Oct. 6 – Hooting Owls Storytime
Come out to Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) from 10–11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 6, for a story time featuring some owl-themed fun and crafts. A special visitor may stop by to hang out. Ages 2–5 are welcome. The cost to attend is a canned food item. For more information, email cellis@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-893-7439.

Oct. 6 – Friday Star Party Series
An MTSU Department of Physics and Astronomy fixture, Friday Star Parties continue with an Oct. 6 event, “Small Worlds of Our Solar System,” led by assistant professor Jana Ruth Ford in Wiser-Patten Science Hall, Room 102 (422 Old Main Cir.). Typically held at 6:30 p.m. the first Friday of the month during the MTSU semester, Friday Star Parties feature an assortment of astronomy and physics topics and are free and open to the public. The format is a 30–45 minute lecture followed by a telescope viewing at the MTSU Observatory (weather permitting). The series continues Nov. 3 with “Probing Dark Energy: The Large Synoptic Survey Telescope,” led by John Wallin. For more information, call 615-898-2130.

Oct. 6 – Art & Soul
The next Art & Soul event at Emerald Heart will be held Friday, Oct. 6, from 8 p.m.–12 a.m. Andrew Celis created this platform to connect local artists and creatives with potential collaborators, mentors and clients by bringing people from different backgrounds together and celebrating art in all its forms. The evening includes performances, vendors and an inspiring atmosphere. Admission is $10 at the door. For more information, find Art & Soul Networking Events on Facebook. Emerald Heart Café & Dispensary is located at 810 NW Broad St., Suite 212.

Oct. 6 and 7 – Keeping Bees Alive
The Tennessee Beekeepers Association 2023 Conference is Friday and Saturday, Oct. 6 and 7, at MTSU’s Student Union Building (1768 MTSU Blvd.). The association examines the ancient art of beekeeping in its contemporary form. The conference includes presentations on the destructive forces that inhibit successful beekeeping and how to thrive as a beekeeper, either as a hobbyist or someone seeking to build a larger enterprise. Conference tickets are $60; ages 16 and under are admitted free. For more information, register at tnbeekeepers.org.

Oct. 7 – Albert Richardson Album Release
Play N Keyz Records announce the release of a new gospel single from Albert Richardson entitled “God Has Smiled on Me” at Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church (224 S. Maney Ave.) on Saturday, Oct. 7, at 4 p.m. Richardson is well known in the area for lending his gift of song to help families, funerals, charity events and church events in the area. Guest artists include William Verge, Bishop Belita McMurray-Fite, and For God’s Glory Ministries as well as a live performance by Richardson, whose style has been described as old-school gospel with a twist. For more information, email ty8tnoos@yahoo.com or call 615-526-8076.

Oct. 7 – Deirdre DeMarsico Book Signing
Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.) hosts local author Deirdre DeMarsico for a book signing on Saturday, Oct. 7, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. DeMarsico signs and sells copies of her book I Only Have Eyes for You, which focuses on a developing relationship in today’s fast-paced world. Copies of the book will be available to have signed, and sell for $15 each. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-893-4131.

Oct. 10 – Celebrity Waiters Dinner
Kick off fall with a “hoe-down at Copper Ridge” on Tuesday, Oct. 10, from 6–9 p.m. The annual Celebrity Waiters Dinner by The Exchange Club will be at the Copper Ridge Event Venue (3597 Betty Ford Rd.). Various celebrities tied to the country music industry serve as waiters. Past celebrities have included Tanya Tucker, John Conlee, Randy Travis, “Whispering” Bill Anderson, Rhonda Vincent and several local celebrities. Confirmed waiters for 2023 include Tim Atwood, John Berry, John Conlee, Linda Davis, Tayla Lynn, Bobby Tomberlin and Hawkshaw Hawkins Jr. A guitar or fiddle could be brought out at any moment. In addition to a delicious meal and interaction with celebrities, guests can bid on silent and live auction items, such as one of the last fiddles signed by Charlie Daniels. A reserved table for eight diners is $1,000. Funds raised go toward Exchange Club projects including its national and local project, the prevention of child abuse. To learn more and for tickets, email exchangerutherford@gmail.com.

