Cool North, Hot Festivals: From Sand to Songs

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.

Where Flowers Tell Stories: Quilt Gardens

 

 

May 30 – September 15, 2025

The Quilt Gardens Along the Heritage Trail blend gardening, quilting, and public art into a vibrant, free outdoor exhibit. Featuring colorful quilt-inspired designs made from over a million blooms, these gardens appear in seven communities in Elkhart County and Shipshewana.  Paired with hand-painted murals, they celebrate local artistry, tradition, and the region’s cultural roots.

For information on nearby lodging.  Request a destination guide for Elkhart County.

  • 58 Minutes to Michigan City
  • 63 Minutes to Indiana Dunes
  • 80 Minutes to South Shore

Learn More