Events in Benton Harbor, MI

Fish Fry Friday highlights generous portions of walleye, a crowd favorite. The menu features a fish dinner for $9 and a shrimp dinner for $15, with the option for double shrimp at $25. Walleye dinners are $15, and a double walleye dinner is $25.

Safely dispose of unwanted car and small truck tires at a scrap tire collection held at the Berrien County Road Department. Berrien County residents are eligible to participate, and businesses are not permitted. Fees are $1 per car or small truck tire, or $2 per tire if it is still on the rim, with payment by cash or check only. Collection will stop once trailers are filled, even if vehicles are already in line. No early drop offs are allowed. Have cash or check ready, transport no more than 10 tires per vehicle, and note that large or oversized tires are not accepted.

LECO’s annual Fit 4 Fall 5K Run/Walk brings a family friendly community race to St. Joseph, Michigan. A chip start is staged in front of Silver Beach County Park. The event raises funds that are shared among three nonprofits, Caring Circle, Convoy of Hope, and the LOGAN Autism Learning Center of Southwest Michigan. Attendees can explore a silent auction offering a variety of items donated by local businesses. After the finish, awards recognize the top three finishers in each age category and honor the overall fastest runner and walker. Last year the effort generated more than $30,000 for the chosen charities, drew over 450 registered racers and nearly 100 volunteers, and received support from businesses across Berrien County.

Open to anyone with a passion for cars, this meet welcomes vehicles of all kinds. Each month a particular manufacturer and model featured on the event cover photo is spotlighted, and owners with matching cars are especially encouraged to bring them and show their pride. Spectators who are not bringing a display vehicle should park in the Biggby and Zoup lot. Burnouts and engine revving in the parking area are not allowed and may lead to immediate removal from the group.

Explore the weekly St. Joe Farmers Market for a fresh mix of local flavors and finds. Vendors feature baked treats, locally grown produce, perennials and fresh-cut flowers, meats and cheeses, coffee and more. The market takes place each Saturday in Lake Bluff Park, offering views of Lake Michigan. Please note that hours will change during the Krasl Art Fair, with additional details to come.

Celebrate National I Love Yarn Day with a gathering that features a prize drawing, boutique discounts on yarn and other items, and refreshments. Guests can bring a favorite art or craft project and spend time creating alongside others. The open creative space welcomes knitters, crocheters, spinners, scrapbookers, painters, quilters, woodworkers, felters, jewelry makers, and more. This creative group meets on the second Saturday of each month, providing a chance to share projects and ideas.

Al-Van Humane Society hosts a relaxed get-together at Tractor Supply in South Haven where visitors can meet dogs available for adoption. Say hello, learn about the adoption process, and spend time with friendly pups who could make a routine Tractor Supply errand a little brighter.

Hotel California, a salute to the Eagles, offers a tribute shaped by creativity and precision that has earned recognition often reserved for gold and platinum recording acts. This renowned Southern California group honors the band with faithful, respectful performances that capture the Grammy-honored sound of classic American rock. The production is widely regarded as one of the most successful and longest running shows of its kind. Expect the feel of moonlit roadways, the rush of a cool breeze, and an invitation to step inside the world of Hotel California. Presented by SHOUT! Promotions.

Drop off scrap car and small truck tires at the Berrien County Road Department during this collection. Participation is limited to Berrien County residents and is not available to businesses. The fee is $1 per tire, or $2 if the tire remains on its rim, with payment accepted by cash or check. Collection will conclude once the trailers are full, even for those waiting in line. Please note that early drop-offs are not allowed, have cash or check ready, no more than 10 tires may be transported per vehicle under legal limits, and large or oversized tires cannot be accepted.

Each year from Mother’s Day through mid-October, local vendors come together for a lively open air market filled with fresh foods and handmade goods. Visitors can wander the stalls, chat with creators, and enjoy the community atmosphere. Whether you are picking up something special, browsing for inspiration, or curious about becoming a vendor, this is a place where neighbors connect and small businesses take the spotlight. Support the local scene, discover new flavors and finds, and share in the spirit of a market that celebrates the community.