Oct. 10 – Business After Hours
The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce holds its October Business After Hours at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 10, at Volunteer State Bank (2019 Memorial Blvd.). This is an informal social networking event designed to connect business professionals from across Rutherford County. Bring plenty of business cards. Admission is $15 for chamber members and $25 for future members. No registration is required. For more information on Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cuttings and other events, visit rutherfordchamber.org.

Oct. 10 – RAA Meeting at Dow Street Community Music School
Dow Street Community Music School (1272 Dow St.) hosts the fall quarterly Rutherford Arts Alliance meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 10, from 6–7 p.m. Learn about this new space and nonprofit organization. Both current and potential RAA members are invited. Attendees can bring business cards, flyers and other information on their various arts practices or organizations. Dow Street Music provides music instruction to children and adults. Founder and MTSU violin/viola professor Dr. Andrea Dawson speaks about the vision for the school and the various kinds of music instruction offered there. Come tour the teaching rooms, group lesson space and the performance hall that seats 90 people. For more information, visit rutherfordartsalliance.org or find Rutherford Arts Alliance on Facebook.

Oct. 10 – Pen Pal Sharon Cameron
Young adult author Sharon Cameron is the featured author for the Friends of Linebaugh Library Pen Pal program, which has brought authors of children’s and youth literature to schools in Rutherford County for over 30 years. Cameron will present a public program at Linebaugh Library (105 W. Vine St.) on Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. Light refreshments will be served afterwards. Cameron is the author of The Dark Unwinding (2012), A Spark Unseen (2013), Rook (2015), The Forgetting (2016), The Knowing (2017), The Light in Hidden Places (2020) and Bluebird (2021). Her books have won the Parents’ Choice Gold Award and the Westchester Fiction Award, earned starred reviews from Booklist, SLJ and Kirkus, and have been chosen for numerous lists, including Indie Next Top Ten, YALSA’s Best Fiction for Young Adults, Junior Library Guild Gold Standard, Audible Best Books and numerous state award nominations. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-893-4131.

Oct. 10 – Rutherford Cable Breakfast Meeting
The Rutherford Cable Women Moving Forward October Breakfast Meeting, “Networking That Works,” takes place Tuesday, Oct. 10. Learn how to make networking work for you and your small business with easy steps on planning, filling the pipeline and followup. Anna-Vija McClain, founder and CEO of Piccolo Solutions, shares best practices for networking and provides tools and resources to get systems in place, manage your calendar, stay top of mind and stand out in your network. Meeting attendees can also take part in the annual Cable Committee Fair, an opportunity for the membership to see all the ways to get involved with the organization. For more information, email yourrutherfordcable@gmail.com.

Oct. 10 – Tennessee Trails Association Meeting
The Tennessee Trails Association’s Monthly Meeting of its Murfreesboro chapter will be Tuesday, Oct. 10, from 7–8 p.m. at Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.). For more information, visit tennesseesstrails.org or call or text 615-971-8894.

Oct. 11 – Living Sent
Everyone is invited to the October 2023 Living Sent Murfreesboro meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 11, from 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. at the Experience (521 Old Salem Rd.). State senator and business owner Shane Reeves speaks about the seven leadership traits of Jesus. Jon Chaney’s business involves helping companies take care of their employees. Chaney explains how he connects his faith to his work by seeing every connection as a mission field to share the good news of Jesus Christ. A complimentary lunch will be provided by Mirror Lake Recovery Center. To RSVP, email bob.williams@alhambrapartners.com.

Oct. 12 – St. Clair Senior Center Annual Health Expo
St. Clair Senior Center (325 St. Clair St.) hosts its annual Health Expo on Thursday, Oct. 12, from 8 a.m.–noon. This is open to anyone over the age of 60. There will be health screenings and tests, flu shots, giveaways and door prizes. Over 40 healthcare professionals will be working with senior-age attendees. For more information, visit murfreesborotn.gov/seniorcenter or call 615-848-2550.

Oct. 13 – Creepy Bugs Storytime
Have fun at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) with a totally bugged-out adventure on Friday, Oct. 13, from 10–11 a.m. Have a creepy fun story time while enjoying crafts and activities. Ages 2–5 are welcome. The cost to attend is a canned food item. For more information, email cellis@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-893-7439.

