Stroller Adventure Club
Aug
28

Stroller Adventure Club

Pack up the stroller and bring your little one on an early learning adventure at the zoo! Visit animal exhibits, meet an animal ambassador, enjoy a story and craft. $25 includes one child and one caretaker.

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Fox Park Music Fest
Aug
29

Fox Park Music Fest

Help Guardian Riders raise funds to continue to help Local Veterans, Active Military and those less fortunate. 100% of proceeds go to the cause. 6 Bands! 12 Hours of Fun!!

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Writing Out Loud Series
Aug
30

Writing Out Loud Series

Marvel Comics Illustrator Jerry DeCaire brings the page to life with a live drawing performance at Michigan City Public Library as part of the Writing Out Loud 2026 series. Attendees have a chance to take home one of his autographed demo drawings. Free admission.

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Michigan City Oktoberfest
Sep
4
to Sep 7

Michigan City Oktoberfest

Michigan City's most beloved annual tradition returns for Labor Day Weekend! Oktoberfest at Washington Park brings four days of live music, great food, and community celebration September 4-7.

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September First Friday
Sep
4

September First Friday

Lubeznik Center for the Arts' September First Friday features a one-of-a-kind musical performance by Joe Rauen, an artist who transforms watering cans, shovels, sports equipment, and household items into never-before-seen working instruments. Free admission.

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Un-Official Cruise Night
Sep
5

Un-Official Cruise Night

Downtown La Porte comes alive on the first Saturday of the month for Un-Official Cruise Nights 2026! Trucks, cars, semis, low riders, 4x4s, buggies, and bikes roll down Lincolnway from 6-9pm all summer long.

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Run for Hope 5K
Sep
12

Run for Hope 5K

The 2026 Run for Hope in Trail Creek is more than a 5K -- it's a community stand against stigma, raising awareness for suicide prevention and mental health support in La Porte County. Hosted by the Friends of Swanson Center.

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Dragon Boot Races
Sep
12

Dragon Boot Races

One of Northwest Indiana's favorite community events, the Dunebrook Dragon Boat Family Festival returns September 12 with exciting dragon boat races, family-friendly activities, local vendors, and delicious food - all benefiting Dunebrook's mission to strengthen families and protect children.

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Hoosier Star
Sep
12

Hoosier Star

The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra’s trademarked vocal competition and fundraiser, now in its 21st and final year!
5 Youth and 5 Adult finalists will compete for cash prizes and the title of “Hoosier Star” in this high-energy event! Make sure to get your tickets so your votes counts!

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Sunflower Fair
Sep
19

Sunflower Fair

The Sunflower Fair is one of the largest area festivals, bringing thousands to our downtown. This event showcases more than 130 craft and nonprofit vendors, food, live entertainment, kids activities and more!

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Jammin with Save the Dunes
Sep
19

Jammin with Save the Dunes

Spend a beautiful afternoon in Michigan City for Jammin with Save the Dunes! Live music from Nawty and The Joliet Jakes, good vibes, and great company - all supporting the protection of the Indiana Dunes and Lake Michigan.

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Stroller Adventure Club
Sep
25

Stroller Adventure Club

Pack up the stroller and bring your little one on an early learning adventure at the zoo! Visit animal exhibits, meet an animal ambassador, enjoy a story and craft. $25 includes one child and one caretaker.

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Femmes at Full Volume
Sep
25

Femmes at Full Volume

Acclaimed music photographer Bobby Talamine sits down with Ric Federighi of WIMS Radio for a conversation spanning 40 years of concert photography and his upcoming book, Femmes at Full Volume, celebrating women and female-presenting artists who have shaped the music industry.

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Writing Out Loud Series
Sep
27

Writing Out Loud Series

Writer and musician Eiren Caffall presents her Gotham Prize finalist sci-fi adventure novel All the Water in the World at Michigan City Public Library as part of the Writing Out Loud 2026 series. Free admission.

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Walk to End Alzheimers
Oct
3

Walk to End Alzheimers

Walk to End Alzheimer’s LaPorte County is the Worlds largest fundraising event. Funds raised support new treatments, research, education for all and support those who face the disease. 

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Hesston Ghost Train Rides
Oct
3

Hesston Ghost Train Rides

All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.

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Un-Official Cruise Night
Oct
3

Un-Official Cruise Night

Downtown La Porte comes alive on the first Saturday of the month for Un-Official Cruise Nights 2026! Trucks, cars, semis, low riders, 4x4s, buggies, and bikes roll down Lincolnway from 6-9pm all summer long.

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Hesston Ghost Train Rides
Oct
4

Hesston Ghost Train Rides

All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.

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Mac and Cheese Fest
Oct
4

Mac and Cheese Fest

Mac is back! The Dig the Dunes Mac and Cheese Fest returns to Zorn Brew Works on October 4 for a day of sampling mac and cheese from local restaurants, live music, artisan vendors, face painting, and more.

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Spook-fest
Oct
10

Spook-fest

Our 5th annual Spook-Fest features a variety of over 100 vendor booths! The first 100 adults will receive a goodie bag with all kinds of tricks & treats. Wear your Halloween costume for an added touch of magic & check out the photo op area to make some memories!

