Indiana Festival Guide

Gary's Getaways: From Mummies To Lighthouses

Living in the Upper Great Lakes Region means you‘ll never be bored. We're surrounded by some of the world's finest waters, most friendly communities and we thrive in four seasons of non-stop fun. This bi-monthly column will highlight some of the destinations, events, exhibits, great deals and don't-miss-it opportunities in the region. We'll focus on all your favorites within a day's drive: Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, Indiana, Michigan and Illinois. So, hey - don't just stand there...getaway!

See Mummies of the World at The Milwaukee Public Museum:

Mummies of the World, the largest exhibition of mummies and related artifacts ever assembled, will be at the Milwaukee Public Museum through May 31, 2011. This fascinating exhibit includes mummies as old as 6,500 years and is presented with all due reverence and dignity. The interactive displays include mummies and important artifacts from Asia, Oceania, South America, Europe, as well as ancient Egypt. The exhibition reveals how the scientific study of mummies provides a window into the lives of ancient people and insights into past cultures and civilization. More exhibit information and timed-entry tickets are available at http://www.mpm.edu/mummies/ or phone call 414-223-4676.

Call For Free Lake Michigan Circle Tour and Lighthouse Guide

One of the most spectacular drives in the Great Lakes is the 1,100-mile route that follows the Lake Michigan shore through Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin. Sparkling blue waters, white sand beaches, beautiful parks and more than 100 lighthouses line the shore. Dozens of friendly port communities hang out the "welcome" sign for travelers who want to enjoy one of the world's greatest lakes. Now there's a free guide that's a "must-have" for anyone circling the lake. The 2011 Lake Michigan Circle Tour & Lighthouse Map was produced by the West Michigan Tourist Association and it includes coverage of all four Lake Michigan shoreline states - Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. The map lists & identifies the location of 104 lighthouses with loads of helpful trip-planning information on dining and lodging, museums and shopping. Order your free copy online at www.wmta.org or call 800-442-2084.

You Gotta See These Chicks! - Wisconsin Rapids

They're an endangered species known for their mating dance and "booming" courtship behavior, so the Greater Prairie Chickens of Central Wisconsin are definitely a site to see. Get up close and personal Apr. 15 - 17 at the Central Wisconsin Prairie Chicken Festival. Activities include prairie chicken viewing, birding tours, wildlife demos, nature-centered art and literature, a silent auction, children's crafts and local vendors. The event takes place at five locations near Wisconsin Rapids. For details call 715-343-6221 or visit http://www.prairiechickenfestival.

Proposals accepted for Summer Rhapsody Music Festival and Valpo ...

Valparaiso, IN. 4-19-2011 – Valparaiso Community Festivals & Events is currently accepting proposals for local vendors to serve food at the Summer Rhapsody Music Festival on Saturday, August 6, 2011 and the Valpo Brewfest on Saturday, September 24, 2011.

Both events will be held at Central Park Plaza in Downtown Valparaiso. The Summer Rhapsody Music Festival will be the parks inaugural event and will feature The Summer Rhapsody Orchestra who will be performing songs fitting to the theme A Tribute to the American Musical.