Events in St. Joseph County today

Enjoy all-day access to unlimited laser tag for just $20 per person. Rally your group, battle through game after game, and work your way up the leaderboard for nonstop excitement. A great fit for families, friend groups, and teams across all age ranges. Available exclusively at Generations Adventureplex in Mishawaka.

Walkerton Farmers Market brings together local growers and makers in the New Kitchen Store parking lot, offering fresh vegetables, baked treats, sourdough, smoothies, cold brew, and more. Vendors who want to participate must sell items they have personally grown or made. For participation details, call 574-586-2745.

A first-of-its-kind major festival dedicated to sports film and culture arrives in downtown South Bend, spotlighting athletic storytelling across formats such as narrative features, documentaries, brand pieces, and work from digital creators. Across four days, filmmakers, athletes, and fans come together for screenings, panel conversations, and podcasts. Created by Shade Studios and presented in partnership with Visit South Bend Mishawaka, Downtown South Bend, and the Momentum Entrepreneurship Hub, the event also pays tribute to South Bend’s legacy in sports cinema.

Festival admission requires a ticket or pass. This documentary offers an intimate look at Hall of Fame coach Lou Holtz, who died on March 4, 2026 at age 89, as he returns to the sideline in 2009 for his final game, the Notre Dame Japan Bowl. It follows his preparations to rally a squad of Notre Dame alumni, with players as old as 52, to face Japan's top talent at the Tokyo Dome. Directed by Notre Dame film professor Ted Mandell. A Q&A with former Notre Dame players follows.

Now in its fourth year, this Trunk or Treat delivers a cheerful Halloween gathering for all ages. Costumes are encouraged, especially imaginative ones, and a candy bag will come in handy. Children can trick or treat with one round per participant so everyone gets a fair share. Expect festively decorated trunks with recognition for the standout designs, along with plenty of lighthearted family fun. SBAR members interested in hosting a trunk can register through the website or by reaching out. The event is open to the public and celebrates all things spooky, silly, and sweet. Plans may be adjusted, postponed, or canceled in the event of inclement weather.

This is a live event to be experienced as it happens.

An Adult Story Hour features a blend of cherished scary classics and new horror short stories, all chosen to spark the Halloween spirit. This hair-raising session offers spine-tingling chills and a suspenseful atmosphere for fans of both timeless tales and fresh frights.

This group meditation takes place at Halcottsville Fire Dept (Grange). Community snacks and conversation are available before it begins, offering a friendly chance to connect with others and settle in together.

William Elliott Whitmore returns to the stage after a previous appearance that drew remarkable attention. The critically acclaimed Midwestern troubadour performs solo with guitar, banjo, kick drum, and a gravelly voice, delivering a raw, high-energy set that has become his hallmark. The result is a powerful, no-frills performance that turns sparse instrumentation into something immediate and memorable.

Pets take center stage at an outdoor fall celebration at King’s Play Cafe, where costumed companions strut a cute and spooky runway surrounded by seasonal decor and a lively vendor village. Entrants compete for the grand title of King’s Play Cafe Kingdom Animal 2026–27 with a $75 cash award, a brief photo session, a full year of promotional and social spotlights, recognition at the cafe, and gifts from sponsors. Extra honors will be presented for best costume, funniest costume, most creative, and crowd favorite. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from King’s, and with Noble Roman’s Pizza Month there will be pizza to enjoy while cheering on the contenders. Registration is required in advance, with early bird entry priced at $7 and regular entry at $10, and space is limited. The gathering is held outdoors. Pets must remain leashed or otherwise securely contained and under owner control at all times, they will not enter the indoor food and play areas except for service animals, and owners are responsible for cleanup. The vendor village offers $25 spaces for local pet boutiques, treat makers, groomers, trainers, photographers, and other pet businesses, with opportunities available to sponsor prizes.

A three day sewing retreat centered on creativity and fun. The cost is $150 per person and includes six meals during the event. Space is limited and expected to fill quickly.

