Events in Berrien County today

Zo’s Mini Donuts will be at the St. Joseph Farmers Market serving hot, fresh mini donuts. The market also features music, games, and scenic lake views. The setting is family friendly and welcoming to pets.

Spend the day building together at an all-day event featuring a large collection of LEGO bricks. Families can create their own masterpieces and place them on display for everyone to see.

Discover fresh finds at the weekly St. Joe Farmers Market, where vendors feature baked goods, locally grown produce, perennials and fresh-cut flowers, meats and cheeses, coffee, and more. The market takes place on Saturdays in Lake Bluff Park with views of Lake Michigan. Please note that hours will change during the Krasl Art Fair, with further details to be announced.

A welcoming gathering for anyone passionate about cars takes place at Berrien County Courthouse. Every type of vehicle is invited. A different make and model are featured each month based on the event’s cover photo, and owners whose cars match that spotlight are encouraged to bring them to display. If you plan to attend as a spectator rather than show a car, please use the Biggby and Zoup parking lot. For everyone’s safety and courtesy, do not do burnouts or rev engines in the parking lot, as this will lead to immediate removal from the group.

Fernwood Dog Days welcomes members and visitors to explore the garden and nature preserve with their leashed canine companions. Members receive early entry, and an active membership covers admission for both people and dogs. Visitors are admitted with standard general admission pricing plus a $5 fee per dog. For safety and care of the landscape, dogs must remain leashed and under supervision at all times, including in the parking area, and should be well socialized with current vaccinations and registrations. Please stay on established paved or dirt paths, clean up after your pet, and use the outdoor trash receptacles; waste bags are available at the Visitor Center. Owners accept full responsibility for their dogs while on site. Some areas are pet free, including natural springs, ponds and other water features, the café, the conservatory, manicured beds, and the gift shop. Dogs are permitted only on designated Dog Days and during the stated hours. Service animals are welcome, while emotional support animals are not allowed.

Shop fresh local produce, goods, and more at the St. Joseph Farmers Market. It runs from late morning through the early afternoon at Lake Bluff Park.

The Single Action Shooting Society holds a match at this event running April through October. Registration opens at 9:30 AM, and shooting begins at 10:00 AM. The entry cost is $15. The event also includes contact information for Dave Springer for questions.

Experience the St. Joseph Lighthouse by exploring both the Inner and Outer lights on the North Pier. Step into the first floor of the North Pier Inner Light at no charge, where exhibits share the nautical story of St. Joseph and Benton Harbor, then choose to purchase a ticket to climb to the top for sweeping views for $5 per person. A stroll along the pier leads to the Outer Lighthouse, a favorite spot for watching boats and sunsets. A complimentary guided walk from the start of the North Pier to the Lighthouse is offered once each Saturday. Free, one hour interactive Lighthouse Presentations can be enjoyed individually or as a three part series, and afterward the Lighthouse opens for a period of free tours. Learn how these beacons have aided navigation since the mid 1800s and supported local commerce that continues today, from cargo vessels moving agricultural products, lumber, aggregate and other construction materials to a lively recreational boating scene. Tickets are sold in person with cash at the lighthouse, or with cash or credit at the St. Joe Today Welcome Center. Activities are weather dependent, so look to the St. Joe Today Facebook page for the latest updates. Parking is available at Tiscornia Park.

Dog Days of Summer is a community pet adoption event at The Common in downtown Buchanan. Organized by the Buchanan Business Boosters in honor of Ned Gardner, it benefits the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan and brings together families, local businesses, animal welfare groups, pet service providers, and neighbors to help dogs find loving homes. Attendees can meet adoptable dogs, learn about the adoption process, and even prequalify through the Humane Society’s QR code featured on the event poster. Highlights include therapy dog appearances, 4-H pet demonstrations, on-site dog demonstrations by Echo Club, nail trims and other services from BluePaw Pet Spa, gourmet dog treats and pup cups, lawn games and activities for children, a Blessing of the Animals led by Buchanan First Presbyterian Church, participation from the farmers market, and opportunities to donate in support of the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan. The event is supported by local partners including Good Boy Vodka, Tractor Supply Company, Chewy, Pet Supplies Plus, South Bend Animal Clinic, BluePaw Pet Spa, and others, with Tractor Supply Company contributing dog and cat food to help new adoptions. Community members may bring their pets, and for everyone’s safety, pets must be on a non-retractable leash, with owners prepared to show proof of current vaccinations if taking part in adoption activities.

