Teddy and Edith Roosevelt_Featured Patriotic Speakers_2025
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Teddy and Edith Roosevelt: Chautauqua-Wawasee 2025 Speaker Series

Teddy and Edith Roosevelt Come to Life at Chautauqua-Wawasee’s 2025 Patriotic Speaker Series

Larry and Julia Marple portraying Teddy and Edith Roosevelt during Chautauqua-Wawasee’s 2025 Patriotic Speaker Series in Syracuse, Indiana

Experience history as President Teddy Roosevelt and First Lady Edith Roosevelt come to life at the 11th Annual Patriotic Speaker Series, presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee. This free program features professional actors Larry and Julia Marple portraying the 26th President and his wife, bringing their stories, passions, and era to vivid life.

Join us on Saturday, June 29, 2025, from 4:30–5:30 p.m. at the Wawasee High School Auditorium in Syracuse, Indiana.

About the Program

Teddy and Edith Roosevelt will discuss major topics of the early 1900s, share personal stories from their lives together, and reflect on their love for nature and conservation.

At age 42, Teddy Roosevelt became the youngest person ever elected President of the United States. As president, he reshaped the executive office, promoting social justice, regulating American industry, and laying the groundwork for modern governance.

In addition to his political achievements, Roosevelt was a celebrated author, big game hunter, and world adventurer. Conservation was central to his legacy—Teddy Roosevelt protected over 200 million acres of land for future generations and championed the healing power of nature throughout his life.

Edith Roosevelt will offer insights into her role as First Lady, describing the challenges and joys of being “the woman behind the man.” She will share how she managed official communications and family matters while supporting her husband’s dynamic presidency.

Event Details

🗓 Date: Saturday, June 29, 2025
🕓 Time: 4:30–5:30 P.M.
📍 Location: Wawasee High School Auditorium, Syracuse, Indiana
🎟️ Admission: Free and open to the public

Additional Festivities in Syracuse

Later that evening, enjoy the annual Patriotic Pops Concert by the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Orchestra on the lawn at Oakwood Resort.
The concert begins at 7:30 P.M., and attendance is free. Visit the Chautauqua tent for a complimentary flag and glow light for the whole family!

Learn More

For full event details, follow us on Facebook or call 574-377-7543.

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Join us at the 2nd annual Pawasee Dog Parade
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Pawasee Dog Parade Returns to Oakwood Resort – June 7!

Second Annual Pawasee Dog Parade at Oakwood Resort

Pawasee Dog Parade Returns to Oakwood Resort – June 7!

Back by popular demand, the 2nd Annual Pawasee Dog Parade is happening Saturday, June 7, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the beautiful Oakwood Resort in Syracuse, Indiana — and trust us, you won’t want to miss it!

Pawasee Dog Parade 2024

Last year’s parade was paws-itively delightful! From wagging tails to dazzling costumes, the laughter and community spirit were unforgettable. Dogs of all shapes and sizes strutted their stuff along the scenic parade route, and we’re bringing that same joy and energy back this year,  with even more fun in store.

What to Expect

Join us for a short and scenic quarter-mile parade route through Oakwood’s charming lakeside grounds. Whether your pup is a seasoned performer or just loves the spotlight, all are welcome.
 Feel free to decorate wagons, strollers, and leashes — and don’t forget to dress up with your dog!

Prizes Will Be Awarded For:

  • Best Dressed Dog
  • Best Dog Trick
  • Best Tail Wag
  • Plus surprise categories to keep things playful!

Hosted By

Chautauqua-Wawasee, New Hope Pet Rescue, Special O.P.S. K-9 Academy, Syracuse-Wawasee Trails, and Oakwood Resort — all joining forces to create a day filled with community, creativity, and canine cheer.

Suggested Donation

This is a free event, but we encourage a $15 donation to support New Hope Pet Rescue, a local nonprofit doing incredible work saving and caring for animals in our community.

Event Details

When: Saturday, June 7 | 10:00 a.m.–Noon
 Where: Oakwood Resort, 702 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse, Indiana
 Cost: Free | Register onsite

Learn More

 Follow us on Facebook: Chautauqua-Wawasee and be sure to check out our full list of upcoming events for more family-friendly fun!

