ARI in Bloom 2026: A Fundraising Gala to Remember
May 21, 2026
The ARI Adventure Trek is a full day of discovery that blends outdoor adventure with hands-on archaeology. On Saturday, June 6, 2026, participants will gather at the Guard Archaeological Preserve in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, for a community celebration of science, history, and exploration. The day includes a 5K run/walk, immersive archaeological challenges, live music, food trucks, and opportunities to learn how archaeologists uncover and protect the stories of the Ohio River Valley.
The morning kicks off at 9:00 AM with the ARI Oxbow 5K Run/Walk, a one-of-a-kind Indiana 5K experience through the scenic Oxbow trails. The course winds through the beautiful natural landscapes before finishing at the Guard Archaeological Preserve. Along the way, participants can compete for top finisher awards and even show off their creativity for a chance to win Best Archaeologist Costume! Runners who complete the 5K scavenger hunt will also be entered into a raffle for an annual Oxbow Conservancy membership.
Once the 5K wraps up, participants can continue the fun with the Adventure Trek Challenge from 10:00 AM to noon. This untimed, family-friendly experience gives attendees the chance to explore the preserve through a series of interactive stops inspired by real archaeological fieldwork. Throughout the morning, you’ll uncover clues, put your observation skills to the test, and discover how archaeologists study and protect cultural landscapes — all while enjoying the outdoors.
From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the preserve comes alive with:
It’s a special day built around exploration, learning, and celebrating the region’s heritage together.
Proceeds from the event directly support ARI’s mission to explore, preserve, research, and educate. Funds raised help sustain public archaeology programs, educational workshops, and stewardship efforts that protect the landscapes tied to our region’s cultural history.
Adventure Trek reflects what ARI is all about — giving people the opportunity to think like scientists, take part in discovery, and build a deeper connection between the past and present.
Adventure Trek is free for ARI Members, including access to both the 5K and the Adventure Trek Challenge. Members also receive a special discount code to use during registration.
Becoming a member not only unlocks your free entry but also helps support ARI’s mission to explore, preserve, research, and educate. Memberships help fund archaeological research, educational programs, and stewardship efforts that protect the cultural landscapes behind experiences like Adventure Trek
If you’re not a member yet, this is the perfect time to join! Become part of a community of curious explorers and get your free-entry discount code today.
If you’re looking for things to do in Lawrenceburg, Indiana this summer, ARI’s Adventure Trek offers a unique opportunity to get outdoors, explore local history, and take part in a day of discovery and adventure. Learn more or follow updates at ExploreARI.org — and get ready to run, discover, and explore with us this June.
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