Events in Kendallville, IN

Children and their caregivers begin with a short, curiosity-sparking story, then head outside to explore different parts of Merry Lea together. This monthly, 1.5 hour program is led by a Merry Lea educator for children ages 3 to 5, and younger siblings are welcome. Please plan to be outdoors for the entire session. Admission is free, and registration is not required for drop-in participation. Those who choose to register will be added to the Tales and Trails monthly email list, which provides updates such as the locations of upcoming sessions held at various sites around Merry Lea.

This is a free concert, and it will only take place if the weather allows.

Free evening concerts set the soundtrack for the DeKalb County Free Fall Fair, with each show beginning with an opener and culminating in a headliner. The lineup pairs OK Boomer with Forever Seger, Big Caddy Daddy with Steven Adler, All One Blue with Colt Ford, and JD3 with REkT. Every concert listed is free, and the music unfolds alongside classic fair favorites like food, rides, and plenty of fun.

Kruse Plaza in Auburn, IN hosts a large children’s consignment sale featuring tens of thousands of items. Browse higher quality brands of kids’ clothing, toys, shoes, decor, equipment, and more, all in one place. Recognized with awards, this event offers extensive variety and value for families.

Enjoy live music at a free concert featuring an opening set from All Gone Blue, followed by headliner Colt Ford. The event is subject to weather conditions.

Experience a family harvest festival along Historic Main Street in Kendallville during Apple Fest weekend.

Step into the early 19th century at a primitive-themed celebration made for families. This all-ages event centers on the look and feel of the early 1800s.

Experience Hollywood's golden era, when glamour left the soundstage and rolled through the city in mirror-bright, meticulously crafted automobiles. Discover how stars such as Clark Gable and Marlene Dietrich helped turn distinctive cars into markers of taste, prestige, and film history, tying classic cinema to American automotive design. Film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek leads a presentation on the allure of Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg models and the notable performers who owned them. The program features a multimedia format with images, film clips, and engaging stories.

Gateway’s free community fall festival and craft fair offers family-friendly fun with seasonal activities and treats. Enjoy pumpkin painting, a petting zoo, hayrides, mini golf, a barrel train, and inflatables, along with food and s’mores as a treat. Vendors interested in participating in the craft fair can find registration details in the event listing.

It features smoked meat and a chili cook-off, a cornhole tournament and volleyball, plus a bounce house, face painting, and a cake walk. The focus is on good food, friendly faces, and simple fun.

This free concert begins with JD3 as the opener, followed by REkT as the headliner. The event will be held only if weather allows.

Take the controls of a historic locomotive in a hands-on session that puts you in a crew role. On the Indiana Northeastern Railroad, participants operate over active freight trackage in steam or diesel, with opportunities behind Nickel Plate Road No. 765 and No. 358. Each session lasts about 45 minutes and runs at speeds up to 10 miles per hour. Engineer and fireman experiences are offered separately, and family members can purchase both to participate together. In steam, you can tend the fire and monitor how the engine responds at the throttle. In the cab of No. 358, a first generation EMD-built diesel responds directly to your commands from its prime mover. Engineer participants must be 18 or older with a valid driver’s license. Fireman participants must be at least 16. All participants should be in good health, have good mobility, and be able to climb ladders and stairs. Guests and personal electronic devices are not permitted in the cab, and a photo can be taken for you. Family and friends may watch from the ground or trackside. Boarding and parking details are included with the ticket. Participation is subject to terms and conditions.

A long-standing Fort Wayne Running Club tradition continues in support of Riley Children’s Hospital with the 20th Annual Run for Riley. Runners can choose a chip timed five mile race or a 5K. Both distances start at Maple Creek Middle School, follow the paved paths of the Fort Wayne Greenway, then split so each course follows its own route before finishing on the school track. After the finish, the cafeteria features a silent auction, five mile race awards, and the signature treats and snacks the event is known for. The overall donation total to Riley Hospital will be announced.

