Waterfowl Festival | Northern Indiana Spring Migration

What’s Flying Through Northern Indiana This Spring?

A New Waterfowl Festival Invites the Public to Experience Migration Up Close

A Front-Row Seat to Spring Migration

This March, bird watchers, nature lovers, and curious minds alike are invited to experience spring migration up close. The Waterfowl Festival offers a full day dedicated to birds, wetlands, and conservation.

Tippecanoe Audubon Society, Ducks Unlimited, and Chautauqua-Wawasee jointly host the festival. The event takes place at the Oakwood Resort in Syracuse. It welcomes participants of all ages and experience levels.

March marks peak migration along the Mississippi Flyway. During this time, waterfowl and other wetland birds move north through the region. The Waterfowl Festival in Northern Indiana offers a rare chance to observe this seasonal movement firsthand.

Guided Birding Experiences

Festival participants can join guided field trips to Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area and the Pisgah Marsh Boardwalk. Both locations sit along key migration routes.

Expert birders lead these outings in coordination with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Participants learn to observe and identify birds in real time. These trips provide hands-on experience in active wetland habitats.

Workshops and Hands-On Activities

In addition to outdoor birding, the festival offers an indoor activity track. This option allows participants to balance time inside and outside.

Ducks Unlimited volunteers lead waterfowl identification workshops, duck box building, and decoy painting activities. These sessions help participants tailor the day to their interests. They also provide flexibility based on weather or comfort level.

Speaker Series on Waterfowl and Conservation

An afternoon speaker series rounds out the program. These talks focus on waterfowl biology, migration, and conservation.

Featured speakers include
• Adam Phelps, Indiana DNR Waterfowl Biologist, discussing changes to migration patterns along the Mississippi Flyway
• Hunter Mentges, presenting an introduction to identifying and aging waterfowl
• A representative from Indiana Audubon, discussing the successful reestablishment of sandhill cranes in Indiana

Partners in Conservation

The Tippecanoe Audubon Society supports conservation and environmental education. Its work promotes appreciation and preservation of birds, wildlife, and diverse ecosystems.

The Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area and Pisgah Marsh Wildlife Management Areas are managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. These areas provide quality outdoor recreational opportunities.

Ducks Unlimited works to conserve, restore, and manage wetlands and waterfowl habitat. This work benefits birds, wildlife, and the communities that depend on healthy ecosystems.

Chautauqua-Wawasee proudly partners with these organizations. Together, they bring the first-ever Waterfowl Festival to the Syracuse area.

Tickets and Registration

Tickets to the Waterfowl Festival are $20 per person. The price includes a buffet lunch. Registration is strongly encouraged.

Tickets may be purchased through Eventbrite by clicking HERE.

Follow us on Facebook for updates!

by CHTQAAdmin

Art, Education, Events, Faith, Recreation

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 CHTQAAdmin

Events, Faith, Recreation

Old Fashioned Christmas Oakwood Resort | Holiday Cheer Returns 2025

By Kip Schumm
Chautauqua-Wawasee

Old Fashioned Christmas Oakwood Resort Returns

Syracuse, IN – The Old Fashioned Christmas at Oakwood Resort is back! On Saturday, November 29, from 5:30 to 8 PM, families are invited to enjoy one of northern Indiana’s most beloved free holiday events. This evening tradition brings joy to all ages with a magical tree lighting, Santa visits, wagon rides, and festive activities.

Tree Lighting Sparks the Celebration

The evening begins at 5:30 PM with music, followed by a dazzling countdown to the lighting of the towering Christmas tree in front of the Resort at 6 PM. This signature moment sets the tone for a night filled with wonder. After the tree lighting, the grounds open, welcoming guests into a winter wonderland of holiday fun.

Visitors will meet favorites like Santa and Mrs. Claus, Buddy the Elf, Frosty, Toy Soldiers, Reindeer, and even the Grinch. Families can mingle, take photos, and enjoy holiday cheer as children wait for their visits with Santa.

