Indiana Dunes Events

Thinking of putting “events near me” into that search bar? Don’t bother. If you’re looking for things to do in Northwest Indiana this weekend, you’ve already arrived at your destination!

Spring

Swinging by the Dunes in the spring? The Maple Sugar Time Festival at the historic Chellberg Farm in Indiana Dunes National Park is all about sap and syrup, usually scheduled in March. For fans of our feathered friends, the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival makes birdwatchers’ hearts sing every May!

Summer 

If you’re stopping by in the summer, catch a movie at the cinema under the stars. Central Park Plaza picks a flick to play every Tuesday in June and July! The same park also puts on a weekly summer concert series for live music lovers. In September, say “see ya” to the season with the Outdoor Adventure Festival. 

Fall 

When the weather cools, Chesterton’s European Market is a popular spot to shop local. Grab your bag and browse around any Saturday through the end of October. For a taste of traditional fall fun, visit the Autumn Promenade in downtown Valparaiso or the fall fest at County Line Orchard—both designed with families in mind!

Winter 

Here in the thick of winter frost and flakes? Kick off the Christmas season with the Winter Fest and Tree Lighting, then admire thoughtfully decorated trees at the Duneland Festival of Trees. And Christmas just isn’t Christmas without the Jingle Bell Run in Chesterton on Christmas Eve! Can you outrun Santa’s reindeer?