Gotta Go: 2013

Showing posts with label 2013. Show all posts

Monday, December 2

12 Free Days of Christmas 2013

I love finding new free things to do in Indianapolis (and other cities), especially at Chrismtas time. Guests are in town, kids are on school break and you want to check out something holiday-themed. Here are 12 places in downtown Indy, opening up for free this year and compiled by IndyDowntown.

Friday, Dec. 13

Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library, open noon – 6 p.m.

Get a glimpse into Kurt Vonnegut’s personal items and artwork or pull a book off the library shelves and relax with it in a comfy chair. All guests will receive a FREE bumper sticker.

Saturday, Dec. 14

Pan Am Pavilion, open noon – 8 p.m.

Skate for FREE in the same arena where the Indiana Ice play! Note: skate rental is extra or you can bring your own. Enjoy the festivities on Georgia Street during the FREE City Sidewalks.

Sunday, Dec. 15

Elevator rides to the top of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument on Monument Circle and Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum, open 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Take an elevator ride to the top of the Monument. The observatory at the top offers views of Downtown Indianapolis. Also visit the Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum in the basement of the Monument.

Monday, Dec. 16

Indiana State Museum, open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Experience Celebration Crossing and the L.S. Ayres Santa Claus Express train. Santa and Mrs. Claus will entertain visitors in their home on level 3 of the museum.

Tuesday, Dec. 17

James Whitcomb Riley Museum, open 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Step back to the beginning of the 20th century – just as the Hoosier poet James Whitcomb Riley experienced it for 23 years of his life.

Wednesday, Dec. 18

Morris-Butler House, open noon – 3 p.m.

This beautiful restored 1865 home showcases the architecture, history and culture. The home also houses a collection of nineteenth-century sculptures, paintings and lithographs from all over the world.

Thursday, Dec. 19

The Indianapolis Museum of Art, open 5 – 8:30 p.m.

Grab some ideas for holiday décor during the IMA’s annual Winter Solstice. In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Oldfields, the IMA will be looking to the 1900s and 1910s for decor inspiration. Warm up in the Lilly House with historic holiday decorations and music, then shop at the greenhouse and museum.

Friday, Dec. 20

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum, open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Check out the impressive display of 75 vehicles, including The Marmon "Wasp," which won the inaugural Indy 500 in 1911 and an exhibit honoring Parnelli Jones, 1963 Indy 500 winner.

Saturday, Dec. 21

Indiana Historical Society, open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Spend the day enjoying the latest offerings – especially Destination Indiana and You Are There. Grab a family photo next to the leg lamp from A Christmas Story.

Sunday, Dec. 22

Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, open 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Holiday season at the authentically-restored 1875 Italianate home of President Benjamin Harrison features Victorian holiday adornment.

Monday, Dec. 23

National Institute of Fitness and Sport (NIFS), open 5:15 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Put in a little time on a treadmill or in a group fitness class and enjoy that holiday eggnog without the guilt. NIFS offers an indoor NBA regulation-sized basketball court, Pilates studio, group fitness studio, 200-meter indoor track, fully-equipped weight room and more than 100 pieces of cardio equipment. Parking is available directly across the facility in the Riverwalk Garage (NIFS will validate.) Children ages 11-17 must be accompanied by an adult. A nursery is available for children under age 11 (see hours on website).

Tuesday, Dec. 24

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, open 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Holidays sparkle at the world’s largest children’s museum. Visit Jolly Days Winter Wonderland and experience the giant Yule Slide. Take part in a number of seasonal favorites including skating in socks on an indoor “pond,” climbing and sliding on the Snow Castle, “ice” fishing and pretend-baking holiday goodies in the Tradition Kitchen.

Images Provided

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, and in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Wednesday, November 27

Infused: Now accepting Christmas Holiday Inspired Cocktails 2013

Think you (or your mixologist) has the best recipe for a cocktail inspired by the Christmas holiday season? I will feature Christmas-inspired cocktails in Gotta Go, giving readers the Top Ten Best Cocktails to create in the 3rd annual Top 10 Best Christmas Cocktails 2013.