Stories, Nativity, and Chapel Reflections

Follow the decorated path to listen as an elf reads The Night Before Christmas. Then pause at the Live Nativity, a moving scene that adds depth to the evening. Just beyond, step into the historic Oakwood Chapel to hear the Biblical Christmas story. This quiet space provides a moment of reflection, reminding all of the true meaning of Christmas.

Family Activities for All Ages

Guests will discover activities and treats throughout the grounds:

Horse-drawn wagon rides around the Resort
A live reindeer encounter for children and adults
Fire pits with hot chocolate, cookies, and s’mores
Games, a photo booth, and costumed carolers sharing songs

Because everything happens outdoors, the atmosphere feels nostalgic and community-centered — the perfect way to begin the holiday season.

Event Details for Old Fashioned Christmas Oakwood Resort

When: Saturday, November 29, 5:30–8 PM
Where: Oakwood Resort, Syracuse, Indiana
Cost: FREE

For more information about this event and other upcoming events, visit Chautauqua-Wawasee Events.

Dress warmly and join us at Oakwood Resort for a night of joy, wonder, and holiday cheer.

Remember, the grounds open only after the tree is lit, so arrive on time to enjoy every moment of this magical evening!
Whether you’re sipping cocoa by the fire or singing along with carolers, Old Fashioned Christmas at Oakwood Resort promises a night of joy, wonder, and community connection.

See you there!

This event has concluded. Details are retained as part of Chautauqua-Wawasee’s programming archive.

by CHTQAAdmin

Education, Events, Recreation

Syracuse Ghost Tour: Haunted Past Comes Alive

The Syracuse Ghost Tour premieres on Saturday, October 18, 2025, bringing history and hauntings together in one unforgettable evening. This one-night-only walking tour takes guests through downtown Syracuse, Indiana, where they’ll meet the “ghosts” of the past and hear the stories that shaped the town.

What You’ll Experience

At each stop, volunteer storytellers portray figures from Syracuse’s history—some famous, others infamous. Guests will encounter a bank president tied to a tree during a daring robbery, hear how Andrew Carnegie helped fund the public library, and listen to a silent film star’s memories of summers on Lake Wawasee. Firefighters recall blazes in the Pickwick Block, while pioneering teachers share their trailblazing stories. Each tale is told on the very ground where it happened, blending fact, legend, and Halloween spirit.

Tour Details

Tours run from 6:00 to 9:00 pm, departing every fifteen minutes. Each lasts about an hour and covers a half-mile of flat, mobility-friendly paths. Designed for all ages, the Syracuse Ghost Tour combines history, performance, and a touch of the supernatural.

Location

Tours will begin at Moore’s Affordable Furniture, located at 200 E. Main St., Syracuse, IN

Admission

11-Adult: $3 / Children 10 and under are FREE!

Reserve Your Spot

Click HERE to reserve your spot and join us for an evening where Syracuse’s haunted past comes alive.

This event has concluded. Details are retained as part of Chautauqua-Wawasee’s programming archive.

by CHTQAAdmin

Events, Recreation

Wawasee “Then & Now” Historical Cruise 2025

Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise 2025

Wawasee “Then and Now” Historical Cruise-2025

We know Lake Wawasee as Indiana’s largest natural lake, lined with impressive mansions and charming cottages. But what did its shores look like long ago? The Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise invites you to step back in time and explore the fascinating history of this beloved lake. Presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum, this popular annual event offers a rare look at the lake’s shoreline as it once was.

Local historian Ann Garceau will narrate this 2-hour cruise aboard the SS Lillypad II, sharing captivating stories about historic hotels, notable events, famous property owners, entertainment venues, marinas, and more. A detailed booklet of historical photos will be provided so you can follow along as the cruise circles the lake. Along the way, you’ll hear little-known facts and behind-the-scenes stories that bring Lake Wawasee’s past to life.

Event Details for Wawasee Then and Now Historical Cruise 2025

Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025
Time: 1:00 – 3:00 PM (Boarding begins at 12:45 PM)
Location: The Frog Tavern, 1116 South Harkless Drive, Syracuse, Indiana
Cost: $28.52 per person
Tickets: Must be purchased in advance by clicking HERE.

