South Bend Fusion Fest
September 26 & 27, 2026
South Bend Fusion Fest brings cultures, creativity, and community together in one vibrant celebration.
This energetic festival in Downtown South Bend showcases the city’s diverse heritage through live music, global flavors, interactive art, and performances that highlight traditions from around the world.
About South Bend Fusion Fest
Fusion Fest captures the spirit of The Bend—dynamic, welcoming, and proudly multicultural. The festival began in 1974 as Ethnic Fest and was created to celebrate the 200th anniversary of U.S. independence and quickly became a beloved annual tradition. In 2001, it was rebranded as Summer in the City, which ran through 2004. After a two-decade hiatus, the festival returned in its current form as South Bend Fusion Fest.
Today, Fusion Fest takes over the entirety of Howard Park and surrounding streets, organized by global regions: North America/South America, Africa, Islands, and Europe/Asia. Each region features its own stages and vendors.
Attendees can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, sample food from around the, and learn more about cultures outside of their own by participating in hands-on activities and workshops. The festival is a snapshot of the community that makes South Bend such a special place.
Learn more about Fusion Fest by visiting sbfusionfest.com.
When & Where
Date
September 26 & 27, 2026
Time
- Saturday, Sept. 26: 12 pm - 8 pm
- Sunday, Sept. 27: 12 pm - 6 pm
Location
Howard Park (219 S Saint Louis Blvd, South Bend, IN 46617)
Admission
South Bend Fusion Fest is a FREE, family-friendly event.
Event Details
Cultural Performances
Five stages, one weekend of dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, theatre, and live music celebrating the cultures of North America, South America, Europe, Africa and Asia. Each stage has a full lineup of performances and headliners!
See the full Fusion Fest music lineup and performance schedule.
Local & International Cuisine
Sample cuisines from around the world and South Bend during Fusion Fest. Each year brings new dishes to the festival, but you can expect favorites like empanadas, injera and lentil stews, tacos, pierogies, lemongrass beef skewers, eggrolls, and ice cream.
Interactive Activities & Sessions
Learn about the many cultures celebrated at Fusion Fest through hands-on activities, crafts, games, and interactive sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for Fusion Fest?
Parking is available at the Wayne Street Garage, Crowe Lot, and Everwise Credit Union on Jefferson. Street parking is also available within walking distance of Howard Park. Paid parking is available at Century Center.
ADA-accessible parking is available at the Zion Church Lot and an ADA-accessible shuttle will stop at St. Joseph High School Lot and School Field Lot.
What accessibility accommodations will there be?
Accommodations include a trackless train to help get visitors around the park and sensory-friendly indoor spaces. Explore the official accessibility guide for South Bend Fusion Fest for a full list of accommodations.
Is South Bend Fusion Fest dog-friendly?
Service animals are welcome at the event and service animal verification will take place at bag check locations throughout the festival. Pets must stay home.
Are there volunteer opportunities at Fusion Fest South Bend?
Absolutely, volunteers help make South Bend Fusion Fest happen! Volunteers can sign up to help with setup on Friday, different parts of the festival including the Welcome Crew and Kids Zone, and cleanup on Monday.
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