All recipes, images and contact information for the submission can be sent via email to elizabeth@gottago.us or elizabethjmusgrave@gmail.com by Friday, December 13, 2013.
Posting will occur the week of December 20. This will be a fun way for readers to enjoy cocktails made with great products and inspired by a favorite holiday.

Click here for last year's Top 10 List

All entries must include images for the cocktail and all of the below information. Please remember to send the Twitter handle/link and website link. This helps the readers go immediately to you and check out how wonderful your company, bar, restaurant, etc., is and follow you.

No stress, just fun!

Those chosen will be featured on GottaGo.us.

E-mail submissions only are required, no physical attendance needed for this one.

Include (in order and completely) the following information: (Most just copy this for a template)

1) Cocktail's themed name

2) Bar/company/restaurant/mixologist/winery name and location

3) Website and Twitter handle so readers can check you out!

4) Recipe, including measurements, garnish and glassware

**Don't forget**
5) Inspiration for drink-obviously Christmas, but what exactly inspired you to make this particular drink?

6) Image-Please make sure it is a good quality.

This is open to anyone within the spirits/wine/beer company/restaurant realm including mixologists, bars, fine dining, bartenders, sommeliers, hotels, companies, spirit entrepreneurs, et cetera. The idea is to feature cocktails inspired by Christmas and all the nostalgic, fun, spiritual and other feelings about the holiday. Let your imagination run wild with this one...it can go many directions: Santa, sugarplums, Chrismas trees, shopping, misteltoe, candy canes, elves, reindeer, nativity, a particular carol, movies, holiday candy, ...you get the idea!

***Special Note***
Several cocktails were disqualified for the last Top 10 cocktail lists due to the drink name and/or inspiration missing or not applicable to the theme. Let's see your best themed drink! Sending in a cocktail with a non-themed name and/or inspiration will, unfortunately, be disqualified.

(Ex. sending a chocolate martini with the brand as the name or stating it is inspired by your love of Christmas isn't an inspired-by drink. However, a chocolate martini with a mint liquer flavored Christmas tree-shape floating in it ~ inspired by dcorating the tree while sipping hot chocolate would work....)

Image: Fleming's Steakhouse_ChristmasCocktails2012

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, and in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Tuesday, November 12

WICKED Holds $25 Lottery Seat for Indianapolis 2013 Shows

A day-of-performance lottery for a limited number of orchestra seats will be held for WICKED,

returning to the Old National Centre with performances from November 13-December 1. Two and one-half hours prior to each performance, people who present themselves at the Old National Centre box office will have their names placed in a lottery drum; thirty minutes later, names will be drawn for a limited number of orchestra seats at $25 each, cash only. This lottery is available only in-person at the box office, with a limit of two tickets per person. Lottery participants must have a valid photo ID when submitting their entry form and, if chosen, when purchasing tickets.

Winner of more than 50 major awards including the Grammy Award and three Tony Awards, WICKED is the untold story of the witches of Oz. Long before Dorothy drops in, two other girls meet in the land of Oz. One, born with emerald-green skin, is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. WICKED tells the story of their remarkable odyssey, how these two unlikely friends grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.

WICKED will play the Old National Centre November 13-December 1. Good seats still available! For the best seating selection, please check the available Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday performances and weekday matinees on Thursday, November 14 at 2:00 pm and Friday, November 29 at 2:00pm. Tickets for the return engagement are on sale now and available in person at Broadway Across America Box Office downtown at 342 Massachusetts Avenue, Clowes Memorial Hall, The Old National Center Ticket Office, online at BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com, or by calling 1-800-982-2787.

Performance Schedule

November 13-17: Wednesday & Thursday evenings at 7:30 pm, Thursday matinee at 2:00 pm, Friday and Saturday evenings at8:00 pm, Saturday matinee at 2:00 pm, Sunday matinee at 1:00 pm and Sunday evening at 6:30 pm; November 19-24: Tuesday –Thursday evenings at 7:30 pm, Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 pm, Saturday matinee at 2:00 pm, Sunday matinee at 1:00 pm and Sunday evening at 6:30 pm; November 26 – December 1: Monday – Wednesday evenings at 7:30 pm, Friday at 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm, Saturday at 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm, and Sunday matinee at 1:00 pm.

