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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.

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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.

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SS Lillypad II on Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Indiana
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Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 16, 2026

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.

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Taps Across the Water Wawasee | Memorial Day

Taps Across the Water-2026 Banner

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.

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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

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

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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. 

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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.

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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 Knecht and Board Member Larry Lane recently presented Ann with a clock, symbolizing the time, dedication, and commitment she has given to Chautauqua-Wawasee. Her induction into the Emeritus Board is a fitting tribute to the lasting impact she has made on the organization and the Syracuse community.

Ann’s Vision for Chautauqua-Wawasee

After visiting the Chautauqua Institution in New York, which was founded in 1874 as a Methodist church camp and built on four foundational pillars (arts, education, religion, and recreation), Ann envisioned bringing a similar organization to Syracuse, based at Oakwood Park.

Oakwood Park’s History and Transition

With the philanthropic commitment of Howard Brembeck, in 1993 the Oakwood Foundation received Oakwood Park’s hotel and other properties, continuing Oakwood Park’s tradition as a recreational, cultural, and spiritual retreat center. However, after the Foundation fell upon difficult financial times and entered receivership, a new chapter began.

The Founding of Chautauqua-Wawasee

It was during this period that the Oakwood Park tradition found new life with the creation of Chautauqua-Wawasee. In 2008, Ann set in motion three years of dedicated planning with the support of the receiver. Her vision became a reality in 2011, when Chautauqua-Wawasee officially launched its first programs for the community.

Ann’s Continuing Impact

Ann served as the founder and chairman of Chautauqua-Wawasee beginning in 2011. Following the organization’s merger with the Oakwood Foundation in 2014, she continued to serve as a member of the Board of Directors, contributing her leadership and guidance to the organization’s development.

In 2014, following the organization’s merger with the Oakwood Foundation, Chautauqua-Wawasee expanded its programming and outreach with the support of Ian Rolland and the Rex Parent family. Their contributions helped strengthen Chautauqua-Wawasee’s mission to make Syracuse and the surrounding region a wonderful place to visit, live, work, and raise a family.

Today, the organization remains committed to the four pillars that shaped Ann’s original vision, offering programs throughout the year that promote the arts, encourage education, strengthen faith, and support recreation in the community.

Chautauqua-Wawasee has an exciting lineup of programs planned for 2025, continuing our tradition of celebrating arts, education, faith, and recreation. We invite you to explore all of this year’s events HERE, and why not consider joining us as a volunteer to help bring these experiences to life?  Sign up to volunteer, HERE. 

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2025 Taps Across the Water – A Moving Memorial Day Tribute

Taps Across the Water

2025 Taps Across the Water – A Moving Memorial Day Tribute

Sunday, May 25, 2025, marks the 5th annual Taps Across the Water tribute across Lake Webster, Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Lake, and Lake Papakeechie.

This moving event honors U.S. military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Trumpeters and buglers stationed around the lakes perform a stunning Echo Cascading Rendition of Taps—a four-minute, multi-directional experience that resonates powerfully across the water. Taps Across the Water creates a reverent, deeply memorable moment for attendees and participants alike.

About Taps Across the Water

Led by Dr. Matt Murdock, an educator with ties to Indianapolis and North Webster, Taps Across the Water brings together nearly 40 musicians, including:

  • Local veterans
  • Community band members
  • High school students and music directors
  • Professional trumpet players

Inspired by Jari Villanueva’s Taps Across America, Taps Across the Water also raises awareness about the shortage of live trumpet players at military funerals.

“This gives students a meaningful way to connect with their community—both now and beyond graduation.”
– Dr. Matt Murdock

Faith Bradley-2024 Bugler at Taps Across the Water

North Webster Lake Schedule

6:15 PM – Military Service at the Town Park
A brief service with live trumpet music and remarks, followed by a ceremonial salute from the North Webster American Legion Post 253 Honor Guard.

6:30 PM – Listen for Taps Across the Water
Hear the Echoing Taps from the Town Park, your pier, boat, or aboard the Dixie Sternwheeler as it launches in sync with the tribute.

7:05 PM – Trumpet Concert
Enjoy a 20-minute trumpet performance at the Town Park following Taps Across the Water.

Wawasee, Syracuse, & Papakeechie Schedule

8:10 PM – Trumpet Ensemble Concert at Oakwood Gazebo
A patriotic concert sets the tone for the evening before musicians head to their designated pier locations around the lakes.
Presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee & American Legion Post #223.

9:00 PM – Moment of Silence
Mark Knecht, Chautauqua-Wawasee Board President, says, “In addition to notifying the community, we alert the lakefront restaurants about the timing of the event and propose that guests observe one minute of silence before the starting of the Taps.”

9:09 PM – Listen for Taps Across the Water
Taps will echo across all three lakes.

“Every year people plan for this moment. Wind can affect the sound, but the impact is always powerful.”
– Karen Kroemer, Event Organizer

 

Tips for Attending Taps Across the Water in Syracuse, Indiana

  • Listen from your pier, boat, or designated public viewing locations:
    • The bridge by the Channel Marker
    • The Public Boat Launch
    • Oakwood Resort

For updates, please follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook

Join us in honoring the fallen with reverence, gratitude, and the sound of Taps.

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2025 Points of Interest Cruse-Narrated by Ann Garceau
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Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 17, 2025

🚤 Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 17, 2025

If you’ve ever wanted to step back in time while enjoying the beauty of Indiana’s largest natural lake, this is your chance. The Lake Wawasee historical cruise is back for 2025—an unforgettable two-hour event aboard the SS Lillypad II, brought to you by Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum.

Local historian Ann Garceau will narrate the cruise, highlighting fascinating “Points of Interest” along the shoreline. Learn about the lake’s rich past as you float past sites of historic hotels, entertainment venues, marinas, and more. You’ll receive a map of the lake so you can follow along during the journey.

🎟️ Tickets:
This event sells out quickly, so don’t wait! Purchase your tickets in advance!

🗓️ Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025

  • Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Boarding begins at 12:45 PM)

  • Location: The Frog Tavern, 1116 S Harkless Drive, Syracuse, IN

  • Ticket Link: Click HERE to purchase

📍 What to Expect:

  • A narrated tour of historic and lesser-known spots around Lake Wawasee

  • Insight into past events, property owners, boat taxis, and restaurants

  • Snack food provided and a cash bar available onboard

  • A relaxing and educational afternoon on the lake

📞 Questions?
Contact Chautauqua-Wawasee:
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—enhancing life in Syracuse and the surrounding region.

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