Visits with Santa
The Gridiron
December 6-24
To avoid people crowding in a line to see Santa, online reservations are highly recommended for Santa visits, and can be made by clicking the "Visit Santa" button below. The link for each weekend's Santa visits will appear on this site the Tuesday before each weekend at 2:00 p.m. Each 10-minute slot can accommodate a family/group of up to 8 people.
Look for the little red and white house located next to the South Bend Chocolate Café (at the 100 Block of S. Michigan St.). Santa’s House is a great place to spend one-on-one time with the “big guy.” Don’t forget to bring your wish list and a camera! Each child who visits Santa will receive an “I Believe” sticker which will enable them to receive trinkets and discounts throughout downtown South Bend, including a complimentary chocolate bar from the South Bend Chocolate Cafe.
The Gridiron
Friday, December 6
5:00 — 8:00 p.m.
It all kicks off at the Gridiron at 5:00 p.m. with live holiday music and dance performances, plus a holiday photo op, roving mascots, a Santa letter station, giveaways, and more!
Courtyard by Marriott lobby
December 6 - December 24
The 2024 Gingerbread Village will be located in the lobby of the Courtyard by Marriott. View the entries and vote for your favorite!
Beacon Health & Fitness
December 14
Festival of Trees
Downtown
December 6-24
Click the link below to vote for your favorite tree!
View holiday trees decorated by local sponsors and organizations! Vote for your favorite on DTSB's Facebook page. The winner will be announced on DTSB's social media.
Jefferson Blvd.
December 13
Do you have a float or walking unit you would like to enter into the parade? Fill out the online application here. The application deadline is December 6.
The fifth annual DTSB Holiday Light Parade will take place on Jefferson Blvd. Friday,
December 13 from 7:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.
Historic West Washington Neighborhood
December 15
Take a trip through time with free self-guided tours of historic homes and businesses in the West Washington National Historic District.
The DTSB Holiday Historic Walking Tour is back!
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Come celebrate the holiday season and explore South Bend's unique history on the DTSB Holiday Historic Walking Tour!
ADDITIONAL DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
ENTERTAINMENT
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South Bend Civic Theatre
December 7 & 14
Join the South Bend Civic Theatre for a magical breakfast adventure to the North Pole! Enjoy a delicious buffet provided by Metro Diner, meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, Elsa, Olaf, and more, and watch a performance by the CIVIC Youth Company. Guests can also participate in a fun craft led by Elsa and interact with favorite holiday characters.
The Morris Performing Arts Center
December 10
The Prophecy Show kicks off its 18th touring season with a dazzling holiday rock opera inspired by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Featuring classically trained musicians, stunning costumes, choreography, lasers, and fog, this electrifying performance captures the magic of TSO's legendary holiday music.
Morris Performing Arts Center
December 21
Lexus proudly supports the 90th Season Guest Artists.
Celebrate the holiday season with A Magical Cirque Christmas, a dazzling variety show featuring world-class entertainers performing awe-inspiring acts to your favorite holiday tunes. Perfect for all ages, this enchanting experience is filled with nostalgia, charm, and festive cheer, making it a memorable event for the whole family.
The Morris Performing Arts Center
December 14
Two performances, one day only! A beloved local holiday tradition returns with Music Director Alastair Willis and the Symphony for Home for the Holidays. Enjoy a spectacular program of cherished carols and seasonal favorites, featuring Uzima! and soprano Anne Slovin. It’s the perfect gift for the whole family.
The Morris Performing Arts Center
December 7 - 8
Magic is on the horizon for young Marie and the Nutcracker Prince, thanks to a visit from the charming but mysterious Great Impresario. At the stroke of midnight on a snowy Christmas Eve when the lines between fantasy and reality blur together, Marie sets out on an unforgettable journey through Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair, a marvel of sights, sounds, and enchantment.