There is no performance on Thanksgiving Day,Thursday, November 28.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, and in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Sunday, October 27

Colts Tailgate 8th Annual Fundraiser November 10

*Press Release* Goelzer Investment Management is hosting its 8th annual Colts Tailgate event Sunday, November 10. at Hurst Bean Field, donating 35,000 meals to Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana. The Indianapolis investment company will donate more than three skids of NK Hurst beans to Gleaners Food Bank. The donation will generate 35,000 meals for disadvantaged individuals in Indianapolis and help kick off the holiday season of giving. The annual event is being held from 11:00 am-1 pm at the Hurst Bean Field parking lot, located directly across from Lucas Oil Stadium.

Goelzer Investment Management has donated 250,000 meals to Hoosiers in need. To contribute to the food donation to Gleaners, the firm invites Colts fans to stop by Hurst Bean Field prior to the Colts game to drop off canned food. Drop boxes will be located at the entrance areas of the parking lot.

Why beans? A bean dinner is high in complex carbohydrates, protein and dietary fiber, helping to satisfy hunger because it is absorbed slowly. Beans are also high in calcium, iron, folate, and potassium.

“Hundreds of thousands of Hoosier families are still struggling to put food on their tables,” said Cindy Hubert, president and CEO of Gleaners. “In fact, our emergency food distribution has doubled since the economic crisis in 2008. In our 21-county service area in central and southeastern Indiana, 319,450 of our neighbors are hungry and one in five is a child.”

For information on donating: www.gleaners.org

Friday, October 25

Infused: Top 10 Best Halloween Cocktails 2013

Oh my... it is that time again.

The time when the air grows chilly, leaves turn and fireplaces are lit.

In short ~ Autumn.

Along with the change of season comes thoughts of Halloween and all it entails: parties, costumes and fun. Fun even trickles down to food and drinks.

Once again I have invited experts in the world of spirits, wine and beer, including sommeliers, mixologists, restaurants, pubs, distillers and manufacturers to send their Halloween-inspired cocktails.

The response was swift with recipes of devilish brews, scary shots and orange concoctions dedicated to the holiday of fear and frivolity. The list was compiled and narrowed down to the ones most in spirit with the holiday and representing uniqueness, great taste and visual appeal.

I present to you the...

Top 10 Halloween Inspired Cocktails 2013

(1) Screamsicle

(see image above)
Who: Cascade Ice

Where: Everett, WA

Website: CascadeIceWater.com

Inspiration: Screams heard in the night.
Recipe: Mix 6 oz Cascade Ice Orange Mango with 1 oz of orange vodka and 2 oz of whipped cream-flavored vodka. Strain and pour into martini glass.

(2) Bourbon for Apples

Who: Chef Joseph's at The Connoisseur Room

Where: Indianapolis, IN

Website: ChefJosephs.com
Twitter: @chefjosephs

Inspiration: I drew on my memories from my childhood when my sister and I went to Halloween parties which usually included a fun game of Bobbing for Apples ~ thus Bourbon for Apples was born.

Recipe: Mix 3 TB of Apple Complex Simple Syrup, 1 full shot of Four Roses Yellow Label Bourbon, 3 oz Cava, Float a garnish of Apple and Cherry Serve in a Champagne flute rimmed with equal parts pumpkin spice and sugar. (Complex Simple Syrup: Sugar, Water, Apple Juice, Grann
y Smith Apples, Pink Peppercorn, Sea Salt, Basil and Apple Pie Spice)

(3) Mr. Burgundy

Who: Deussen Global Communications ~ Sobieski Vodka

Where: Poland

Website: VodkaSobieski.com
Twitter: @Sobieski_Vodka
Inspiration: With its sequel approaching ~ the most popular Halloween costume this year is sure to be Ron Burgundy of Anchorman (2004) fame.

