Good morning, South Bend.

Downtown South Bend Inc. held its July First Fridays Backyard BBQ on July 3, 2026 where early thunderstorms delayed turnout but improved weather brought larger crowds to enjoy award-winning barbecue and live music (with local vendors adding to the fun) in downtown.

After storms cleared Saturday, July 3 at the St. Joseph County 4-H Fair, workers dried off rides + families enjoyed games, face painting, and treats even though the rodeo was postponed.

Three South Bend artists discussed their work on the downtown storm drain mural project, explaining how their art brightens overlooked urban spaces today.

Concours d'Lemons

12-5 p.m. — Studebaker National Museum — Free entry — Celebrate the quirkiest cars and most ridiculous trophies at this fun automotive show.

Softball Summer Day Camp II - Pitching & Catching

3:00 – 6:30 PM — Melissa Cook Stadium — Check in 45 minutes prior — Experience what it's like to train like the Irish with pitching and catching fundamentals.

Michiana Kennel Club Dog Show

July 18-19 — 5117 Ironwood Rd. — Entry fees apply — Experience top-tier competition showcasing purebred Labrador Retrievers in an exciting canine event.

18th Annual Old Car Show

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — La Porte County Historical Society — Registration fee for participants — Celebrate vintage cars and community spirit at this festive auto showcase.

Pilot Explorers Summer Camp for Teens

One-week day camps — Bethel University — Registration required — Experience hands-on learning in STEAM subjects including art, theatre, and esports.

B-29 Superfortress Ride Experience

10:00–11:00 a.m. — Atlantic Aviation SBN — Ticket purchase required — Experience a ride on the iconic B-29 Superfortress, honoring veterans and showcasing aviation history.

Sequoia Rose at Tabor Hill Winery

2:30-6:30 p.m. — Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant — Ticket information not provided — Experience the unique musical blend of soulful vocals and intricate instrumentals by Sequoia Rose.

Bluey's Big Play

6-9 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Experience Bluey live in a whimsical theatrical adaptation with captivating puppetry.

21st Lube-a-Thon for Hospice

7 a.m.–6 p.m. — Tom's Car Care Center — $50 donation — Get an oil change and a car wash while supporting a great cause for hospice care.

Nature in the Arts at Lydick Bog

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Lydick Bog — Free entry — Explore the story of ancient glaciers and their impact on our landscape through an educational hike and volunteer workdays.