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Hesston Ghost Train Rides
Oct
10

Hesston Ghost Train Rides

All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.

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Downtown Trick or Treat
Oct
10

Downtown Trick or Treat

Celebrate spooky season in Downtown La Porte. The Downtown La Porte Trick or Treat will take place from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, October 10. Bring the kids downtown to fill their bags with candy from downtown businesses. This event is put on by the Downtown La Porte Events committee and is not to be confused with the city-wide trick-or-treat that takes place from 5-7 p.m. Saturday, October 31.

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Kindred Spirits: Family Day
Oct
10

Kindred Spirits: Family Day

Lubeznik Center for the Arts hosts a free Family Day on October 10, featuring drop-in art-making, a gallery scavenger hunt, and free snacks - all inspired by the exhibition Kindred Spirits: Margaret Wharton and Betsy Odom.

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Hesston Ghost Train Rides
Oct
11

Hesston Ghost Train Rides

All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.

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Boo at the Zoo
Oct
17

Boo at the Zoo

A safe trick-or-treating experience for your ghosts and goblins! Area businesses sponsor booths along the decorated zoo paths and hand out candy to the kids. Advance tickets are recommended due to limited supply. Cost: Regular admission rates apply

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Trail Creek Fall Festival
Oct
17

Trail Creek Fall Festival

Vendors, music, food, games, crafts, pumpkin painting, even a face painter/balloon artist, and bounce house! Don’t forget to bring your pooch for a pet costume parade, and contest! Also stop by the Park Board tent to see some really cool, silent auction items.

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Hesston Ghost Train Rides
Oct
17

Hesston Ghost Train Rides

All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.

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Hesston Ghost Train Rides
Oct
18

Hesston Ghost Train Rides

All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.

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Haunted Trails
Oct
18

Haunted Trails

Get into the Halloween spirit at Haunted Trails at Friendship Botanic Gardens! Kids are encouraged to come in costume for a festive path through the Gardens, with candy, games, cider, storytellers, a bonfire, and a food truck.

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Writing Out Loud Series
Oct
18

Writing Out Loud Series

New York Times bestselling author Michael Koryta discusses his historical fiction thriller Die Famous at Michigan City Public Library. With work translated into more than 20 languages, Koryta is one of the most celebrated voices in the genre. Free admission.

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Blue Bash: Reach for the Stars
Oct
23

Blue Bash: Reach for the Stars

Please join on Friday, September 26 to celebrate BGCLPC’s true stars – Club members! Attendees will enjoy decor inspired by the night sky, exciting entertainment, and delicious food. Please where whatever you like, as long as it’s BLUE!

Tickets are now on sale at https://bgclpc.networkforgood.com/…/97131-blue-bash… or please feel free to contact Michelle Shirk at mshirk@bgclub.org for more information.

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Hesston Ghost Train Rides
Oct
24

Hesston Ghost Train Rides

All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.

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Hesston Ghost Train Rides
Oct
25

Hesston Ghost Train Rides

All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.

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Hesston Ghost Train Rides
Oct
31

Hesston Ghost Train Rides

All aboard for a frighteningly good time! The Hesston Ghost Train Rides take passengers through the haunted woods aboard a real steam train, where the fate of Engineer Bones Jones, Fireman Freddy, and their crew awaits. Running weekends October 3-25.

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Writing Out Loud Series
Nov
1

Writing Out Loud Series

Poet and 2021 National Endowment for the Arts Creative Writing Fellow Mitchell L.H. Douglas closes out the Writing Out Loud 2026 season with a presentation of his newest poetry collection Universal Corner at Michigan City Public Library. Free admission.

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Turkey Walk
Nov
26

Turkey Walk

Start your Thanksgiving with fresh air in the Botanic Gardens! Guests are invited to walk the trails and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the season.

FREE community event.

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La Porte Santa Parade
Nov
28

La Porte Santa Parade

Kick off the holiday season at the La Porte Santa Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony! The parade rolls through downtown La Porte on November 28 at 4pm, followed by photos with Santa, coffee, hot chocolate, Christmas music, and the annual Tree Lighting.

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Wild Winterland Day @ Washington Park Zoo
Dec
5

Wild Winterland Day @ Washington Park Zoo

Washington Park Zoo closes out the 2026 season with Wild Winterland Day on December 5! Keeper Chats with education ambassadors, a photo op with the Grinch, hot cocoa, gift shopping, and door prize giveaways make for a festive farewell to the year.

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Santa’s Candy Cane Express
Dec
5

Santa’s Candy Cane Express

All aboard for a holiday tradition! Santa's Candy Cane Express at the Hesston Steam Museum offers real steam train rides, a visit with Santa in his railroad caboose, hot cocoa, and festive fun for the whole family on weekends December 5-13.

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Santa’s Candy Cane Express
Dec
6

Santa’s Candy Cane Express

All aboard for a holiday tradition! Santa's Candy Cane Express at the Hesston Steam Museum offers real steam train rides, a visit with Santa in his railroad caboose, hot cocoa, and festive fun for the whole family on weekends December 5-13.