Help care for the trails at Rum Village Park by removing invasive plants such as honeysuckle, bittersweet, and other species. Activities include hands-on removal along the paths and a guided walk and talk that reviews progress already made in the park and highlights native plants that are filling in. The meeting point is the Nature Center. Bring gloves and any tools you have, and dress for the weather with long pants and long sleeves recommended.

This event features a story followed by a craft activity. It offers a warm, creative way to pair reading with hands-on fun.

A community blood drive takes place at Walkerton Lincoln Township Public Library. Donate blood and help save lives.

South Bend Scottish Rite sets the scene for a candlelit concert of Halloween-inspired music performed by the Listeso String Quartet. In an intimate glow, the ensemble revisits iconic themes and haunting classics, from Thriller and Gounod’s Funeral March of a Marionette to Shostakovich’s String Quartet No. 8, Tubular Bells from The Exorcist, and the instantly recognizable music from Stranger Things, Beetlejuice, The Addams Family, Halloween, Psycho, and Ghostbusters. The program also includes Danse macabre, Night on Bald Mountain, Time Warp from The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and a medley from The Nightmare Before Christmas. Guests ages 8 and up are welcome, with an adult required for anyone under 16. The venue is accessible, and seating is assigned by order of arrival within each zone.

SBOrthoNow is hosting a family-friendly Trunk or Treat in the South Bend Orthopaedics parking lot. Open to children and their families, costumes are encouraged for a fun, festive Halloween outing.

J&J Acoustic features Jamie Warren and Jeff Spicher performing with a pair of acoustic guitars and rich vocal harmonies. Their set spans classic Seals & Crofts through contemporary pop by Dua Lipa, presenting familiar songs in an all-acoustic style that suits a wide range of listeners. With more than twenty-five years of experience playing both together and individually around the local and regional scene, they bring a broad repertoire to each performance. Jamie runs Warren Guitar Lessons in Mishawaka and studied at Musicians Institute in Los Angeles. Jeff has taught at Hoosier-dads Music and Home-Run Music in Mishawaka, has recorded several albums, and has provided soundtrack music for independent film director Donald Corthier. This background allows them to draw on many styles and keep the audience interested.

Settle in on the event lawn at Howard Park for an outdoor movie night for families. Bring a picnic blanket, chairs, or an umbrella and enjoy a relaxed evening together. October features Encanto in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Concessions from the Public House will be available, along with candy and giveaways.

ZERO returns to Four Winds Casinos New Buffalo for a performance on the Kankakee Live stage.

A festive fall community event showcasing talented local artisans, handmade goods, unique gifts, seasonal décor, and other one-of-a-kind finds. It is ideal for anyone starting holiday shopping, hoping to support small businesses, or simply enjoying an autumn atmosphere. Attendees can browse beautiful handcrafted items, connect with local makers and vendors, and experience it all at Twin Branch MPG. Organizers note they will not comment on posts or send direct messages first, encouraging everyone to stay alert for potential scams while seeking vendor or event information.

At Howard Park South Bend, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Michiana brings the community together for a walk in support of the American Cancer Society. The event welcomes survivors, caregivers, and all who care about this cause. Registration is open, and every step taken and every donation contributed helps make a meaningful difference.

At the Century Center in downtown South Bend, this market showcases more than 200 booths with handmade creations, work by artisans and makers, boutique finds, baked goods, local businesses, specialty products, home decor, gifts, and more. Attendees can discover unique items and support local while getting an early start on holiday shopping. Vendor spaces are still available for artisans, makers, small businesses, and local companies. Plan a weekend of browsing, discovering, and shopping local.

The event features a Trunk or Treat, with candy handed out while supplies last. A Falloween Fest takes place alongside it.

