Pawasee Dog Parade Returns June 6 to Oakwood Resort

Pawasee Dog Parade returns to Oakwood Resort on June 6

The Pawasee Dog Parade returns to Syracuse on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at Oakwood Resort, located at 702 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse, Indiana.

Now in its third year, this tail-wagging community favorite invites dogs, families, and friends to enjoy a fun morning filled with costumes, canine cuteness, laughter, and plenty of puppy love.

A fun morning for dogs, families, and the community

The parade will follow a quarter-mile route through the beautiful grounds of Oakwood Resort. Get creative with decorated carts, wagons, strollers, and leashes while showing off your beloved canine companions.

Dogs can also compete for several fun awards, including:

Best Dressed Dog
Best Dog Trick
Best Tail Wag

Whether your dog is a natural performer, a costume superstar, or simply has the happiest tail in town, the Pawasee Dog Parade is a chance to celebrate the joy dogs bring to our lives.

New this year: Puppy Kissing Booth

New for 2026, dog lovers can enjoy a special Puppy Kissing Booth, sponsored by New Hope Pet Rescue. Even if you do not have a dog to enter in the parade, you are welcome to come out, enjoy the event, and soak up some puppy love.

Back by popular demand, canine-themed vendors will also be on site with treats, gifts, and treasures for your favorite pooch.

Supporting New Hope Pet Rescue

The Pawasee Dog Parade is free to attend. Parade participants are encouraged to make a $15 donation to support New Hope Pet Rescue and its ongoing work to save and care for local animals.

The 2026 primary sponsor is Teghtmeyer Ace Hardware of Syracuse. Additional sponsors include Main Channel Marina, South Shore Social, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and Interra Credit Union.

The event is hosted by Chautauqua-Wawasee in partnership with New Hope Pet Rescue, Special O.P.S. K-9 Academy, Syracuse-Wawasee Trails, and Oakwood Resort.

Join the Pawasee Dog Parade in Syracuse

Bring your dog, bring your family, bring your best costume ideas, and join the fun at the Pawasee Dog Parade on Saturday, June 6, at Oakwood Resort.

For updates, follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook.

by CHTQAAdmin

Education, Events

John Adams Living History-Syracuse, Indiana

John Adams Living History Comes to Syracuse, Indiana This July 4th Weekend

He argued. He debated. He made enemies… and changed the world anyway.

This July 4th weekend, this entertaining and educational experience brings one of America’s most outspoken Founding Fathers to life right here in Syracuse.

A John Adams Living History Experience in Syracuse, Indiana

As part of Chautauqua-Wawasee’s annual Patriotic Speaker Series, the 2026 program will feature the second President of the United States, John Adams, portrayed by professional actor-historian Peyton Dixon.

In this immersive living history event in Syracuse, Indiana, Adams reflects on his extraordinary life, from his pivotal role in the Continental Congress to his years serving as America’s first Vice President and second President.

The “Colossus of Independence” in Living History

Called the “Colossus of Independence” by Thomas Jefferson, Adams helped guide the nation through its earliest and most uncertain years.

He was known for his stubbornness, his brilliance, and his unwavering commitment to principle over popularity.

Though often seen as rivals, Adams and Jefferson shared one of history’s most remarkable coincidences. Both men passed away on July 4, 1826, exactly fifty years after signing the Declaration of Independence.

Meet the Man Behind the John Adams Living History Program

This one-hour John Adams living history Syracuse Indiana program brings history to life in a way that feels immediate and personal.

Actor Peyton Dixon has portrayed John Adams for the National Constitution Center, the National Park Service, Independence National Historical Park, and the Adams Memorial Foundation. His performance captures the full humanity of Adams, complexities and all.

The program will conclude with a live Q&A, giving attendees the chance to interact directly with one of America’s most fascinating founding figures.

Event Details

John Adams: In His Own Words
Sunday, July 5 at 4:30 PM
Wawasee High School Auditorium – 1 Warrior Path – Syracuse, Indiana

This fascinating and educational event is free to attend and open to all ages.

About Chautauqua-Wawasee

Chautauqua-Wawasee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching life in Syracuse and the surrounding northern Indiana region through programs centered on Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation.

Continuing the tradition of the original Chautauqua movement, founded in 1874, Chautauqua-Wawasee provides high-quality, accessible programming to the community, most of it free of charge.

👉 Learn more about upcoming programs on our website:
Chautauqua-Wawasee Events

Follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook for updates and upcoming events.