This family oriented carnival features exciting rides, food, and games for all ages. A welcoming setting offers plenty of ways to have fun together.

Enjoy live acoustic music alongside great food and drinks, and there is no cover charge.

This end of year Garden Lab looks back at the 2026 season, outlines plant and seed priorities for 2027, and invites discussion about new ways to expand growth and community impact. Participants can explore teaching Garden Labs and taking on a leadership role as a Certified Master Educator with the Angola Seed Exchange. Students may earn NHS and NJHS volunteer hours through hands on community service that supports local food security, and Master Gardeners can track volunteer hours by teaching, preparing materials, supporting events, or mentoring new gardeners. There is also an opportunity to work with the Volunteer Plant and Seed Exchange team, helping distribute free plants and seeds to families, youth groups, and the community.

Arkham Oddities presents the third annual Halloween-themed Fright Night, a festive gathering where costumes are encouraged and spooky fun takes center stage. Expect vendors and food trucks, a beer tent, and live bands, along with a haunted house and a spooky car show. The evening also features a costume contest plus a Vampire Queen and Princess pageant. Organizers will share updates as additional details are confirmed.

Enjoy an after-hours outing in Downtown Auburn with opportunities to dine, shop, and explore into the evening. A giveaway with purchase adds an extra perk to the experience.

Food Truck Fridays returns to Downtown Angola with a lunch hour edition that brings food trucks to downtown for a convenient midday break and a chance to support local. This installment is part of the ongoing Food Truck Fridays series in Downtown Angola.

A day in Frankenmuth, Michigan, often nicknamed Michigan's little Bavaria, centers on Christmas shopping. The plan starts with exploring the downtown shops and finishes with a visit to Bronner's Christmas Wonderland. Seats are $60.

A football-focused get-together featuring IU and Notre Dame, with food, music from DJ YATES, and a bingo game built around songs. Enjoy a simple mix of music, bingo, and college football.

Cruisin' With Blue Lake is an annual ride that raises funds for Blue Lake Association programs and activities. Riders and drivers of motorcycles, side-by-sides, ATVs, Jeeps, classic cars, and other street-legal vehicles are welcome to spend the day cruising together with featured stops along the route. The gathering is based at the Blue Lake Community Building, with on-site registration before the ride begins. Participants may add an optional poker run for $10 per hand, with cash prizes for the top three hands, and a 50/50 drawing is planned. A $20 donation per person supports the cause, and all proceeds benefit Blue Lake Association community projects and events. Route specifics will be shared as the event approaches, and winners are announced after the last vehicle is in.

At East Noble High School, the 9th Annual Mattress Fundraiser supports the East Noble HS Choir and Band Programs. A pop-up showroom will showcase name-brand options from Purple, Helix Sleep, and Therapedic, with prices significantly below typical retail. This is a one-day sale, and each purchase benefits the choir and band.

DeKalb County historian Mary Diehl and lifelong county resident Steve Provines explore the Works Project Administration outhouse project, sharing photographs of local outhouses that still stand today. The venue is the Historic Waterloo Depot, rather than the usual meeting location at the Willennar Genealogy Center.

Start the morning with easy conversation and community at 9th Street Brew Coffee House alongside the team from Betz Nursing Home. Enjoy a free cup of coffee provided by Betz while you catch up with friends, trade stories, and meet locals who care about making a difference. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for dropping in, chatting with friendly faces, and building connections. This recurring monthly meet-up centers on great coffee and meaningful community connections.

A homemade meal is offered by Food For All People in cooperation with The Lutheran Foundation. The menu is to be determined. Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church has been awarded a grant from The Lutheran Foundation to help fund Food For All People, with appreciation for this support of the ministry.

This free family event at Selman Timber Frame features games, prizes, face painting, refreshments, and pumpkin decorating. There is also a scenic hayride around the park.

