” Murrell said. “To be one of only two people carrying the entire show is a challenge. I started working out training for this. I’m a portly guy. I’ve set a training regime to get my stamina back up.”

For more, visit atistage.org.

The post Big Bang the Musical Is the Best Outing You Can Attend this Spring appeared first on Maple Knoll Apartments Blog.

Winter date nights can be a night in, like movie nights (try these romantic date night movies), indoor picnics, and game nights. You can also learn something new together just about anywhere online while staying indoors. Sign up for a knitting session, learn a new language, or even tap into your culinary expertise with a cooking class or study the history of wine together. You might even stay indoors for a fun winter date night of bowling, rock climbing, or taking a fitness class together.

But if outdoor activities are definitely still on the table, we love active dates like heading outside for some skiing, playing in the snow, or taking a stroll. And if you’re more into going out on the town for date night, a fun cider tasting or night out at the newest restaurant is sure to do the trick. If winter date night calls for a special event, snag tickets to your local sporting event, theater, jazz club, comedy show, and more. Your special someone will appreciate how thoughtful you are to plan a romantic evening just for the two of you, and you’ll grow closer knowing you got to experience something together.

1Visit a museum
 

There’s a museum for every kind of interest, so whether you love impressionist art or natural history, grab your babe and explore together. And if you think you’ve seen every museum in town, check your local paper for upcoming special exhibits that may pique your interest and encourage you to return to a frequented place.

2 Have an indoor picnic
 

Order in takeout, pop a bottle of wine, light some candles, and lay out a blanket for a romantic indoor picnic. For a little extra fun, play your favorite album, put on your favorite movie, or ask some thought-provoking questions to get the night going.

3 Head to the theater
 

From live plays to your local movie theater, get tickets to see the hottest show in town. Make things interesting and put one person in charge of the show and the other in charge of snacks.

4 Check out the holiday lights
 

Check your zoo, botanical garden, or other large community areas for light displays, then get tickets (if required) for a fun holiday lights show. Depending on where you live, you can also hop in the car and go for a romantic drive to see the town’s prettiest lights, all from the comfort of your (warm) vehicle.

5 Take a cooking class
 

In-person and online cooking classes are available for a night of chopping, sautéing, baking, and laughing with your love. From an evening in Tuscany with pasta-making classes, to a romantic steak dinner for two, there’s a class (and menu) to meet your tastebuds. Plus, you’ll have a blast learning something new together.

6 Enjoy the snow
 

Whether you’re getting your snow gear on to build a snowman together, or you’re grabbing some hot chocolate while you take a stroll in the park, you’ll have the opportunity to get a little silly with your loved one and hold each other close to stay warm if you go on a snowy adventure.

7 Go ice skating
 

For those a little more athletically inclined, ice skating is a fun way to enjoy the season while also doing something sporty with your boo. Grab your high socks, toasty winter gloves, and some skates for an afternoon to remember. Just don’t forget some hot chocolate in the lodge when you’re done.

8 Get tickets to a game
 

Buy some tickets to your favorite local football, hockey, or basketball team this season. You’ll have a blast cheering your favorite team on together from somewhere other than your couch.

9 Have a cider tasting
 

Or wine, beer, or other drink that you find delicious! Head to your local liquor store, brewery, winery, or bar with a wide variety of drinks to try the latest selections. You can even create a bracket for your favorite sips and crown one winner at the end of the night.

10 Take an online class
 

Is there something you and your special someone have always wanted to learn? From knitting or origami, to learning a new language or more about wine, there’s an online class out there ready for you to learn together, like Jame Suckling’s MasterClass on wine appreciation.

The post The Best Winter Date Ideas for A Cold Night appeared first on Maple Knoll Apartments Blog.

Back home in Hamilton County for the holiday weekend or have guests coming in town to celebrate Thanksgiving? There’s plenty of things to do to keep friends and family entertained in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and beyond. Read the list below of the top things to do near Indianapolis during Thanksgiving Weekend 2021.

Visit the Carmel Christkindlmarkt.

This authentic German holiday market is back with unique gifts like wooden toys, nutcrackers, music boxes, ornaments, and the collectible boot mug. While you’re shopping the Carmel Christkindlmarkt, sip a hot mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot cocoa, and come hungry to enjoy a Lebkuchen (German cookie), Raclette (melted cheese sandwich) or Stollen (dried fruit bread). The market also includes the Ice at Carter Green skating rink.

Drive through the Magic of Lights at Ruoff Music Center.