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Howard Park
November 30 - December 7
Howard Park is upping the ante, with a whole week of programming at their Ice Trail & Pond to celebrate the official opening of the ice skating season. The park will be bustling with holiday excitement, so sip, skate, and shop your way around Howard Park all week long.
The Copshaholm
December 5
Educators are invited to Gallery Talks for Teachers, hosted by The History Museum and Studebaker National Museum, to explore Victorian Christmas traditions and tour Copshaholm! Curriculum materials related to Copshaholm are provided. Each visit will provide a certificate of completion for 2 PGP points. The event is free and complimentary wine will be offered.
South Bend Museum of Art
December 6
Celebrate the season with Holiday in the Gallery, a free community event sponsored by the Art League. Enjoy the Holiday Art Market featuring handmade gifts by local artists, live music by Fischoff Academy, and the opening of the Student Faculty Exhibition. Explore five vibrant galleries, upstairs studios, a community quilt activity, and festive food and drinks. Kick off December festivities with creativity and cheer while supporting local artists!
The Cellar Wine Bar and Kitchen
December 9
Gorgeous ceramic vases (created by their very own Ceramic Studio Specialist) will be available for purchase - so you can give the best gifts to your loved ones this year!
Join The Cellar for a festive evening of pairing delicious holiday cookies made by Ragamuffin with a variety of wines from The Cellar Wine bar and Kitchen.
The Copshaholm
December 14
Celebrate the wonder of sugar plum fairies and tin soldiers at this magical holiday tea. You will be seated at tables of eight in the Leighton Gallery, aglow with Yuletide decorations. This one-of-a-kind experience offers a menu of savories, sweets, and classic teas catered by the Oliver Inn Bed and Breakfast and is followed by a tour of the first floor of the Oliver Mansion, decorated for the holidays.
The Copshaholm
December 8 & 15
Explore the beautifully decorated Oliver Mansion during Christmas at Copshaholm with self-guided tours showcasing festive trees, mantel decorations, and live piano music. Children can enjoy activities like decorating ornaments, making Christmas cards, and writing letters to Santa in the Carriage House.
The Copshaholm
December 4
Join Copshaholm Curator Skylar Whited to explore the Christmas traditions of the past. The event includes a guided first-floor tour of the mansion, beautifully decorated for the season. Admission is $3, and reservations are required by December 2. Celebrate history and holiday charm in this unique seasonal experience!
Pigeon & Hen Pottery
Decemeber 6
Create your own charming holiday house in this hands-on clay workshop! Perfect for all skill levels, you’ll use large slabs of clay to craft a unique decoration or gift. Step-by-step guidance ensures you can design anything from a cozy cottage to a whimsical retreat. All materials are included for $35. Bring your creativity and holiday spirit and leave with a handmade treasure to cherish for years. All ages welcome!
The Aloft
December 8
Chicory offers a wide variety of breakfast items including waffles, biscuits and gravy, egg po' boy sandwiches, quiche, avocado toast, bagels, cold cereal, yogurt, and fresh fruit.
Bring the Kiddos in their best Holiday PJ's & join us for a fun morning of pancakes, crafts, and Santa at our Breakfast with Santa event! Photos with Santa, Hot Cocoa Station. Mimosas & Bloody Mary cash bar for Mom & Dad!
Monroe Circle Community Store
December 13 - 14
Join Monroe Circle Community Center in collecting new toys for the MC3 Christmas Store to empower families in need this holiday season. Donations can be dropped off at designated bins. Volunteers are also needed to assist at the Christmas Store, where registered shoppers can purchase gifts at reduced costs, enjoy refreshments, and experience holiday cheer. This initiative helps families celebrate with pride and dignity while creating memorable Christmas moments for their children.
Chicory Cafe
December 14
Celebrate the season at Chicory Cafe, where Santa is visiting to spread holiday cheer! Enjoy breakfast or lunch from their delicious menu, including waffles, po' boys, quiche, and more. Bring your camera for a photo with Santa, then decorate a cookie and enjoy the cafe!
SPONSORED BY:
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