A free, family-friendly community health event brings local healthcare providers, community organizations, and neighborhood families together to make wellness resources accessible, approachable, and fun. Indiana Health Centers’ Mobile Health Unit will be on site, accepting Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans, with a sliding fee scale available for those who qualify. For mobile health services, attendees should bring a valid photo ID and an insurance card if applicable. Those applying for the sliding fee scale should bring proof of income from the last 30 days, such as recent pay stubs, tax forms or 1099s, or a notarized letter from an employer. Festivities include a bounce house, the Hoop South Bend trailer, family-friendly fall activities, and chances to connect with community resources that support health and wellness. Complimentary treats include hot cocoa, a caramel apple station, and candy, and costumes are welcome. The South Bend Medical Foundation’s blood donation mobile will also be on site, offering an opportunity to help patients in need through lifesaving donations that support emergencies, surgeries, cancer treatments, and other serious conditions. Everyone is welcome. Admission and family activities are free, and medical services may be billed to insurance or subject to income-based fees. Presented by Indiana Health Center, Northeast Neighborhood Revitalization Organization, Northeast Neighborhood Council, Oaklawn, South Bend Heritage, and Historic Firehouse #7.

Mishawaka East End’s 4th annual fall festival is a free-to-attend community celebration featuring music, activities, and local vendors. Highlights include DJ music by Party Time, baseball and softball skills competitions, cornhole, an inflatable obstacle course, and more than 30 local vendors, nonprofits, and businesses. Food will be available from six local favorites, including Mr. MJ’s Hot Sauce and Catering, Gelati on The Bend, Rico Suave, Kona Ice, Pinoy’s Kitchen, and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee. The festivities also include a community celebration with 2027 announcements, a costume contest, and a Trunk or Treat. Raffles will award four free 2027 player registrations, and the winning trunk receives a free 2027 player registration for every member of one family. Businesses, campaigns, and nonprofits can participate with a vendor table or trunk.

Oktoberfest comes to the Indiana Dinosaur Museum with a family-friendly celebration featuring live music from Die Musikmeisters, hearty German fare and beer, and a full lineup of seasonal activities. Test your strength in stein holding contests, enjoy wagon rides from Continental Divide Park, and savor treats like caramel apples and Butterbeer floats. Enjoy a pumpkin patch with carving, face painting, and outdoor games that add to the autumn fun. Everyone is welcome, and the Oktoberfest festivities have no admission fee.

Kids can enjoy two free games each day all summer with advance registration. The offer is available all day on weekdays, and on weekends it is limited to a shorter window. Play is first come, first served since availability depends on open lanes, and reservations are not accepted. Check the bowling center’s webpage for any updates to operating hours on the day you plan to visit. Family pass options are offered.

Robert Rolfe Feddersen performs a live, full-band rock and roll set at Four Winds Field during the Michiana Festival of Beers in South Bend, Indiana. This ticketed event welcomes all ages and is family friendly.

Singles ages 35 to 49 can mix and mingle at Ironhand Wine Bar during a relaxed afternoon that blends speed dating, light group activities, and fun giveaways. The experience pairs face-to-face introductions with continued connection through a private community app so conversations can carry on after the event. Upon arrival, attendees check in, pick up a name tag, find their assigned table, and may purchase a drink from the cash bar before activities begin. A QR code on the tables provides access to the WhoU Community App for post-event messaging. The program opens with a welcome from Elizabeth Marshall, CEO of WhoU, followed by a series of speed-dating rotations. Giveaways are announced afterward, and a brief group activity may follow if time allows. Guests can stay to socialize at the wine bar after the formal program ends. Registration includes entry, giveaways, select service discounts, and access to the private app. Attendance is limited to 20 men and 20 women. Advance registration is required and there are no door sales. A reminder email will be sent prior to the event. Refunds are provided only if the event is canceled, and tickets may be transferred to another person or a future date with at least 48 hours’ notice. If the event sells out while balancing the male to female ratio, a first come, first served waitlist may be used. Ticket options include $28 Early Bird and $30 General Admission.