For the first time ever, Ruoff Music Center will celebrate the holiday season with a brand-new event. “Magic of Lights” is a family-friendly drive-through holiday lights festival with twinkling and magical light displays to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

See "A Charlie Brown Christmas" at Civic Theatre.

The classic animated television special A Charlie Brown Christmas comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation in which Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the Peanuts gang discover the true meaning of Christmas.

Shop for holiday gifts in Carmel and ride the Carmel Holiday Trolley.

The holiday trolley is free and open to the public. It makes stops in the Arts & Design District, City Center, Indiana Design Center and Carter Green for the Christkindlmarkt and Ice at Carter Green skating rink.

Take a train ride on the Reindeer Ride Express.

All aboard the Nickel Plate Express for a fun-filled ride on the Reindeer Ride Express featuring sing-alongs, a visit with Santa and more holiday cheer. The train departs from Forest Park in Noblesville.

Watch a performance of "The Nutcracker" at the Palladium.

Start your holiday season with the Indiana Ballet Conservatory as they perform "The Nutcracker" at the Palladium at The Center for the Performing Arts Nov. 27 and 28.

Visit with Santa at the Indiana Design Center.

See the big man in the red suit and tell him what's on your holiday wish list. He'll be at the Santa House in the Indiana Design Center parking lot on Saturday, Nov. 27 from 2 – 5 p.m for Santa Saturdays.

Experience A Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie.

A Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie is a unique holiday experience. New for 2021, the William Conner House will feature a magical 3D projection mapping holiday show. Immerse yourself in the story as the house comes to life with the imaginative and heartwarming show. Don’t forget to take a ride on Kringle's Carousel or zoom down the 150-foot Polar Bear Plunge tubing hill.

Skate around a local ice skating rink.

Choose from outdoor options like the Federal Hill Commons Ice Plaza or indoor ice rinks like the Carmel Ice Skadium, The Arctic Zone or Fuel Tank at Fishers,

Pick out a Christmas tree.

Visit Spencer Farm in Noblesville and select your Christmas tree to bring home and deck the halls.

Support local businesses.

Shop small on Small Business Saturday to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Visit the downtown shopping and dining destinations like Carmel City Center, Carmel Arts & Design District, Historic Noblesville Square, Nickel Plate District and Fishers District.

The post Things to Do Thanksgiving Weekend in Northern Indianapolis appeared first on Maple Knoll Apartments Blog.

Things to Do for Labor Day

• Dine at a local restaurant offering a three-course, value-priced menu for Devour Indy Summerfest offers multiple course meals at value prices. Check out one of these restaurants for an awesome night out.

• There are multiple outdoor music venues featuring live music. Check out Fishers Blues Fest at Nickel Plate District amphitheater. 

• If you love sunflowers, you can shower yourself with them on seven amazing acres at the local Sunflower Festival. It takes place at Stuckey Farm Orchard and Cider Mill.

• There are multiple local Farmers Markets in the area. Choose one here – farmers’ markets – for the best local produce and fresh foods. 

• Take a long walk or bike ride along the Monon Trail, stretching north to Sheridan and south towards Indianapolis. 

• The local Fishers District continues to grown and has some wonderful spots to stop and grab a drink or some food at Sun King Brewery or HC Tavern and Kitchen. 

• Picnics are always fun, and with tons of parks in the area, it’s a good time to explore a new one like Flat Fork Creek Park or MacGregor Park.

• Golfing in Indiana is fantastic this time of year, with temperatures cooling down and places like Top Golf open. Check out Indiana’s Golf courses for a round. 

• Soak up the final days of summer by cooling off in a waterpark, such as Monon Waterpark in Carmel.

• Outdoor adventures await in places like Strawtown Koteewi Park, including horseback rides, archery, ziplining, and more. It’s a great time to get outside. 

• White River Canoe Company offers canoeing, tubing, and more. The river is an awesome way to cool off this Labor Day Weekend. 

• Conner Prairie offers the 1859 balloon voyage. 

Update – It is closed right now, but when it opens, this is one of the premier ways to see the area!

• Sleep in and savor a lazy brunch at a local breakfast spot like Local brunch is a delicious way to experience Labor Day after a long weekend – check out places in Carmel like Eggshell Bistro or Rosie’s Place.

With so much to do, it is easy to see why Westfield and its surrounding areas have a ton to offer for this Labor Day Weekend. 

What are you doing this Labor Day? Tell us in the comments!

The post 13 Fun and Exciting Things to Do This Labor Day Weekend in Hamilton County appeared first on Maple Knoll Apartments Blog.