Visit the Friends book sale in the Lower Level Classroom at the Niles District Library. All ages are welcome. Purchases directly support the library and the Niles History Center. No registration is required. Membership in the Friends group is available for those who want to make an even greater impact.

A waterside weekend steeped in the spirit of the blues awaits at the Ship & Shore Blues & Soul Festival. Enjoy live blues and soul performances, tastings of craft beer and local wines, and a mix of thoughtfully selected food trucks, all with Lake Michigan as the backdrop. It is a celebration of the blues by the water.

Enjoy an open creative session at the Sandpiper Gift & Yarn Shop/Hoof-to-Hanger Fiber Mill, where artists and makers can settle in with their own projects and spend time with others who create. All kinds of mediums are welcome, including knitting, crochet, spinning, scrapbooking, painting, quilting, woodworking, felting, and jewelry making. Bring something you are working on, swap ideas, and relax in the friendly company of fellow designers and crafters. Participants receive 15% off purchases in the gift and yarn shop.

At New Buffalo Yacht Club, a public, on-the-water dinghy trivia poker run supports Berrien County Cancer Service and Southwest Michigan Meals on Wheels. No membership is required. Crews decorate their dinghies and travel from station to station, collecting poker cards and answering trivia questions along the way. The route features Harbor Hunt checkpoints, with prizes for strong poker hands and standout decorations. Food and drinks will be available, and the focus is on community and a good cause. Details about registration, the schedule, and sponsorship opportunities will be shared by the organizers.

A recurring session centered on Warhammer 40K gameplay. This weekly gathering is dedicated to tabletop matches and focused time for games of Warhammer 40K.

Set during the Days Between, Grahame Lesh & Friends bring Shakedown Saturday to The Common in a celebration of the music of the Grateful Dead. The Happy Campers and Breakfast For Dinner join the bill. A Shakedown Street atmosphere will feature vendors, food, and a social district. Organizers indicate that vendor signups will be announced soon, and inquiries can be made via private message. Vendors should offer food, beverages, or items that fit the Shakedown Street vibe, and MLM booths are not permitted.

Live acoustic music fills the Dockside Bar with Dan Maxon delivering stripped down versions of rock classics, country tunes, and pop hits. Guests can lounge by the pool or enjoy a handcrafted cocktail along the docks while soaking up waterfront views and gentle summer breezes. Part of a Saturday summer series, it offers a relaxed evening by the water with familiar songs and an easygoing vibe.

A live performance from The Significant Others at RyeBelles Restaurant and Bar marks the final evening before Mark returns to Carolina.

White Summer brings a live classic rock showcase to Sandbar & Grille with special guests the All Niters. Expect a set packed with favorites, covering artists such as Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Bad Company, the Rolling Stones, Tom Petty, John Mellencamp, the Doobie Brothers, the Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Cream, the Moody Blues, Bon Jovi, ZZ Top, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Blue Oyster Cult, Robin Trower, Ted Nugent, Dire Straits, Chris Stapleton, Brooks & Dunn, Alice in Chains, Uriah Heep, Theory of a Deadman, the Black Crowes, the Cult, Steppenwolf, Neil Young, CCR, Mountain, Blackfoot, the Animals, Pat Travers, and Ursa Major. A $10 cover applies, with the All Niters kicking things off before White Summer takes the stage for the headlining performance.

Savor hot, fresh donuts while taking in sunset views from the bluff in downtown St. Joseph. This casual gathering is kid friendly and dog friendly, with yard games, upbeat music, and an easygoing atmosphere. It works for a date night or a family outing, and the donuts are served fresh for everyone to enjoy.

Settle into a cozy evening of live acoustic music at The Chocolate Cafe St Joe. Acoustic Buffet blends folk, country, rock, bluegrass, and Americana with modern rhythms, featuring 6 and 12 string guitars, harmonica, and vocals. The performance moves from gentle ballads to lively bluegrass and a touch of rock, offering something for a wide range of tastes. Enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and a cup of coffee while the music unfolds.