Recipe: 1½ oz Sobieski Cytron Vodka, ½ oz fresh lime juice, ½ oz pomegranate juice. Shake ingredients in cocktail shaker with ice. Strain into a sugar rimmed martini glass. Garnish with orange.

(3) Casper's Cosmo

Who: Bobby “G” Gleason, Beam’s Master

Where: Clermont, KY
Website: JimBeam.com

Twitter: @JimBeamOfficial
Inspiration: The ghost of Jacob Beam, founding distiller of Jim Beam Bourbon

Recipe: 2 parts Jacob’s Ghost White Whiskey, 1 part John DeKuyper & Sons O3 Liqueur (orange liqueur), 1 part white cranberry juice, ½ part fresh lime juice. Build all ingredients over ice in a mixing glass, shake and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with cherries.

(4) German Ghoul

Who: Sidney Frank Importing Co.'s Mixologist Todd Richman

Where: New Rochelle, NY

Website: SidneyFrank.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/Barenjager

Inspiration: The flavors of Halloween's season
Recipe: 1½ parts Bärenjäger Honey & Bourbon infused with cinnamon*, ¾ part fresh lemon juice, 1 part apple cider. Shake all ingredients with ice. Strain into a chilled martini glass. *Infuse Bärenjäger Honey & Bourbon-add 4 cinnamon sticks to 1 L of Bärenjäger Honey & Bourbon 24 hours before use.

(6)The Harvestini

Who: Oliver Winery

Where: Bloomington, IN

Website: OliverWinery.com
Twitter: @OliverWinery
Facebook: Facebook.com/oliverwinery

Inspiration: Celebrating the harvest season
Recipe: Muddle frozen cherries with 1 tsp mulling spices. Pour 3 oz Oliver Zinfandel 2010, 1 oz orange juice, and 1 oz cranberry cocktail juice over cherries. Stir and pour over ice.

(7) Dead Glamour

Who: Savory Cocktails' Greg Henry

Where: NY

Website: SippitySup.com
Twitter: @SippitySup

Inspiration: I don’t think glamour ever dies. It certainly never goes out of style. But don’t let all that glamour fool you. This drink has a dark side, I told you it was sexy.
Recipe: 1 shot /45 ml /1 ½ fl oz tequila repasado, 1 pony shot/30 ml/1 fl oz Campari, ½ pony shot/15 ml /½ fl oz Santa Maria al Monte amaro or other herbaceous amaro, 2 dashes Scrappy's cardamom bitters, 1 orange twist, as garnish. Combine tequila, Campari, amaro and bitters in a mixing glass half-filled with ice. Gently stir until chilled and properly diluted, about 20 seconds. Julep strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange twist, its oil expressed onto the surface and rubbed onto the rim of the drink then dropped on top, peel side up. Makes 1.

(8) Pumpkin Patch Julep

Who: Alibi American Whiskey

Where: U.S.

Website: AlibiAmerica.com

Inspiration: Where the Great Pumpkin is found every Halloween.
Recipe: 2 oz Alibi American Whiskey, 1.5 oz homemade pumpkin butter (see below recipe), 1/2 oz orgeat syrup, 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice. Shake vigorously with ice and strain into chilled cocktail glass or hollowed pumpkin. Garnish with a slice of pear, a cinnamon stick and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Pumpkin Butter: makes 2 pints3-4 pound sugar pumpkin (aka pie pumpkin), 1 chopped sweet apple, skins removed, 3/4 cup demerara sugar (sugar in the raw), 4 tablespoons real maple syrup (not maple-flavored syrup!), 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp cloves, 2 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp fresh lemon juice, 1/2 tsp sea salt. Cut stem off pumpkin and slice lengthwise. Clean out inside of pumpkin and brush with neutral oil (canola). Roast pumpkin facedown in preheated oven at 350F for approximately 45-55 min. Let cool for 10 minutes and remove skin with spoon. Add pumpkin meat, apple, sugar, maple syrup, and spices into blender. Blend until smooth. Spoon mixture into medium sized pot. Make sure there is enough room to top of pot for boiling. Cover with lid and prop open a bit with wooden spoon so that steam can escape. Over med-high heat, bring to a low boil. Reduce to low-med heat and cook for 10 minutes until mixture reaches desired thickness. Cool completely and stir in lemon juice and salt.

