,

2026 Plein Air Programs at Chautauqua-Wawasee

2026 Plein Air Header Image

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.

1234

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
,

Purdue Varsity Glee Club Returns to Syracuse on April 17

Purdue Varsity Glee Club

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
,

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.

"Her Cignets" by Fred Doloresco

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

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
,

Seeking Artists for the 2026 Wawasee Fine Arts Festival

Seeking Artists for the 2026 Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood Resort

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
Pottery workshop with Scott Souers showing sample of materials that will be used.
,

Pottery Workshop for Beginners with Scott Souers

Pottery Workshop for Beginners with Scott Souers-UPDATE- SOLD OUT

Hands-On Stoneware Pottery Class | Spring 2026

Kick off the 2026 season with our popular Pottery Workshop for Beginners, offered by Chautauqua-Wawasee. This three-week beginner pottery class is ideal if you’ve been looking for a hands-on introduction to working with clay.

Participants will learn directly from professional potter Scott Souers in a small, supportive class setting. Designed specifically for beginners, this workshop focuses on hand-built stoneware pottery techniques in a relaxed and encouraging environment.

What You’ll Create

During the workshop, participants will create three finished stoneware pieces:

  • One slab built mug

  • One slab-built tray

  • One coiled bowl (unglazed)

All equipment, tools, and clay are provided. Scott Souers will also fire and glaze all completed pieces, ensuring your finished pottery is food-safe and ready to enjoy.

Please note: Participants should bring a small plastic pail and a hand towel to each class.

About the Pottery Instructor: Scott Souers

With more than 45 years of experience, Scott Souers is a potter specializing in stoneware and American Redware pottery.

American Redware is the earliest pottery style produced in the American colonies, traditionally made from locally sourced red earthenware clay. It represents a truly historic and distinctly American pottery tradition.

Stoneware pottery, which is the focus of this workshop, is fired at high temperatures, making it strong, durable, and long-lasting. Once fired, stoneware does not absorb water, making it ideal for food-safe mugs, bowls, and plates. It also retains heat well, making it perfect for everyday use.

Now retired, Scott produces pottery in limited quantities. His work is available locally at the Wawasee Fine Art Gallery.

Wawasee Fine Art Gallery
10601 IN-13, Syracuse, IN 46567

Workshop Details

  • Workshop Title: Beginning Pottery Workshop

  • Technique: Hand-built stoneware pottery

  • Dates: March 12, 19, and 26

  • Time: 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM

  • Location: Syracuse Community Center
    1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse, IN

  • Instructor: Scott Souers

  • Cost: $65.87

  • Participant Limit: 8 people

Reserve Your Spot

Space is limited. To reserve your ticket, please click HERE.

Program Support

Activities are made possible in part by our 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
, , , ,

Chautauqua Wawasee 2026 Program Schedule

Chautauqua Wawasee 2026 Program Schedule

Discover the Chautauqua Wawasee 2026 Program Schedule, a full year of inspiring events celebrating Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation in the Syracuse and Lake Wawasee community. This year’s lineup blends beloved traditions with new programs designed to inform, entertain, and connect.

Program Schedule Highlights for 2026

The ever-popular Purdue Varsity Glee Club Performance returns on April 17, filling the spring air with music, harmony, and school spirit.

In July, our Famous Hoosier Series will feature Ralph Teetor. If you missed this film and discussion in 2024 at the Pickwick Theater, mark your calendar for July 28 when it returns to Chautauqua-Wawasee.

Our growing Arts Programs continue to expand in 2026 with hands-on workshops. Included in the lineup are Pottery, Stained Glass Mosaics, Pour Paint, and Plein Air Painting. These offerings support our ongoing goal of establishing our region as a true Artists’ Destination.

And since our Patriotic Speaker Series features a new historical figure each year, we’re especially excited to announce that George Washington will be our featured guest in 2026. His engaging reenactment will bring America’s early days to life through storytelling and character portrayal.

Returning Favorites

You’ll see the return of crowd favorites like the Pawasee Dog Parade, Taps Across the Water, Old Fashioned Christmas, and our Historic Cruises — all programs that continue to bring joy, connection, and tradition to our community year after year.

