Cool North, Hot Festivals: From Sand to Songs
Posted on May 26, 2025 by Dina Miller
Summer in Indiana’s Cool North bursts with unforgettable activities for all ages. Dive into fun at sand-filled festivals like Michigan City’s Singing Sands or the Indiana Dunes sand sculpture contest. Savor local flavors at tasty celebrations like Pierogi Fest and the Festival of the Lakes. County fairs and 4-H exhibitions bring classic charm, while music takes center stage at festivals from Elkhart to Munster. It’s a season packed with sunshine, community, and creativity.
Swinging Through Elkhart: A Jazz Tradition
June 19-22, 2025
The Elkhart Jazz Festival, held annually since 1988 in downtown Elkhart, celebrates America’s classic art form with over 100 performers across multiple venues, including some free. Known as the “Band Instrument Capital of the World,” Elkhart hosts this vibrant event, drawing 20,000 attendees for a weekend of world-class jazz and community spirit
For information on nearby lodging. Request a destination guide for Elkhart County.
- 69 Minutes to Michigan City
- 75 Minutes to Indiana Dunes
- 92 Minutes to South Shore