Oct. 13 – Friday the 13th with Beer on Friday the 13th
Panther Creek Brews and Premiere 6 Theatre present another movie night collaboration on Friday, Oct. 13. See the original Friday the 13th at Premiere 6 (810 NW Broad St.) and enjoy two 16-oz. Panther Creek craft brews for $20. Buy tickets at Panther Creek Brews (714 W. Main St.). Pregame at the taproom before the movie, buy dinner from the kitchen and show your ticket to receive one more free pint on top of it all. This spooky Halloween time movie starts at 9 p.m. The whole theater is reserved for brewery ticket holders. For more information, find Panther Creek Brews on Facebook.

Oct. 14 – Heritage Celebration Festival
Bring family and friends to Bradley Academy Museum & Cultural Arts Center (415 S. Academy St.) for the 19th Annual Heritage Celebration on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. There will be an open house with fun conversations and activities for all ages. There is free admission to the museum. Vendors, food trucks, performances and kids’ activities are available. For more information, email vstembridge@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-962-8773.

Oct. 14 – The Gr8t Chase 5K
The Gr8t Chase advocates for children and their families who have found themselves in need of hope, compassion and financial support as they are battling life-threatening diseases. The eighth annual Gr8t Chase 5K—Forget Me Not, a United States Track and Field certified, chip-timed 5K route with scenic views, will take place Saturday, Oct. 14 from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. at Gateway Island (1875 W. College St.). This year’s hero is Chase Donnell, a 10-year-old boy who was filled with compassion and joy, and who strove to help others in need. He gave away his last wish to his fellow schoolmates by remodeling his school gymnasium along with new sports equipment. Chase was diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma two days after his 10th birthday. He battled cancer for almost eight months before succumbing to the disease. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome in the 5K. For more information on the organization, race and sponsorship opportunities, visit thegr8tchase.org; register by visiting runsignup.com.

Oct. 14 – Martin’s Home and Garden Fall Festival
Martin’s Home and Garden (1020 NW Broad St.) hosts its annual Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 14. A family-owned and operated business, Martin’s has provided Murfreesboro with quality gardening supplies and flora since 1982. The event is from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. with fun for the whole family. With their home-grown chrysanthemums becoming available, the colors of fall will be in full swing with shades of yellow, orange and fuchsia decorating the business’s grounds. Enjoy food trucks, live music, games, and amazing local vendors. For more information, visit martinshomeandgarden.com.

Oct. 14 – Black Out in the Country
Beans Diesel Performance (210 Rollin Coal Ln., Woodbury) presents Black Out in the Country 2023 on Saturday, Oct. 14. This year will be filled with tons of custom diesel trucks, fun, and contests, with events including a dyno competition, diesel sled pull, dirt drags, super farm and a show and shine competition. There will be a vendor alley to showcase some businesses in the field. Diesel enthusiasts from all over the U.S. will be present. Gates open at 8 a.m. For more information, visit beansdieselperformance.com or blackoutinthecountry.com.

Oct. 14 – Black Barn October Market
The Black Barn Market & Craft Sale welcomes talented artists, crafters and creators to the October Market on Saturday, Oct. 14 at Events at East 96 (9901 Lascassas Pk.) from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Shop at 90 vendor booths and enjoy tantalizing food trucks and live music courtesy of 2Country4Nashville. Vendors include Critter Carvings with a live chainsaw carving, Mrs. Kelly’s Mobile Tye Dye, Junior’s BBQ, Hugh’s Handiworks and many more. For more information, find Black Barn Market & Craft Sale on Facebook.

Oct. 17 – Homeschool Science Series: Night Exploration
During this fun evening experience, students ages 5–8 delve into the world of nocturnal adaptations and discover how nocturnal creatures navigate while seeking prey or evading predators. The event takes place at Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Tuesday, Oct. 17, from 6–8 p.m. Students ages 9-12 can participate in a forest-and-trees science session. The night ends with s’mores by the campfire. Space is limited and preregistration is required. The cost to attend is $5. For more information or to register, email challwalker@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.

Oct. 18 – Food Preparation Class at Cannonsburgh
Preparing meals in the slow cooker can save time and money without compromising tastiness. Meet at the Lions Club Building at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) on Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 10–11 a.m. with UT-TSU Extension Family and Consumer Science Agent Shay Davis, who will share tips and recipes to help you prepare a delicious meal. Bring materials to take notes and your favorite slow cooker recipe you want to share. Admission is free, but reservations are required. Ages 12 and up are welcome. For reservations, email mbnevills@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-801-2606.