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Downtown Cookie Walk
Dec
12

Downtown Cookie Walk

Join for the 14th Annual Downtown Cookie Walk! Businesses are asked to prepare 200 cookies for the event in which participants purchase a collectible 2026 cookie tin and walk downtown and collect a cookie from each participating business. Cookies will only be given to those with the official 2026 cookie tin.

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Santa’s Candy Cane Express
Dec
12

Santa’s Candy Cane Express

All aboard for a holiday tradition! Santa's Candy Cane Express at the Hesston Steam Museum offers real steam train rides, a visit with Santa in his railroad caboose, hot cocoa, and festive fun for the whole family on weekends December 5-13.

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Santa’s Candy Cane Express
Dec
13

Santa’s Candy Cane Express

All aboard for a holiday tradition! Santa's Candy Cane Express at the Hesston Steam Museum offers real steam train rides, a visit with Santa in his railroad caboose, hot cocoa, and festive fun for the whole family on weekends December 5-13.

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Wandering Watercolors
Aug
25

Wandering Watercolors

Let nature inspire you on a short walk around the park, then create your own nature journal style watercolor art by following along or creating something on your own. All supplies provided.

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Opera in the Gardens
Aug
23

Opera in the Gardens

The beauty of live opera comes to the Gardens for an unforgettable afternoon in an intimate outdoor setting. Powerful vocals and timeless music will fill the space, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gardens.

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Mill Pond Cruise-In Car Show
Aug
23

Mill Pond Cruise-In Car Show

Outsiders Auto Club presents the Anniversary Mill Pond Festival – FREE Cruise-In Car Show.

Trophies & Cash Prizes!

Dash Plaques to the first 100 cars – Free Photo Station – Craft & Food Vendors – Family Friendly Beer Garden.

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Writing Out Loud Series
Aug
22

Writing Out Loud Series

Children's book author Peggy Archer kicks off the Writing Out Loud 2026 season at Michigan City Public Library with a book launch celebration for her new titles Three Little Witches and The Spooky Old House, featuring a talk, book signing, and activities. Free admission.

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Canvas Night
Aug
20

Canvas Night

Canvas Nights is a new community painting event at Krueger Memorial Hall in Michigan City! For just $15, a guided instructor helps you create a beautiful Lake Michigan sunset painted inside a wine glass to take home. All supplies provided.

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Beach Glass Necklace Workshop
Aug
20

Beach Glass Necklace Workshop

Turn a beach glass treasure into a beautiful keepsake at the Beach Glass Necklace Workshop at Shady Creek Winery! Duneland Artist Jayde McAloon teaches wire wrapping techniques to create a one-of-a-kind necklace you'll wear all year long.

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Nature’s Tiny Tots
Aug
18

Nature’s Tiny Tots

Bring your little one out for some hands-on nature activities! They will read a story, make a craft, have fun with a song, and, weather permitting, take a hike and play outside.

No registration needed and free for all.

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44th Lubeznik Arts Festival
Aug
16

44th Lubeznik Arts Festival

One of Northwest Indiana's summer highlights, the 44th Lubeznik Arts Festival fills the Lubeznik Center for the Arts grounds with 80+ artists, local food and drink vendors, family art activities, and live demos -- just steps from Lake Michigan in Michigan City.

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44th Lubeznik Arts Festival
Aug
15

44th Lubeznik Arts Festival

One of Northwest Indiana's summer highlights, the 44th Lubeznik Arts Festival fills the Lubeznik Center for the Arts grounds with 80+ artists, local food and drink vendors, family art activities, and live demos -- just steps from Lake Michigan in Michigan City.

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Night Bike Rides
Aug
14

Night Bike Rides

Pedal under the stars on La Porte's Night Bike Rides! This leisurely 13-mile starlit route is a fun evening out for cyclists of all levels, with new routes and new merchandise for 2026. Rides on June 12, July 10, and August 14.

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Ohio Valley Wrestling
Aug
14

Ohio Valley Wrestling

OVW Wrestling - as seen on Netflix and the training ground for stars like John Cena, Dave Batista, and CM Punk - brings a night of hard-hitting, high-flying pro wrestling action to the La Porte Civic Auditorium.

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Typhoon Summer - Rock
Aug
13

Typhoon Summer - Rock

Typhoon Summer is your go-to Indiana based space rock band. A Typhoon Summer experience includes covers of your favorite rock songs and a unique blend of tasty originals.

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Celestial Night Hike
Aug
12

Celestial Night Hike

Take an illuminated hike to learn about the constellations and the stories different cultures around the world have told about the stars for thousands of years. Catch a glimpse of the Perseid meteor shower and look at the sky using a telescope. Then enjoy marshmallows around the fire while listening to shadow puppet stories about the stars.

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Foodie Tuesdays
Aug
11

Foodie Tuesdays

Every Tuesday from June through August, Foodie Tuesdays at Unity Park brings a rotating local food truck to the stunning shores of Pine Lake. Stop by from 10:30am to 2:30pm and make your lunch break something special.

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