Animal Aid of Southwestern Michigan will be at FuzzyButz Pet Bakery with adoptable cats and kittens for a relaxed meet and greet. Spend time cuddling and getting to know them, and see if one is the right fit for your home. Adoption applications are available through Animal Aid of Southwestern Michigan so you can take the next step toward welcoming a new companion.

Kruger Comics hosts a Dungeons and Dragons game run by the in-store DM. The event consists of a single session, and the cost is $7 per person.

Settle in for a Christian movie with complimentary popcorn provided. This relaxed screening highlights faith-based storytelling, plus a free snack to enjoy while you watch.

South Haven Strummers is a welcoming ukulele group that meets in the South Haven Memorial Library community room. All ages are invited to take part, and beginners are welcome. This is a free activity. If you do not have a ukulele, a limited number may be available on a first come, first served basis.

The 2026 schedule for Library Board meetings is available. These meetings take place on the second Tuesday of each month in the small meeting room, and the public is welcome to attend.

Friends of the South Haven Memorial Library meetings take place in the community room and are open to the public. If you would like to become a member of the Friends of the Library, contact Paul Buchbinder or complete the membership application available online.

Outta the Ashes presents a live and silent auction featuring rare antiques and vintage pieces, with bidding led by auctioneer Dan McCrery Jr. of Tosi’s Restaurant. The evening is centered on community, purpose, and discovery. Ten percent of proceeds will support Veteran Roasters, a company dedicated to helping homeless and at risk veterans rebuild their lives.

NDL Creative Writers' Club celebrates the release of its first published anthology with an all-ages event in the Rotunda. Meet the local writers behind the collection, hear selected readings from their work, and mark a meaningful literary milestone for the community. Copies of the anthology will be available for purchase and signing, creating a chance to support local authors and connect with fellow book lovers. Special thanks go to the Friends of the Niles District Library and the Niles History Center for their support. No registration is required.

This even month session of the Monthly Bee Meeting follows the new schedule of third Thursdays. The gathering is held at the Andreason Wellness Center on the Andrews University campus in Berrien Springs, part of the series that meets there in April, June, August, October and December. Attendees are welcome to bring questions and invite a friend.

At The Loading Dock, Dylan Raymond delivers a high energy acoustic country show with cold drinks and a welcoming, feel good atmosphere. Raised in Indiana on ’90s country and playing guitar since childhood, he brings a distinctive voice and a lively stage presence. His debut single Take It Slow reached No. 2 on the iTunes Overall Pre-Order charts, and I Can Be That climbed to No. 35 on the country charts and has surpassed three million streams on Spotify. His latest track, ’Til the Cows Come Home, earned a spot on Spotify’s New Music Friday. Raymond has shared the stage with artists such as Trace Adkins, Gabby Barrett, Dylan Scott, Diamond Rio, Aaron Tippin, Collin Raye, Jon Langston, Jordan Davis, Chris Janson, Andy Grammer, Jake Owen, Walker Hayes, and Russell Dickerson. Tickets are $5 presale and $8 at the door. Parking is available in the main lot on the west side of the building between the duck pond and the venue, with overflow to the north past Chunk’s Ice Cream. Additional public lots are available in the city, and the lot next to the Citgo to the south of the venue is not designated for this event.

Homeschool families with tweens and teens are welcome for a relaxed Game Day in the Community Room. Bring a favorite board game, a deck of cards, or a puzzle to play and share, and spend time connecting with other local homeschoolers. Registration is not required.

Support the Lions Club’s community service efforts with a taco-themed fundraiser featuring a build-your-own taco bar at the American Legion. Enjoy a relaxed meal while contributing to local projects. Service continues until food runs out.

American Legion Post 331 hosts an open-to-the-public burger night featuring freshly grilled burgers with crispy fries or onion rings. Families and friends are welcome to enjoy dinner together while showing support for American Legion Auxiliary Unit 331.