Oct. 18 – October Read to Lead
Rutherford Cable’s Read to Lead book club series looks at Change Your World by John Maxwell as it meets at Exit Realty, Bob Lamb & Associates (2630 Memorial Blvd.) on Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 7:30–8:30 a.m. This book discussion will be facilitated by Julie Lewis. Light bites will be provided. The sponsor for the event is Andy Helton of Exit Realty. There is no cost to attend but registration is required. For more information, email joleneradnoti@readtosucceed.org or mary.hoffschwelle@mtsu.edu.

Oct. 18–22 – Dog Agility Games
Top Tennessee dogs and handlers compete in the United States Dog Agility Association Cynosport Dog Agility World Games Oct. 18–22 at Tennessee Miller Coliseum (304B West Thompson Ln.). Dog agility is a competitive sport in which a handler directs a dog over an obstacle course, using voice and hand signals. Dogs maneuver over hurdles, race through tunnels, traverse ramps and a see-saw, and weave through a row of poles. Dogs can be any breed or mix of dog, any age, size or origin. Admission is free. For more information, visit cynosport.com or usdaa.com.

Oct. 19 – Hope & Hops
The Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center presents Hope & Hops at the rustic and beautiful Copper Ridge Events Venue (3597 Betty Ford Rd.) on Thursday, Oct. 19 from 5–9 p.m. Enjoy the community comradery that rallies around local survivors of domestic and sexual violence, and come out in your best casual wear for a fun-filled night. Support the mission to protect victims, prevent violence and empower survivors. Tennessee breweries that will provide tastings include Common Law Brewing, Dark Shadow Brewing Co, King’s Bluff, Mayday, Smackdab Brewery, Sobr Bar and Vitruvian Artisan Ales. Food is provided by Moe’s, and VIPs will enjoy charcuterie boards from Graze Craze. For tickets and more information, find a Hope & Hops page on Eventbrite.

Oct. 19 – Lantern Parade
The Discovery Center and the Rutherford Art Alliance present a second annual Lantern Parade at Discovery Center at Murfree Spring (502 SE Broad St.). This is a special event that is part of the Tennessee STEAM Festival. The celebration heats up at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 19, with the Lantern Parade from 6:30–7 p.m. The entire family and a host of friends can listen to great music, make a lantern and watch the parade (which uses battery-powered lights and no open flames). For more information, call 615-890-2300.

Oct. 19 – The Connection at Champy’s
Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken will host the October 2023 installment of The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 19. All Middle Tennessee entrepreneurs and professionals are welcome to attend this casual, free, no-obligation networking event, where they can meet other small business owners and tap into one another’s experience and energy. Networking begins at 5 p.m. with introductions at 6 p.m. Champy’s is located at 1290 NW Broad St.

Oct. 20 – Adult & Teen Challenge Banquet
The Adult & Teen Challenge Murfreesboro Annual Celebration Banquet takes place on Friday, Oct. 20, at Turning Point Church (1033 Barfield Church Rd.) at 6:30 p.m. Adult & Teen Challenge serves men recovering from drug and alcohol addictions. For more information, visit atctn.org, or email murfreesboro@atctn.org or call 615-624-7878.

Oct. 20 – Third Friday Community Rhythm Event
Everybody Drum Some founder Ross Lester continues the third Friday Community Rhythm Event series for those who would like to join their neighbors in some drumming. The next community rhythm session kicks off at 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 20, in the fellowship hall of St. Patrick’s Anglican Church (7103 Baker Rd.). There is no cost to participate, and people of all ages are invited to participate in the drumming or to spectate. Participants may bring drums, shakers, tambourines, woodblocks or percussive instruments of any type, but instruments will also be available for use. For more information, visit everybodydrumsome.com or call 615-631-7458‬.

Oct. 20 and 21 – Frightensburgh
Frightensburgh is a scary haunted trail that weaves its way through terrifying scenes of horror in the old Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 20 and 21 from 6:30–10 p.m. This is for mature attendees only. Tickets are $10. For more information, email thutchinson@murfreesborotn.gov or 615-848-2550.

Oct. 21 – St. Edward Craft Fair
The St. Edward Church craft, yard and bake sale is sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. at the St. Edward Church Gym (188 Thompson Ln., Nashville) featuring crafts and goodies. Proceeds will benefit St. Edward School and Ladies Auxiliary. For more information or to reserve a vendor space, call 423-432-5385.

