This is Chautauqua. Community events for the whole family hosted in Syracuse Indiana and Lake Wawasee.
We celebrate creativity through performances, exhibitions, and hands-on opportunities that inspire expression, imagination, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
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We foster lifelong learning through lectures, conversations, and shared learning that encourage curiosity, reflection, and personal growth at every stage of life.
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At Chautauqua, faith plays an important role in shaping shared values, reflection, and connection within our social and cultural life.
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Recreation and healthy living are essential to life at Chautauqua, supporting connection, balance, and enjoyment through shared activity.
Learn MoreOur goal is to “raise the bar” continually by improving the quality of programs, authors, and presenters. Your support enables us to grow and carry out our mission of providing valuable programs related to education, arts, faith and recreation. Our vision is for Chautauqua-Wawasee to be cited as one reason a business and/or people choose to move and live in Syracuse, Kosciusko County, and Indiana. We promise to use all gifts wisely and responsibly toward this vision.
Mail Donations to:
Oakwood Foundation Inc.
Chautauqua-Wawasee
702 E. Lake View Rd
Syracuse, IN 46567
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Ann Strong Inducted into Chautauqua-Wawasee Emeritus Board
Ann Strong Inducted into Chautauqua-Wawasee’s Emeritus Board Chautauqua-Wawasee proudly announces the induction of long-time Lake Wawasee resident Ann Strong into the organization’s Emeritus Board. Ann’s leadership, vision, and years of service have been central to the development and growth of Chautauqua-Wawasee since its founding in 2011. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Board President Mark […]
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our 2024 Donors!
Old Fashioned Hymn Sing Draws Crowd at Oakwood Chapel
🕊️ First Chautauqua Old Fashioned Hymn Sing Draws a Crowd Palm Sunday evening was the perfect setting for a heartfelt gathering, as more than 50 people attended Chautauqua-Wawasee’s first Old Fashioned Hymn Sing held at the historic chapel at Oakwood Resort. Mary Moretto, who organized the event, reflected on its success: “We had no idea […]