It's July in The Bend — where summer sizzles with small-town charm. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this vibrant month offers something for everyone: outdoor concerts, family‑friendly festivals, delicious eats, and patriotic celebrations. Here's a look at a few things to dive into this month!

Celebrate Independence Day

The 4th of July is one of the greatest summer celebrations. There are so many exciting activities and places to see fireworks around The Bend this year. Bonus, the holiday lands on a Friday! Check our guide for ways to celebrate Independence Day in South Bend & Mishawaka.

Experience the 100th St. Joseph County 4-H Fair 

One of summer's biggest events, the St. Joseph County 4-H Fair starts June 27 and runs through July 5 for it's 100th year. All your fair favorites will be there: food, midway rides, daily entertainment, animals and so much more.

 

4-H Fair ride

Walk the Town with Wine 

Eat. Drink. Downtown South Bend's monthly summer Wine Walks continue July 9. Gather your friends and taste around town at some of South Bend's best locally-owned restaurants and bars. You will find food and wine pairings at each location. Take your taste buds on a tour of downtown! Tickets are required in advance.

RELATED CONTENT: Restaurants

Concours d'Elegance at Copshaholm 

Car lovers and history buffs don't want to miss one of South Bend's marquee summer events. Classic automobiles from around the country will assemble on the grounds of the Oliver Mansion on July 12 for the Concours d'Elegance at Copshaholm. It's a great opportunity to explore the museum campus. 

RELATED CONTENT: Studebaker National Museum

 

Concourse

Kamm Island Fest

Kamm Island Fest is back this year July 16. Enjoy the "Taste of Mishawaka" sponsored by VSBM, live music by BLAMMO and The Rooster's, a car show and more.

Raft the East Race Waterway 

There are few thrills like splashing down the whitewater rapids right in the heart of downtown South Bend. Open from early June through Labor Day, the East Race Waterway is a one-of-a-kind experience. Make sure to book your tickets in advance and get the scoop on everything you need to know before you go. 

RELATED CONTENT: Outdoor Recreation, East Bank Village

Get Active

Fitness Bootcamp Nov 19

Fitness Bootcamp

Get moving every Wednesday from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Howard Park! Fitness Bootcamp features…

Latin Wednesday Nov 19

Latin Wednesday

Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue & More. Beginner's lesson of 30 minutes @7 PM, followed by open…

Shop the Mishawaka Market

The Mishawaka Market is a vibrant outdoor marketplace where local vendors come together to offer produce, crafts, baked goods, food trucks, a kids zone, live music, animal adoptions and more. Expect a lively atmosphere filled with delicious food, unique finds, and community spirit. Discover the best of what our local farmers and artisans have to offer at the Mishawaka Market! 

RELATED CONTENT: Farmers Markets

 

Mishawaka Market

Fun at Foam Fest

Foam Fest is back at Ironworks Plaza and ready for soapy, sudsy fun. From 11am-1pm July 12 you can expect waterslides, foam machines and more. 

Visit Potawatomi Zoo

Potawatomi Zoo's summer hours are underway at Indiana's first zoo. The zoo continues to be a family favorite with over 400 animals to visit. Feeding the giraffes is an unforgettable experience! You can also take part in the Bison Encounter or the Rhino Encounter. Hop on the Zoo Train and you’ll see many animals on site and, before you leave, take a ride on the hand-crafted and hand-painted Endangered Species Carousel. Cap off your trip by riding one of the 18 unique animals including a zebra, lion, leopard and tortoise.

RELATED CONTENT: Attractions

 

Potawatomi Zoo

Music in the Gardens

The Whistle Pigs take center stage as The History Museum presents this night of music, food, and fun once again at Music in the Gardens. Bring your lawn chairs, grab a spot around the stage and dance floor, and enjoy the summer vibes in the beautiful gardens. Be sure to come hungry, The Landing will be there with some summer favorites to enjoy.

RELATED CONTENT: The History Museum: Explore The Bend's Past

Summer Concerts Around The Bend

Cheer on the South Bend Cubs

Baseball season is in full swing at one of the country's best Minor League stadiums. The South Bend Cubs play at Four Winds Field from July 4-6, 18-20, and July 29-August 3. You can expect fun for the whole family, delicious food and great promotions like Thirsty Thursday and Fantastic Friday Fireworks, particularly on the 4th for Independence Day!

RELATED CONTENT: 10 Places to Eat and Drink Before a South Bend Cubs Game

Take Your Tastebuds to Summer Restaurant Weeks

Eat. Drink. Downtown South Bend's Summer Restaurant Weeks are back and tastier than ever. Taking place July 25-August 10 local restaurants will offer special menus to give you a true taste of what South Bend has to offer. Enjoy some of their most notable hand-crafted dishes on specially priced menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Check listings for updates on participating locations as dates draw near.

Summer Inspo

For more things to do during summer around South Bend and Mishawaka, including outdoor activities, patio dining, summer eats and sweet treats, visit our guide below!

A group of people rafter down the East Race Waterway in the heart of downtown South Bend

Summer In South Bend & Mishawaka

It’s the season for weekends you don’t want to end. The days are longer, the nights are warmer, and great times are guaranteed! There's no shortage of ways to spend your summer days…

Read More

Events Around The Bend

Fitness Bootcamp Nov 19

Fitness Bootcamp

Get moving every Wednesday from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Howard Park! Fitness Bootcamp features…

Latin Wednesday Nov 19

Latin Wednesday

Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue & More. Beginner's lesson of 30 minutes @7 PM, followed by open…

Pinhook Painters Nov 19

Pinhook Painters

Pinhook Painters welcomes artists of all abilities and mediums for studio time each Wednesday from…