As we make our way into fall and into the holidays, the South Bend and surrounding communities will offer a variety of events, including festivals, holiday bazaars, and theater productions, certain to pique your interest.
Gather your family or friends, get in the car and attend one, or all, of these exciting events scheduled for the week of Dec. 1 to Dec. 7, 2025.
GOSHEN’S NIGHTS OF LIGHTS — Light up your holiday season with a spectacular Christmas light show from now through Jan. 1 in Shanklin Park, 411 W. Plymouth Ave., Goshen. The light show will be open every night from 5 to 10 p.m. Bring your loved ones and take a walk through the mesmerizing light display and create a new family tradition. There is no admission fee.
LIGHTS AT FERNWOOD — Fernwood’s Garden, 13988 Range Line Road, Niles, has been transformed into a winter wonderland, twinkling with a light show that will dazzle your senses. Stroll through the garden, discover light sculptures, warm up at a fire pit, stop at the winter craft station or play with a full-sized Lite Brite. LIGHTS is open from now through Jan. 3. Tickets are $14-$5 (2 and under are free) and can be purchased at fernwoodbotanical.org/lights. Entry is at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., or 8 p.m. Daylight hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The garden will be closed every Monday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
GIFT OF LIGHTS — Potawatomi Zoo is offering its annual gift to South Bend with its Gift of Lights from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday and Saturday and from 5 to 8 p.m. Sundays now through Dec. 28. Kids can enjoy “Santa Paw” story time every 30 minutes starting at 5 p.m. Santa will be in the River Run Yurt every night and Princess Elsa will make an appearance every Friday and Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. South Bend Civic Theatre will have performances on Dec. 13 and 19. Feed the giraffes or take a ride on the train for an additional $3 each. There will be lots of food and warm drinks available for purchase and the gift shop will also be open. Regular admission is $14-$12. Zoo Members receive a discounted rate. Ages 2 and younger are admitted free. The Zoo is at 500 S. Greenlawn Ave., South Bend.
TOYS THROUGH TIME — Remember those favorite toys from your past? Ruthmere’s Holiday Tours will bring those memories back to life! Local designers and organizations have decorated the museum with toys from 1875 to today, covering 150 years. Each room will feature toys from a different era, and visitors will vote for their favorite. At the end of voting, Ruthmere will award $1,000 to a non-profit selected by the designer who wins. Tours will end Dec. 30. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Call 574-264-0330 to make a reservation. All tours begin at the Havilah Beardsley House, 102 W. Beardsley Ave., Elkhart. Ruthmere will be closed Dec. 7 and 14. Entire Ruthmere Campus will be closed Dec. 24-26. Hours: Tuesdays-Saturdays open at 10 a.m. with tours on the hour until 3 p.m.; Sundays open at 1 p.m. with tours on the hour until 3 p.m. Tickets: $20-$5; ruthmere.org.
THE CHRISTMAS CANDY CAPER MUSICAL — Blue Gate Music Hall, 175 N. Van Buren St., Shipshewana, presents “The Christmas Candy Caper” from now through Dec. 31. After years of playing pranks on her family and friends, Candy Shop owner Sadie Graber experiences real-life holiday danger when she is kidnapped. Unfortunately, the town believes the note is just another of Sadie’s pranks and they pay it no mind. Now what will the kidnappers do with Sadie? Showtimes are at 1 and 7 p.m.; tickets are $39.95 (plus fees/tax). Go to thebluegate.com to find specifics on dates and times and to purchase tickets.
LIGHTS OF JOY — This extraordinary drive-through experience in Shipshewana is now home to more than two million LED Christmas lights displayed on an almost 2-mile symphony of colorful light scenes, animatronics and more. When you arrive, turn your radio to the Christmas music broadcast. The Lights of Joy will be held through Dec. 31, every day of the week excluding Dec. 25. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Sundays to Thursdays and 6 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. All cars in line by close will be admitted. The cost is $30 per vehicle; motorcoaches are $250-$100. A 5-visit season pass can be purchased for $100. Lights of Joy is held on the Shipshewana Flea Market grounds at 345 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana. Enter from Indiana 5 and look for the lighted signs because the entrance may move depending on the night. Purchase tickets at shipshewanalightsofjoy.com.
