How to Spend the Holiday Season in South Bend & Mishawaka
The holiday season in The Bend brings a warm, festive glow to the chilly Midwest days.
Downtown streets sparkle with twinkling lights, local shops and restaurants buzz with cheerful energy, and beloved traditions return. Whether you're exploring vibrant holiday markets, catching a show, or soaking in the magic of the Oliver Mansion, the season feels special at every turn.
Gift of Lights at Potawatomi Zoo
Animals want to enjoy the holidays too! Visit the Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend for a wonderland of lights and seasonal activities. The Gift of Lights is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays starting 5 p.m. Nov. 28-Dec. 28. Enjoy a wonderland of lights and seasonal activities designed to delight children of all ages at this special time of year. Visit Santa, ride the train, feed a giraffe, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Christmas in New Carlisle
Head to this charming small town from 1-6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 30 for Christmas in New Carlisle, a day with craft and food vendors, photos with Santa and a real-life reindeer (Prancer), games for kids, live music, and a lighted parade. The lighted parade will take place from 6-7 p.m. You can also bring your pup dressed up in Christmas gear for a photo contest!
Christmas Tree Lighting at Inn at Saint Mary's
Don't miss your chance to see a spectecular Christmas tree lighting at the Inn at Saint Mary's Dec. 2. The Norway Pine is anticipated to be 70 feet tall. This year's celebration will also feature a spectacular fireworks show, hot cocoa, cookies, visits with Santa and more. This event will support LOGAN and their Holiday Gift Drive. Sign up here.
Holidays and History
Insights in History – The History of Christmas Caroling
Curator of Copshaholm, Amber Gabel, will detail the history of this wholesome activity, from how caroling began to how it looks in the modern day.. A first-floor tour of the Oliver Mansion decorated for the season will be offered. The event will take place on Dec. 3, and reservations are required by Dec. 1 by calling 574-235-9664 ext. 6256
Christmas at Copshaholm
Christmas at Copshaholm is back Dec. 7 and 14. The elegant Oliver Mansion is decorated beautifully for the holidays, and self-guided tours are a wonderful way to enjoy the home’s Yuletide splendor. Christmas trees can be found on all three floors of the historic house. Fireplace mantels and tabletops with Yuletide décor add to the beauty of the home. Live piano music can be heard throughout the mansion, and kids can have fun with an “Elf-on-the-Copsha-Shelf.” In the Carriage House, young ones can decorate ornaments, write a personal letter to Santa, and more!
Catch a Holiday Show
From annual favorites such as The Nutcracker and Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the newly renovated Morris Performing Arts Center, to new performances at the South Bend Civic Theatre and unique Notre Dame offerings at DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, there is a show or performance for everyone. Don't miss these holiday shows in South Bend this season!
Tree Lighting and Santa’s Arrival in Downtown South Bend
Come see Santa make his grand entrance to South Bend! Downtown South Bend’s First Friday kicks off Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. with live music and performances, giveaways, fireworks and more! Santa will light the tree at 6 p.m. and Santa’s House will officially open for visitors at approximately 6:30-9 p.m. No reservations are required this year. Check Santa's schedule. Don't miss DTSB's Light Parade Dec. 12 from 7-8 p.m., taking place along E. Jefferson Boulevard. Enjoy ice skating at Howard Park and visits with Santa on the Gridiron. Santa's House will be open from 5-6:30 p.m., and 8-9 p.m.
Winterfest in Mishawaka
Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season on Ironworks Avenue. The evening will start with a lighted parade, and will include a ton of amazing attractions including a tree lighting, pictures with Santa, a holiday market, food trucks, a trackless train, axe throwing, fire performers, an ice carver, and more. Skate on the Ironworks Ice Rink while surrounded by holiday splendor! The event will take place on Dec. 6 from 5-8 p.m. at the Ironworks Plaza.
Lights of Liberty
Take a journey through a winter wonderland filled with dazzling lights and festive decorations. The walking trail will be complete with Santa's workshop, twinkling trees, food trucks, interactive surprises and more. Check here for more information on dates and location.
Indiana Dinosaur Museum Christmas Market
Stop by the Indiana Dinosaur Museum between Dec. 12-23 for their Christmas market! Meet the Grinch, Santa, Mrs. Claus, and stroll through the village of snow globes and ornaments. Try out sledding and cross country skiing then cozy up to the fire with hot chocolate. Don't forget to stop through T-Rex's gift shop for some gift shopping! Check the daily schedule here.
Ice Skate Around Town
Howard Park
Grab your hat and gloves because ice skating at Howard Park is back on Nov. 28! Skate around an ice trail with rolling hills and soft curves. If you’re looking for a more traditional skating experience, check out the ice pond attached to the trail. Reserve ice time in advance. Don't miss Howard Park's Winter Open Week with a list of activities to kick off the season.
Ironworks Ice Rink in Mishawaka
This is no ordinary ice rink. Ironworks Ice Rink offers bumper cars and icebyks for visitors to enjoy. Skating opens Dec. 6 by reservation only, so book here.
Shop Local
Chances are you need to buy holiday gits, and there are so many boutiques and local stores offering specials and unique gift ideas! Support local businesses this holiday season and check out our guide to boutique shopping around The Bend.
Visit a Holiday Pop-up Bar
When the holiday season hits, festive bars pop up around The Bend. These limited-time hotspots deck the halls with over-the-top décor, seasonal cocktails, playful themes and plenty of cheer. Whether you’re chasing a cozy winter vibe, a hilarious photo op, or a drink that tastes like pure Christmas spirit, South Bend and Mishawaka’s holiday pop-ups are ready to make your nights merry and memorable. Check our blog for Holiday Pop-up Bars in South Bend & Mishawaka.
FOR MORE HOLIDAY EVENTS, VISIT OUR EVENTS CALENDAR.
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