Big Dog Mercer takes the headlining slot at the Ship and Shore Blues and Soul Music Fest at Lions Park in New Buffalo.

Each year, beginning on Mother’s Day and continuing into mid October, local vendors gather for a weekly open air market. Visitors can wander the stalls, enjoy fresh offerings, find handmade goods, and chat with the makers behind them. It is a welcoming setting where neighbors connect and local businesses take the spotlight. The market invites shoppers, browsers, and those interested in becoming vendors, all with a focus on supporting local enterprises and strengthening the community.

Hosted by the Bridgman Open Air Market, this family-friendly community gathering supports teachers and students throughout Berrien County, Michigan. Now in its third year, the event brings neighbors together with a shared purpose, making sure classrooms are stocked from day one so educators are not left buying essentials themselves. Donations of school supplies such as notebooks, pencils, and other everyday items are collected and shared to meet real classroom needs. Families can explore the market, spend time together, and connect with others while showing appreciation for the educators who inspire local youth. The day centers on generosity, gratitude, and community spirit. When teachers are supported, schools grow stronger, and the whole community benefits.

Get ready for a Steel Challenge match held on bays 2 through 9 at the Bend of the River Conservation Club. Registration opens at 9:00 AM EST, there will be a safety briefing at 9:45 AM EST, and the match starts at 10:00 AM EST.

A community car show rolls into the shop with something for every enthusiast. All makes and models are welcome, including cars, trucks, and bikes, and custom builds are especially encouraged. Registration is free and handled on the day of the show, with limited space and no guaranteed spots. Standout entries will be recognized with Best of Show, People’s Choice, and Top 3 Shades awards. The setting is family friendly and safety is a priority, so burnouts and reckless behavior are not permitted. Enjoy sweet treats and savory bites from Nothing Bundt Cakes and the BURGERS N BOWS smashburger food truck. When the show winds down, the day continues with a Tattoo Flash Sale.

Animal Aid of Southwestern Michigan brings adoptable cats and kittens to FuzzyButz Pet Bakery for a friendly meet and cuddle experience. Visitors can spend time with the animals, get to know their personalities, and discover a favorite future companion.

Aaron James Wright presents a performance of his own Americana-style songs.

Swizzle Stick debuts a new project at Vineyard 2121, recasting classic hits as mellow lounge interpretations with touches of jazz and bossa nova. A relaxed, easygoing vibe sets the tone for a leisurely afternoon.

Settle in for a faith based film with complimentary popcorn. It is a simple movie night with a focus on the feature and a free snack.

At Jean Klock Park, this guided meditation and energetic alignment centers on the Lion’s Gate Portal, creating space to reclaim scattered energy, receive insights, and share a drum blessing at the lake. For 2026, the portal is described as emphasizing personal empowerment, spiritual awakening influenced by Sirius, and collective transformation, encouraging confidence, creativity, deeper inner work, and awareness of broader change. The session offers a guided journey to release what no longer serves and to reconnect with inherent joy, providing a simple practice that can complement any path. No experience is required. The gathering will be held as a sacred circle with phones silenced and only brief questions so everyone can remain present. Please bring drinking water, a blanket, towel, or yoga mat to lie on, a drum or rattle if you have one, a journal for reflections after the meditation, and anything else that supports comfort. Led by Rhonda Skinner, a Shamanic Healing Practitioner, artist, and drum maker with 13 years of experience as a Hollow Bone Healer. This is a free gathering, with parking fees separate.

Designed for ages 8 to 13, this small-group summer camp blends interactive LEGO builds with engaging science activities in a creative setting where kids learn through play. Enrollment is limited to 15 participants to keep the experience personal and collaborative. Campers take on a fresh construction challenge each day, experimenting, problem solving, and sharing ideas along the way. On the final day, everyone brings home a special project they built themselves.

Bridge Club is an adult group for people who already play bridge or want to learn. The group meets seasonally from April through December, and these sessions run on Mondays and Thursdays, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This meeting will take place in the Norris Room on the main floor.

