Things to Do this July in South Bend & Mishawaka
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 Saturday, AND it's America's 250th birthday! Check our guide for ways to celebrate Independence Day in South Bend & Mishawaka.
Experience the 100th St. Joseph County 4-H Fair
Nothing says summer quite like the fair. Head to the midway for games and rides, walk through the animal barns and make sure to save room for some of your favorite fair food. This year's fair runs from July 3-11 with entertainment planned for every day. This year the fair will be celebrating America250! A spectacular fireworks show is scheduled for July 11.
RELATED CONTENT: St. Joseph County Fairgrounds

Walk the Town with Wine
Eat. Drink. Downtown South Bend's monthly summer Wine Walks continue July 8. 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 11 for the Concours d'Elegance at Copshaholm. It's a great opportunity to explore the museum campus.
RELATED CONTENT: Studebaker National Museum

Vibes Music Fest
Howard Park is bringing the vibes with the 7th annual Vibes Music Festival July 11. Enjoy a celebration of culture and talent with a diverse lineup of artists, creatives and entrepreneurs.
Kamm Island Fest
Kamm Island Fest is back this year July 15. Enjoy Live music, local food and drinks, a little car show action, and a whole lot of running into people you haven’t seen since last summer.
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

Jeff Dunham: Artificial Intelligence at The Morris
The internationally acclaimed American ventriloquist and stand-up comedian Jeff Dunham hits the Morris stage July 17. Recognized for reviving ventriloquism, Dunham has appeared on numerous television shows and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

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

Music in the Gardens
The Whistle Pigs take center stage July 31 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 17-19, and July 21-26. You can expect fun for the whole family, delicious food and great promotions like Thirsty Thursday and Fantastic Friday Fireworks.
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 24-August 9 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.
The Taylor Experience
The Taylor Experience is back at Ironworks Plaza July 31! Get ready to sing your heart out, dance with your friends, and relive all your favorite Taylor hits performed by Taylorville Band . It’s a night every Swiftie will love.

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!



















