This is Chautauqua. Community events for the whole family hosted in Syracuse Indiana and Lake Wawasee.

connect. renew. discover. learn.

The ChautauquaWawasee is dedicated to the exploration of the best in human values and the enrichment of life through a program of events focused on Art, Education, Faith, and Recreation. Our goal to to provide unique programs that enrich the individual, families and community.

Art programs at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Art


We celebrate creativity through performances, exhibitions, and hands-on opportunities that inspire expression, imagination, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Learn More
Educational programs at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Education


We foster lifelong learning through lectures, conversations, and shared learning that encourage curiosity, reflection, and personal growth at every stage of life.

Learn More
Faith and reflection at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Faith


At Chautauqua, faith plays an important role in shaping shared values, reflection, and connection within our social and cultural life.

Learn More
Recreation and wellness at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Recreation


Recreation and healthy living are essential to life at Chautauqua, supporting connection, balance, and enjoyment through shared activity.

Learn More

Our 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.

We are a non-profit corporation 501-(c)(3).  Consult with your tax advisor.  Donations may be tax-deductible.

Mail Donations to:

Oakwood Foundation Inc. 

Chautauqua-Wawasee
702 E. Lake View Rd
Syracuse, IN 46567

-Or-

Sign up for e-mail newsletter updates

We promise not to inundate your inbox – only five issues per year and only five “Things You Should Know” in each issue, making it a quick read.

recent news & articles

We are thrilled to announce the 2024 Chautauqua Wawasee event calendar! This year’s lineup is packed with exciting events and activities that are sure to delight all ages. From live music performances and theatrical productions to educational lectures and workshops, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Our team has worked tirelessly to curate a […]

During WACF’s Earth Day event in May, we focused on the Monarch butterfly with the help of Cindy Gackenheimer of Flutterby Gardens from Claypool and Kay Pylant from Leesburg.  We want to inform you of a few future events that are a must if you are serious about growing a garden that attracts pollinators. Cindy […]

  During April, we hosted a three-part series on the past, present and future of Religion presented by Dr. Michael Spath, executive director of the Indiana Center for Middle East Peace. These well-attended presentations were held in the Jennings Auditorium at the Greencroft Community in Goshen – the first time we hosted an event outside […]

event calendar

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 […]

Functional pottery made in beginner pottery workshop

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 […]

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, […]

  • 574-377-7543

  • 702 E. Lake View Rd, Syracuse, IN 46567