Kids ages 3 to 12 can dive into a creative art session in the MakerSpace where getting a little messy is part of the fun. A total of 60 projects will be available on a first-come basis. No registration is required.

Stop by for a free mobile food pantry open to everyone. The food pantry runs from 4:00 PM until they run out, and guests are asked to stay in their vehicles, with no bags or boxes needed. RSVP isn’t required.

Enjoy live music performed outside on the patio.

Hosted by Niles Brewing Company, this event pairs general trivia with a chance to support the No Can Left Behind Project. Bring donations and your best trivia knowledge to help make a difference while you play.

The Curiosity Club is a monthly get-together for adults (and caregivers of aging adults) who want to learn and explore new topics together in a casual, friendly setting. Meet in the Solarium at 11:00 AM and get ready to dive into the Curiosity Kits.

Celebrate summer reading at The New Buffalo Memorial Park with recognition of top readers and prize giveaways, a big water balloon fight, and lots of treats. Bring a towel and swimsuit.

A casual open-gaming session centered on Marvel Crisis Protocol with unstructured matches.

Tea Talks Tuesdays offers a calm setting to unwind, connect, and focus on whole-person wellness. Held at The Wellness HUB, this weekly Tuesday gathering brings a supportive community together for meaningful conversations in a warm, come-as-you-are environment. The atmosphere emphasizes safety, healing, and empowerment, and the event is child friendly.

Take part in a monthly upcycling craft session at Howard Branch Library where adults 18 and older will weave coasters for beverages using pages from old magazines. All supplies are provided. Advance registration is required, and to sign up, call the Howard Branch at 269-487-9214.

Join for Basic Pistol Training at Bend of the River Conservation Club. Classes begin at 9 and include live fire. The class is open to both club members and the general public, and the class fee is $5.

The HBA of SWMI Annual Golf Outing will be held at Lake Michigan Hills Golf Club. Registration is $150 per player, increasing to $175 after the price change. Each entry includes green fees, a cart, a goody bag, a hot dog at the turn, lunch, prizes, and a raffle following the round. Contests on the course include closest to the pin, longest drive for men and for women, closest to the Pink Panther, a porta potty chip shot, and a putting contest. Additional chances to win are available through a betting hole, mulligan string, a cash raffle, and a vehicle hole-in-one opportunity. Sponsorships are available, with benefits that include signage, a listing in the program, and recognition at the luncheon and on the website. For sponsor information, contact Patty Knicker at patty@hbaswm.com.

Make something new during craft time at the library. A different project is offered each week, with supplies available while they last.

Fresh produce and handmade goods from local vendors return to downtown Benton Harbor for the season. The market offers a welcoming place to connect with the community while supporting local vendors and enjoying what the season brings. It takes place weekly in the heart of downtown, making it easy to shop local and experience a lively, community-focused marketplace.

Connect with other moms in St Joseph, MI through a relaxed walking group that blends fresh air, staying active, and friendly conversation. It welcomes everyone, whether you walk regularly or are just getting started. Bring comfortable shoes and enjoy time outdoors while meeting new friends.

Enjoy free live music at the John E. N. Howard Bandshell. Bring a lunch, unwind for a mid-day break, and take in performances from a season lineup that includes The Weko Boys, Diane & Lisa, Tim Velez, Mike Talbot, Ellen Wallenfang, Leonardo, Jack Adams, and Richard Schwartz. Support for the series comes from Mighty Dog Roofing and United Way of Southwest Michigan.

Meet local people and business owners without the usual formality at The Livery. The plan is simple... connect, enjoy a beer or another beverage, then repeat. This casual networking gathering focuses on building community while supporting locally owned breweries, tap houses, and other establishments. Come for the camaraderie and conversation or simply enjoy a craft beer, a cocktail, or a glass of wine. An RSVP on Facebook is requested out of respect for the businesses being visited and to gauge attendance. Sponsored by LINDA RADTKE. For questions, email linda.radtke@flagstar.com.

Young readers can build confidence by practicing their reading with a therapy dog. This activity focuses on helping children feel more comfortable as they learn to read.