(9) Devil in Disguise

Who: Mixologist Micaela Piccolo
Where: NYC, NY
Twitter: @Cabodiablo
Inspiration: Its rich coffee jolt and reassuring tequila keeps you dancing with the devil long after Halloween’s wildest celebrations finish.
Recipe: 2 oz. Cabo Diablo, ¾ oz. cherry liqueur ~ Build in a mixing glass, add ice and stir. Garnish with colored salt rim.

(10) Pumpkin Margarita

Who: Crema Restaurante/Partida

Where: New York City
Website: CremaRestaurante.com ~ PartidaTequila.com
Inspiration: This cocktail honors the pumpkin, what we believe is one of the most iconic symbols of Halloween. For a holiday surrounded by pumpkin-spiced everything (lattes, cakes, soups and even sausage) it's a wonder pumpkin cocktails aren't the No. 1 drink. We hope this cocktail changes that.
Recipe: 2 oz Partida Reposado Tequila, 1 oz fresh lime juice, splash of pumpkin puree, sesame seeds, lime wedge: Rim a cocktail glass with lime juice and sesame seeds. Mix ingredients well in a shaker with ice. Strain into cocktail glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Images furnished by entries

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, and in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Thursday, October 24

Dance Kaleidoscope Holds Fundraiser December 7

*Press release* Dance Kaleidoscope is pleased to announce Raymond Leppard and Marianne W. Tobias will play a piano concert with DK dancers Dec. 7. The concert will take place at Schrott Center for the Arts, located at Butler University, Indianapolis.

Performances will include Ancient Airs and Dances (Respighi), Gymnopedies (Satie) and Mother Goose Suite (Ravel). Leppard and Tobias will each play a grand piano as dancers perform.

Both Leppard and Tobias have enjoyed illustrious musical careers around the world and in Indianapolis with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

One of the most respected international conductors of his time, Leppard has conducted nearly every major orchestra in the world, including the New York Philharmonic, the English Chamber Orchestra and the Israel Philharmonic. His last position before retiring was as conductor for ISO. He is also an accomplished pianist and composer, including film scores.

Tobias has enjoyed a fascinating multi-faceted career. She is a native of Indianapolis who graduated cum laude from Harvard University and holds an artist diploma from Longy Conservatory of Music of Bard College. While in the Boston area, she worked for the famed chef Julia Child at WGBH. In Minneapolis, she worked as an assistant to Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Dominick Argento and taught at the University of Minnesota and St. Paul Academy and Summit School. In 1986, Tobias returned to Indianapolis and became the resident program annotator for the ISO, as well as serving on its board of directors.

General admission tickets: $50

VIP tickets (limited to 50): $125 ~ includes preferred seating and a post-performance reception with Leppard, Tobias and the DK dancers.

Tickets: 317.940.6555 or dk@dancekal.org.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, and in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Monday, October 21

Hyatt’s Christmas in the Kitchen Dec. 12, 2013 ~ Benefiting Indiana Children's Wish Fund

Last year (2012) I was invited to attend Hyatt Regency's Downtown annual event called Christmas in the Kitchen.

What? Yes, in the kitchen. At the Hyatt downtown.

Since I love experiencing something new, I went.

In short...wow.

It was too much fun just strolling about in an evening dress sampling numerous wines, entrees, desserts, cocktails, and bumping into people I knew and didn't. A glass of wine here, lamb chops there, and something gooey and chocolate to nibble while chatting with the chefs and other attendees. The carols being played kept the spirit of the holidays in the air, along with goodwill by everyone there for a great cause.

I will return this year, and hope anyone considering giving to a great cause, will join me at this annual event to benefit Indiana's children.

Indianapolis’ premier holiday event, Hyatt’s Christmas in the Kitchen, returns to benefit Indiana Children’s Wish Fund and grant special Christmas wishes for Indiana Wish children. The holiday food extravaganza takes place Dec. 12 in Hyatt Regency’s main kitchen and ballroom at 6:30 p.m.