John Adams 2026 graphic

by CHTQAAdmin

Art, Events

2026 Plein Air Programs at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Experience Art in the Open Air: 2026 Plein Air Programs at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Art comes alive outdoors this spring and summer as Chautauqua-Wawasee presents plein air painting in Wawasee, inviting the community to experience the beauty of Syracuse Lake and Lake Wawasee through the eyes of talented regional artists. From personalized paintings of beloved lake homes to live painting demonstrations, immersive workshops, and relaxed weekly gatherings, the 2026 Plein Air programs offer multiple ways to connect with art, nature, and creativity.

Own a Personalized Painting of Your Lake Home or Favorite Syracuse Scene

Have you ever wanted a painting of your cottage, favorite shoreline view, or a meaningful location around Syracuse Lake or Lake Wawasee?

The Third Annual Plein Air Paint Out, taking place Friday and Saturday, May 22–23, 2026, offers a special opportunity to commission an original work of art through a purchase award.

Visiting artists from Northern Indiana and throughout the Midwest will paint iconic scenes surrounding the lakes. When you see artists working outdoors, you are invited to stop, observe, and talk with them about their creative process.

Personalized paintings make meaningful keepsakes and thoughtful gifts for family and friends who treasure time at the lake.

For more information or to inquire about commissioning a painting, click HERE.

Chautauqua-Wawasee Plein Air Paint Out

Friday and Saturday, May 22–23, 2026
Time: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: $30–$40

Artists will begin painting on the morning of Friday, May 22, choosing scenes that inspire them throughout Syracuse and Wawasee.

Friday Evening:
Paintings will be displayed at the Wawasee Fine Art Gallery in Syracuse
Artwork available for purchase beginning at 6 PM
Saturday:
Artists continue painting during the Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood Park (9 AM–4 PM)
Completed works available for purchase at the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association booth

Judging and Awards:
Merit awards will be presented at 4:30 PM at the NIPAA booth.

Register to participate HERE.

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Plein Air Workshop with Fred Doloresco

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association present a three-day immersive workshop led by nationally recognized artist Fred Doloresco.

Designed for intermediate to advanced landscape painters, this workshop includes:

Live painting demonstrations
Individual instruction
Group critique
Outdoor painting sessions in scenic lake settings

Participants will strengthen skills in composition, color, light, and atmosphere in a supportive and inspiring environment.

About Fred Doloresco

Fred Doloresco black and white photo

Doloresco is a Midwestern-based landscape artist known for his expressive use of light and color. He studied at St. Louis University and has trained with renowned artists including Don Stone, Daniel Gerhartz, and Rose Frantzen.

He is a:

Signature Member of Oil Painters of America
Master Signature Member of the American Impressionist Society
Master Signature Member of the National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society

His work has appeared in national exhibitions and earned multiple Best of Show honors.

Tuesday–Thursday, May 26–28, 2026
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM
Location: Wawasee Fine Art Gallery, South Shore Social
10601 IN-13, Syracuse, IN 46567

Fee: $300

Register for the Fred Doloresco workshop HERE.

Wednesday Night Plein Air Gatherings with Dave Broerman

Wednesdays | 5–8 PM
Dates: June 3, 10, 17, 24 and July 8, 15, 22, 29

Meeting Location:
Wawasee Fine Art Gallery
10601 IN-13, Syracuse, IN 46567

Cost: Free

Artists of all experience levels are invited to enjoy relaxed summer evenings painting outdoors in the beauty of the Wawasee area.

Meet at 5 PM at the gallery
Travel together to the evening’s painting location
Guidance provided by local plein air artist Dave Broerman
Limited equipment available to borrow

No registration required. Just show up, paint, and enjoy the experience.

Supporting the Arts in Our Community

All Plein Air Programs are made possible in part by Regional Art Partner the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the Indiana Arts Commission, with support from the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts.

by CHTQAAdmin

Art, Events

Purdue Varsity Glee Club Returns to Syracuse on April 17

Purdue Varsity Glee Club Brings Over a Century of Musical Excellence to Syracuse

Chautauqua-Wawasee is proud to welcome back the Purdue Varsity Glee Club for a special performance on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 7:30 PM at the Wawasee High School Auditorium.

This return performance continues a cherished tradition, bringing one of the nation’s most celebrated collegiate vocal ensembles back to the Syracuse community for an evening of outstanding musical artistry.