THE MATCHMAKER — Stageworks, the Acting Ensemble Staged Reading Series, will present Thornton Wilder’s “The Matchmaker” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2. Wilder’s farce about love and money stars the irrepressible busybody Dolly Gallagher Levi who brings several unlikely couples together to find happiness in 19th century New York. Tickets are $11-$10 and can be purchased at actingensemble.com/box-office. Seating is limited. Acting Ensemble, 602 E. Mishawaka Ave., Mishawaka.
DTSB FIRST FRIDAYS — From 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 5, South Bend will host “Downtown for the Holidays” as its First Fridays theme this month. First Fridays feature live music, dining and retail specials, art, kid-friendly activities and much more. Most events are free; downtownsouthbend.com/first-Fridays.
GOSHEN FIRST FRIDAYS — Hometown Holiday is the theme of this month’s First Fridays event from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 5. Events include singing carols on Main Street, watching the tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. on West Washington and a performance by Phoenix Performing Arts. Shop the Holiday Market at the Goshen Theater at 216 S. Main St., and there is plenty to keep the kids entertained.
LUBEZNIK CENTER FOR THE ARTS FIRST FRIDAY — All are welcome to enjoy an evening of holiday songs, art, hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. The Holiday Artisan Market will also be open for shopping for unique handmade items. The Krueger Middle School’s Advance Chorus will perform at 6 p.m. This event will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 (all times Central). Lubeznik Center is at 101 W. Second St., Michigan City.
HOLIDAY DREAMS FAMILY CIRQUE — Holograms, projection mapping, interactive lasers and award-winning cirque artists come together for a spectacular holiday production. Holiday Dreams is a modern holiday show featuring cirque artists, comedy, daredevils and more. Blue Gate Performing Arts Center, 760 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana. Tickets are $75-$30 and can be purchased at thebluegate.com for Dec. 5. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL — Twin City Players presents “A Christmas Carol” by John Jakes, based on the novel by Charles Dickens. The timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5-6, 12-13 19-20 and at 2 p.m. Dec. 7, 14 and 21. Tickets are $20-$15 and can be purchased at twincityplayers.org. Twin City Players, 600 W. Glenlord Road, St. Joseph.
THE COTTAGE — The Acting Ensemble Mainstage Studio full production will present “The Cottage” by Sandy Rustin on Dec. 5-6 and 12-13 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 7 and 14 at 2 p.m. This sidesplitting screwball comedy is must-see. An annual clandestine rendezvous gone wrong for Sylvia and Beau brings laughs, twists and a happy ending for lovers everywhere. Tickets are $19-$16 and can be purchased online at actingensemble.com/box-office. Acting Ensemble, 602 E. Mishawaka Ave., Mishawaka.
LIGHTS OF LIBERTY — Embark on a magical holiday adventure in North Liberty. The Stellar Trail is transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland with lights, decorations and holiday cheer for attendees of all ages. There will be interactive displays and treats from local food trucks. Lights of Liberty will be open from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5-6 and Dec. 12-13, and admission is a free will donation. The Steller Trail is located at 400 School Drive, North Liberty.
SCROOGE! THE MUSICAL — LaPorte Little Theatre presents “Scrooge!” on Dec. 5, 6 and 7. Come see this timeless musical adaptation by Leslie Bricusse. Miserly Ebenezer Scrooge undergoes a profound experience of redemption over the course of a Christmas Eve night after being visited by the ghosts of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. Sunday (times are Central). Tickets are $19-$15 and can be purchased online at laportelittletheatreclub.com. The theatre is at 218 A Street, LaPorte.
WINTERFEST — One of the best events in Mishawaka will kick off from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 6 with a lighted parade and tree lighting at Ironwork Plaza in downtown Mishawaka. The Winterfest includes food vendors, a holiday market, pictures with Santa, trackless train rides, ice carving, fire performers, axe-throwing and ice skating. Admission is free.