The event features food, enjoyable activities, and candy treats.

Emmons Elementary hosts a family-friendly Halloween event with games, interactive activities, and prizes for all ages. Admission is $10 per family for up to six people. Costumes are encouraged for a spirited night of Halloween fun. Dinner will be available for purchase in the café. This celebration returns each year and continues to grow, offering a simple way to enjoy the holiday with kids and friends.

Trivia Night returns to the University Grill on the IUSB campus in South Bend. Form a team of up to eight or register as an individual to be paired with others, then put your knowledge to the test across topics like sports, our region, music, IU, and more. Bring sealed, store-bought snacks for your table. Beer and wine will be available for purchase at a cash bar. A silent auction featuring IU-themed items will run alongside the competition. Registration is available to reserve a spot. Pricing is $25 per person or $150 for a team of up to eight. Proceeds support the St. Joseph County Alumni Chapter Scholarship, which assists incoming students from St. Joseph County attending any IU campus. Trivia category sponsorships are offered for $100 to help offset costs and direct more funds to scholarships. For questions or sponsorship details, contact Rob DeCleene at rdecleen@iu.edu or 574-520-4679.

Following the Halloween Party, Ninja Golf presents its first annual yokai-themed walk, a lantern-lit stroll around the property inspired by creatures and legends from Japanese folklore. Participants are encouraged to bring a lantern, lamp, or flashlight and keep watch for playful nods to these stories along the route. The experience is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, with a light dose of spookiness rather than real scares. After the walk, everyone can enjoy s’mores with Basho. A suggested tip is $5 per person or $20 per family.

At the Morris Performing Arts Center in South Bend, this festival premiere offers an early preview of The Greatest, arriving two weeks ahead of its release. Produced by Michael B. Jordan, the officially authorized scripted series created with Muhammad Ali’s estate traces his life, legacy, and lasting impact. Jaalen Best leads as Ali, with Omari Hardwick and Giovanni Ribisi in the supporting cast, and Michael Ealy portraying Malcolm X. A festival ticket or pass is required for entry.

Baroque refinement meets tango-charged energy as Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons is paired with Piazzolla’s Buenos Aires Seasons. The program highlights Spring and Summer in two contrasting sound worlds, one clear and songful, the other propelled by syncopation and a vividly charged pulse. The June H. Edwards Mosaic Series is sponsored by Jack M. Champaigne.

Create a personalized felt voodoo doll in a relaxed, hands-on workshop at Jackie Lee Apothecary. Learn simple stitching techniques, then give your doll character with buttons, hearts, and other decorative details. All supplies are included, and the only thing to bring is your creativity. This is a walk-in format with no appointment required, and participants may arrive at any time during the workshop window. The cost is $10 per person.

Enjoy a day of fun at Strikes & Spares while helping the JAHS Band Boosters. Tell the staff you are there for the fundraiser and 100 percent of your activity costs will benefit the Boosters. Pricing options include $10 per person for two games of bowling with shoe rental, $12 per person for one game of bowling with shoes and unlimited mini golf, and $15 per person for one game of bowling plus mini golf and two go-kart rides.

Kids Bowl Free offers two free bowling games for kids every day throughout the summer. Registration is required, and family passes are available.

A homeownership Q&A takes place at Java Cafe in South Bend. Berkshire Hathaway realtor Patience Fisher and bilingual lender Carla Murillo from Prosperity Home Mortgage will cover how to buy a home, understand what a current home might be worth, prepare to buy or sell, and navigate preapproval. Attendees can meet the presenters, ask questions, and connect with others while moving closer to owning a home.

Start Tuesday with intentional networking that focuses on referrals and meaningful business relationships. Abundance BNI Connect & Grow brings local professionals together each week to support one another, exchange opportunities, and grow their businesses through trusted connections. The meeting is built to create steady momentum, helping members and guests elevate visibility, strengthen credibility, and boost profitability through organized referrals and collaborative efforts.