Weekend events include Battle of Black Jack reenactment, theater, film and more

photo by: Contributed by Black Jack Battlefield Trust Inc.

The Battle of Black Jack was fought on June 2, 1856, near Baldwin City. The commemoration of its 166th anniversary, including battle reenactments, is set for Saturday, July 23, at Black Jack Battlefield and Nature Park.

This weekend’s events include a historic battle reenactment, theater, film and some hands-on chances to be creative.

FRIDAY

• Today at 9 p.m., enjoy a free outdoor screening of the 1988 movie “Beetlejuice” at Theatre Lawrence, 4660 Bauer Farm Drive. Bring blankets and lawn chairs for first come, first-served seating. Concessions will be available for purchase.

SATURDAY

• Another session of the John Jervis Memorial Guitar School takes place today at the Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vermont St., in time slots between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Created in honor of Lawrence musician Jervis (1944-2021), these free 25-minute lessons in guitar and ukulele are offered in novice, intermediate and advanced levels. Registration required; see https://lawrence.bibliocommons.com/events/6275855e7a5c6b3600014642 for details and a sign-up link.

• The 166th anniversary commemoration of the Battle of Black Jack, originally scheduled for June 4, will take place today beginning at 11 a.m. Come to the Battlefield and Nature Park, 163 East 2000 Road, Wellsville, for reenactments of the battle at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., followed by games of blackjack and poker. Reenactors will be present for a meet-and-greet and photo opportunities, along with live cannon demonstrations and a blacksmith forge on display. The event is free with donations accepted; concessions will be available for purchase.

• Theatre Lawrence presents “Senior Moments,” a program of skits and musical numbers from the Vintage Players group. The show starts at 7 p.m. at the theater, 4660 Bauer Farm Drive. Seats are general admission. See https://wp.theatrelawrence.com/education/vintage-players/ for more information, or contact the Vintage Players director at vintageplayers@theatrelawrence.com.

• Youth artists (ages 12-18) are welcome to attend “Lit & Local,” an art and performance event this evening, 7-9 p.m., at Sunrise Project, 1501 Learnard Ave. Young people are invited to enjoy the performances and shop from local vendors.

SUNDAY

• The “Sew and Tell” Visible Mending Workshop, 2-4 p.m. today at the Spencer Museum of Art, 1301 Mississippi St., will teach attendees about traditions and techniques of visible mending. Graduate student Anne Rogers will show examples from the museum’s collection and discuss how “making” can involve “mending.” Bring any textile in need of repair or transformation – or use one of the samples available. All experience levels welcome; please call 785-864-0126 or email aduke@ku.edu to register.

• “Parents Night Out,” an event from the Nothing Unique Organization, will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. at the East Lawrence Recreation center, 1245 E. 15th St. Age-appropriate activities will be provided in a safe environment. Cost is $25 per child for admission and dinner. Space is limited; please email events4NUO@gmail.com and include the subject line Parents Night Out for registration.

MONDAY

• City Playcorps presents another Pop-Up Adventure Playground today, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vermont St. Bring your children to experience their creativity with the materials provided – cardboard boxes, tubes, tires, crates and more. Certified experts will be present to oversee the process. See more details at https://lawrence.bibliocommons.com/events/627aee89f4e9e13600c2575b.

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