Teens ages 14 to 17 can build confidence behind the wheel in a half-day, hands-on car care workshop. Guided by experienced instructors in a garage setting, participants practice changing a tire, checking air pressure, changing engine oil, identifying common dashboard controls, learning about sensors, and safely jump-starting a battery. Enrollment is limited to 12 participants to allow plenty of individual attention. The fee is $30 and includes the training session, safety gear, a driver’s manual, and a completion certificate. Registration is required. Presented in partnership by the National Automotive & Truck Museum and the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum, which are located together on the same historic campus.

Pumpkin Fest fills The James Cultural Plaza in historic downtown Auburn with family friendly fun and plenty of seasonal spirit. Food Network champion pumpkin carver Shannon Gerasimchik will present a live pumpkin carving demonstration, with 19 intricately carved pumpkins on display. The celebration features live music at the Plaza and at the Farmers Market, free cider from 9th Street Brewing Company, an All Things Pumpkin vendor market, food trucks, and a variety of games. Horse drawn carriage rides connect the Plaza and the Farmers Market, with free rides offered at 6th and Main by Auburn Main Street and the Horseman’s Association. The Kids Corner includes a free pumpkin decorating contest on a first come, first served basis with prize categories for ages 2 to 5, 6 to 12, and 13 to 18, plus a corn pit and a cookie and cake walk that continues until the treats are gone. Costumes are welcome, and the AMS booth will be handing out candy. Kim’s Korner Music will host bobbing for pumpkin ducks with prizes. Eckhart Public Library will share stories and an activity, and outside The Olive Twist you may spot a whimsical witch’s broom parking area with a playful warning that violators will be toad. Downtown eateries and sweet shops offer many options nearby, including 9th Street Brew Coffee House, Classic City Cookies, Auburn City Steakhouse, Carve Market, The Olive Twist, Pizza Forum, Classic City Creamery, Mimi’s, Mad Anthony’s Tap Room, Barrel and Blaze, Cupka’s Bee Good Meadery, and Cranberry Cottage Tea Room and Boutique. Local boutiques and galleries invite browsing as well, such as Cranberry Cottage’s resale boutique, Kim’s Korner Music, The Sprinkling Can, Country Lane General Store, Heirloom Gallery, The Olive Twist, Lyn Maree’s Boutique, Birch and Bell Boutique, Little Sprouts Boutique, Atrium Marketplace, Nature’s Mercantile, All About You Boutique, Blue Fruit Jar, and Forget Me Not Boutique. Carbaugh Jewelers will feature 20% off remaining Bentelli sterling silver and diamond jewelry. Support for Pumpkin Fest comes from sponsors including legacy sponsor The City of Auburn, corporate sponsors FCI Construction, Classic City Body & Paint, Classic City Detail, and Morgan Hefty State Farm Insurance, along with event sponsors Color Master and Carbaugh Jewelers.

This gathering takes place in a lovely setting with a lively, welcoming feel. The space offers a charming backdrop for a relaxed, fun experience.

This event at Well Grounded Cafe offers a thoughtful conversation about how to approach someone experiencing mental health challenges and connect them with help. QPR Gatekeepers will share practical guidance on spotting warning signs, starting a supportive discussion, and linking individuals to local resources. There is no charge to attend. Well Grounded Cafe will have a meal option and its drink menu available for purchase, and these purchases support the venue for hosting the gathering. Those interested in sponsoring a meal for someone who may not be able to afford one can contact the task force.

Celebrate Halloween in Historic Downtown Angola with trick or treating at local businesses. Wander the square, gather sweets, and enjoy a festive atmosphere as shops welcome costumed visitors of all ages. Costumes are encouraged, and a costume contest will take place in front of The Brokaw with prizes for the top three in each category. Categories include children from infant to age six, children ages seven to twelve, teens and adults ages thirteen and up, group or family themes, and the spookiest or most creative looks. This family friendly gathering offers a cheerful way to explore downtown and enjoy seasonal fun together.

