MUNCIE – It’s the start of a new academic year at Ball State and you know what that means – it’s time for another $2 Tour of the Village!

The $2 Tour of the Village returns on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 3 to 7 p.m. on University Avenue between Calvert and Dill Streets.

Admission is free and the first 100 people through the gates will get a $2 bill to spend on several special $2 items – including T-shirts, food, goodie bags and more – at participating Village businesses.

The event, now in its sixth year, is hosted by the Riverside-Normal City Neighborhood Association, Muncie Action Plan, and Ball State University’s Office of Community Engagement.

There will be so much to see and do! Visit more than 40 vendor and organization booths lining the street. Play lawn games at one of the “grassy” gathering spots. Try your throwing hand at the dunk tank, ride the mechanical bull, grab a fun balloon from B.O.B., or cool off in the water play area.

Two stages will offer entertainment. On the East Stage, check out live performances from local singer/songwriters and the band Rangeline Hill.

On the West Stage, enjoy performances by Code Red dancers, a Hot Pepper Eating Contest, Pet Prince/Princess Contest, cake walk, DJ David Bond III, Harmony Dance demos, and more.

The first 500 attendees will receive a $2 Tour of the Village “passport.” Get it stamped at designated Village businesses, then turn it in at the Welcome Tent to be entered in drawings for great prizes.

A short walk from the Village, there’s another party going on as well. Be sure to stop by the Back to School Bash at University Green for lots of water-themed fun, as well as a DJ and petting zoo. This free event is 5 to 8 p.m.

And there’s more! Head over to Ball State’s Brown Family Amphitheater at 7 p.m. for a free Muncie Three Trails concert featuring Vanessa Collier, 2024 Blues Music Award “Horn Player of the Year” winner. Local band The Fierce will open the show.

For more $2 Tour of the Village info, go to muncieneighborhoods.org.