1) With summer fading, there still are a few ways to enjoy the outdoors with the family before fall’s big chill arrives. That includes the Columbus Parks and Recreation Department’s free Movies in the Park series Friday at Mill Race Park at 50 Carl Miske Drive in Columbus. Or maybe it should be billed as Movies in the Dark since they start at dusk, and the coolest stars involved just might be Mother Nature’s. The movie: “The Thing,” Rated R. Organizers say that blankets and snacks are all welcome. Support for the series comes from the Columbus Park Foundation, Hog Molly Brewing Co., Miss Rachel’s Neat Treats, and TaColumbus.
2) The Columbus Indiana Philharmonic launches a new season and in fact a new era at 7:30 p.m. Saturday when new music director Isaac Selya, who replaces 35-year artistic director David Bowden, raises the baton for the award-winning professional ensemble with a concert he has titled “Swordcraft.” Information and tickets: the cip.org
3) Maybe you’d prefer your weekend outdoors with a bit more vigor and exercise. Look no further than Saturday’s Community Bike Ride Fundraiser for Brighter Days Homeless Shelter, beginning with check-in between 8:15 and 8:45 a.m. at Community Church of Columbus, 3850 N. Marr Road. Ride options include treks of 11 miles, 31 miles, 62 miles, or a one-mile family fun ride (children younger than 12 may ride free and must be accompanied by registered parent or guardian). All of the $25 registration fee goes to benefit the shelter. Register online at bit.ly/RegisterCycling2023.
