By Ashley Bishop, KEDCO Associate
We do lake-living well in Kosciusko County. With 100+ lakes spread across the county, it’s no surprise that K-County is bustling during the summertime months. From go-to lake activities of swimming, fishing and boating, to rare lakeside dining options, the community has ample offerings for all ages.
Complementing and often paired with the lakes, are local fairs and festivals. The month of July in K-County is especially lively with an impressive lineup of festivals and fairs. Here are just a few upcoming highlights and happenings this summer:
- July 2 – Winona Lake Fireworks & Symphony of the Lakes Concert
- July 9 – Lakes Festival
- July 16 – Tour Des Lakes
- July 10-16 – Kosciusko County Fair
- July 23 – Jazz Festival
- July 29 & 30 – Christmas in July in Pierceton
- July 30 – Dixie Day Festival
“Whether you’re a resident, visitor or considering a move to Kosciusko County, there are endless opportunities to find your way to what you’re seeking here, and we have a welcoming community to help you find that and get connected. In addition to abundant career and educational opportunities, we have so many things to do and experience, including the many lake-related activities, celebrations, fairs and festivals,” said Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO) CEO Alan Tio. Visitors and residents alike are invited to explore these offerings that contribute to the community’s rich quality of life. It’s truly a place where anyone can find their way to living life fully.”
Hosted by the Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department and the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams, the Lakes Festival (Saturday, July 9) offers activities for the whole family. Attendees can enjoy inflatables, an obstacle course, science stations, live music, crafts and more. Food trucks will be on-site for those looking to grab a bite to eat.
Following the Lakes Festival just a week later is the 11th Annual Tour Des Lakes, an annual bike tour around eight of the county’s beautiful lakes. Along the scenic route, riders will experience several known area lakes some including Lake Wawasee, Webster Lake, Chapman Lake, Winona Lake and
Tippecanoe Lake. Ride lengths vary from 30k, 55k, and 100k available for all to ride. There’s still time to register for Tour Des Lakes at tourdeslakes.com/register. Proceeds from the event support Syracuse-Wawasee Trails.
“Tour des Lakes is an event for individuals and families of all ages who enjoy bike riding. Last year, we had participants of ages 8-88,” said Erlene Yentes, Executive Director of Syracuse-Wawasee Trails. “This is a great ride that showcases the beautiful scenery of Kosciusko County. There will be four SAG stops along the routes to grab a snack, fruit, pickles, water and Gatorade with lunch back at the Community Center. Registration is still open so register today!”
Excitement in July continues with the much-anticipated annual Kosciusko County Fair, which will take place on Sunday July 10 through Saturday July 16. The fair boasts quite a variety from 4-H project exhibits and animals for families to enjoy, livestock shows, the fair parade, Broken Horn Rodeo, Monster Truck Mash, Heavy Weight Horse Pull, demolition derby and truck & tractor pulls, along with lots of food, music and amusement rides.
“Kosciusko County is full of summertime activities and our festivals and fairs play a major role in celebrating the warmer temperatures this July,” said Kosciusko County Convention & Visitors Center (KCCVB) Executive Director Cori Humes. Starting the month with fireworks on Winona Lake, to saluting agriculture with the 105th Annual Kosciusko County Fair, to North Webster’s famous Dixie Day Festival, and every great event in between, visitors and residents alike will be thrilled with number of opportunities to explore our county.”
Stay connected with KCCVB and upcoming events and happenings in Kosciusko County by visiting www.visitkosciuskocounty.com.
If you’re a new resident or exploring a move to Kosciusko County, KEDCO invites you to Outside the Fishbowl social meetups for newcomers which take place every other month on the second Tuesday. Learn more about KEDCO events at www.kosciuskoedc.com/events. Find more stories and stay connected with KEDCO by following @KosciuskoEDC on Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin.