A Legacy of Excellence Since 1893

Founded in 1893, the Purdue Varsity Glee Club has built and maintained its reputation as the nation’s premier collegiate glee club for more than 130 years. In fact, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra conductor Erich Kunzel once declared them “still the number one Glee Club in the country.”

Over the years, the ensemble’s distinguished history has included performances at six presidential inaugurations, appearances at Carnegie Hall, and concerts at venues across the United States and abroad. As musical ambassadors for Purdue University, members of the Glee Club represent a wide range of academic disciplines, all while balancing rigorous studies with an unwavering commitment to musical excellence.

Today, under the direction of William E. Griffel and Scott Hines, the ensemble performs an eclectic repertoire that includes gospel, jazz, contemporary selections, classical works, and patriotic music, often further enhanced by their signature vocal arrangements.

Featured Ensembles and Musical Variety

The April 17 concert will feature the full Purdue Varsity Glee Club along with four specialty ensembles, each offering its own distinctive sound:

BaNaNa
Flashbacks
Roots
Top of the Class

These groups bring a range of styles to the stage. Come enjoy 1950s nostalgia and barbershop classics to contemporary vocal jazz, creating a dynamic and engaging concert experience.

Event Details and Tickets

Date: Friday, April 17, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM (Doors open at 7:00 PM)
Location: Wawasee High School Auditorium
1 Warrior Path, Suite 1
Syracuse, IN 46567

Tickets:

General Admission

$25.31 (incl. $3.31 Fee)

Reserved Seats Rows 1-4

$33.85 (incl. $3.85 Fee)

Student Admission

$12.51 (incl. $2.51 Fee)

*Sales end on Apr 16, 2026

Tickets are available now and may be purchased through Eventbrite by clicking HERE, and as always, they may also be purchased at the door, for your convenience.

For more information about the Purdue Varsity Glee Club, click HERE.

As an added treat…

There is a ticketholder discount for dining at the Pier & Back Porch Restaurant! Save your tickets to the Purdue Varsity Glee Club performance. Before the concert on the night of April 17th, a 15% discount will be extended to event ticketholders at the Pier and Back Porch restaurant in the Oakwood Resort.

* The 15% discount will not be valid on any purchases of alcoholic beverages and is only applicable on regularly priced menu items. Digital copies of tickets will be accepted when shown to your server.

About Chautauqua-Wawasee

Chautauqua-Wawasee is a volunteer-driven local nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching community life through high-quality programming in the arts, education, faith, and recreation. The organization continues the historic Chautauqua mission of bringing people together across generations through experiences that educate, inspire, and entertain. Learn more HERE.

by CHTQAAdmin

SS Lillypad II on Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Indiana

Events, Recreation

Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 16, 2026

Step back in time while enjoying the beauty of Indiana’s largest natural lake. The Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise returns for 2026. This two hour experience takes place aboard the SS Lillypad II and offers a relaxing afternoon on the water.

This event is presented by Chautauqua Wawasee in partnership with the Syracuse Wawasee Historical Society. Together, they bring local history to life in a way that is easy to follow and enjoyable for all.

Local historian Ann Garceau will guide the cruise and share stories from Lake Wawasee’s past. As you travel along the shoreline, you will hear about historic hotels, memorable events, and former gathering places. You will also learn about hidden gems that once shaped the area.

Guests can follow along using a map provided during the cruise. This makes it easy to connect each story to the locations around the lake.

Tickets

Cost: $25.00 (Plus $3.52 Eventbrite Fee)
Purchase: Tickets must be purchased online, HERE.

This event sells out quickly. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Boarding: Begins at 12:45 PM
Location: The Frog Tavern, 1116 S Harkless Drive, Syracuse, IN

What to Expect

A narrated tour of historic and lesser known spots around Lake Wawasee
Stories about past events, property owners, boat taxis, and restaurants
Light snacks provided onboard
A cash bar available for refreshments
A relaxing and educational afternoon on the lake

Questions

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. Its mission is to enhance life in Syracuse and the surrounding region.

by CHTQAAdmin

Education, Events

Indiana Boater Education Course | Free Classes in Syracuse IN

Boater Education Courses Offer Free Training for a Safer Summer on the Water

Not sure about boating laws on Indiana lakes? You’re not alone – and this summer, there are two free opportunities to gain the knowledge and confidence every boater should have.

Chautauqua-Wawasee is hosting two Indiana Boater Education Courses at the Syracuse Community Center to help area residents operate watercraft safely and legally. Both courses are sponsored by Main Channel Marina and the Indiana DNR.

