South Bend Events: July 21-27 Festival Guide

Explore Exciting Festivals and Events in the South Bend Area from July 21 to 27

As the summer season reaches its peak, the South Bend area is set to host a wide array of festivals and events that promise fun for all ages. Whether you're looking for music, art, or family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone during this exciting week. From car shows to film showcases, these events are sure to create lasting memories.

Classic Car Cruise-Ins

Every Thursday through the end of September, from 4:30 to 8 p.m., car enthusiasts can enjoy the Classic Car Cruise-Ins at Essenhaus in Middlebury. This event features a variety of classic cars, trucks, and more. It’s a great opportunity to admire vintage vehicles and connect with fellow car lovers. For more details about the event and any special happenings, visit essenhaus.com/cruise-in.

Sweetwater Film Showcase

The Michigan Maritime Museum will host the Sweetwater Film Showcase on July 24-25, celebrating the lives and contributions of underrepresented communities connected to the Great Lakes. The event will feature 10 films that highlight how the Great Lakes have influenced and been shaped by diverse communities. A multi-award-winning documentary titled The Fish Thief: A Great Lakes Mystery will also be shown. Attendees can expect panel discussions with filmmakers and representatives. Tickets are $20 per day, with discounts available for museum members. Seating is limited, so advance registration is recommended.

Saugatuck Venetian Fest 2025

From July 25-26, the Saugatuck Venetian Fest promises a vibrant celebration with a range of activities. Highlights include a concert in Coghlin Park featuring the 1980s cover band StarFarm, as well as events like the Douglas Duck Dash, Dinghy Poker Run, lighted boat parade, and fireworks. This year’s theme is “Christmas in July,” making it a unique and festive experience. Tickets and more information can be found at saugatuckvenetianfest.com.

New Carlisle Hometown Days

New Carlisle’s three-day festival, held from July 25-27, offers a mix of entertainment, including a parade, Home Run Derby, music, and fireworks. The event is perfect for families looking for a fun-filled weekend. Check out hometowndays.net for the full schedule of events.

LaPorte Lake Fest

Taking place from July 25-27, the LaPorte Lake Fest brings together music, art, food, and family fun on Pine, Stone, and Clear Lakes. Activities include concerts, fireworks, kids’ activities, an artisan market, and a car show. For more details and the full schedule, visit laportelakefest.com.

Bass Lake Festival

From July 25-27, Bass Lake in Knox hosts a family-friendly festival with events such as a car show, cardboard boat race, cornhole tournament, fishing derby, and more. This is a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy community activities. More information can be found at basslakefest.com.

Arts in the Street Festival

On July 26, more than 85 regional artists and artisans will gather on North Michigan Street in downtown Plymouth from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can explore ceramics, fine paintings, handmade textiles, and food trucks. There will also be live entertainment, a Beer & Wine Garden, and hands-on art activities for all ages.

SerbFest

SerbFest, taking place from 4 p.m. to midnight on July 26, offers a cultural celebration with food, live music, dancing, and activities for children. Monetary donations to Hope Ministries will be accepted. The event is hosted at the Saints Peter and Paul Serbian Orthodox Church in South Bend.

Festival of Hope

This free community event, held from 5 to 9 p.m. on July 26 at Goshen Brewing Company, includes music, kids’ activities, vendors, food trucks, and Tropicana ice cream. It’s a great opportunity to come together and enjoy local resources and services.

Play Palooza

The Mitten Children’s Museum invites families to Play Palooza 2025 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 26. The event features crafts, games, bounce houses, circus performers, balloon artistry, face painting, and a food truck. It will take place in Riverfront Park, offering a fun-filled day for children and their families.

Lighthouse Tour

From June 7 to August 30, the North Pier offers guided tours of its inner and outer lights on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission to the first floor is free, while climbing to the top costs $5. The tour provides a glimpse into the nautical history of St. Joseph/Benton Harbor and offers panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Tickets can be purchased in person with cash only or at the St. Joseph Today Welcome Center.

Westside BBQ and Craft Fest

Unity Gardens will host its annual summer food and craft festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 27. Live musical performances, craft vendors, and a variety of BBQ options will be available. The event takes place at 3701 Prast Blvd. in South Bend.

County Fairs

Elkhart County Fair

Held from July 18-26 at the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds, this fair features exhibits from 4-H members, concerts, a drone show, rodeo, demolition derby, and a truck and tractor pull. Tickets can be purchased online.

Cass County Fair

From July 27 to August 2, the Cass County Fairgrounds will host a variety of grandstand events, including street legal pickup truck and semi tractor pulls, demolition derby, farm and antique tractor pulls, and a Super Kickers Rodeo. Additional events include a Bob Seger Tribute Band, fireworks, and the Mud Mitten Race Series. Tickets can also be purchased online.