🍦 Winter Break Vibes & South Side Times

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Sensory-Friendly Jump at Urban Air

Join us for a fun-filled event created for children who enjoy a sensory-friendly setting. Relax at the park with no loud music or flashing lights just inclusive activities for all to enjoy!
Sunday, December 7th | 9–11am | 1172 N Main St, Franklin

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Happy Monday and welcome to the final newsletter of the 2025!

Can you believe 2025 is almost out the door? Since it’s a holiday week, this is your one and only newsletter and everything you need is packed right here. Enjoy the rest of your break, raise a toast to the new year, and we’ll be back in your inbox Monday, January 5th to kick off 2026 strong!

In today’s South Side Scoop:

• 🌲 Find all the southside drop-off locations for recycling your real Christmas tree before January deadlines.

• 📚️ Three Johnson County seniors earned full-ride Lilly Endowment Scholarships for academic excellence, leadership, and service.

• 🖌️ A longtime DIY favorite, Board & Brush Greenwood, appears to have closed, plus a full lineup of low-key New Year’s and winter events.

Let’s get to it!

DIGEST

Partner with Us in 2026

If you're a local business looking to expand your reach in the new year, we'd love to chat about advertising opportunities with the South Side Scoop. We offer flexible, community-focused partnerships and even category exclusivity meaning you'll stand out without competing with similar businesses. Whether you’re ready to dive in or just exploring ideas, let’s find a plan that works for you in 2026! Email us today at [email protected].

Where to Recycle Your Christmas Tree on the Southside

If your family had a real Christmas tree this year, there are several southside drop-off sites to dispose of it properly just make sure it’s free of decorations, tinsel, and stands. In Indianapolis, you can take your tree to Garfield Park or Perry Park between now and January 31st. Johnson County residents can drop trees off through January 13th at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, Center Grove High School, Indian Creek Intermediate School, or McCarty Mulch. All sites accept trees during daylight hours.

Three Johnson County Students Awarded Prestigious Lilly Scholarships

Anna Cromer (Roncalli), Marnie Moore (Franklin Community), and Andra Valeta (Center Grove) have been named 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars by the Johnson County Community Foundation. These standout students were selected for their academic excellence, leadership, character, and dedication to community service. The scholarship covers full tuition, fees, and includes a stipend for books and supplies for four years at an eligible Indiana college or university. Recipients also join the Lilly Scholars Network for additional leadership and growth opportunities. Congratulations, ladies!

LOCAL BUSINESS

Board & Brush Greenwood Closes Its Doors

Board & Brush Greenwood appears to have permanently closed, as their website now directs visitors to find another studio location. There hasn't been any official announcement on their social media, but their events calendar is no longer active. The studio previously offered hands-on DIY workshops where guests could create custom wood signs and home décor. We'll update if more information becomes available about the closure.

🍦The Scoop will always be free, but if it feels worth the price of an ice cream cone, I’d love your support. 👉 Support the Scoop here

A MESSAGE FROM Money

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WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

This Week

Winter Wonderland Mini Golf at Greenwood Public Library

Enjoy a festive round of a Winter Wonderland indoor mini golf at the library, open to all ages and no registration required! Stop by the 2nd floor Help Desk to pick up your putter and ball from now through January 9th.
Monday, December 29th–Friday, January 9th | All Day | 310 S Meridian St, Greenwood

Tuesday

Maker Tween: Donut Pop Art & Donuts at Greenwood Public Library

Tweens are invited to make colorful, pop art–inspired donut creations—and then enjoy eating real donuts too! Registration is required.
Tuesday, December 30th | 3–4pm | 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood

Wednesday

New Year's Eve Countdown to Noon at Cooperative Play Academy

Enjoy a fun-filled kid-friendly New Year’s celebration with crafts, treats, games, a silent auction, and a balloon drop at noon. Admission is $10 per child or $30 for a family with 3 or more children (adults and children under one are free.). To purchase tickets, email [email protected]
Wednesday, December 31st | 11am–12:30pm | 8300 S Meridian St, Indianapolis

Noon Year’s Eve at Franklin Parks & Recreation

Celebrate the new year early with sparkling grape juice, treats, and a balloon drop; perfect for families with young kids. Get your tickets here.
Wednesday, December 31st | 11am–12:15pm | 396 Branigin Blvd, Franklin

Dave and Buster’s New Year’s Eve Celebration

Ring in the New Year with games, food, and fun featuring a family-friendly celebration from 4–7pm and late-night countdown from 9pm–1am. Get your tickets here.
Wednesday, December 31st | 4–11:30pm | 1251 U.S. Hwy 31 N, Greenwood

New Year’s Eve at Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza

Live music from local artists playing vintage soul and blues, plus great food and no cover—wrap up early in time for the ball drop.
Wednesday, December 31st | 7:30–10pm | 229 S Main St, Franklin

New Year’s Eve at Greenwood VFW

Ring in the new year in black-and-white attire with DJ Super Dave, dancing, a midnight toast, and more.
Wednesday, December 31st | 7:30–11:59pm | 1842 Veterans Way, Greenwood

New Year’s Eve Adult Prom at Franklin Elks #1818

Dance the night away with music, food, drinks, and prom-style fun—open to the public, not just Elks members. $45 per person.
Wednesday, December 31st | 7pm–12am | 56 E Jefferson St, Franklin

