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Downtown South Bend’s First Fridays are a fun choice for families in the summer. The June Kids’ Night Out edition usually includes street activities, entertainers, and plenty of family-friendly energy. It works well for an evening outing with elementary-age children and older siblings too.

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The”Best First Fridays Ever!” This is a signature event for Best. Week. Ever, and the theme will be “Kids’ Night Out.” We will have a frenzy of activity taking place downtown this night, with downtown businesses hosting activities and specials for kids, plus the addition of many Best. Week. Ever e

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The St. Joe County Public Library’s summer kickoff is a great free option for families. Expect music, activity stations, and a strong start to summer reading. I’d recommend this for families who want a fun event that also keeps kids engaged in books during the break.

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Summer Reading - St. Joe County Public Library

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Children’s Day at the zoo is one of the best family outings of the summer in South Bend. Kids can enjoy animal exhibits, keeper talks, and special activities in a setting that feels exciting but easy for families to manage. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.

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Children’s Day June 10, 2026 | 10 am to 7 pm
Provided by Admission for children 14 and under is free from 10 am to 7 pm (last entry 6 pm), thanks to United Federal Credit Union.

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This fair offers a full day of family entertainment with livestock shows, rides, exhibits, and classic fair food. It is a strong choice if you want something that appeals to both younger children and teens. Families can stay for a few hours or make it a full-day outing.

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St. Joseph County Fair | Visit South Bend Mishawaka

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The St. Joseph County 4-H Fair is a summertime tradition that brings together the best of community spirit, youth creativity, and classic fair fun.

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Art Beat is a lively downtown arts festival with performances, artist booths, and hands-on creativity throughout the day. For children, it can be a fun way to experience music, art, and community all in one place. It’s especially good for families looking for a cultural event that still feels kid-friendly.

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​Join us for the largest event in downtown, where the streets are filled with performing, visual, and culinary artists.

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Zoo Boo is a favorite fall event for families who want a not-too-scary Halloween experience. Children can dress up, trick-or-treat, and enjoy themed attractions in a familiar setting. This is a great seasonal choice for preschool and elementary-age kids.

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Join the Potawatomi Zoo to celebrate Halloween at this beloved community event! Trick or treat with our vendor partners and enjoy seeing the animals, pumpkins, lights, and decorations at Zoo Boo! Don't miss the chance to ride the Haunted Train (scary after dark) and the Enchanted Carousel.

Zoo Boo is two weekends, so you can pick your fun or come back for more! Each weekend, we'll have a theme with character actors in the Zoo for meet and greet and picture opportunities.
The Zoo is closed for regular hours during Zoo Boo. Zoo Boo is a rain or shine event.
2026 Admission Details TBD

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South Bend area parks often offer autumn family programming with nature walks, crafts, and seasonal learning. These activities are a nice fit for younger children who enjoy being outdoors and for families who prefer a lower-cost outing. Check the county parks calendar for current fall programs.

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Our seasonal Activity Guides are your portal to the county parks!

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Science Alive is a standout winter event for children who enjoy building, experimenting, and asking questions. Families can explore hands-on STEM activities and presentations from local organizations. It is one of the strongest indoor family events in the area during the colder months.

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Science Alive brings together the magic of science, technology, engineering, and art with interactive exhibits, live stage shows, and hands-on activities for all ages.

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This event is designed with younger children in mind and usually includes simple winter-themed activities, stories, and outdoor play if conditions allow. It’s a helpful option for families with little ones who need something active during the winter season. Dress warmly and be prepared for weather-based changes.

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Ice skating at Howard Park is a classic winter activity for families in South Bend. The setting is festive, and families can choose a short visit or make an afternoon of it. This is a great option for building winter memories even when you are not attending a special event.

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Howard Park’s 16,000 square foot ice trail and pond is a premier winter destination for the South Bend region. The ice trail features rolling hills and soft curves that provide skaters with a diverse terrain when making their way around the loop. The ice pond is attached to the ice trail but provides a more traditional skating experience with an isolated skating area that can be used for learning to skate or skating activities like broomball.

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Winter Days gives families a chance to visit the zoo during the colder season and see animals that do well in winter weather. It’s a nice alternative to staying indoors and can be easier to manage than busy summer zoo days. This works especially well for families with children who already love animals.

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Winter Days 2026

Visit the Zoo in the off season and check in on some of your favorite animals! This year, Winter Days are every Saturday and Sunday from January 3 to March 22. They're 11 am-4 pm, last entry at 3:30. Concessions and the Potawatomi Express train will be open, weather permitting. Giraffe feeding will be available from 11 am to 3 pm.