An indoor tasting showcase at the Community Learning Center in Kendallville brings together restaurants, food trucks, caterers, bakeries, and specialty food businesses. General admission is free. Guests who want to sample can purchase tasting tickets and exchange them with participating vendors for bite sized portions, with each business deciding how many tickets are needed for its offerings. Many vendors will also have full size menu items and other approved products for sale, so it is easy to enjoy a meal on site or take favorites home. The event includes a People’s Choice vote in which each participating business represents a nonprofit or charitable organization. Attendees cast ballots for their favorite, and the winner’s chosen organization receives a donation from Noble County Events. Expect a family friendly mix of savory dishes, desserts, beverages, and more, all in an indoor setup that even accommodates food trucks inside. Space is limited to 15 featured food participants, and participation is free. Participating businesses may serve tasting portions, choose the ticket amount for their samples, sell full size items, keep 100 percent of regular sales, compete for People’s Choice, and spotlight a nonprofit. Hosted by Noble County Events.

An annual potluck pairs with a lively trivia night at the Waterloo Depot. DeKalb historian Mary Diehl leads a challenge that puts knowledge of DeKalb’s history to the test. The evening begins with a shared potluck and then moves into the trivia competition, and all are welcome.

Round 2 brings its 90s and now rock format to Traxside Bar and Grille in Garrett. Expect a lively, party-focused show, so comfortable shoes are a good idea for a night out with friends.

A homemade meal will be offered, with the menu to be determined. Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church has received a grant from The Lutheran Foundation to assist in funding Food For All People, and the church expresses gratitude for this support of the ministry.

Downtown Auburn stays open into the evening for an after hours experience filled with food, browsing local stores, and discovering new spots. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you explore at your own pace. The theme includes a special perk, with a giveaway available with a purchase.

Kruse Plaza in Auburn, Indiana hosts a festive holiday shopping tradition that gathers more than 100 vendors from five states in one convenient location. Browse a wide variety of seasonal items with everything centralized for easy holiday shopping.

Enjoy a live performance by Mason Dixon Line at Sylvan Cellars Event Center & Tasting Room.

Downtown Auburn will be filled with holiday spirit at a cheerful celebration featuring live music, photo opportunities, and a welcome for ugly holiday sweaters. Attendees can vote for their favorite decorated window display, with the Holiday Cheer Award to be presented during Auburn After Hours. Support for 2026 comes from legacy sponsor The City of Auburn, corporate sponsors FCI Construction, Classic City Body & Paint, Classic City Detail, and Morgan Hefty State Farm Insurance, and the Seasons Greeting Postcard sponsor Phillips Financial, the Hicksville Bank, and Carbaugh Jewelers.

The yearly Christmas parade returns to Kendallville, Indiana. Further details will be announced soon.

Horse-drawn wagon rides bring holiday cheer to Monument Plaza in downtown Angola. Organized in partnership by Angola Main Street, the City of Angola, Steuben County Tourism Bureau, and the DeKalb County Horseman Association, the wagons travel around the mound to celebrate the season. It offers a warm, community-centered way to take in the festive atmosphere.

Holiday sounds fill the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum as musicians from the Fort Wayne Philharmonic perform throughout the galleries. Small ensembles share seasonal pieces that reflect the eras featured in the museum’s exhibit spaces, creating a link between the music and the automotive history surrounding it. Cookies and a complimentary drink are included for a festive touch.

Santa will visit the Chamber for a free, family-friendly event. Further details will be announced soon.

A homemade meal will be served, with the menu to be determined. This event is held in cooperation with The Lutheran Foundation. Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church received a grant from The Lutheran Foundation to assist in funding Food For All People, supporting this ministry.

Downtown Auburn comes alive after hours with extended opportunities to dine, browse local shops, and explore the area. This edition features a giveaway available with purchase, adding a little extra excitement to the evening.