Plan Ahead

Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and make 2026 a year to remember with Chautauqua Wawasee. You can always find the most up-to-date information on all of our programs on the Chautauqua-Wawasee Facebook page. You can also check the Chautauqua-Wawasee calendar of events.

by
Functional pottery made in beginner pottery workshop
,

Pottery Workshop for Beginners with Kim Marcadis

Introduction

If you’ve been looking for a pottery workshop for beginners, this is your chance to work with professional potter Kim Marcadis in a small, hands-on class. Perfect for those new to clay, this workshop will guide you through creative techniques in a relaxed, encouraging environment.

About the Pottery Instructor: Kim Marcadis

Kim Marcadis is a full-time potter with a working studio and gallery in North Webster, Indiana. She specializes in playful, functional pottery that is rich in color and texture.

While most of her work is crafted on the potter’s wheel, Kim also hand-builds pieces from clay slabs. Many of her designs are inspired by nature—featuring birds, flowers, farm animals, and lake life—and she often imprints textures using natural materials like leaves and bark.

Kim first discovered pottery in eighth grade but returned to it in 2005 after moving to North Carolina. She studied at Clayworks Studio & Gallery in Charlotte, where her love for clay was rekindled. In 2016, she returned to North Webster and converted her grandfather’s mechanic shop into a studio and gallery.

Creative Process in Kim’s Pottery Workshop for Beginners

Kim’s pottery process emphasizes exploration and creativity. She fires her work in an electric oxidation kiln and uses layered surface design techniques, including:

  • Incising

  • Slip trailing

  • Painting with underglazes

  • Clear glaze finishing

These methods allow each beginner student to explore texture and technique in their own way.

Workshop Details

Workshop Title: Pottery Workshop – For Beginners
Dates: August 14, 21, and 28th
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Syracuse Community Center- 1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse
Instructor: Kim Marcadis
Cost: $60.00 (Plus a $5.87 Eventbrite processing fee.)
Participant Limit: 8 people

To reserve your spot/ticket, please click HERE.

See Kim Marcadis’ Work Online

View more of Kim’s pieces at her gallery site:
Backwater Girl Pottery

by
,

Beginners Stained Glass Workshop in Syracuse

New for 2025: Discover the Art of Stained Glass

Looking ahead to fall? This is a great time to explore a new hands-on art class in Syracuse. Chautauqua Wawasee and the Syracuse Parks Department are excited to introduce a beginner’s stained glass workshop.

During this three-session course, you will learn how to select a pattern, cut and grind glass, apply copper foil, solder, and finish your own stained glass panel. The process is simple to follow and deeply rewarding.

All materials, tools, and equipment are included in the registration fee.

Stained glass artist Sally Mahnken

Meet Your Instructor: Sally Mahnken

Sally Mahnken is a Syracuse-based stained glass artist and a regular exhibitor at the Wawasee Fine Arts Festival, where she has shown her work for the last 10 years. She has also participated in the Winona Lake Fine Arts Show twice and exhibited pieces in two regional galleries. These venues have offered great opportunities to share and sell her work, as well as focus on commissioned stained glass.

Her creations include stained glass panels, sun catchers, tables, lamps, and windows. In addition, she uses leftover scrap glass to create mosaics—both as a sustainable practice and an artistic challenge.

Sally works with the copper foil technique made popular by Tiffany, and sometimes uses lead cam to frame circular designs. She has taken numerous classes to sharpen her skills and broaden her creative range. However, she is quick to say she does not consider herself a professional stained glass artist. In her own words, she considers herself “a very good amateur.”

Beginners Stained Glass Workshop

Dates: September 4, 11, and 18
Time: 5:00 to 7:30 PM
Location: Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N Long Dr., Syracuse, IN
Instructor: Sally Mahnken
Cost: $65.87 (Includes a $5.87 Eventbrite fee)
Class Size: Limited to 8 participants

Register HERE

This brand-new class is limited to just 8 participants. Register early to reserve your spot and experience the joy of stained glass. You’ll leave with a finished piece and the knowledge to continue creating on your own.

by
Chautauqua Wawasee Fine Arts Festival 2025
,

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.

2025 Festival Map

2025 Festival Map

by