Discover homemade baked treats at The NODE alongside a curated lineup of local vendors. Browse to the sounds of a DJ and enjoy bluey. This outing suits families as well as anyone who wants to sip a coffee and take a relaxed solo stroll through the market.

Stover's U-Pick Farm hosts a Harvest Festival featuring 30 artisan vendors, an assortment of food trucks, a chili cook-off, and live music from Aaron Conley. This family friendly gathering offers farm fun for kids and plenty of opportunities to shop from local makers.

Explore the St. Joe Lighthouse during a free admission day filled with seasonal fun. Volunteers will share stories from the maritime history of St. Joseph and Benton Harbor as you browse the first-floor exhibits. Those who make the climb can take in a sweeping, spooky view from the top. The lighthouse will be decorated for the occasion, and volunteers will be in costume. Visitors are welcome to wear costumes too. This event is part of Downtown Spooktacular.

Downtown St. Joe transforms into a Halloween playground with activities for all ages, from hayrides and a festive artisan market to a pumpkin patch, magic shows, a community costume parade, a live pumpkin carving showcase, lighthouse tours, a hay maze, a spooky trolley, and seasonal décor throughout the district. At the Spooktacular Market, browse outdoor booths filled with Halloween-themed artisan goods. Pick a pumpkin at the patch, then get creative at the decorating station, limited to one pumpkin per person while supplies last. Watch a professional carver turn pumpkins into seasonal works of art. Magician John Dudley presents free 30 minute shows that bring a little wonder to the day. The costume parade welcomes participants in family friendly attire to take a short stroll through downtown at no cost. The St. Joe Lighthouse opens for complimentary tours, where volunteers highlight the maritime heritage of St. Joseph and Benton Harbor. Explore exhibits on the main level and, if you wish, climb to the top for a wide view. The lighthouse is decked out for the season and volunteers will be in costume, with guest costumes encouraged as well. Continue the fun with a hay maze, a spooky trolley ride, and short hayrides through the heart of town. The Where’s the Witch scavenger hunt hides a witch in 13 downtown locations, and the adventure begins by picking up a passport from the St. Joe Today Welcome Center. In the week leading up to the celebration, downtown trees glow with orange and purple lights that remain on through Halloween, supported by AEP/Cook Nuclear. Participating businesses in the downtown Social District serve Halloween-themed drink specials to add a festive touch to the outing.

Celebrate the Halloween spirit with a short costume parade through Downtown St. Joe. Participants are encouraged to dress up and take part in the fun. There is no cost to participate, and all costumes must be family friendly. This parade is part of Downtown Spooktacular.

Exchange greenery at a plant swap where participants bring potted plants or cuttings to share. The gathering features two sections. One table is set aside for negotiating trades, and another follows a take a plant, leave a plant format.

At Peat's Cider Social, J&J Acoustic features Jamie Warren and Jeff Spicher performing as a duo with twin acoustic guitars and layered vocal harmonies. Their song list stretches from the classic sounds of Seals & Crofts to current hits by Dua Lipa, offering a broad mix presented in an all-acoustic style. Both musicians bring more than twenty five years of experience performing locally and regionally, which shapes a set that spans many genres. Jamie Warren also runs Warren Guitar Lessons in Mishawaka, Indiana and studied at Musicians Institute in Los Angeles. Jeff Spicher has taught guitar at Hoosier-Dads Music and Home-Run Music in Mishawaka, recorded several albums, and contributed soundtrack music for independent film director Donald Corthier. Together, they draw on their backgrounds to keep the music varied and engaging for listeners.

Businesses and restaurants across Southwest Michigan will showcase decorated pumpkins throughout the event period. Visit participating locations to admire the displays and cast a vote for your favorite. Voting will be available online, and the top three winners will be announced at the conclusion. A full list of participating locations will be shared once confirmed.

The monthly fish fry returns, featuring a fish special or a shrimp basket.

An annual fall fundraising celebration benefiting Curious Kids' Museum comes to The Loading Dock in Buchanan, MI. The event features dancing, fun, and food.