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2025 Taps Across the Water – A Moving Memorial Day Tribute

Taps Across the Water

2025 Taps Across the Water – A Moving Memorial Day Tribute

Sunday, May 25, 2025, marks the 5th annual Taps Across the Water tribute across Lake Webster, Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Lake, and Lake Papakeechie.

This moving event honors U.S. military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Trumpeters and buglers stationed around the lakes perform a stunning Echo Cascading Rendition of Taps—a four-minute, multi-directional experience that resonates powerfully across the water. Taps Across the Water creates a reverent, deeply memorable moment for attendees and participants alike.

About Taps Across the Water

Led by Dr. Matt Murdock, an educator with ties to Indianapolis and North Webster, Taps Across the Water brings together nearly 40 musicians, including:

  • Local veterans
  • Community band members
  • High school students and music directors
  • Professional trumpet players

Inspired by Jari Villanueva’s Taps Across America, Taps Across the Water also raises awareness about the shortage of live trumpet players at military funerals.

“This gives students a meaningful way to connect with their community—both now and beyond graduation.”
– Dr. Matt Murdock

Faith Bradley-2024 Bugler at Taps Across the Water

North Webster Lake Schedule

6:15 PM – Military Service at the Town Park
A brief service with live trumpet music and remarks, followed by a ceremonial salute from the North Webster American Legion Post 253 Honor Guard.

6:30 PM – Listen for Taps Across the Water
Hear the Echoing Taps from the Town Park, your pier, boat, or aboard the Dixie Sternwheeler as it launches in sync with the tribute.

7:05 PM – Trumpet Concert
Enjoy a 20-minute trumpet performance at the Town Park following Taps Across the Water.

Wawasee, Syracuse, & Papakeechie Schedule

8:10 PM – Trumpet Ensemble Concert at Oakwood Gazebo
A patriotic concert sets the tone for the evening before musicians head to their designated pier locations around the lakes.
Presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee & American Legion Post #223.

9:00 PM – Moment of Silence
Mark Knecht, Chautauqua-Wawasee Board President, says, “In addition to notifying the community, we alert the lakefront restaurants about the timing of the event and propose that guests observe one minute of silence before the starting of the Taps.”

9:09 PM – Listen for Taps Across the Water
Taps will echo across all three lakes.

“Every year people plan for this moment. Wind can affect the sound, but the impact is always powerful.”
– Karen Kroemer, Event Organizer

 

Tips for Attending Taps Across the Water in Syracuse, Indiana

  • Listen from your pier, boat, or designated public viewing locations:
    • The bridge by the Channel Marker
    • The Public Boat Launch
    • Oakwood Resort

For a full list of pier locations and maps of bugler locations on Lakes Wawasee and Syracuse, follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook

Join us in honoring the fallen with reverence, gratitude, and the sound of Taps.

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Chautauqua Wawasee Fine Arts Festival 2025
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Wawasee Fine Arts Festival 2025 | Art, Music & Family Fun

Wawasee Fine Arts Festival Returns to Oakwood Resort

Chautauqua-Wawasee is proud to host the 11th Annual Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood Resort on Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

This beloved outdoor festival brings together a diverse range of fine art, featuring pottery, watercolor, oil painting, jewelry, and specialty art crafted from natural materials like wood, glass, and metal. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, created by talented artisans who reflect the beauty of the world around us — many with a lake-life influence perfect for the Syracuse-Wawasee community.

This year’s festival will welcome more than 30 juried artists, ensuring a broad and inspiring selection for guests to explore. Every artist is carefully selected to provide fine art of the highest quality — so you’re sure to discover a special treasure to take home.

Plein Air “Paint Out” Returns

Also returning this year is the popular Plein Air Paint Out, sponsored by the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association. Plein Air, or “painting outdoors,” allows artists to capture the local landscape directly onto canvas while immersed in the environment.

All Plein Air artwork will feature scenes from the Syracuse/Wawasee area. Prizes will be awarded following the event, with Plein Air pieces available for purchase shortly after 4:00 p.m.