Why Join Us on This Historical Lake Cruise?

This event offers a unique opportunity to see Lake Wawasee from a historical perspective that few ever experience. From stories of grand hotels and bustling marinas to the quiet charm of early cottages, Ann Garceau brings history to life with rich detail and captivating storytelling. Past attendees have praised the combination of scenic lake views, engaging narration, and rare archival photographs.

Snack food will be available, and a cash bar will be open throughout the cruise. Because this event sells out quickly, early ticket purchase is highly recommended.

Questions?

Call 574-377-7543 or email info@chautauquawawasee.org.

Chautauqua-Wawasee is a non-profit organization providing quality programs rooted in the four pillars of Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation, making Syracuse and the surrounding region a wonderful place to visit, live, work, and raise a family.

by CHTQAAdmin

Education, Events

Revitalization of the Miami Culture – Indiana and Beyond

In celebration of Archaeology Month, Chautauqua-Wawasee will host “Bringing History Alive” with a program on the Revitalization of the Miami Culture: Indiana and Beyond. The presentation is free to attend outdoors at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation Ruddell Pavilion, 11586 N State Route 13, Syracuse, IN, on Saturday, September 6 from 10 AM to Noon.

Logan York, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, will discuss contemporary revitalization of Myaamia culture and review ancient Tribal history of Myaamiaki neehi Myaamionki: Miami People and Miami Land, including the Tribe’s removal to and establishment in Oklahoma. The present era of revitalization, including the Tribal processes and reasoning that underlay Myaamia strategies for cultural renewal, will be Logan’s focus. He will highlight contemporary Miami art and the artists who are significant contributors to Myaamia cultural revitalization.

Two regionally famous Myaamia artists, Dani Tippmann (fine basketry) and Katrina Mitten (beadwork), will be present to share samples of their art and to dialogue about their exquisite work for attendees to view both before and after the presentation.

About the Presenters

Image of Logan York

Logan York is the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma and a citizen of the Tribe. Logan is an active member of the Miami community, attending tribal events, stomp dances, and other cultural gatherings. He has a bachelor’s degree from Miami University in Anthropology with minors in History and Archaeology. Logan came to work for the Tribe in April of 2022 after previously working for Rebecca Hawkins, the consulting archaeologist for the Miami Tribe. As THPO, he is part of the Cultural Resources Office team that is located in the Miami ancestral homelands.

Dani Tippmann is a citizen of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma and an award-winning artist who has been beading for more than 45 years. Her works have been acquired by the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery of American Art in Washington, D.C., and the Eiteljorg Museum of Native American and Western Art in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Katrina Mitten, Food Program Director for the Miami Tribe, a citizen of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, is descended from Takumwah and Chief Richardville. She was honored by the Eiteljorg Museum of Native and Western Art as Artist in Residence (in 2012, 2014, 2015, and 2024) for being a Plant Tradition Bearer and for her mastery in basketry that is made from the gift of nature’s plant world.

Why Attend?

Step into a living history experience that bridges the past and present of the Miami people. This unique program offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from Miami Tribal leaders and artists about their cultural revitalization, ancestral traditions, and vibrant contemporary art. Learn how centuries-old practices are being renewed, view exquisite basketry and beadwork up close, and connect with the stories that continue to shape the Myaamia identity today. Whether you’re passionate about history, Indigenous culture, or the arts, you’ll leave inspired, informed, and enriched.

More Information: Follow the Chautauqua-Wawasee Facebook page or call (574) 377-7543

by CHTQAAdmin

Education, Events

Digging Through History – September 11 & 12 in Syracuse, Indiana

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum invite you to the fifth annual free two-evening series, “Digging Through History,” where history truly comes alive. Both events take place at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N Long Drive, Syracuse, Indiana.

Thursday, September 11 – The Pre-History of Northern Indiana

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Presented by Bryan Warder, vice president, and Pat Mooney, past president of the Indiana Archeological Society.

Discover the story of Indiana’s earliest inhabitants — people who lived here thousands of years ago and left behind remarkable stone implements. Bryan and Pat will display prehistoric artifacts and explain how they were used.

