Good morning, South Bend.

This week, Aug. 25–31, 2025, local communities will host many events including a live play at the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, Porch-A-Palooza in South Bend and a cookout at the Farmers Market; other events feature independent film shows in Goshen, a blueberry festival in Plymouth, art walks in Elkhart and classic car cruises in nearby towns.

Botany and Co. hosted its latest art event Found and Forged at The Lot Next Door in South Bend over the weekend — makers and artists turned old items into new home décor, clothing and dried floral arrangements.

The South Bend Education Foundation and South Bend Alumni Association have merged to form a single organization that will support public schools and strengthen community ties—its new identity and expanded programming will debut this fall.

NIPSCO will close Tyler Road between Pine Road and Oak Road from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Aug.

26 through Aug. 29—drivers can use the road in the evenings.

The South Bend Reparatory Justice Commission held a forum to discuss how to improve community support — it will hold monthly meetings on the first Tuesday at 6 p.m. to continue the discussion.

Notre Dame football is in game week as a local podcast will preview Thursday’s matchup with Miami — listeners can submit questions about the season and college football; the team aims to repeat last year’s playoff run with a different outcome.

The South Bend Tribune has opened voting for Week 1 High School Football Player of the Week, with votes accepted until 11:59 p.m. Thursday, Aug.

28—voters may cast as many votes as they like and the winner will be announced online Friday.

Miami Hurricanes will try to get more takeaways when they meet Notre Dame on Aug.

31, after recovering only four fumbles last season. New defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman said his team practices strip drills every day—hoping to catch more fumbles during the game.

Marshall County Blueberry Festival

12-9 p.m. — Centennial Park — Fun for all ages — Celebrate blueberries with rides, games, crafts, and plenty of delicious blueberry treats.

Yart Arts and Music Festival

9 p.m. — Keria Trail, South Bend, IN — $30 for 1 day, $50 for weekend — Experience a unique arts and music festival set deep in the woods.

Grateful Dead Night with The Happy Campers Band

6-10 p.m. — Four Winds Field at Coveleski Stadium — Details subject to change — Enjoy a night of groovy Grateful Dead jams under the stars.

Dermot Kennedy Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Notre Dame Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the powerful folk-pop sounds of Dermot Kennedy live on stage.

Open House Event

2-4 p.m. — 52117 Tammy Dr — $340,000 — Explore a well-maintained 4-bed ranch home with a cozy sunroom and inviting backyard pool.

Football Hospitality Experience: Texas A&M Aggies at Notre Dame Fighting Irish

3:30-9:00 p.m. — Notre Dame Stadium — Not a game ticket — Cheer on the Fighting Irish during their home opener with premium hospitality close to the stadium.

Ghost Walk in South Bend

6-8 p.m. — Century Center — Ticketed event — Experience a lantern-lit ghost hunt through South Bend's most haunted landmarks.