XL FAMILY FUN FEST — Krasl Art Center, 707 Lake Blvd., St. Joseph, will host this event on Dec. 6. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., join the fun with a $10 punch card giving access to a range of activities tailored for children ages 5 to 12. Activities include holiday-themed carnival games, craft stations, face painting, cupcake or cookie decorating, and more. There are also several free family-friendly activities including photo board, scavenger hunt, snacks and more. There will also be a family group photo opportunity with a holiday backdrop. There will be a holiday-inspired Costume Parade at noon — wear your holiday attire and be part of the parade. At 1 p.m., enjoy puppeteer Jean Kuecher performing “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
WOLF PARK’S ANNUAL HOWLIDAY HOWL NIGHT — Enjoy hot drinks, visit Santa, and howl with the wolves during this popular Howl Night program on Dec. 6 at Wolf Park, 4004 E. 800 N., Battle Ground, Indiana. The evening begins with Santa and Howliday activities from 6 to 7 p.m. Take a self-guided tour from 6:30 to 7 p.m. and then take part in the Howl Night program from 7 to 8 p.m. Cameras are welcome, but no flash photography. Tickets are $20-$17 with children 5 and younger free. Purchase tickets at visitwolfpark.org.
HOLIDAY VILLAGE – BRIDGMAN — Spend time on Dec. 6 in downtown Bridgman. This day will feature an entire afternoon of activities for participants of all ages. Returning favorites include the Holiday Pop-Up market, holiday movie, cookie decorating, pet parade, live Nativity, caroling, the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus, and much more. For a full list of activities and times, go online to tinyurl.com/HolidayVillage2025.
WINTERFEST — Elkhart Parks and Recreation invites everyone to downtown Elkhart to celebrate Winterfest on Dec. 6. Enjoy breakfast with Santa, shopping, kid’s activities, lighted parade, annual tree lighting ceremony and much more. For more information, visit elkhartindiana.org/government/parks/events.
MICHIGAN CITY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS — The Festival of Lights Parade will begin at 5 p.m. CT Dec. 6 and run south on Franklin Street through the Uptown Arts District from Fourth to Ninth Streets. After the parade, drive through millions of lights in Washington Park, 6 on the Lake, Michigan City. The lights will be open from 4 to 10 p.m. CT daily through Jan. 3.
FREE PICTURES WITH SANTA — Bring your camera and two non-perishable food items per person and have your picture taken with Santa. Linton’s Enchanted Gardens, 315 County Road 17, Elkhart, will host Santa from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1:30 to 5 p.m. on Dec. 6-7, 13-14 and 20-24. Take a ride on the Polar Express for $4.99 and decorate two cookies for $1.99. Donations will go to Shepherd’s Cove Food Pantry.
FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA — Santa will be at Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets throughout the holiday season in the former Information Center. He will greet children from 2 to 4 p.m. CT on Dec. 6, 13 and 20. Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets is at 601 Wabash St., Michigan City.
CRAFTING WITH THE CREATURES — Celebrate the season by crafting with Potawatomi Zoo’s animals at a family-friendly holiday experience. Meet one of the ambassador animals and learn about them while they paint an ornament or card. Put on your own finishing touches with art materials provided. Cookies and punch will be served while you work. Book your time now for 4 to 5 p.m. on Dec. 6, 12 or 20 at potawatomizoo.org. Admission (includes admission to The Gift of Lights): adults (ages 15 to 61), $30; seniors (62+), $25; children (ages 3 to 14), $20; ages 2 and younger, free. Children under 14 must be accompanied by a paid adult. Zoo members receive a 10% discount. The Zoo is at 500 S. Greenlawn Ave., South Bend.
SANTA TRAINS — Santa will depart with a train load of winter fun on Saturdays through December and he wants you and your family to come along. The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum, 507 Mulberry St., North Judson, will offer rides with Santa on a diesel-powered train at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. (Central Time) on Dec. 6, 13 and 20. Ride through the wintry countryside from the depot to the small town of English Lake and back. During the trip, passengers will enjoy visiting Santa and each child and toddler will receive a gift bag from Santa. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended because seating is restricted to give Santa enough time to visit and take pictures with passengers. Purchase tickets at www.hoosiervalley.org or call the depot at 574-896-3950 on Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CT. Tickets are $110 (First class private room) to $20 (child’s economy coach). Ages 2 and younger are free. While you are there, visit the museum and grounds, where admission is always free.