An annual fall market at the Berrien Springs Fairgrounds brings together local vendors offering handmade creations, boutique fashion, home décor, gifts, food, and more. Admission is $5 per person, and children 11 and younger are admitted free. Activities take place both indoors and outdoors for easy browsing. Vendors interested in participating can still secure one of the final two spaces. For details or to apply, texting 213-218-5017 is preferred, or email vfapply@gmail.com.

Now in its second year, this 5k and fun run brings high energy with a friendly small town feel. Every registration supports The McCoy Creek Trail. Runners can anticipate a lively, heart pumping experience from start to finish.

Now in its third year, the Tiger Nation Art and Craft Show features unique handmade creations, highlighting one of a kind work and the spirit of creativity.

Marking three decades of impact in the Berrien County arts community, CMW is hosting a first-ever celebration to support its productions and programs. As the county’s only musical theatre organization for young people ages 6 to 20, CMW will showcase the talents its participants develop through live performances. Guests can take part in silent and live auctions featuring items and experiences contributed by community partners. All proceeds advance CMW’s mission to help children build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and nurture a sense of self-worth through musical theatre.

Settle in for a relaxed hangout featuring country favorites from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. Enjoy a laid back vibe and a selection of hits that bring back plenty of nostalgia.

Coffee Connections brings the South Haven Area Young Professionals together at WE Coffee for a relaxed networking meetup. Expect a friendly setting to talk with peers, exchange ideas, and build meaningful professional relationships over a cup of coffee. Open to young professionals at any stage of their careers, from those just getting started to those already established.

Discover a new skill with Hooked on Yarn, a free gathering for all ages that meets twice a month in the library’s small meeting room at South Haven Memorial Library.

This monthly Lakeshore Networking West gathering takes place at the Historic Hotel Nichols in South Haven and focuses on building connections in a relaxed setting. Enjoy light refreshments while meeting others in the community. Hosts include Scott and Kary Whiteford of Historic Hotel Nichols and David McCarty of The Great Mead Hall & Brewing Company. A voluntary contribution of 10 dollars or more is appreciated to help cover event expenses, with an event jar available when you arrive. If you include a business card with your contribution, organizers will highlight your business on their social media pages. All are welcome. Bring a friend and bring business cards. An RSVP is requested.

Van Dyke Revue brings a Halloween rock and roll night to The Loading Dock with electrifying live music, high-energy performances, and drink specials all evening. It is a fit for die-hard rock fans as well as anyone looking for a lively night out. Tickets are $5 in advance or $8 at the door, and early registration is encouraged. Parking is available in the main lot on the west side of the building, with overflow parking to the north. The lot next to the Citgo to the south is not event parking for The Loading Dock.

Trick-or-treaters are invited to explore the Benton Harbor Arts District and Downtown St. Joe as local merchants celebrate the season with treats and a festive atmosphere. A list of participating businesses in both areas will be announced. For more community participants, check with the BHDDA at the Benton Harbor Welcome Center.

Connect with others at a relaxed gathering focused on exchanging cards. Enjoy friendly conversation and a laid back atmosphere for a simple, good time.

Explore color and texture in a hands-on fiber art workshop with Anna of Banana Knots at JLN Studio. Work from a curated selection of yarns and materials to create a one-of-a-kind piece, whether that is a whimsical wall hanging, an abstract design, or something with a boho feel. Suitable for beginners and ages 12 and older. The cost is $37 to $40, and all supplies are provided. You are welcome to bring personal materials to incorporate. Bring your own canvas, used or new, or a picture frame no larger than 8x10 to receive $3 off. For inspiration, browse Pinterest or Instagram using terms like yarn painting, fiber canvas, fiber drawing, or fiber painting. Capacity is limited, and participants may bring food and beverages. Registration fees are nonrefundable unless JLN Studio or Banana Knots cancels, in which case a full refund or studio credit is available.

This free book signing features Michigan author and journalist John U. Bacon at the Michigan Maritime Museum. He will sign copies of his latest book, The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald, which the museum has selected as its 2026 Book of the Year. The book explores the Edmund Fitzgerald’s last voyage, the powerful storm that took the lives of all 29 crew members, and the lasting legacy of one of the Great Lakes’ most significant tragedies. Copies will be available for purchase in Maggie’s Ship Store, and admission is free.