Guests will enjoy a wide assortment of delicious appetizers, entrees, desserts, famous “Polar Bear” drinks, wine and spirits. All of the culinary creations, crafted by Executive Chef John Pivar and his culinary team, will be prepared right in front of the guests in the Hyatt kitchen.

A holiday raffle will also be held to raise money for Indiana Children’s Wish Fund. Festive live holiday music will be provided throughout the evening. Festive holiday gingerbread houses (made with love by Wish children) will be on display in the Hyatt kitchen and will be auctioned off to raise money for special Christmas wishes.

Individual tickets are $125 (admittance into the event with seating) or $100 per person (admittance into the event without seating). They are almost sold out, so get them quickly.

Indiana Children’s Wish Fund, established in 1984, grants wishes to Indiana children, ages 3-18, who suffer from a life-threatening illness. Wishes include trips to Disney, shopping sprees, meeting celebrities, family vacations and home computers. To date, the organization has granted over 3,000 wishes to Indiana children.

Reservations are limited. To purchase tickets, contact Indiana Children’s Wish Fund at (317) 913-WISH or visit IndyWish.org.

Tuesday, October 8

Arts for Learning Chocolate Fest 2013 Includes Beer and Wine

The Indiana affiliate of Young Audiences brings in the top choices for chocolate, once again. From chocolate beer and wine to fortune cookies dipped in chocolate, it's all there for you.

Now, I personally have never had chocolate beer. You know I am a wine drinker and have, indeed, sipped some chocovino in my time.

However.... the idea of my favorite food group (chocolate) introduced in a growler of suds is intriguing. Would love to hear from any of you who have tested this flavour of Sun King Brewing Company called Wee Mac.

Benefiting Arts for Learning, the Indiana affiliate of Young Audiences, Chocolate Fest 2013 includes a host of chefs, chocolatiers, bakers and restaurateurs. In addition to desserts, the event will also offer arts activities for children and performances featuring Arts for Learning professional teaching artists.

WHEN

Saturday, October 12

Noon – 4 p.m.

WHERE

Harrison Center for the Arts

1505 North Delaware Street, Indianapolis

2013 Vendors

Abbott’s Also Candies

Best Chocolate in Town

Chocolate for the Spirit

Edible Arrangements

Endangered Species Chocolate

Fancy Fortune Cookies

Frittle Candy

Just Pop In!

Louise’s Sweets

Madison County Winery

Sun King Brewing Company

~ many more ~

TICKETS

Adults/$15; children: 4 and under/Free; ages 5-15/$5; Family package/$35. Tickets may be purchased at the door or online at Chocolate-fest2013.eventbrite.com.

Arts for Learning works with more than 65 teaching artists and arts organizations to provide performances, workshops and residencies to schools, libraries, parks and community centers.

Images furnished by Sun King Brewing; Fancy Fortune Cookies; Young Audiences

Friday, October 4

Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra 2013-2014 Season

Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra opens its 2013-2014 season with a tickling of the ivories. With a variety of venues, and artists, the season looks to be able to satisfy everyone.

Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra 2013-2014 Season

Beatrice Rana, piano

Friday, October 04, 2013 - 7:30 pm

Butler University

Howard L. Schrott Center for the Arts

Deborah Henson-Conant, electric harp

Saturday, November 09, 2013 - 8:00 pm

Athenaeum Theatre

Rioult Modern Dance Company

Friday, November 15, 2013 - 8:00 pm

Saturday, November 16, 2013 - 8:00 pm

The Center for the Performing Arts

at the Tarkington

Handel's Messiah

Friday, December 13, 2013 - 7:30 pm

Sunday, December 15, 2013 - 3:00 pm

Tabernacle Presbyterian Church

Messiah Sing-Along

Monday, December 16, 2013 - 7:30 pm

Indiana Landmarks Center

The Strong Man

Silent Film With Live Orchestra

Friday, February 14, 2014 - 7:30pm

Indianapolis Museum of Art

Tobias Theater

Marco Sartor, classical guitar

Saturday, March 15, 2014 - 7:30pm

Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center

Frank and Katrina Basile Theater

Martin Kuuskmann, bassoon

Friday, April 11, 2014 - 7:30 pm

Howard L. Schrott Center for the Arts

In conjunction with Butler ArtsFest

Benjamin Beilman, violin

Saturday, May 17, 2014 - 8:00pm

Butler University

Howard L. Schrott Center for the Arts

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, an in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Wednesday, October 2