Indiana Boating Requirements

In Indiana:

Anyone may operate a boat with a motor of 9.9 horsepower or less, or paddle a canoe or kayak
Operators of watercraft 10 HP or greater must have a valid driver’s license
Those who are 15 years old may operate a motorboat or personal watercraft greater than 10 HP only if they:
- Complete a Boater Education Course
- Carry a DNR-issued education card
- Carry an ID issued by the Indiana BMV until they receive a driver’s license

These courses are designed to help you meet those requirements and feel confident on the water.

Ladies Boater Education Course

Saturday, May 30, 2026
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Syracuse Community Center
1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse

Cost: Free (donuts and light lunch provided)
Pre-registration required: Register HERE

This special ladies-only session is designed to encourage open questions in a comfortable and supportive environment.

Conservation Officers from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources will lead the course, covering:

Boating laws
Navigation rules
Emergency procedures
Safe operation practices

Girls and women of all ages are welcome. Participants under age 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Upon successful completion of the course and exam, each participant will receive an official Indiana Boater Education Card.

Looking for a meaningful Mother’s Day gift?
Consider giving the gift of confidence and safety on the water.

Boater Education Course (Open Session)

Saturday, August 1, 2026
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Syracuse Community Center
1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse

Cost: Free (donuts and light lunch provided)
Pre-registration required: Register HERE

This session is open to everyone, including:

New boaters
Teens operating personal watercraft
Longtime lake residents who want a refresher

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Developed with guidance from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the course includes:

Indiana boating laws and recent updates
Navigation and right-of-way rules
Required safety equipment
Emergency preparedness
Responsible and courteous boating

Participants who complete the course will receive an Indiana Boater Education Card.

Why It Matters

Whether you enjoy time on a sailboat, powerboat, paddleboard, canoe, kayak, or fishing boat, safety begins with knowledge.

Even those who are not the primary driver benefit from understanding proper procedures and emergency response.

A few hours in the classroom can make a lasting difference on the water.

Let’s all take steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable lake season this summer.

decorative water graphic

by CHTQAAdmin

Events, Recreation

Taps Across the Water Wawasee | Memorial Day

Taps Across the Water

Echoes of Taps to Sound Across the Lakes on Memorial Day Weekend

By Karen Kroemer, Chautauqua Wawasee

Honoring a Tradition Rooted in History

Taps originated during the Civil War, when Memorial Day was first known as Decoration Day.

In 1971, Memorial Day became a federal holiday honoring service members across all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces who died while serving our country.

A Moving Tribute Across the Lakes

The sixth annual Taps Across the Water Wawasee will be held Sunday, May 24, offering a moving Memorial Day tribute across the lakes. Trumpet players will be positioned around area lakes to perform an Echo Cascading Rendition of Taps. The buglers play Taps twice, with the music carrying across the water for nearly four minutes from shore to shore.

Listeners are encouraged to note the final sustained note, symbolizing the last breath of a service member. The event offers a solemn opportunity to reflect and honor those who gave their lives for our freedom.

Musicians United in Service and Sound

Dr. Matt Murdock, an educator who resides in Indianapolis and North Webster, has assembled more than 40 buglers and trumpet players for two programs, one in North Webster and one in Syracuse. Musicians include veterans, community band members, high school students, music directors, and professional musicians.

The program is inspired by Jari Villanueva, who retired after 23 years with the USAF Band in Washington, D.C., and founded Taps Across America in 2015. One of Murdock’s goals is to raise awareness about the shortage of live trumpet players at military funerals.

“As educators, it is our responsibility to instill in our students, especially those in high school bands, a sense of obligation to our communities. They may not fully realize the services they provide, whether it’s boosting school spirit at athletic events or fostering community spirit by participating in festivals. Taps Across the Water gives the students an opportunity to promote this experience personally with the intent of continuing community service after graduation.”

-Dr. Matt Murdock

North Webster Program Details

In North Webster, a memorial service will begin at 6:15 p.m. at Lake Webster Town Park.

Musicians will depart by pontoon to designated locations and perform Taps from piers at 6:30 p.m.
A trumpet ensemble concert of patriotic music will follow at 7 p.m. at the park

Many performers will then travel to Syracuse for the Wawasee, Syracuse, and Papakeechie lakes program.

Taps Across the Water Wawasee: Syracuse Program Details

In Syracuse, more than 40 trumpet players will continue the tribute on Lakes Wawasee, Syracuse, and Papakeechie.