A Fun-Filled Day for the Whole Family

The festival will take place outdoors (rain or shine) in the beautiful lakefront park setting at Oakwood Resort in Syracuse, Indiana. In addition to browsing incredible art, families will find activities for children, both recreational and artistic — so there’s truly something for everyone!

Enjoy delicious food and drinks from local food trucks on-site, or visit Oakwood’s Pier & Back Porch Restaurant for a relaxing meal.

Admission is free, with free parking available. For added convenience, a golf cart shuttle will be running between the parking lot and the festival grounds.

Live Music Entertainment

Guests can enjoy live music throughout the day, featuring performances by Garry Jones Music and Michelle Fife on the Dulcimer.

Event Details:

What: Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood
When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Oakwood Resort, Syracuse, Indiana
Cost: Free Admission

Questions?

Contact us at info@ChautauquaWawasee.org or call 574-377-7543.

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2025 Points of Interest Cruse-Narrated by Ann Garceau
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Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 17, 2025

🚤 Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 17, 2025

If you’ve ever wanted to step back in time while enjoying the beauty of Indiana’s largest natural lake, this is your chance. The Lake Wawasee historical cruise is back for 2025—an unforgettable two-hour event aboard the SS Lillypad II, brought to you by Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum.

Local historian Ann Garceau will narrate the cruise, highlighting fascinating “Points of Interest” along the shoreline. Learn about the lake’s rich past as you float past sites of historic hotels, entertainment venues, marinas, and more. You’ll receive a map of the lake so you can follow along during the journey.

🎟️ Tickets:
This event sells out quickly, so don’t wait! Purchase your tickets in advance!

🗓️ Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025

  • Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Boarding begins at 12:45 PM)

  • Location: The Frog Tavern, 1116 S Harkless Drive, Syracuse, IN

  • Ticket Link: Click HERE to purchase

📍 What to Expect:

  • A narrated tour of historic and lesser-known spots around Lake Wawasee

  • Insight into past events, property owners, boat taxis, and restaurants

  • Snack food provided and a cash bar available onboard

  • A relaxing and educational afternoon on the lake

📞 Questions?
Contact Chautauqua-Wawasee:
Phone: 574-377-7543
Email: info@chautauquawawasee.org

Chautauqua-Wawasee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to offering quality programming centered on Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation—enhancing life in Syracuse and the surrounding region.

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Plein Air Summer
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2025 Summer Plein Air Events

Chautauqua-Wawasee in Collaboration with NIPAA Present

2025 Summer Plein Air Events

Commissioned Lake House/Syracuse Scenes Painted for You | May 23-24

Syracuse residents, if you would like a special commissioned piece of your lake house, cottage, or favorite lake/Syracuse scene, 20 artists will be available to paint these commissioned art pieces during the Chautauqua Plein Air Paint Out on May 23-24.

Contact: Dave Broerman at northernindianapleinair@gmail.com
Deadline: May 1st for cost and complete details.

11th Annual Wawasee Arts Festival & Plein Air Art Demonstration and Sale

Come and see a live demonstration of Chautauqua Plein Air Artists at the 11th Annual Wawasee Fine Arts Festival on the grounds of Oakwood Resort on Saturday, May 24, from 9 AM – 4 PM.

At the conclusion of the Art Festival:

  • NIPAA will award prizes
  • Completed Plein Air Art will be for sale all day

Plein Air Workshop | May 28-30

Location: Each day will be a different location around Lake Wawasee and Syracuse Lake
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM
Instructors: Award-winning Plein Air Artist Mary Ann Davis, assisted by David Broerman, founder of NIPAA
Cost: $300
Register HERE

  • Equipment, paint, canvases, and lunch provided
  • Limited to 12 participants

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association are collaborating to offer a three-day Plein Air Workshop from May 28-30.