Winter Days are free for Zoo Members. For non-members, admission is $12 for adults and $10 for children and seniors. Babies 2 and under are free.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

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Visit the Zoo in the off season and check in on some of your favorite animals! This year, Winter Days are every Saturday and Sunday from January 3 to March 22. They're 11 am-4 pm, last entry at 3:30. Concessions and the Potawatomi Express train will be open, weather permitting.

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Howard Park is one of the best year-round family spots in South Bend. In warmer months, families can enjoy the playground and splash pad, and in colder months it becomes a skating destination. It also hosts concerts, movies, and community events throughout the year.

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Due to hazardous weather conditions, the Howard Holiday Market is cancelled for Friday, December 10th. We encourage you to visit on Saturday, Dec. 11th and Sunday, Dec. 12th! Thank you for supporting our local businesses.

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Due to hazardous weather conditions, the Howard Holiday Market is cancelled for Friday, December 10th. We encourage you to visit on Saturday, Dec. 11th and Sunday, Dec. 12th! Thank you for supporting our local businesses.

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The zoo is an easy go-to activity across much of the year. Families can plan a simple visit around animal exhibits, giraffe feeding, the train, or the carousel. It works well for both quick outings and longer family days.

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One of the oldest zoos in Indiana, Potawatomi Zoo features around 500 animals, with fun activities for everyone! Memberships also make for a unique and thoughtful gift for any occasion.

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The library system offers excellent free family programming throughout the year, including storytimes, baby and play programs, and special events. This is one of my top recommendations for families with young children because it is affordable, welcoming, and educational. Check branch calendars for age-specific activities.

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Find everything you need at St. Joe County Public Library! We connect members of our diverse community to learning, resources, culture, and each other.

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Rum Village Park is a strong option for families who want active outdoor time. The nature center and wooded setting make it feel different from a standard playground visit, and some families may also enjoy the adventure course options for older children. It’s a good place to mix movement with nature learning.

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Rum Village Park Community Engagement

Thursday, Jan. 29, 4:30 - 7 PM
at the Technology Resource Center
1165 Franklin St. #100
South Bend, IN, 46601

The 160 acres of rolling woodlands are home to deer, foxes, reptiles, amphibians, and numerous species of birds. With so much to see and so many programs and activities to do, it is no wonder that so many people are rediscovering Rum Village.

Dog Park

There's a new dog park in town! The Rum Village Dog Park offers an area for small dogs, large dogs, community area available for rental, pavilion and more. Tucked away in the beautiful wooded Rum Village Park, you'll feel like you aren't even in the city. Rum Village is home to diverse wildlife. Over a hundred species of birds have been seen at Rum Village, including nesting owls, woodpeckers, and warblers. Foxes, deer, reptiles and amphibians can also be found in Rum Village.

Nature Center

Nature-lovers, families, and students will enjoy exploring Rum Village Nature Center. See what the center has to offer.

Come out to Rum Village for a game of disc golf! The view from the hills of Rum Village makes this 18 hole course a great place to play- and its FREE! Well-groomed park with a very old trees and elevation. Begins with birdie-able holes - the back 9 tests accuracy.

Find more information about the Disc Golf Course
Mountain Bike Trails

There are now over five miles of trails at the Rum Village Annex, which is located on the west side of Gertrude Street, south of the entrance to Rum Village Park. There are beginner, intermediate and advanced trails to suit the skills of various riders.
For information about the trails, check out the Northern Indiana Mountain Bike Association site.
The 160 acres of natural woodland is a designated nature area. Three miles of trails wind through this habitat. Check out the trail map.

Many native trees and a wide selection of flowering and herbaceous plants may be found here. It is a remnant of the land that once was, a source of food and shelter for a variety of wildlife and a haven for renewal of the human spirit. Please help us preserve the natural area by following these regulations:

Please walk on marked trails - do not go "cross country".

Bicycles or motorized vehicles are prohibited from trails

Leave all wood (living or dead) to rebuild natural humus.

Pets are welcome on our trails, however, please keep all pets on a leash.

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Thursday, Jan. 29, 4:30 - 7 PM at the Technology Resource Center 1165 Franklin St. #100 South Bend, IN, 46601 The 160 acres of rolling woodlands are home to deer, foxes, reptiles, amphibians, and numerous species of birds.

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This museum can be a great fit for children who enjoy cars, history, and hands-on learning experiences. Seasonal programs and special events add variety beyond a standard museum visit. It’s a useful indoor option when the weather is too hot, rainy, or cold.

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Home Page - The Studebaker National Museum

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Time for the final Cars & Coffee! Join us from 8-10am on October 5th, in the museum campus parking lot, for the opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee (and […]
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