New Year’s Eve Party at Hi-Way Lanes

Reserve a lane for up to 6 people and enjoy unlimited bowling, a pizza buffet, live DJ, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight. Only 28 lanes available; must prepay in advance by calling (317) 736-5177.
Wednesday, December 31st | 9:30pm–12:30am | 400 N. Morton St, Franklin

New Year’s Eve at The Foundry

Ring in the new year with style, warmth, and a little sparkle at this cozy celebration featuring food, drinks, and festive ambiance. A great way to wind down the night in an intimate setting.
Wednesday, December 31st | 10–11:59pm | 90 E. Jefferson St., Franklin

Saturday

Acrylic Paint & Sip with Katelyn at Crafts & Creations

Join a guided winter-themed painting session with all supplies provided—perfect for beginners or creative fun. Book your spot here.
Saturday, January 3rd | 10am–12pm | 3100 Meridian Parke Dr, Greenwood

JCPL Teen Art Show at Johnson County Public Library

See artwork by local teen artists and enjoy light refreshments in this community showcase.
Saturday, January 3rd | 12–2pm | 1664 Library Blvd, Greenwood

Winter Warm-Ups Weekend: Gina and Joel at Mallow Run Winery

Enjoy soup, fresh-baked bread, and live music from Gina and Joel on the heated patio with wine tasting available.
Saturday, January 3rd | 12–6pm (Music 2–5pm) | 6964 W Whiteland Rd, Bargersville

Private Art Lesson at Crafts & Creations

Create a watercolor bird on vintage sheet music during this one-on-one 1pm private lesson—all materials provided. Book your spot here.
Saturday, January 3rd | 1–3pm | 3100 Meridian Parke Dr, Greenwood

Hoss Ridgeway Comedy Show at Mad Hatter Shows Event Center

Catch a clean comedy set by Hoss Ridgeway, with doors opening at 6pm and seating first-come, first-served. Get your tickets here.
Saturday, January 3rd | 7pm | 916 E Main St., Greenwood

Sunday

Sensory-Friendly Jump at Urban Air

Join us for a fun-filled event created for children who enjoy a sensory-friendly setting. Relax at the park with no loud music or flashing lights just inclusive activities for all to enjoy!
Sunday, January 4th | 9–11am | 1172 N Main St, Franklin

Winter Warm-Ups Weekend: Davis and Devitt at Mallow Run Winery

Warm up with soup and bread, live music by Davis and Devitt, and wine tastings on a cozy heated patio.
Sunday, January 4th | 12–6pm (Music 2–5pm) | 6964 W Whiteland Rd, Bargersville

Greenwood Winter Wine and Paint: Moonlit Snowman at MashCraft Brewing

Paint a serene winter scene while sipping craft beer in a guided, beginner-friendly class with all materials provided. Get your tickets here.
Sunday, January 4th | 2–5pm | 1140 State Road 135, Greenwood

🎤 Looking for karaoke nights, trivia, bingo, or fun weekly activities for the kids? Check out our full list of recurring events here!

📆 Upcoming Events You Can’t Miss

Hosting an event on the southside? 👉 Send it our way! We review each event and feature the ones that our readers will love most.

Happening Soon

• Monday, January 5th: Author Stacia Stark at The Historic Artcraft Theatre

• Tuesday, January 6th: Hand Knitting Class at the Sycamore

• Monday, January 12th: Author Sarah Adams at The Historic Artcraft Theatre (Waitlist)

• Tuesday, January 13th: Author Rachel Hawkins at The Historic Artcraft Theatre

• Tuesday, January 13th: Sip & Paint Canvas Class at the Sycamore

If you’d like more information about any of the upcoming events, don’t hesitate to send us an email—we’re happy to assist! Keep in mind that many of these events require a ticket, so be sure to grab yours before they’re gone!

⛅️ WEATHER

_{*Disclaimer: This forecast was pulled from the weather app the night before and is subject to Indiana’s ever-changing moods—accuracy not guaranteed!}

🎶 LIVE MUSIC

Tuesday

• The Corner Bar | Paul Holdman & Gordon Bonham | 7pm

Wednesday

• Draft Day Pub | Blue Skies w/ Lindsey Flannery | 7pm

• Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza | Frank Dean, Scott Parkhurst, Carl LoSasso, and Floyd Tucker | 730pm

• Sip Cocktails | Good Lord Bro's | 8pm-11pm | Ticketed

• Sip Cocktails | Lodein | 11pm-2am | Ticketed

• Smocktown | The Sad Dad Society | 8pm

• Whiskey Business Southport| 90 Proof | 830pm

• Whit’s Inn | John Beatrice Band | 7pm | Ticketed

Thursday

• Tried & True | Joe Waltz | 8pm

Friday

• Freddie’s Pub | Michael McCartney | 9pm

• The Corner Bar | Tim Fuller Trio | 7pm

• Tried & True | Pillow Fight | 8pm

Saturday

• The Corner Bar | Issac Rudd & The Revolvers | 7pm

• Tried & True | Double Shot Band | 8pm

Sunday

• Chilly Water Brewing Co. South | Larry Browning | 4pm

🍒 THE CHERRY ON TOP

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