Plein Air is the act of painting outdoors, capturing landscapes directly onto canvas at the location of the scene. This workshop will focus on creating stunning landscapes, featuring:

  • Live demonstrations
  • Personal painting time with one-on-one coaching
  • Topics Covered:
    • Linear perspective
    • Creating thumbnail sketches
    • Composition choice
    • Palette and local color selection
    • Underpainting and finishing techniques

About Award-Winning Plein Air Artist Mary Ann Davis

Mary Ann Davis enjoys the challenge of painting on location and is recognized as one of Indiana’s premier Plein Air painters. Her paintings, known for their emphasis on color and atmosphere, have been featured in:

  • Plein Air Magazine
  • American Art Review
  • Pastel Journal
  • Southwest Art Magazine
  • Two Painting Indiana books

Davis exhibits widely, winning top awards, and is known as an exceptional artist and instructor. She is a signature member of:

  • American Impressionist Society
  • MidAmerica Pastel Society
  • Plein Air Artists Colorado
  • Chicago Pastel Painters

Having achieved the prestigious title of Indiana Artisan, her work can be seen at the Indiana Artisan Gallery in Carmel and the Brown County Art Guild in Nashville.

Free Wednesday Evening Paint Outs at Lake Wawasee | 6 – 8:30 PM

Dates: June 4, 11, 18, 25 & July 2, 9, 16, 23

Are you a beginner landscape painter looking to try Plein Air painting? Or a seasoned painter wanting to paint with others? Join David Broerman and fellow artists to paint in and around Wawasee and Syracuse.

Meet-Up Location:
Wawasee Fine Arts Gallery at South Shore Social at 6 PM, then relocate to the painting location.

What to Expect:

  • David Broerman will assist beginners and provide helpful painting tips
  • Limited Plein Air equipment available for participants to use
  • Sessions are free

Click HERE for more information.

Join Us for an Incredible Summer of Plein Air Art!

Whether you’re looking for a custom painting, a live art experience, or a hands-on workshop, there’s something for everyone at the 2025 Summer Plein Air Events.

Questions? Contact: northernindianapleinair@gmail.com

Follow Chautauqua-Wawasee and NIPAA for updates and announcements!

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Old Fashioned Hymn Sing
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Join Us for a Traditional Hymn Sing

Join Us for a Traditional Hymn Sing

Remember a time when families would gather on Sunday evenings for a heartfelt hymns of praise service? The melodies and words filled our souls as we joyfully sang together in worship. Music and singing are essential components of faith, allowing the Word of Christ to dwell within us as we lift our voices in harmony.

A hymn is a devotional song specifically written for adoration or prayer. The word itself comes from the Greek meaning “a song of praise.” In 1524, Martin Luther wrote in the preface to the Wittenberg Hymnal, “Scripture teaches us that we are to sing praise to God. It is good and God-pleasing to sing hymns.”

We invite you to reconnect with God and others as we sing some of our most beloved hymns together. Elaine Pearson will lead the songs, accompanied by Jamie Culbertson on the piano.

Come as you are, and let’s fill the chapel with joyful voices of praise and thanksgiving on April 13th, from 5-6 p.m. at the Oakwood Chapel at Oakwood Resort.

Click HERE to view this event on our calendar.

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2025: The Best Year Yet with Chautauqua-Wawasee Programs!

Chautauqua Wawasee Programs

2025: The Best Year Yet with Chautauqua-Wawasee Programs

Get ready for an unforgettable year with Chautauqua-Wawasee! Our 2025 schedule is packed with enriching programs inspired by the Four Chautauqua Pillars: Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation. There’s something for everyone, starting in February with the lively performance of the Ball State Singers, setting a vibrant tone for the year ahead.

A Year Full of Events

Throughout 2025, you’ll find a wide variety of events to enjoy, including:

Hands-On Art Workshops

For art enthusiasts, hands-on workshops will ignite your creativity:

  • Pottery Workshops

  • Plein Air Painting Workshop

  • New Stained Glass Workshop Series

Community Favorites

Families and community members can look forward to fun-filled favorites:

Special History Programs

History buffs won’t want to miss:

Wrapping Up the Year

We’ll wrap up this exciting year with Old Fashioned Christmas in November — a heartwarming tradition that brings the community together in festive spirit.

Mark your calendars and join us in making 2025 the best year yet with Chautauqua-Wawasee!
Join us for these unforgettable events and create memories that last a lifetime!

