what to do this weekend...

I'm not sure if ya'll know this or not, but I am a freelance writer for Metromix Indianapolis. I write the Best Bets section...basically, I highlight the top 4 or 5 things to do in Indy that weekend. It's a fun job and I like knowing what's going on in the 317. Metromix hits newstands every Thursday, so I thought it would be fun to let ya'll know here too what's going on!

Dig-In A Taste of Indiana

We've all heard that there's more than corn in Indiana, right? For proof, head over to White River State Park for Dig-In A Taste of Indiana. Taste some of the finest produce that Indiana has to offer. Ask your favorite local chefs just how they prepare their delicious dishes. Learn how to pair wine and beer with your favorite meals. Find out how to plant a garden--even if you live in the city.

Details: Noon to 6pm on Saturday, August 29. Tickets are $15 in advance at Marsh or $20 the day of. www.digindiana.org

4th Annual ZUP's BBQ for Kids

If you work downtown, bring some extra napkins and take your lunch break on the Circle. Some of the city's best barbeque restaurants will serve you some grub to benefit children's charities. Meet Colts cheerleaders and tour the traveling Colts museum, all while rocking out to some great live music. All proceeds go to the Children's Bureau.

Details: 11am to 1:30pm on Friday, August 28 on Monument Circle. $10/person. www.childrensbureau.org.

Day of Caring

Do you and some friends or co-workers want to get together and do some good? With over 50 volunteer projects to choose from, the United Way's Annual Day of Caring is the perfect way to give back. Day of Caring marches into its 19th year hoping to reach out to more and more people in need.

Details: Times and projects vary. All day Saturday, August 28. For more information, visit www.uwci.org.

Benton House Used Book Sale

It's costly to maintain one of the most architecturally beautiful but atmospherically spooky houses in Irvington. So, as one of its many fundraisers, the Benton House hosts one of the city's best annual book sales. While you're in the neighborhood, check out the new craft shop Homespun or get a sandwich from Roll With It Bakery.

Details: 10am to 5pm on Saturday, August 28 and 1pm to 3pm on Sunday, August 29th. At the Benton House, 312 S. Downey Avenue.

What are you going to do this weekend??