A restorative weekend centered on daily yoga classes and workshops, with all meals and snacks prepared for participants. Set amid 350 wooded acres in Michigan with private access to Lake Sherwood at Ronora Lodge and Retreat Center, the retreat emphasizes connecting with others and cultivating a deeper connection within. Accommodations are in the Cherrywood House, and classes are held in the Chadwick Hall event space. Time is set aside for bonding with fellow yoga practitioners, relaxing, and recharging.

This annual Holiday Arts & Crafts show brings together artists and vendors from across southwest Michigan and northwest Indiana, offering a wide selection of arts and crafts for holiday gifting. Additional details will be shared as the event approaches.

Watch a Christian film while enjoying complimentary popcorn.

Library Board Meetings take place on the second Tuesday of each month in the small meeting room. The 2026 schedule is set, and this meeting is part of that series. Public attendance is welcome.

Open to all ages and free to attend, this welcoming gathering meets in the small meeting room at South Haven Memorial Library twice a month. It offers a relaxed space to learn a new skill and connect with others.

The Business After Hours Third Thursday gathering will take place at Sturgis Bank in Niles. More information will be announced.

Kids can celebrate the holiday season at JLN Studio with a Frosty themed acrylic painting class. Young artists will create a wintry Frosty scene on either a 9 by 12 canvas board or an 11 by 14 stretched canvas. Instructors provide step by step guidance, covering acrylic techniques and color mixing so each child can bring their character to life. Participants are encouraged to personalize their artwork, and no prior painting experience is required. All supplies and instruction are included, and families may bring snacks and drinks. The class is open to ages 5 and up and is priced at $28 to $32 per person. This class is nonrefundable unless canceled by JLN Studio, in which case a full refund or class credit will be issued.

Michiana favorites Jonny Love and Wyatt Marshall team up for a performance at The Groovin' Grove in South Haven, Michigan. Their show features a playlist of all-time greatest hits, offering a familiar, feel-good mix that listeners of all kinds can enjoy.

St. Joe Today is rolling out a daily giveaway called Countdown to New Year. For every $25 spent at a St. Joe Today member business, whether in a single transaction or combined across multiple purchases, one entry is earned. Purchases must be made at member locations within the official entry window. To receive an entry form, present receipt or receipts to SJT staff at the Welcome Center. A directory of SJT member businesses is available from St. Joe Today to help locate where purchases qualify.

Kick off the holiday season in downtown St. Joe with Luminary, a festive stroll illuminated by glowing luminarias that guide the way through local shops, eateries, and gathering spots. Participating businesses invite visitors to browse, sip, and savor while enjoying the charm of this lakeside community. This celebration is supported by The Boulevard Inn & Bistro. Alongside Luminary, Countdown to New Year encourages people across Southwest Michigan to enjoy local shopping, dining, lodging, and activities for a chance to win gift cards. Shoppers and diners can submit receipts from purchases at St. Joe Today member businesses to the St. Joe Today Welcome Center, earning one entry for every $25 spent, with winners selected by St. Joe Today. A full roster of Luminary participants will be announced.

Tabletop gamers are invited to drop in for open Warhammer play at the Bridgman Public Library. Designed for ages 10 and up, this casual session offers a space to set up a game and start playing right away. Participants should bring their own game pieces, dice, markers, rule books, and any terrain needed to take part.

Hooked on Yarn offers a friendly space to learn a new skill alongside others. This no-cost gathering welcomes all ages and meets two times each month in the small meeting room at South Haven Memorial Library.

The Urban Co. Black Friday Holiday Market brings a cozy indoor shopping experience to The Loading Dock in Buchanan, showcasing curated small businesses with thoughtful gifts you will not find at big-box retailers. With everything under one roof, it is an easy way to finish your Christmas list, and there is a full bar along with Bluey for extra fun. Shop local, support small businesses, and if you are a business interested in participating, applications are available for vendors.