Olde Boys Toys Car Club presents a car cruise in at Riverfront Park in Niles. This gathering is part of a 13-show series at the park and welcomes both participants and spectators at no cost. Enjoy music from a DJ, prize drawings, and awards recognizing participating vehicles.

Hot, freshly prepared wings come with fries and can be ordered in portions of 6, 9, or 13. This local favorite is served at the Legion.

Part of a weekly series at Court Place Plaza, this family-friendly evening offers no-cost entertainment along with free crafts and activities for all ages. This installment features an inflatable planetarium. Across the season, the lineup also rotates to include Family Challenge Night, a Youth Musicians Showcase, magic with John Dudley, live music with Leonardo, and a foam party.

Explore lighthouse navigation during a one-hour interactive session at Plank's Tavern on the Water. This program can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a three-session series. Learn how oils, lamps, lenses, light characteristics, daymarks, and catwalks guided mariners, and how keepers accomplished the work without electricity. The innovation of range lights, including the pair on the St Joseph North Pier, is featured. A safe, hands-on night simulation invites participants to pinpoint a boat’s location using lighthouse signals. Designed for learners from sixth grade through high school and adults, with younger children welcome when accompanied by an adult. Sponsored by Plank's Tavern. Immediately after the presentation, the Lighthouse opens for free tours. Presented by Marie A. Blunt, a longtime lighthouse enthusiast who has visited more than 500 lighthouses across the United States and Canada. She presents through the United States Lighthouse Society Speakers Bureau, incorporates photography by her husband, Allan, has authored several lighthouse books, contributed articles to the society’s Keeper's Log, and volunteers as a docent at the St Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse.

Swing by the Niles-Buchanan YMCA for a Community Soup Night. It’s a chance to connect with neighbors and enjoy a complimentary bowl of soup. The event is free.

At The Grand LV in Niles, Niles Service League hosts an evening focused on community impact and connection. Current members, prospective members, and anyone curious about the organization can share a meal, meet members, and learn about the League’s work during the 2025–2026 school year. For more than 90 years, Niles Service League has supported local students and families through community service projects, scholarships, educational support, and fundraising. This gathering offers information about the mission, ways to participate, and opportunities to connect with women in the community.

Enjoy a quiet, companionable reading session at Apothica Teas. This Silent Book Club gathers on second Wednesdays and sets aside at least one uninterrupted hour for everyone to read their own book. Arrive a bit early or stay afterward for optional book conversation. Bring whatever helps you focus, including headphones, earbuds, your current read, or an e-reader like a Kindle. The shop offers a range of teas, other beverages, food, and more to sip and snack on while you read.

Leo Fron performs live at RyeBelles Restaurant and Bar, a family-run fixture in downtown St. Joseph that has welcomed locals and travelers since 2011. Enjoy the music on the rooftop patio alongside friendly service, house-made dishes, and wide Lake Michigan views from a rooftop restaurant and bar with full service.

Join a hands-on class focused on matting, mounting, and framing your artwork. You’ll learn the basics of preparing and finishing pieces so they look polished and professional once they’re framed. The session runs over multiple days, with the class starting in the early evening and continuing through the end of August.

The Sip & Share Book Club meets at Sister Lakes Brewing Company for a group discussion. August’s book will be announced after the July meeting. Drinks and food are available for purchase from the brewery. The book can be accessed using Dowagiac District Library resources. This event is presented in conjunction with Sister Lakes Brewing Company, and questions should be directed to the Dowagiac District Library.

At The Box Factory, this open mic welcomes musicians, poets, writers, comedians, and other performers. Sign up in person for a 10 minute slot, with no fee to perform. Hosts Fred Story and Larry Zenk keep things moving and may jam when time permits. Audience members can enjoy a casual showcase of local talent, with a suggested $5 donation at the door.

An hour of mindful movement and fresh air unfolds along the St. Joseph River as a summer series blends yoga and Pilates. Three local instructors lead the sessions, each bringing a distinct style, background, and approach to wellness. Whether the focus is building strength, improving flexibility, easing stress, or simply enjoying a quiet morning or evening by the water, classes welcome all experience levels. Attend a single session or make it part of your summer routine. Optional wellness add-ons from Evermore Juice Bar and Base Bowls are available for pre-purchase throughout the series, featuring fresh juices, smoothie bowls, salads, and other health-focused choices. Move, breathe, and relax by the river.

