The Top 10 Fun Things to Do in South Bend This Spring and Summer

It's time to get the kids out of the house and shake off that deep winter hibernation!

The warmer weather brings so many events, activities and programs. Whether you’re rocking your way through college or a busy family of 5, we’ve narrowed down the top 10 things to do. Mark your calendar, start your bucket list and get ready to have a summer to remember!

1. BEST. WEEK. EVER. 2018

MAY 28 – JUNE 3

It’s going to be the Best. Week. Ever. again in South Bend! You’ll want to call in sick to work, because this week will be jam-packed with awesome concerts and live music, parades, fireworks, festivals, and more.

TIMES VARY | COSTS VARY

2. CANNONBALL! COOL OFF WITH A WATER ACTIVITY

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER

Put the swim suits on, pack a picnic and plan a day with the family at one of the splash pads or pools South Bend offers. Feeling adventurous? Take a trip down the East Race Waterway. This manmade white-water rafting course is the first of its kind in North America.

TIMES VARY | COSTS VARY | sbvpa.org/activities/aquatics

3. Phantom of the Opera

March 28 – April 8

Critics rave this breathtaking production is “bigger and better than ever before”, boasting exciting special effects including the show’s legendary chandelier. The beloved story and thrilling score will be performed by a cast and orchestra of 52, making it one of the largest productions ever one tour.

TIMES VARY | COSTS VARY | morriscenter.org

4. FORE! PLAY A ROUND OF GOLF

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER

VPA offers 3 golf courses, each with unique challenges for all skill levels. From the tight fairways of Erksine Park to the rolling oasis of Elbel’s terrain and historic charm of Studebaker, there’s something for everyone. Make a tee time and get swinging! (We won’t tell anyone how many mulligans you use.)

TIMES VARY | COSTS VARY | sbvpa.org/things-to-do/golf-courses/

5. DO GOOD AND VOLUNTEER

THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

We’ve got an entirely new volunteer program, giving you and your family the chance to have fun while playing a vital role within VPA events and programs.

TIMES VARY | FREE | sbvpa.org/sponsors

6. ENJOY LOCAL ARTISTS AT ART BEAT

AUGUST 18

It’s one of the largest annual event held in downtown South Bend! The streets will be filled to celebrate our local artists. From performing to visual and culinary arts, your sensory will be filled with the beauty and talent our local artists offer.

TIMES TBD | FREE | artbeatsouthbend.com

7. VISIT THE RIVER LIGHTS

YEAR-ROUND

Enjoy the splash of color on the St. Joseph river in downtown South Bend. These interactive light sculptures are the only one of their kind in the world, and are the perfect spot for a selfie.

1/2 HOUR PRIOR TO SUNSET THROUGH SUNRISE. INTERACTIVE FEATURE ENDS AT 12AM | COST IS FREE | southbendriverlights.com

8. DANCE TO LIVE MUSIC

FRIDAYS & SUNDAYS, JUNE – AUGUST

Bring a chair and relax to a variety of bands and musicians all summer long at Fridays by the Fountain and the Potawatomi Park Concert Series. Both promise to provide various genres for every taste along with food trucks and other vendors to zap your hunger.

TIMES VARY | FREE | morriscenter.org / sbvpa.org

9. EXPLORE THE TRAILS

YEAR-ROUND

Take a hike or ride your bike through the 40 acres of trails and 160 acres of rolling woodlands within Rum Village Park. Home to diverse wildlife, you’ll most likely spot a deer, fox, or bird that calls Rum Village home!

SUNRISE TO SUNSET | FREE | sbvpa.org

10. PLAY A ROUND OF TENNIS

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER

Get out and play on one of the largest public tennis complexes in the area with 14 hard courts. The Leeper Park Tennis Complex has a variety of tennis programs, satellite camps, lessons, and opportunities for recreational play.

TIMES VARY | COSTS VARY | sbvpa.org/activities/tennis

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