This free studio class welcomes youth ages 9 to 16 for open-ended art making. Participants can experiment with new materials, follow their own interests, and work at a pace that feels right for them. Arts instructor Sarah Rydecki is available for guidance when requested. Space is limited, so advance sign-up is encouraged but not required. Each student must have either a participation form or the Van Buren Youth Initiative permission form on file. This is a drop-off program, and parents may wait in the lobby. Students may arrive a little early. Snacks are available for participants. For questions about accommodations, call 269-637-1041. The class is made possible by the Van Buren Youth Initiative.

Southwest Michigan lights up for a festive weekend featuring longer shopping hours, seasonal activities, and promotional offers across the region. Highlights include Light up the Bluff at Lake Bluff Park with a tree lighting ceremony, the Reindog Parade in downtown St. Joseph, special hours at Santa’s House, and a Holiday Artisan Market at Union+Social. Merry & Bright Weekend programming takes place throughout the weekend across Southwest Michigan, with participating businesses to be announced.

The annual Reindog Parade celebrates the season with pets and their owners showing off imaginative holiday costumes, from canine Santas to reindeer-themed looks. The parade also marks Santa’s arrival, and after the procession children can visit Santa’s House to share their wish lists. Those who want to participate must register in advance or on the day at the Welcome Center. The entry fee is $5 per pet, with additional pets $3 each, and judging for prizes will take place outside the Welcome Center.

Holiday cheer fills downtown St. Joseph as Santa’s House sets up for the season. Look for it by the St. Joe Today Welcome Center at the corner of State and Pleasant Streets. No photography services are provided, so bring a camera to capture your own pictures. The Herald-Palladium sponsors the event.

A festive tribute to the Rat Pack brings the swing, wit, and glamour of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. to life, with a special guest turn by Marilyn Monroe. The production highlights their easy rapport and sharp comedy while wrapping everything in holiday sparkle. The atmosphere evokes a classic 1960s Copa Room at Christmastime as signature tunes like Fly Me to the Moon, That’s Amore, Mr. Bojangles, and New York, New York flow alongside seasonal favorites including Let It Snow, Jingle Bells, and White Christmas. Three tribute artists, Brian Duprey as Frank Sinatra, Joe Scalissi as Dean Martin, and Kenny Jones as Sammy Davis Jr., lead the show with support from a six-piece live band. Vintage Las Vegas energy meets the merriment of the season.

The South Haven Strummers is a welcoming ukulele group that meets in the South Haven Memorial Library community room. All ages and experience levels are welcome, including beginners. This is a free gathering. Participants can bring a ukulele, and a limited number may be available on a first come, first served basis. It is a monthly opportunity to learn, play, and enjoy ukulele music together.

Discover a new skill with Hooked on Yarn, a welcoming gathering open to all ages at South Haven Memorial Library. There is no fee to participate. The group meets twice a month in the small meeting room, offering a relaxed setting to learn and connect with others.

Business After Hours comes to United Way of Southwest Michigan with a cheerful focus on community impact. Presented by the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber alongside United Way board members, committee representatives, and staff, this get together offers games, door prizes, stocking stuffers, Whirlpool Appliance Sale items, and plenty of tasty food and beverages as everyone celebrates the season.

Singer songwriter Aaron James Wright brings a live set of original Americana songs to Haymarket Taproom.

Watch a Christian movie and enjoy complimentary popcorn.

A classic tale takes an unexpected turn when an unannounced guest steps into Scrooge's world and interrupts the story. The cast has no advance notice of who the visitor is or what part they will take, so the narrative is reshaped on the spot through improvisation. Each performance unfolds differently as an unknown character is woven into the familiar scenes. The central question remains... will Scrooge still reach redemption with a special guest altering the course of events, and what role will that wildcard play? See which unexpected presence enters the tale and how Scrooge's journey adapts in real time.

Hooked on Yarn is a free, all-ages gathering where participants can explore a new skill in a friendly setting. The group meets twice a month in the small meeting room at South Haven Memorial Library, providing a relaxed space to learn and practice together.