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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.

2025 Points of Interest Cruse-Narrated by Ann Garceau

🚤 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.