A trumpet ensemble concert will be held from 8:10 to 8:30 p.m. at the gazebo at Oakwood Resort
Musicians will then move to designated locations around the three lakes to perform Taps following a one-minute silence beginning at 9:08 p.m.

Syracuse lakefront restaurants will provide information about the event to patrons. Last year, many diners stepped outside to listen reverently.

What to Know Before You Go

Please be aware of how the wind affects sound over the lake. We’ve had some years where it is hard to hear Taps because of the wind, which can make it difficult to hear.

An updated map with bugler pier locations will be available closer to the event on the Chautauqua Wawasee Facebook page. This post will also be updated to include the map.

Where to Listen

Those who do not live on the lakes may gather in front of the Oakwood Resort, at the bridge by the Channel Marker, or at the Lake Wawasee boat launch to hear Taps.

by CHTQAAdmin

Art, Events

Plein Air Workshop IN | Fred Doloresco

Plein Air Painting Workshop with Fred Doloresco

Chautauqua-Wawasee

An Immersive Outdoor Painting Experience

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association invite you to a three-day immersive plein air painting workshop led by acclaimed artist Fred Doloresco.

Designed for intermediate to advanced landscape painters, this workshop offers the opportunity to refine your skills through live demonstrations, individualized instruction, and group critique in a supportive and inspiring outdoor environment.

Participants will gather at the Wawasee Fine Art Gallery before heading out to carefully selected painting locations around Lake Wawasee in Syracuse, Indiana.

What Is Plein Air Painting?

Plein air painting, meaning “in the open air,” is the practice of creating art outdoors, directly from observation. Popularized in the 19th century by artists like Claude Monet, this approach focuses on capturing natural light, color, and atmosphere as they change in real time.

Today, plein air painting continues that tradition, challenging artists to respond quickly, observe deeply, and connect more directly with the landscape.

What You’ll Experience

Throughout the workshop, participants will:

Watch live painting demonstrations each morning

Receive one-on-one instruction and feedback

Paint on location in scenic lakeside settings

Participate in daily group critiques

Strengthen skills in composition, color harmony, and light

Daily Workshop Format

Each day follows a structured yet relaxed schedule, balancing instruction with dedicated painting time:

9:00 AM – Instructor Demonstration
Fred begins each morning with a 60 to 90 minute plein air demonstration, focusing on composition, color harmony, light, and effective outdoor painting strategies.

10:30 AM to 3:00 PM – Open Painting and Individual Instruction
Participants paint independently on location while Fred circulates throughout the day, offering personalized guidance and support.

12:00 PM – Lunch Provided

4:00 PM – Group Critique
Each day concludes with a group critique, providing thoughtful feedback and shared learning.

Location

The workshop begins each day at the Wawasee Fine Arts Gallery at South Shore Social, then moves to outdoor painting locations around Lake Wawasee in Syracuse, Indiana.

A designated space will be arranged daily for group critique and discussion.

Materials and Equipment

Artists are responsible for bringing their own paints and supplies

A limited number of plein air easels will be available on loan

A workshop handout will be provided to all participants

A “just show up” option with materials is available for an additional fee

Fred Doloresco black and white photo

Meet the Artist: Fred Doloresco

Fred Doloresco is an Indiana-based landscape and plein air painter known for his expressive use of light, color, and atmosphere.

A graduate of St. Louis University, he studied with Don Stone, Daniel Gerhartz, and Rose Frantzen. Fred is a signature member of Oil Painters of America and a Master Signature member of the American Impressionist Society and the National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society. His work has been featured in national and regional exhibitions, and he has received multiple Best of Show awards, including honors from Indiana Heritage Arts, the Hoosier Salon Annual Exhibition, and the National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society.

Who Should Attend

This workshop is intended for intermediate to advanced artists who are ready to deepen their plein air practice and grow through hands-on experience and expert guidance.

Workshop Details

Dates: May 26–28
Time: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily
Location: Wawasee Fine Arts Gallery, South Shore Social, Syracuse, Indiana (with outdoor sessions around Lake Wawasee)
Cost: $300

Limited spots available.

👉 Register HERE

Supporting the Arts

This workshop is made possible in part by Regional Art Partner the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Indiana Arts Commission_Community Foundation of St. Joseph County logos

by CHTQAAdmin

12th Annual Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood Resort - 2026 Graphic

Art, Events

Wawasee Fine Arts Festival 2026 | Syracuse Indiana Art Festival

Wawasee Fine Arts Festival 2026 Returns to Oakwood Resort

Experience Art, Music, and Family Fun on the Shores of Lake Wawasee

Mark your calendar for one of the most anticipated early summer events in northern Indiana-the 12th Annual Wawasee Fine Arts Festival returns on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the beautiful Oakwood Resort in Syracuse, Indiana.

