Crimson Tate is known for carrying bright + funky textiles, like these Japanese fabrics. | Photo by @crimsontate
Many big box stores + major retail chains are closing across the US, including in Indy. So for the love of all things local, we’re exploring some of our favorite unique alternatives to the familiar franchises in celebration of Small Business Week.
Joann Fabrics
This craft store’s remaining Indiana locations are shutting down by the end of May, but you can find plenty of art supplies — from paints to sewing supplies — at Griffy’s Art Supply at The Stutz and Crimson Tate Modern Quilter on Mass Ave.
There’s plenty more where that came from.We’ve got a whole list of Indy-owned craft supply stores.
Popular brands often found at The Toggery include Anthropologie, Madewell, and Lululemon.
Photo by INDYtoday team
Forever 21
The retailer in both the Castleton Square and Greenwood Park malls have closed, but you can surely find a ‘fit that makes you feel forever 21 at a local shop. Pitaya in Broad Ripple has similar styles with a variety of young women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessories.
Karaoke Night in Top Out Cafe | 7:30-10:30 p.m. | North Mass Boulder | Free | Unleash your inner singer + bring your favorite songs to sing your heart out.
Friday, May 9
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Indiana Pacers | 7:30 p.m. | Gainbridge Fieldhouse | $171+ | After stunning the Cavs Tuesday night, can the ‘Cers pull off another insane game-winner to go 3-0?
Practice + Qualifying | 7:30 am.-8 p.m. | Indianapolis Motor Speedway | $20 | The Month of May shifts into gear as the stars of the IndyCar Series practice on the action-packed IMS road course for the Grand Prix Saturday.
Saturday, May 10
Indianapolis Cultural Trail Porch Party | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Cultural Trail Headquarters | Free | Enjoy free Tinker Coffee, local vendors, and kid-friendly activities while mingling with neighbors and fellow Cultural Trail users.
Code + Crumpets: A Gurl Code Mother’s Day Tea | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | IPL Central Branch | $25 | Get ready for a fun-filled tea party where you can connect with other women in tech, enjoy tasty treats, and sip on some tea.
Sunday, May 11
Bottleworks Mother’s Day Brunch | 10 a.m.-3:10 p.m. | Bottleworks Hotel | $75 | Indulge in brunch in the stunning Gallery Courtyard with a chef-curated buffet + drinks.
Mother’s Day Blooms, Bellinis, and Bites | 12:30-3 p.m. | Bocca | $75 | Treat your mom to a lovely day filled with beautiful blooms, refreshing Bellinis, and delicious bites.
Peterman Brothers offers a thorough electrical safety inspection that could reveal hidden issues before they become big problems. | Photo provided by Peterman Brothers
Did you know? May is National Electrical Safety Month.
To help avoid small issues that turn into big headaches, here are some tips + tricks from the experts at Peterman Brothers:
La Margarita teased on social media that it found a new location after closing its Fountain Square spot — and it’s not going far. The Mexican restaurant is moving into the former Aroma space at 501 Virginia Ave. No word on an opening date yet.
Sports
In their inaugural season, the Indy Ignite clinched a spot in the PVF Championship tournament, which will take place tomorrow, May 9-Sunday, May 11 at Lee’s Family Forum arena in Henderson, Nevada. Here’s what you need to know. (WTHR)
Development
A Carmel-based developer received approval for a $100 million theme park project along US 31 in Sheridan + plans to begin construction next month. Skylake Adventure Park will include a white sand beach, floating cabanas, kayaks, water slides, an inflatable obstacle course, and more. The first phase could open by June 2026. (IBJ)
Announced
The City of Carmel announced it will host its first-ever EidFest on Saturday, May 31 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Civic Square. The free celebration of Muslim heritage will feature cultural performances, the art of henna, cuisine from local restaurants, and opportunities to connect.
Try This
Something is blooming at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. It’s hosting a Garden Party on Sunday, May 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring the breathtaking peony garden, make-and-take bouquets, a plant sale with gardening experts on site, self-guided tours, and wine + cheese picnic platters.
Listen
The Pacers were down seven with under a minute left in the game, but pulled off another win despite an otherwise off night. How did they do it? Locked On host Tony East breaks it all down from the arena.
Try This
Discover the power + beauty of beadwork at the Eiteljorg Museum’s newest exhibition, “Radical Stitch.” This one-of-a-kind experience is the only US showing of the acclaimed exhibit, and it features 100+ stunning pieces by Native American artists from the US + Canada. Get a sneak peek of “Radical Stitch” before experiencing it yourself.*
Biz
You know that moment when a company goes from “never heard of” to “suddenly everywhere?” That’s RAD Intel — and you can still invest. Join their supporters like Adobe and Fidelity by end of day today, May 8.†‡*
Stat
$8,000+. That’s how much you could spend if your dog breaks a bone in a car crash, fall, or collision — from wound treatment and x-rays to emergency surgery and aftercare. Luckily,this pet insurance plan could reimburse you up to 90% of that cost.*
Festival
Looking for a coastal escape? Make your way to Mount Pleasant, SC, for the annual Sweetgrass Festival on Saturday, July 26. Celebrate Gullah Geechee culture, see sweetgrass basket weaving up close, and soak in the charm of the Lowcountry. Plan your trip.*
Shop
Shop
Feature your biz in our 2025 Parents’ Gift Guide
Put your business in front of thousands of daily readers. | Graphic by 6AM City
This month, we launched our 2025 Parents’ Gift Guide to showcase gifts that say I appreciate you to parents, grandparents, neighbors, mentors, and life-long friends.
While we’ve already filled all our slots ahead of Mother’s Day, we’ve opened up a few more for Father’s Day.
Whether your business offers a neat product, one-of-a-kind gift, or unique service that could be enjoyed by a father figure — we want to feature it. Secure your spot by Friday, May 23.
It’s easy to support small businesses across the globe when you shop unique + one-of-a-kind products on Etsy. One of our favorite things to browse is Etsy’s selection of custom artwork. These are five of our favorites:
My next personal local biz shoutout goes to... *drumroll*Salt & Ash Market. The shop recently moved from Fountain Square to the Factory Arts District in a space that is three times the size — which means more room for more cute items to fill your shopping basket with.
On Mother’s Day, the shop is offering complimentary mimosas + a free travel lotion while supplies last.
Answered
Answered
We asked, “what’s your favorite small business in Indy + why?” Here’s what some of you said:
“Frida’s Flowers: Unique, striking floral arrangements, bold colors, and a deeply rooted mission.” — Anna G.
“Patti’s Mall: Upscale resale, you never know what you might find.” — Phyllis S.
“Three Sisters and a Trunk: Friendly atmosphere and so Indy 500-oriented. Wonderful black and white clothing, accessories, and home furnishings collection.” — Kitzi L.
“SouthPaw Soul Kitchen: Soulful Sundays are the best dining days because your plate can be heavy and delicious!” — Pamoja F.
‡This offering is made pursuant to Regulation A Round and involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. The Company valuation is set by RAD Intel. Please review all offering materials before making an investment decision.
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