Special Feature: Bring any artifacts you’ve found for free identification and dating by Pat and Bryan.

Life and Times of Potawatomi Chief, Five Medals, has been cancelled this year.

Friday, September 12 – The Life and Times of Potawatomi Chief Five Medals-CANCELLED

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Presented by Mike Judson, this evening will explore the life of Potawatomi Chief Five Medals — a prominent leader during the frontier wars of the 1790s and the War of 1812.

Learn how Chief Five Medals:

Signed six treaties
Met Presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson
Advocated for agriculture and defended his people’s homeland

Mike will also share original artifacts and reproduction items from the era.

Event Details

Dates: Thursday, September 11 and Friday, September 12
Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM each night
Location: Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N Long Drive, Syracuse, Indiana
Cost: Free admission
More Information: Follow the Chautauqua-Wawasee Facebook page or call (574) 377-7543

Why Attend?

These engaging programs are perfect for history lovers, students, families, and anyone curious about the people who once called Northern Indiana home. Bring your kids, neighbor kids, and grandkids to experience history in a hands-on, fun, and interactive way.

Presented with support from:
Indiana Historical Society, Kosciusko County Community Foundation, and Kosciusko County Convention, Recreation, and Visitors Commission.

by CHTQAAdmin

Education

Famous Hoosier Eli Lilly | Free Event at Oakwood Resort July 12

Famous Hoosier Eli Lilly: A Legacy of Healing and Innovation

Join us on July 12 at Oakwood Resort for the second annual Famous Hoosier program, featuring Eli Lilly.
This free public event highlights the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Eli Lilly, an influential Indiana medical pioneer whose innovations and values continue to shape not only the state—but healthcare and philanthropy around the world.

Who Was Eli Lilly?

Born: 1838 • Died: 1898

Earned the lifelong title of Colonel after serving in the Civil War
Discovered his passion for medicine as a teenager visiting a local drugstore
In 1876, Eli Lilly and Company was founded, introducing gelatin-coated pills and other innovations
His legacy lives on through both Indiana’s largest for-profit corporation and its largest philanthropic foundation

Learn more about the Lilly Milestones of Caring and Discovery.

Why Eli Lilly Still Matters

Eli Lilly wasn’t just a pharmaceutical pioneer—he was a Hoosier through and through. His legacy of innovation, integrity, and generosity continues to influence not only Indiana, but the world. And fittingly, we’ll be honoring him right here on Lake Wawasee, a place he cherished. This is more than a history lesson—it’s a chance to celebrate a life that still shapes how we live, heal, and give today.

Eli Lilly Cottage on Lake Wawasee, in Syracuse, Indiana. *Photo courtesy of the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum.

Event Details

Date: July 12, 2025
Time:

4:30 PM – Light refreshments and cash bar
5:00–6:00 PM – Presentation

Location: Oakwood Resort Inn
702 E. Lake View Rd, Syracuse, IN

Cost: Free to attend

About the Presenter

Dr. Richard Gunderman is Chancellor’s Professor at Indiana University and a practicing physician at Riley Hospital for Children. A dedicated scholar and educator, he is the author of Hoosier Beacons, which profiles 30 influential Hoosiers, including Eli Lilly. Dr. Gunderman is widely known for his engaging lectures, deep historical knowledge, and commitment to public education.

What to Expect

A lively, informative program celebrating one of Indiana’s most impactful citizens
A deeper understanding of the legacy of a Famous Hoosier whose work still benefits millions
Community connection, historical insight, and appreciation of Indiana’s enduring legacy

Eli Lilly didn’t just build a company—he built a legacy of care, innovation, and generosity that still touches lives today. He had a deep love for Lake Wawasee, and there’s something special about honoring his story in the very place that meant so much to him. We hope you’ll join us to reflect, learn, and celebrate the life of a Hoosier who helped shape far more than just our state.

by CHTQAAdmin

Functional pottery made in beginner pottery workshop

Art, Events

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 CHTQAAdmin

Art, Events

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 CHTQAAdmin