Wanted: Halloween-inspired Cocktails 2013

Think you (or your mixologist) has the best recipe for a cocktail inspired by Halloween? I will feature Halloween-inspired cocktails in Gotta Go, giving readers the Top Ten best entries to enjoy and create in the 2nd annual Top 10 Best Halloween Cocktails 2013.

All recipes, images and contact information for the submission need to be in via email to elizabeth@gottago.us or elizabethjmusgrave@gmail.com, by Friday, October 25, 2013. Posting will occur the week of October 28. This will be a fun way for readers to enjoy cocktails made with great products and inspired by a romantic holiday.

Click here for last year's Top 10 List

All entries must include images for the cocktail and all of the below information. Please remember to send the Twitter handle/link and website link. This helps the readers go immediately to you and check out how wonderful your company, bar, restaurant, et al, is and follow you on Twitter.

No stress, just fun!

Those chosen will be featured on GottaGo.us.

E-mail submissions only are required, no physical attendance needed for this one.

Product samples for testing can be shipped to:

Gotta Go
2960 S. Keystone Ave.
Indianapolis, IN 46203
Attn: Elizabeth/Halloween2013

Include (in order and completely) the following information:
1) Cocktail's themed name

2) Bar/company/restaurant/mixologist/winery name and location

3) Website and Twitter handle so readers can check you out!

4) Recipe, including measurements, garnish and glassware

**Don't forget** 5) Inspiration for drink-obviously Halloween, but what exactly inspired you to make this particular drink?

6) Image-Please make sure it is a good quality.

This is open to anyone within the spirits/wine/beer company/restaurant realm including mixologists, bars, fine dining, bartenders, sommeliers, hotels, companies, spirit entrepreneurs, et cetera. The idea is to feature cocktails inspired by Halloween and all the scary, fun, ghoulish feelings about the holiday. Let your imagination run wild with this one...it can go many directions: Candy, apples, Jack-o-lanterns, costumes, movies, songs, vampires ...you get the idea!

***Special Note***
Several cocktails were disqualified for the last Top 10 cocktail lists due to the drink name and/or inspiration missing or not applicable to the theme. Let's see your best THEMED drink! Sending in a cocktail with a non-themed name and/or inspiration will, unfortunately, be disqualified.

(Ex. sending a chocolate martini with the brand as the name or stating it is inspired by your love of Halloween isn't an inspired-by drink. However, a chocolate martini with a ghost-shape floating in it ~ named and inspired by Godiva, as in "Godiva Ghosts" ~ would work....)

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, and in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Monday, September 2

Top 10 Best Indianapolis Fall Festivals 2013

Easing from the blistering summer into a colorful autumn creates a longing for festivals in the Midwest. Indiana fall festivals are plentiful in quantity and diversity.
And in the Indianapolis area there are many to help keep your festival needs satisfied with pumpkins, music and cultural celebrations.

Who is in, who moved up or down, and who is out? Check out last year's list by clicking here. Here are my Top 10 Best Indianapolis Fall Festivals 2013.

1) Riley Days
What: The annual event highlights Indiana's poet James Whitcomb Riley. Actibites include children's parade of flowers, ceremonies, parade, more than 450 vendors, midway, pageant, music and more.
When: Oct. 3-6
Where: Greenfield
Website: RileyFestival.com

2) Penrod Arts Fair
What: 47th annual holding of more than 300 artists, 6 entertainment stages, 50 arts-related, non profit groups, extensive children's area, Indiana Craft Beer Garden NOTE: New this year An Evening with Penrod on Fri., Sept. 7.
When: Sept. 7-8
Where: Indianapolis Museum of Art grounds
Website: PenrodArtsFair.org