Chautauqua-Wawasee 2025 Events

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Seeking Artists for the 11th Annual Chautauqua-Wawasee Fine Arts Festival
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Call for Artists: 11th Annual Chautauqua-Wawasee Fine Arts Festival

Call for Artists: 11th Annual Chautauqua-Wawasee Fine Arts Festival

Chautauqua-Wawasee is now accepting applications for the 11th Annual Chautauqua-Wawsee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood Resort in Syracuse, Indiana. This juried festival provides artists with an exceptional opportunity to showcase their work, connect with art enthusiasts, and enjoy a day dedicated to creativity in a beautiful park setting.

Application Details

  • Booth Space: 12’x12’ (Tent is 10′ x 10′) – $125 per space 
  • Application/Jury Fee: $25 per medium
  • Early Bird Discount: $100 per space + $25 application/jury fee if submitted prior to April 1, 2025
  • Pre-Juried Artists: If you were juried in a previous Wawasee Fine Arts Festival and are displaying the same medium, you will be considered pre-juried. Only juried artwork may be exhibited.

Festival & Setup Details

  • Event Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025
  • Festival Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Location: Oakwood Resort, Syracuse, Indiana

Artist Set-Up Information

  • Saturday, May 24: Set-up begins at 6:00 AM. Booths must be fully set up by 8:30 AM.
  • Early Set-Up: Available on Friday, May 23, from 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM. Please adhere to these times due to other events at Oakwood.
  • Vehicle Policy: Artists may drive up to their booth for set-up and tear-down, but vehicles must be moved off the lawn by 8:45 AM.

Sales & Artist Responsibilities

  • Artists handle all their own sales and must comply with state and local sales tax regulations.
  • White tents are preferred but not required.
  • Special needs requests will be considered but are not guaranteed.

Weather, Cancellations & Festival Policies

  • The festival takes place rain or shine.
  • No security is provided for Friday night setup.
  • No access to electricity is available.
  • Cancellations Policy:
    • Must be submitted in writing (via mail or email).
    • Cancellations before May 9, 2025, will receive a 50% refund.
    • No refunds will be issued for weather, local authority decisions, or acts of God.

Additional Support

  • Volunteer booth sitters will be available for short-term breaks.

How to Apply

Spaces are limited, so artists are encouraged to apply early!

📄 Download the application and full details HERE.

Join us for a fantastic day celebrating fine art in a beautiful lakeside setting!

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Ball State University Singers to Perform in Syracuse: A Musical Event You Won’t Want to Miss!

Ball State University Singers to Perform in Syracuse: A Musical Event You Won’t Want to Miss!

Chautauqua-Wawasee’s 2025 Spring Musical Program is set to delight audiences with a performance by the renowned Ball State University Singers. Known as an elite musical show choir, this group of talented students—singers, dancers, instrumentalists, and sound technicians—will bring their extraordinary energy to Syracuse in an unforgettable 90-minute performance.

The show will take place at the Wawasee High School Auditorium and promises to feature an exciting mix of popular hit songs and musical theater favorites. Under the expert direction of Jodi Cotton-Street, the performance will celebrate timeless themes of faith, hope, laughter, and love, all brought to life through uplifting and inspiring music. Many choir members hail from local and regional high schools, making this performance a special homecoming for these talented and accomplished artists. For more insights into the event, read Devin Van Lue’s article here.

Ball State University Singers Syracuse Performance

Event Details:

  • When: February 16, 2025, from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM (Doors open at 3:00 PM)
  • Where: Wawasee High School Auditorium, 1 Warrior Path, Syracuse, Indiana
  • Tickets:
    • General Admission: $10
    • VIP Section: $20
      Tickets can be purchased HERE.

*You may also purchase your tickets at the door!*

About the Program and Chautauqua-Wawasee

Our mission at Chautauqua-Wawasee is to provide life-enriching experiences through the arts, education, faith, and recreation. Sponsored by the Chautauqua-Wawasee Oakwood Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, this program reflects our commitment to supporting the arts and creating meaningful events that bring the community together.

For more information about the program, visit Chautauqua-Wawasee’s website or follow them on the Chautauqua-Wawasee Facebook page.

Contact Information:

  • Questions? Contact us at info@chautauquawawasee.org or call 703-489-7124.
  • Photo Credit: Doug Clements

Don’t miss this incredible performance by the Ball State University Singers—an evening of joy, inspiration, and musical brilliance awaits! Reserve your tickets now for this unforgettable experience.

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