Oct. 21 – Party in Pink Zumbathon
Patterson Park Community Center will host a Zumbathon for breast cancer awareness on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 9–11:30 a.m. in the Adult Gym (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.). Enjoy snacks, water, door prizes and more. Bring your energy and your best dance moves. Participants are encouraged to wear pink and must wear socks and tennis shoes. Ages 13 and up are welcome; the event is limited to 100 people. The cost is $4 for adults and $3 for seniors. For more information, email amyers@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-893-7439, ext. 6113.

Oct. 21 – Pumpkin Fun Run at Gateway Island
The Pumpkin Fun Run will be held at the Gateway Rotunda at Gateway Island and Reception Center (1875 W. College St.) on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 3–5 p.m. Registration begins at 3 p.m. Bring a food item and a pumpkin. Participants will run or walk the 1-mile large loop on the Greenway Trail with a pumpkin. Any size pumpkin is allowed. Start and finish at the bridge on the Middle Loop Trail. The entry cost is a non-perishable food item. For more information, email rbrady@murfreesborotn.gov.

Oct. 21 – Taffeta Chime Book Signing
Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.) hosts local author Taffeta Chime for a book signing on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Chime signs and sells copies of her books The Last and Stoodie. The Last is about a time when children are home-schooled through a virtual program. We follow Jo on her journey as she finds out the truth about her father’s project, faces the terrible death of a parent and learns the precious value of friendship, faith and love. Stoodie follows a 13-year-old girl during a time when school has become a thing of the past. Most children have lessons downloaded into their brains at night while they sleep. Chime is a writer and language teacher from Murfreesboro and has won multiple awards for her short stories, poems and essays. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-893-4131.

Oct. 21 – Wine Around the Square
The 12th Annual Wine Around the Square benefits the Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Power of Pink Fund on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 6–9 p.m. WATS is a progressive wine and spirits-tasting event set around the historic Downtown Square in Murfreesboro with dinner from the Alley on Main, entertainment from The Chris Weaver Band and access to all of the tasting venues plus admission to the afterparty at the Alley on Main. The Power of Pink Fund helps provide mammograms for Middle Tennessee women regardless of their ability to pay. Find tickets at winearoundthesquare.ticketbud.com/2023.

Oct. 21 & 22 – Bell Buckle Craft Fair
Every year during the third full weekend of October the streets of downtown Bell Buckle crowd with over 100 vendors and booths to celebrate the spirit of fall with a legendary craft fair. This craft fair benefits the Webb School in the heart of Bell Buckle, with vendors traveling from across the state and country alike to sell their wares. This has been an autumn staple in Bedford County since 1976. The scene also features live bands and soloists pickin’ and singin’ among the blacksmiths, potters, leather-workers, stained glass, jewelry, woodworks and paintings. Festivities are from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21 and Sunday, Oct. 22. Parking ranges from $5–10 and benefits the school.

Oct. 22 – Middle Tennessee Sinfonietta Presents “Portraits”
The Middle Tennessee Sinfonietta presents an afternoon concert at MTSU School of Music’s Hinton Hall (1439 Faulkinberry Dr.) on Sunday, Oct. 22, from 3–4:30 p.m. “Portraits” features illustrative, orchestral works from around the world including Respighi’s “Pines of Rome.” Picture the Nations and Instruments of Joy will provide illustrative components alongside each musical piece. Admission is free and open to the public with suggested donations of $10 accepted. Proceeds benefit all three nonprofit organizations. For more information, visit mtsinfonietta.com.

Oct. 22 – We Remember You Piano Benefit Concert
On Sunday, Oct. 22, The Mac Frampton Trio returns to Murfreesboro to play a benefit concert for We Remember You. The concert begins at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church (265 W. Thompson Ln.). The trio will play a variety of gospel, jazz and classical arrangements. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated for We Remember You, a local nonprofit that supports and educates caregivers of persons living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. For more information, visit werememberyoucg.com, email werememberyoucg@gmail.com or call 615-801-5570.

Oct. 22 – Homegrown Humor
Homegrown Humor, a comedy show at Emerald Heart Café & Dispensary (810 NW Broad St., Ste 212), kicks off at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 22. The event is free. Kelsey Dixon headlines. This is a 21-and-up show. For more information, visit emeraldheartboro.com or find Emerald Heart Café & Dispensary on Facebook.