3) Indianapolis Scottish Highland Games & Festival
What: 4th annual celebration of Scottish heritage with reenactments, ceremonies, 50 world-class amateur-athletes participating in Celtic games including haggis toss, sheath and hammer throw, Scotch tasting, authentic food, beer, scotch, pipe bands, bagpipers, roving entertainers and children's activities.
2013 Time period: 1540s under King James V
When: Oct. 12
Where: German Park, Indianapolis
Website: IndyScotGamesandFest.com

4) Irvington Halloween Festival
What: Historic neighborhood street festival celebrating the charming community with more than 120 vendors, entertainment, fun, children's activities and a costume parade. Street festival is on 26th.
When: Oct. 19-26
Where: Historic Irvington neighborhood, Indianapolis
Website: IrvingtonHalloween.com

5) Feast of the Hunter's Moon
What: 46th annual recreation of the annual fall gathering of the French and Native Americans at a fur trading outpost in the mid 1700s.
When: Oct. 5-6
Where: Historic Fort Ouiatenon Park, West Lafayette, IN
Website: Tcha.mus.in.us

6) Heartland Film Festival
What: 21st annual event honoring uplifting independent, international films and film-related activities bringing together film professionals and enthusiasts for viewing of films, workshops and award ceremony.
When: Oct. 17-26
Where: Various locations throughout Indianapolis
Website: HeartlandFilmFestival.com

7) Fishers Renaissance Faire
What: 9th annual event showcasing the era of Queen Elizabeth I with more than 250 costumed characters, armed combat, jousting, period music and dancing, Shakespeare vignettes, knighting ceremonies, more than 70 artisans and merchants, food vendors, beer and mead.
2013 Theme: 20th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth I's coronation Time period: 1579
When: Oct. 5-6
Where: Fishers, IN
Website: FishersRenFaire.com

8) Covered Bridge Festival
What: 55th annual largest state festival showcases covered bridges, entertainment, and locally crafted items and food.
When: Oct. 12-21
Where: Various locations throughout Parke County; headquartered in Rockville, IN
Website: CoveredBridges.com

9) Versailles Pumpkin Show
What: 111th annual event celebrating America's favorite gourd ~ the pumpkin ~ with parades, food eating contests, music and pumpkins.
When: Sept. 25-26
Where: Versailles, IN
Website: VersaillesPumpkinShow.com

10) Cambridge Canal Days Festival
What: The 41st annual heritage event includes tractor show, kids race, haunt and historic tours, golf tournament, street vendors, ice cream social and pies, food vendors, beer garden and more.
When: Sept. 7-8
Where: Cambridge City
Website: VisitRichmond.org

Images: Izzy Evans and furnished
Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Read Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in M and Retired Living magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, and in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Monday, August 19

Devour Downtown Summerfest 2013 Aug. 19-Sept. 1 Reviews, recommendations & tips

Palomino's Tiramisu

Devour Downtown Summerfest 2013 has started and the usual restaurants are opening their doors for everyone to get a taste of their menus from August 19-September 1. Some will create special menus just for the event, while others simply offer their usual food items at a reduced price.

What's New?
BINGO cards can be downloaded here (there is more than one choice so be certain to look through all for the one you could most likely fill). You will print it out and attempt to get across, up and down, or diagonal boxes marked off by the restaurants when you dine there. When you do get a BINGO you are eligible for a random drawing for gift cards at downtown restaurants. I definitely like the new addition making this a game as well as the chance to check out different restaurants.

Continuing are the various price ranges, 2-for-1, and special menu options, such as gluten-free and vegetarian. I checked out all the menus and below ~ marked in purple ~ are the restaurants I believe have the best value. Let's call it the Gotta Go Great Value List...

Tip ~
When looking for who is truly giving a great discount, check out their DD menu and compare the items to their regular menu's prices. Just add the items up and you will see whether you are getting a so-so deal or one worth the drive.

I have put an asterisk next to any restaurants I have dined at during normal times and would recommend based on that visit. And, remember, red items are my recommendations for best value.

Participating Restaurants

120 West Bar & Grill