Hosted by Chautauqua-Wawasee, this free, family-friendly festival brings together art lovers, families, and visitors for a full day of creativity, entertainment, and lakeside charm.

Discover Juried Fine Art from Talented Artists

Explore a curated collection of fine art from more than 30 artists, featuring a wide range of mediums including:

Pottery
Watercolor and oil paintings
Jewelry
Wood, glass, and metal art
Nature-inspired and lake-themed pieces

Each artist has been carefully juried to ensure a high-quality fine arts experience. Whether you’re a collector or simply browsing, you’ll find unique, one-of-a-kind artwork that captures the spirit of Lake Wawasee.

Live Plein Air Painting at Lake Wawasee

A highlight of the festival is the returning Plein Air “Paint Out,” hosted by the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association.

Watch artists paint outdoors in real time as they capture the beauty of the Syracuse and Lake Wawasee area. These original works will be available for purchase following the event, with awards presented shortly after 4 p.m in the Northern Indiana Plein Air Association Tent.

Family-Friendly Activities and Kids Art Station

Bring the whole family! The Wawasee Fine Arts Festival offers hands-on activities for children, including a popular kids’ art station where young creatives can explore and express their imagination.

This outdoor festival is designed for all ages, making it a perfect way to spend a spring day together.

Food, Music, and Lakeside Relaxation

Enjoy a variety of local food truck vendors offering delicious options throughout the day, or relax with a meal at Oakwood’s Pier & Back Porch Restaurant overlooking the lake.

Live entertainment will enhance the festival atmosphere with performances by:

Garry Jones Music
Michelle Fife on dulcimer

Plan Your Visit

The festival takes place outdoors (rain or shine) in a scenic lakefront park setting.

Free admission and parking
Golf cart shuttle service available from the parking area
Easy access for families and visitors

About Chautauqua-Wawasee

The Wawasee Fine Arts Festival is presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching lives through the pillars of Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation.

Event Details

Event: Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood
Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Oakwood Resort, Syracuse, Indiana
Cost: Free

Learn More

Visit www.chautauquawawasee.org or follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook for updates and event details.

For questions:
info@chautauquawawasee.org
574-377-7543

by CHTQAAdmin

Art, Events

Seeking Artists for the 2026 Wawasee Fine Arts Festival

Seeking Artists

Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood

Saturday, May 23, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Chautauqua Wawasee is now accepting artist applications for the 2026 Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood. This juried fine arts festival brings together talented artists, collectors, and the community for a full day of art, creativity, and connection.

(Please find the application at the bottom of this page.)

Held on the grounds of Oakwood Resort, this festival is designed with artists in mind. The day includes live music, food vendors, and space for families to enjoy the experience, all while giving artists the opportunity to connect with an engaged audience in a beautiful lakeside setting.

Artist Details at a Glance

Event Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Oakwood Resort, Lake Wawasee
Booth Space: 12’ x 12’
Standard Booth Fee: $125 per space
Application and Jury Fee: $25 per medium

Early Bird Discount

Artists who submit their application by April 1, 2026, may take advantage of the Early Bird rate of $100 per booth, plus the $25 application and jury fee.

Important Dates

Early Bird Deadline: April 1, 2026
Final Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
Artist Notification: Artists will be notified by email if their application has been accepted

Artists who have been juried in a previous Wawasee Fine Arts Festival and are exhibiting the same medium will be considered pre-juried for the 2026 event.

What Artists Can Expect

Drive-up access for booth set up and tear down
Optional early setup on Friday evening
Volunteer booth sitters available for short breaks
Rain or shine event
White tents are preferred but not required
No access to electricity
Artists will transact their own sales and are responsible for complying with state and local sales tax regulations.

Apply to Participate

Complete details, requirements, and the printable application are available below.

Download the 2026 Artist Application here.

(Applications must be mailed to the address listed on the application. Payment must be made by check only.)

Questions may be directed to:
Debbie Yankosky
Email debbie@chqw.org
Phone 574-377-7543

We look forward to welcoming new and returning artists to another creative and inspiring day at Lake Wawasee.

Full details, requirements, and policies are outlined in the artist application.

by CHTQAAdmin