Things to do This November in South Bend & Mishawaka
November in The Bend is a month of cozy traditions — from cheering on the Fighting Irish to sipping warm cider at a holiday market.
We’ve rounded up the best seasonal events, outdoor adventures, and local experiences to make the most of the month — before winter truly sets in.
Notre Dame Football Home Games
The Notre Dame football season is halfway through, and November brings the final opportunities of the regular season to see a home game at Notre Dame Stadium. If you're looking to make a last-minute football season visit, check out our Game Day Guide and must-do traditions. Don't forget to tailgate your way and plan your Notre Dame pre-game activities!
November Game Schedule:
- November 7 @ 7:30 PM | University of Miami
- November 14 @ 3:30 PM | Boston College
- November 21 @ 7:30 PM | SMU
Experiences at The Morris
The Morris Performing Arts Center in Downtown South Bend brings an exciting list of experiences this November. The historic theater is a staple of South Bend's cultural scene, and its lineup of impressive shows and performances continues to bring artistic and unique experiences to the community.
November Shows:
- November 6 | Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! National Broadway Tour
- November 8 | Día de los Muertos Celebration Concert
- November 12 | Cinderella Presented by United European Ballet
- November 13 | Actor’s Cut: Clue the Movie
- November 22 | O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy
- November 28 | The Bergamot – A South Shore Christmas
You can find more of our one-of-a-kind shows by visiting our Events page for the latest shows, concerts, and performances in the area.
Notre Dame Winter Sports
Irish hoops and hockey are back! There's no shortage of opportunities to dive into the spirit this month. The key matchup for November will be Michigan State coming to town to take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish hockey team on Nov. 12 and 13. Check the schedules and grab your rally towels to cheer on the Irish.
Notre Dame Women's Basketball Full Schedule
- November 6 | Stonehill
- November 10 | Detroit Mercy
- November 18 | Southern University
Notre Dame Men's Basketball Full Schedule
- November 5 | Mercyhurst
- November 9 | Eastern Illinois
- November 11 | South Carolina State
- November 24 | Central Michigan
- November 28 | Stonehill
*Basketball game times for the 2026-27 season are TBA
Notre Dame Hockey Full Schedule
- November 12 @ 7 PM | Michigan State
- November 13 @ 7 PM | Michigan State
- November 24 @ 6:30 PM | Bowling Green
- November 27 @ 3 PM | Boston College
Holiday Craft Fair
Head to the Holiday Craft Fair at the Battell Community Center on Nov. 14, which will feature a wide array of handcrafted items, unique jewelry and charming decor. The event is from 9 AM to 1 PM and is a wonderful opportunity to support local and jump-start your holiday shopping.
Skating Around Town
Dipping temperatures mean one of the Midwest's favorite winter activities is back! The Howard Park ice trail officially opens Nov. 27. This trail includes a bridge and loops around a state-of-the-art playground. Visitors will want to reserve ice time in advance all season.
The Ironworks Ice Rink is part traditional rink and part ribbon, which makes for an awesome setting for skaters of all skill levels. Skating is available only by reservation, so it's best to make sure you sign up for a skating time in advance. Ironworks also offers bumper cars and icebyks!
Experience more that we have to offer in the cooler season! Our top 5 Fun Outdoor Winter Activities blog gives you the best suggestions for exploring The Bend in winter.
View Christmas Lights
Holiday Lights on the Diamond
Starting Nov. 13, Four Winds Field will be transforming its baseball diamond into a luminous Christmas light attraction. Visit the stadium and be wowed by the lit-up holiday scenes put on display on the baseball field. The event will stay up throughout the months of November and December.
Lights of Liberty
Take a magical holiday light walk in North Liberty at the Lights of Liberty Holiday Light Walk. The walking trail will be complete with dazzling lights, festive decorations, Santa's workshop, twinkling trees, and food trucks. There are guaranteed special surprises and interactive elements. A perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
Available November Dates:
- November 20 - 21
- November 27 - 28
Shop Small Boutiques
The Bend is home to so many unique boutiques where you can find gifts, art, antiques, jewelry, locally made goods, and so much more. Small Business Saturday Nov. 28 is the perfect opportunity to get a jump on your holiday shopping lists. Check out our list for boutique shopping around The Bend for ideas of the spots to visit and support local!
Christmas Celebrations
Holladay Christkindle Fest
Ring in the Christmas season early with the Holladay Christkindle Fest at the Inn at Saint Mary's. On Nov. 27th from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. browse a craft market, cheer on Santa's arrival (and even grab a picture with the jolly man himself), watch the Christmas tree lighting, and enjoy family-fun activities for the kids.
Christmas in New Carlisle
Christmas in New Carlisle returns for another year on Nov. 29, when shopping, games, holiday treats, and season's delights spread throughout downtown New Carlisle. You'll be able to find Santa and also the Grinch for photo opportunities. Bring your pup decked out in their best holiday outfit for a photo contest. Stick around for the 31st Annual Lighted Parade at 6 p.m.
Read our How to Spend the Holiday Season in South Bend & Mishawaka blog for more ways to get into the holiday spirit!
Explore the Indiana Dinosaur Museum
The Indiana Dinosaur Museum is the perfect place to spend a chilly day indoors and explore the fall colors outdoors! IDM offers a prehistoric experience in a 21st-century setting. Warm up with a coffee or hot chocolate at the South Bend Chocolate Cafe on-site, where you can also explore the South Bend Chocolate Co. factory and museum.
Stroll through the multiple trails on the museum's campus to view the fall colors, and even catch a view of the Golden Dome from the Notre Dame Overlook Trail. Grab a bite to eat at the South Bend Public House and indulge in some local, artisanal, and seasonal goods at South Bend Farms.
Loving all the learning? Visit more of our museums for more indoor fun and educational lessons.
Late Fall Hikes Around The Bend
Sure, there's less foliage to draw our eyes as we get into late fall. But that's no reason to pack up the hiking boots. Explore all the places to go hiking in South Bend. Potato Creek State Park and St. Patrick's County Park are among the best to visit. If you're looking to make a leisurely walk along the St. Joseph River, head to the Mishawaka River Walk.
Don't miss out on the gorgeous foliage. Catch the best views with our 6 Picks: Spots for Fall Color blog that gives you all the local tips you need for seeing the leaves before they go.
Indoor Fun and Games
Sometimes the adventure goes inside.
Generations AdventurePlex: Generations AdventurePlex has activities for all ages. Laser tag, bowling, a drop tower, and the arcade are great for kids. There's also axe throwing and bocce ball.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park: A family favorite, Sky Zone in Mishawaka is like the best bounce house of all time. You can enjoy it in several ways, from a free climb area to a toddler zone for younger children.
Strikes and Spares Entertainment Center: Bowling, mini bowling, black light mini golf, go-karts, arcade, bumper cars — those are just some of the options at this popular Mishawaka family fun destination.
Generations Raceway: An indoor go-karting space that also has a mini golf course, modern-style games, and more race-inspired activities. Their Putt Mania mini golf infuses technology into their course with digital scorecards and interactive spaces.
Stay and play at Four Winds Casino Hotel
Book a hotel room at Four Winds Hotel and escape the everyday with all the hotel amenities you expect to find at a luxury resort. Four Winds Casino South Bend features a huge gaming floor — with slot machines and table games — and some of the area's best restaurants. You can also dine in style at Copper Rock Steakhouse, and Kankakee Grille among other restaurants, and relax at the Cedar Spa.
Whether you’re up for a quick getaway close to home or visiting town to watch your favorite South Bend team take on a win, Four Winds South Bend Hotel will give you a refined resort experience.
Events Around The Bend
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