Explore Zoo Luminate

A spectacular lantern festival made of huge, luminous, artistic lanterns is decorating Potawatomi Zoo! In partnership with Tianyu, an experienced lantern festival producer, Zoo Luminate brings more than 60 lantern displays to life. The lanterns will only be on display until May 25, so don't miss out on this unique experience. 

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Zoo Luminate Tiger

Attend the Blue-Gold Game 

Football season isn't only for the fall. Notre Dame hosts its annual Blue-Gold Game at 2 p.m. April 12, offering a chance to preview the team before it takes the field next season. There are many other spring sports at Notre Dame, including Notre Dame Men's Lacrosse who are back-to-back National Champions. Don't forget to explore the new Link Trail connecting Downtown South Bend to the campus of Notre Dame.

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Experience Intercollegiate U.S. Figure Skating

The National Intercollegiate U.S. Figure Skating Final is taking the ice at Compton Family Ice Arena April 11-13. The competition is held annually in April where 16 intercollegiate teams advance to the finals following competitions in their respected conferences. Nearly 300 skaters will compete in 43 events, including current and past Olympians. 

Watch South Bend Cubs Baseball

Baseball is back at one of the country's best Minor League stadiums. The Cubs open April 8 at Four Winds Field and play several home games during the first month of the season. You can expect fun for the whole family, delicious food and great promotions. 

 

Family Fun at First Fridays: 'Game On!'

Downtown South Bend is celebrating sports and games this First Fridays with a "Game On!" theme. Enjoy playing fun games at the Gridiron, live music, art exhibits, and more!

Visit the Museum District in the 1920's

When was the last time you visited the museums? The History Museum and Studebaker National Museum both have compelling exhibits to explore. Don't miss their combined event, Bootlegger's Bash taking place April 25. Experience the high energy of a Gatsby-style soirée with live jazz from The Blackhawk Broadcasters, handcrafted cocktails featuring spirits from Journeyman Distillery, and a variety of 1920s-themed programs that bring the era to life!

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Bootlegger's Bash

"The Sun Will Come Out," this April!

Theater lovers rejoice for an exciting lineup of shows this month. Purchase your tickets for an entertaining afternoon or evening! Enjoy Broadway in The Bend at Morris Performing Arts Center all year long.

CHICAGO: The Musical - April 4-6, 2025 

CHICAGO is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen.

Annie - April 24, 2025 

Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and just when we need it most.

Celebrate Easter and Dyngus Day

Hoppy Easter season! There are some fun egg hunts and events happening around town this month. Don't forget, everyone's Polish on Dyngus Day in The Bend.

Easter Events

Network at IDEA Week

From hands-on workshops to compelling keynotes featuring industry leaders like Ashley Flowers and Max Yoder, IDEA Week offers something for every entrepreneur and community leader. You’ll have the opportunity to dive deep into practical skills with expert-led sessions, experience innovative demos across technology, food, and entertainment, and connect with fellow innovators during our networking events and unique dining experiences. Don't miss the headliner concert, OK Go, taking place April 23 at the Morris Performing Arts Center.

Head Out for a Hike 

As spring takes shape and The Bend comes into bloom, there's no better time to get outside. Some of our best hiking spots will be ready for your boots to hit the trail. 

RELATED CONTENT: Outdoors & Recreation

 

Fore! Hit the Green for some Golf

The weather is warmer (we hope!) and it's time for a round, or a few, of golf. There are a few championship-caliber options to choose from. Check Your Guide to a South Bend Golf Getaway for some inspo.

Events Around The Bend

Celebration for a King Jan 15

Celebration for a King

The Symphony partners with Greater St. John Missionary Baptist Church to bring music to the…