Pull up a chair and start a conversation with a friend or stranger. That’s the idea behind the new Turquoise Tables® you’ll see around Hamilton County communities starting this fall.

What is the Turquoise Table® Movement?

Kristin Schell of Austin, TX started the Turquoise Table® movement to create intentional ways to connect with friends, family and neighbors. The idea is to create a simple place for people to gather without the pressures of entertaining. According to the website, the movement has gone national and international, spanning all the way to Uganda. And now, it’s here in Hamilton County, thanks to a local group of community art representatives.

Where Can I Find Them?

The tables, which meet ADA standards, are currently located at Quaker Park in Westfield, Pocket Park in Cicero, Federal Hill Commons in Noblesville, Sophia Square Courtyard in Carmel and the Nickel Plate District in Fishers. The tables feature permanent game boards with materials to play Jenga, chess or checkers. Eventually, they will be moved around to other areas of the county to engage more visitors and community members. Stay tuned to see where the Turquoise Tables® will be!

Want to learn more about the project? Visit the participating communities' libraries to check out a copy of The Turquoise Table: Finding Community and Connection in Your Own Front Yard.