Things to Do this July in South Bend & Mishawaka

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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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!

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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.

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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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!