THE MAN WHO CAME TO DINNER — South Bend Civic Theatre’s Readers Theatre (staged reading) will present “The Man Who Came to Dinner” at 2 p.m. Dec. 7. This classic comedy is about the world’s worst house guest. Sheridan Whiteside, theatre critic, slips on ice while visiting the Stanley family, then refuses to leave, inflicting himself on the family for six weeks over Christmas. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at sbct.org. SBCT is at 403 N. Main St., South Bend.
ALTERNATIVE GIFT FAIR — Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren, 53105 Ironwood Road, South Bend, will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6. Jewelry, handbags, scarves, baked goods, soup mixes and more will be available from a variety of vendors including Ten Thousand Villages in Goshen, St. Margaret’s House, Unity Gardens and more.
BASC HOLIDAY BAZAAR — The Buchanan Area Senior Center will hold its bazaar from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6 at 810 Rynearson St., Buchanan. There will be 23 vendors selling handmade items that include jewelry, holiday décor, fashion accessories, woodwork, baked goods, local honey and more. Over 20 door prizes. Sloppy Joe boxed lunch available.
BE YOUR OWN SANTA — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6, TRC, 1165 Franklin St., South Bend. Sponsored by South Bend Entrepreneurship and Adversity Program. Shop and support Michiana entrepreneurs, take holiday photos, family-friendly, live music and food.
CHRISTMAS COOKIE SALE AND CRAFT BAZAAR — Coalbush United Methodist Church, 15977 Jackson Road, Mishawaka, will hold its bazaar from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6. More than 15 specialty cookies in half dozen bags, $4. All cookies available until sold out. Craft Bazaar: artisans selling handmade wares such as ceramics, ornaments, stained glass, gift baskets, breads, jams, clothing, artwork and more. Concessions available featuring church’s famous Sloppy Joe. Sloppy Joe is available for purchase in 6-serving frozen bags at $12.
COOKIE WALK AND CRAFT SHOW — 8 to 11 a.m. Dec. 6, Trinity United Methodist Church, 425 S. Michigan St., Plymouth. Baked items include cookies, bars and candies. Crafts include cloth books, jewelry, pottery and more. Silent auction for a handmade quilt. Sponsored by Trinity United Women of Faith.
CRAFT FAIR AND COOKIE WALK — 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6, St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, 915 N. Ironwood Drive, South Bend. A variety of vendors with an array of items to complete your holiday shopping. Holiday treats may be purchased by the pound. Lunch and beverages available at the café.
THE ELF EXPERIENCE — This pop-up market will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 6 at Southgate Crossing, 27751 County Road 26, Elkhart. Arts and crafts, antiques and delicious food. Bring the kids to meet Buddy and Jovie, some lovable elves. At 1 p.m., gather round for Story Time with Buddy and Jovie.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE — Soup of Success Store will host an open house from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6 at Church Community Services, 907 Oakland Ave., Elkhart. Sample soup, cookies and dip mixes; try on mittens; enjoy soy candles and trees. All products are made by Soup of Success participants and volunteers. Proceeds from product sales are returned to the program to pay training wages for local women who are working through difficult situations and gaining a better life; soupofsuccess.com.
LYDICK HOLIDAY COOKIE WALK — 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 6, Lydick United Methodist Church, 26510 W. Edison Road, South Bend. Choose your own cookies; kieflies are prepackaged. Cookies: $7 per pound. Kieflies: $7.50 per half dozen; $15 per dozen. Cash or check accepted.
PET REFUGE CHRISTMAS BAZAAR — Pet Refuge will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6, with vendors of all kinds, a bake sale and free refreshments. Pictures with Santa and lots of dogs and cats available for adoption. Pet Refuge, 4626 S. Burnett Drive, South Bend.
SHIP-CHIC HOLIDAY CRAFT & VINTAGE SHOW — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 6, Shipshewana Auction Antique & Misc. Building, 345 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana. Sellers from all over the Midwest will feature holiday gifts, vintage items, home décor, crafts, clothing, accessories, beauty products, baked goods, signs and more. Admission: $5 per person at the door, children 14 and younger are free. First 100 shoppers will receive a reusable tote and four lucky bags will have a $25 gift certificate to be used at the show. Parking is free. Snacks and drinks available.