Oct. 23 – Murfreesboro Chess Lunch
Who wants to play a game of chess? Community members interested in the initiative of teaching others the game of chess, helping raise funds and interest for getting the game in the schools, sharing ideas on how chess can benefit others, involving their organization in promoting the game, or just desiring to gather with other chess enthusiasts to play and discuss chess can come to a Murfreesboro Chess Lunch at Carmen’s Taqueria (206 W. Northfield Blvd.) from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 23. For more information, email rmitchell@rutherfordcountytn.gov or call 615-426-7373‬.

Oct. 23 – Steak ’n Shake Grand Re-Opening
Steak ’n Shake Murfreesboro (2091 Old Fort Pkwy.), locally owned and operated by Dave Weill, has recently completed a remodel of its dining room and will celebrate a grand re-opening and ribbon cutting with the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce and the community at 11 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 23.

Oct. 24 – Isaiah 117 Trivia Night
Help raise money for the Isaiah 117 House of Rutherford County at Trivia Night on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 5:30 p.m. at Champy’s (1290 NW Broad St.). Isaiah 117 House provides physical and emotional support in a safe and loving home for children awaiting foster care placement. RSVP by Friday, Oct. 13 to reserve your team of six, donate an item to the silent auction during the event and donate to the swag bags everyone will receive (an estimated 150 people). Last year, over $7,000 was raised for Isaiah 117 House. For more information, email melanie@authorityclosings.com.

Oct. 24 – Stake & Burger With Rob Gronkowski
Rob Gronkowski will be the Boys & Girls Clubs of Rutherford County’s guest for their 34th Annual Stake & Burger event. Gronk is widely regarded as the best tight end in the history of football. He played nine seasons for the New England Patriots from 2010–18, winning three Super Bowls with the team. He came out of retirement in 2020 to team up with Tom Brady for two more seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, winning his fourth Super Bowl. Stake & Burger takes place on Tuesday, Oct. 24, at MTSU. All proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Rutherford County. For more information, visit bgcrc.net/stakeburger2023, email michelle.clifford@bgcrc.net or call 615-893-5437.

Oct. 24 – Murfreesboro Technology Council Social
The Murfreesboro Technology Council will hold its October Networking Social on Tuesday, Oct. 24, from 5:30–7 p.m. at Oaklands Mansion (900 N. Maney Ave., Murfreesboro). There will be treats from The Sweet Addiction and nighttime tours of Oaklands Mansion at this family-friendly event. Kids are encouraged to come in costume while parents learn about technology resources in our community. A free laptop will be given away! All are welcome at this free event, though organizers request RSVPs to know how many will be in attendance. For more information or to register, visit murfreesborotechnology.com, call 615-545-2789 or email info@murfreesborotechnology.com.

Oct. 26 – Project Restyle
Amelia’s Closet holds its second annual fashion show fundraiser, Project Restyle, on Thursday, Oct. 26, from 6–8 p.m. at Liberty’s Station (850 NW Broad St.). This is a restyling competition and a fashion show featuring celebrity emcee Mila Grigg, best-selling author of Forged by Fire and nationally recognized brand consultant. The competition features five teams repurposing, restyling and reconstructing two outfits in 45 minutes, using donated clothing from Amelia’s Closet as their raw materials. The teams’ creations will be judged by a panel with prizes for the winners. Local boutiques will present a fashion show and the event includes a silent auction of jewelry, items from local merchants, concert and theatre tickets, and gently-used high-end handbags. For more information and tickets, visit ameliascloset.org.

Oct. 27 – Spooktacular Toddler Halloween Party
Toddlers 2–5 years old can come out for a spooktacular time on Friday, Oct. 27 from 10–11 a.m. at Patterson Park Community Center, Gym & Library (521 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.). The Spooktacular Toddler Halloween Party features a parade, spooky pokey dance, candy, carnival style games, superhero obstacle course, prize drawings and a costume contest. Storytime starts at 10 a.m. Admission is a can of food. For more information, email cellis@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-893-7439 ext. 6121.