Join The Collective for an evening of yoga and meditation focused on showing up honestly and with compassion. The practice is welcoming for all experience levels, with space to explore without judgment. Expect a blend of traditional wisdom and modern understanding, with guidance that supports a sustainable relationship with your body and mind.

A weekly trivia series brings Tivium to The Livery, the bar game enjoyed at breweries and venues across the country and beyond. Each game features four rounds with ten questions per round. Questions appear on a big screen and are read aloud by a rotating lineup of Livery staff hosts, so the experience stays fresh from week to week. It is free to play, and top teams earn Livery gift cards valued at $15 for first place, $10 for second, and $5 for third. All experience levels are welcome. Compete solo, pair up, or form a team of any size. Pair the challenge with craft brews and scratch-made food for a relaxed night out. Benton Harbor now has its own spot on the Tivium circuit.

The Little Bucks Bookmobile is making regular rounds with weekly stops and special appearances throughout the community. Look for it at the Boys & Girls Club at Buchanan Middle School, Little Bucks Day Care, Hills Haven, and Riverside Estates, with additional visits planned for National Night Out and Faith & Family Day. Check the schedule to see when it will be at each location.

Bridge Club is a friendly group for adults who already play bridge or want to learn. The sessions run seasonally from April through December, with meetings in the Norris Room on the main floor. The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays during the 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM window.

Kids will mix and shake their way to homemade ice cream using a simple bag method in this hands-on session. All materials are provided. This program is for ages 6 to 12. Space is limited, so registration is required. To register, call the Howard Branch at 269-487-9214.

August’s Business After Hours brings local business leaders and community members together at Meridian Title Corporation for relaxed networking and conversation. Enjoy catering by Classic Catering and a wine tasting featuring St. Joe Wine, with beer, soft drinks, and water also available. Bring a business card for a chance to win a door prize. The gathering takes place at Meridian Title Corporation. The company operates more than thirty offices across Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois and partners with lenders, brokers, developers, and consumers nationwide to deliver compliant, on-schedule real estate closings and settlements. Its mission emphasizes exceptional customer service supported by a commitment to compliance, technology, and employee development, while pursuing growth locally, regionally, and nationally without losing sight of core principles. The team upholds high standards of accuracy and expertise, serves clients as counselors, advocates, and investigators, and supports property rights, investment protection, risk reduction, and peace of mind in every real estate transaction. Meet new contacts, share ideas, and build connections in a welcoming, after-hours setting.

Dockside Summer Social Thursdays features music from a live DJ from Luxx Entertainment, with featured drink specials available throughout the evening.

Settle in for a relaxed evening of conversation and good food as The Village Initiative hosts a women-focused gathering at Front Street Pizza. It is a chance to take a breather in the middle of the week, reconnect with friends, neighbors, and coworkers, and meet other women from the community. Appetizers sponsored by The Village Initiative will be provided to kick things off. To help the restaurant prepare for the group, attendees are encouraged to indicate their plans to attend. Share the news with friends who could use a night out.

Team Honor from Honor Credit Union is hosting a free community shred day at Harding’s Friendly Market in Buchanan. Bring outdated personal documents for secure disposal with a simple drive-up drop off, and on-site staff will take it from there. Shredding is completed off site with secure destruction. The service is available to both members and nonmembers. Shred trucks will remain until the event concludes or until they reach capacity, and each household may bring up to 10 boxes or bags. Plans may change, so event details are subject to update. Clear out clutter, protect your information, and support a greener community with a quick stop at this convenient shred event.

Jessie Ray brings a high-energy burst of rockabilly powered by gritty guitar riffs and a driving pulse. Blending storytelling lyrics with vintage-tinged melodies, this solo hillbilly blues act from the Mitten State is made to get audiences moving.

Downstairs at Sonny D’s Speakeasy, karaoke takes center stage as guests step up to the mic to sing their favorite songs. Specials include $15 domestics, $20 imported beer buckets, and $6 Titos, creating a lively setting for an evening of music.