Free events in South Bend, IN

Fridays by the Fountain returns to Jon R. Hunt Plaza with food trucks, live performances, and a free community atmosphere. Marking its 26th year, the series highlights regional bands across blues, jazz, rock, R&B, pop, folk, and Irish styles. This concert features PT and The Cruisers.

First Tee coaches welcome youth golfers to experience Studebaker Golf Course during relaxed play sessions on Tuesdays and Fridays. Reserve a tee time with First Tee to confirm attendance. Coaches and peers will be available to play alongside the kids. Thanks to the Kids Play Free program at Studebaker, there is no charge for these sessions. A 2026 waiver must be on file in the golf shop, available there or from First Tee. This is primarily a playing league with minimal instruction, and participants are encouraged to take a class beforehand if they want coaching. Clubs, balls, and tees can be provided for those who need them.

Celebrate the 42nd Annual Osceola Music Festival with a weekend of live, local music at Fern Hunsberger Park in Osceola, Indiana. This long-running tradition is free to attend and family friendly. Watch for updates from the organizers as they announce the festival lineup and highlight participating vendors.

A weekly Friday farmers market continues through November, offering herbs, eggs, jams, flowers, craft goods, fresh-from-the-farm foods, and wellness items such as salves and tinctures, with more to discover.

Osceola Music Festival is a family-friendly event with free admission. Bring chairs for comfortable seating and take time to explore the food and merchant booths throughout the festival.

Roller skating returns to Howard Park for another summer of outdoor fun with a DJ spinning music outside. These family friendly evenings are free to attend, and skate rentals are available. Happening on First Fridays, each month features a local DJ as guests roll into sunset.

Part of the SBVPA Summer Concert Series connected to First Fridays, this free show features Abbie Thomas performing at Seitz Park in downtown South Bend.

Backpacks stocked with school supplies will be provided for the children of current military and veterans as a back-to-school giveaway. Eligible recipients include children from preschool through college, and veterans who are currently in college may also receive a backpack. Registration is required in advance.

Registration is required for two free games every day throughout the summer. The offer is available during a limited window on weekends and runs all day on weekdays. Lane use depends on availability, and reservations are not accepted. Before heading out, check the webpage for any updates to operating hours on the day you plan to visit.

Discover how to fuel your body well with a class that takes a fresh look at carbohydrates as a vital source of energy. The session explores fiber, blood sugar balance, and how to choose high quality carbohydrate foods. It also includes a recipe that showcases whole grains and seasonal produce. Classes are free, and registration is optional.

Brother Sage Gillam and the Rev. Dr. Michael C. R. Nabors present a free program on the Ampy family and the Underground Railroad. Spanning nine generations from Africa to the American Deep South, their story follows one family that took two different routes north in pursuit of a better future. Once unfamiliar with their connection, the presenters later discovered they are relatives. Their talk retraces the origins and journeys of this Black family and highlights the ties that link their shared heritage.

A collaboration between Unity Gardens and the South Bend Community Reentry Center provides complimentary haircuts for children along with a hot meal. Boys and girls can get a fresh look, and guests can enjoy the garden during their time on site. Sponsored by Amazon.

Jess and Jake share calm, family rooted harmonies at a leading Midwestern Sunday farmers market, creating a peaceful, melodic atmosphere.

Enjoy a free outdoor performance by the Michiana String Collective, showcasing their distinctive sound in a beautiful open-air setting. The set includes a blend of styles with original songs, familiar covers, and instrumental pieces aimed at getting the crowd dancing and singing along.

Part of the free Summer Concert Series at Potawatomi Park, this concert features live music from Now & Then along with a variety of visiting food trucks. Bring a blanket or chair for comfortable seating. Newly added parking spaces are available on Wall Street, and attendees are encouraged to use these spots and avoid parking in nearby neighborhoods.

A complimentary yoga session takes place in a garden setting, guided by Zana, a certified instructor. If it rains, the class moves indoors. The final session of each month includes a sound bath led by Sarah. Please bring a mat and wear comfortable clothing. Optional registration is available.

First Tee coaches offer on-course play at Studebaker Golf Course on Tuesdays and Fridays. Participants reserve a tee time through First Tee and let them know they plan to attend. Coaches and friends will be ready to play with the kids. Thanks to the Kids Play Free program at Studebaker, there is no cost for these days. A 2025 waiver must be on file in the golf shop, which can be picked up there or obtained from First Tee. This is a play-focused league with minimal instruction, and those seeking coaching are encouraged to take a class beforehand. Clubs, balls, and tees can be provided for anyone who needs them.

A temporary disc golf experience is set up at Howard Park, designed for beginners and enjoyable for all skill levels. Instruction is provided by the St Joseph Valley Disc Golf Club, and the program is free for teens and kids. Participants will meet behind the Lodge next to the shaded picnic tables, where instructors will cover the basics and guide play. This session marks the start of a continuing series with more opportunities to learn and participate.

At Howard Park, a free Summer Concert Series features live music, community nights, and a rotating selection of food trucks. Guests can bring a blanket or chair and settle in as the lineup takes the stage, including PT and the Cruisers, The Erly, Equipo Elevado, Why Not Both, Jazz Assemblage, Happy Campers, The Resurrection Blues Band, and Hipposonics. This series brings friends and family together for performances and food truck offerings in a relaxed park setting.