Oct. 27 – Spooky Splash
Take a splash at the pool at Patterson Indoor Water Park (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) on Friday, Oct. 27, from 5–8 p.m. for a spookin’ good time. Enjoy swimming, crafting, dinner and a pudding surprise. Make sure you’re ready to find what might be hidden in the pudding and come prepared to leave your mark on a T-shirt you tie-dye. Please bring a white T-shirt. Ages 8–13 are welcome. Cost is $5 for preregistration and $7 the day of. For more information, email cstafford@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-893-7439.

Oct. 27 & 28 – Barfield Bash Carnival at Wilderness Station
Wilderness Station hosts a Halloween-themed Barfield Bash Carnival at Barfield Crescent Park (697 Veterans Pkwy.) on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 27 and 28, from 4–8 p.m. Enjoy carnival style games, activities, vendors, crafts, prizes, music and more. For more information, email challwalker@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.

Oct. 27 and 28 – Old Scream Road
Take the scariest hayride into the depths of the forest at Barfield Crescent Park (697 Veterans Pkwy.) on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 27 and 28, from 7:30–9:30 p.m. Who or what is lurking in the woods? Do you dare find out? The event starts at dark with tickets sold until 9 p.m. Old Scream Road cost is $5. This may be scary for small children. For more information, email thutchinson@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-890-5333.

Oct. 27 and 28 – Serve It Up Doubles Tennis Tournament
The City Schools Foundation serves up a doubles tennis tournament on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 27 and 28, at Adams Tennis Complex (925 Golf Ln.). Players can compete in men’s, women’s, or co-ed level-based doubles divisions. This tournament is open to any player 18 and over and all levels of experience with two guaranteed matches. Tournament registration is hosted through Universal Tennis and is $60 ($30 per person) for a doubles team. Register at bit.ly/cityschoolstennis. Co-ed doubles will be played on Friday evening with women’s and men’s matches on Saturday. Money raised benefits Murfreesboro City Schools’ pre-kindergarten through 6th-grade students, enhancing science, math and other programs. For more information on The City Schools Foundation, email tori.carr@cityschools.net.

Oct. 28 – Harvest Days
Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) presents a fun-filled October Harvest Days celebration featuring crafters, vendors, blacksmith demonstrations, a Murfreesboro Art League exhibit, clogging, music, hayrides and more from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. Jake Leg Stompers, Mid-State Cloggers and Stones River Bluegrass will perform. Harvest Days is free and open to the public.

Oct. 28 – Local Author Fair
Visitors to the Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W., Smyrna) have an opportunity to meet talented local authors and purchase copies of their books on Saturday, Oct. 28 from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. This unique Local Author Fair is sponsored by the Friends of Smyrna Library. The fair features 12 authors, all of whom reside in Rutherford County. The authors include Rodney Boyd, author of Christian-based nonfiction; J.L. Burrows, author of young adult and middle-grade Christian supernatural fantasy books; T.D. Douglas, author of children’s books; Gilbert Gordon, author of a memoir; J. Kevin Jennings, author of horror/fantasy/sci-fi; self-help author Lovely King; Dorey Lee, author of children’s picture books; Jim Sandman, author of inspirational nonfiction; Amy Aldridge Sanford, author of educational nonfiction; Judy Towne, autobiographical author; Ken Vanderpool, author of crime fiction; and Andie Young, author of contemporary Christian romance. For more information, visit rclstn.org or email friendsofsmyrnalibrary1987@gmail.com.

Oct. 29 – Cannabis Town Hall
Emerald Heart Café & Dispensary (810 NW Broad St., Ste. 212) hosts a Cannabis Town Hall meeting on Sunday, Oct. 29. This is a meeting of local cannabis industry professionals and advocates from the community to spread awareness of the current state of the hemp and medical cannabis industry in Tennessee. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. There is no cost to attend. For more information, find Tennessee Growers Coalition on Facebook. For more information on Emerald Heart, visit emeraldheartboro.com or find Emerald Heart Café & Dispensary on Facebook.

Oct. 31 – Trick or Treat on the Rutherford County Square
Bring your children to walk around the historic public square and trick or treat with locally owned small businesses on Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 3 to 5 p.m.

Oct. 31 – Community Fall Festival at PPCC
Patterson Park (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) hosts a Halloween festival on Tuesday, Oct. 31, with free games, food, prizes and crafts for the whole family. All ages are welcome. For more information, email cellis@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-893-7439 ext. 6121.

Nov. 4 – Marine Corps Birthday Ball
Military service members and their guests are invited to the 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball & Veterans Day Celebration presented by Stones River MCL 1158 on Saturday, Nov. 4. As the celebration for the birthday of the Marine Corps, this year the event honors brothers and sisters in arms from all branches of the military for Veterans Day. Sergeant Major H. Gene Overstreet will be the guest of honor and speaker. Overstreet served as the 12th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps from June 28, 1991-June 29, 1995. This year’s event is at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville South Cool Springs (820 Crescent Centre Dr., Franklin). Social hour begins at 5 p.m. with the event beginning at 6 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit mclball-midtn.ticketspice.com/248th-marine-corps-birthday-ball, email jerry.alvarado@live.com or call 615-525-3776.

Mondays – Connect Murfreesboro
Join Connect Murfreesboro each Monday from 9–10 a.m. at BoomBozz Craft Pizza & Taphouse (2839 Medical Center Pkwy.) for a casual networking event designed to connect professionals, build relationships, drive referrals and help grow businesses. Please prepare a 60-second pitch about who you are and what you do, as well as a specific referral request for attendees on what can be done to help promote your business. The approximately 20-minute period at the end of each meeting is reserved for members to set up one-on-ones and socialize. For more information or directions, visit connectnashvillenetworking.com/events.

Wednesdays – Networking for Awesome People
Are you looking to meet and connect with other local business owners? Do you want to grow your network and pick up some skills along the way? Networking for Awesome People meets each week on Wednesdays at 9 a.m. at the Rutherford County Veterans Community Center (439 Rice St.). All you need to bring is a good attitude. Each attendee gets about a minute to explain what they do and what they need, followed by a discussion question of the week. Networking for Awesome People encourages open discussion to help everyone grow. For more information, find a Networking for Awesome People group on Facebook.

Wednesdays – Boro 2 Square Running Group
The Boro 2 Square running group meets at Mayday Brewery (521 Old Salem Rd.) every Wednesday at 6 p.m. The group welcomes runners of all paces looking to get out to run and socialize with other runners. Normal run distances are between 3 and 5 miles. Participants are welcome to hang out and socialize at Mayday following the run. For more information, visit facebook.com/boro2square.

Thursdays – Mad Cow Trek Club
The Mad Cow Trek Club running group meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. at Panther Creek Brews (714 W. Main St.). The group embarks on a route of 4–8 miles and welcomes runners of all paces and abilities. Affiliated with the Mad Cow Running Company in McMinnville, the Trek Club hosts races and free get-togethers to share its love of running with the community. Find Mad Cow Running Company (MCRC) on Facebook for course routes and more details. All runners are encouraged to stay after each run for food and drinks.

Fridays – C3 Networking at Prohibition Home Brewing
C3 is an open networking group for local business professionals at Prohibition Home Brewing (906 Ridgley Rd.) on Fridays from 8:30–10:30 a.m. The mission is to build relationships, connect local businesses with potential clients, support each other’s professional growth and educate people on how to participate in the local community. Complimentary coffee and snacks are provided. For more information, find Prohibition Home Brewing on Facebook.

Fridays – Murfreesboro Community Chess
Murfreesboro Community Chess meets at the Murfreesboro Barnes & Noble (within The Avenue, 2615 Medical Center Pkwy.) every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. Organizers invite those of all ages and skill levels to this casual chess meetup each week.

Saturdays – Murfreesboro Saturday Market
The Main Street Saturday Market continues in downtown Murfreesboro. The weekly farmers’ market will take place on the Murfreesboro Public Square every Saturday from 8 a.m.–noon through the end of October. Spend the day with real farmers, real food and real community and find a wide variety of produce, locally raised meats, fresh breads and pastries, mushrooms, honey, soaps and lotions, sauces, jams and more. For more information, find Murfreesboro Saturday Market on Facebook.

Saturdays – Historical Society Coffee & Conversation
The Rutherford County Historical Society has been preserving and promoting Murfreesboro’s local history since 1971. Whether researching your family, your property or perhaps just old fun facts, the RCHS is an exceptional resource. The RCHS hosts Coffee & Conversation each Saturday morning from 9 a.m.–noon at the Ransom School House Museum (717 N. Academy St.). This is a very informal, fun and informative event. Bring old photos or questions about the past to ask members. Enjoy free coffee and donuts. For more information, visit rutherfordtnhistory.org.

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