68°
Fri. May 22, 2026
12:00pm
Honor veterans who have served this great country and remember those who have sacrificed their lives to protect our freedom at the annual Memorial Day Parade. The parade will begin at the intersection of Lake Blvd. and Park St.
2026 Parade Form - Turn in by Friday, May 1
Sat. May 23, 2026
10:00am - 7:00pm
St. Joseph Lighthouse - Explore the North Pier's Inner and Outer Lights!
2026 Season - Join us weekly on Saturdays, from 10:00a-7:00p, May 23 through September 5.
Weather permitting - check the St. Joe Today Facebook page for the most current Lighthouse updates!
Go inside the North Pier Inner Light first-floor for free or buy a ticket to climb to the top. It's fun for all ages!
- Explore the free first-floor exhibits and dive into the rich nautical history of St. Joseph/Benton Harbor.
- Climb to the top for spectacular panoramic views ($5/person).
- Stroll the pier to the Outer Lighthouse - a perfect spot for boat and sunset watching.
Tours and Presentations
- Enjoy a free, guided tour from the start of the North Pier to the Lighthouse. Tours will be held once every Saturday at 10:00a!
- Lighthouse Presentations - Participants may enjoy these free, one-hour interactive programs individually or as a three-part series. Held the second Saturday of the month, June-August, from 10:00a-11:00a.
2026 Date TBA
Parking
Tiscornia Park - 80 Ridgeway St., St. Joseph, MI
Tickets (ON SALE STARTING MAY 1, 2026)
- Purchase in-person with CASH only at the lighthouse.
- Purchase in-person with cash or credit at the St. Joe Today Welcome Center - located at 301 State St., St. Joseph, MI
Sat. May 23, 2026
9:00am - 2:00pm
Market-goers will enjoy fresh finds at the weekly St. Joe Farmers Market. Vendors will offer a variety of products including baked goods, locally grown produce, perennials and cut flowers, meats and cheeses, coffee and more! This event is held Saturdays in the scenic Lake Bluff Park, overlooking Lake Michigan.
Please note that there will be special hours for the market on July 11 during the Krasl Art Fair - stay tuned for more details!
Sat. May 30, 2026
10:00am - 5:00pm
This eclectic craft fair, held in picturesque Lake Bluff Park, offers a variety of handcrafted goods. With over 50 local vendors, there’s something for everyone - anything from home decor and furniture to jewelry, candles and more!
Want to become a vendor? Visit our Vendor Information page. Accepting vendor applications until March 15!
Sat. May 30, 2026
10:00am - 7:00pm
St. Joseph Lighthouse - Explore the North Pier's Inner and Outer Lights!
2026 Season - Join us weekly on Saturdays, from 10:00a-7:00p, May 23 through September 5.
Weather permitting - check the St. Joe Today Facebook page for the most current Lighthouse updates!
Go inside the North Pier Inner Light first-floor for free or buy a ticket to climb to the top. It's fun for all ages!
- Explore the free first-floor exhibits and dive into the rich nautical history of St. Joseph/Benton Harbor.
- Climb to the top for spectacular panoramic views ($5/person).
- Stroll the pier to the Outer Lighthouse - a perfect spot for boat and sunset watching.
Tours and Presentations
- Enjoy a free, guided tour from the start of the North Pier to the Lighthouse. Tours will be held once every Saturday at 10:00a!
- Lighthouse Presentations - Participants may enjoy these free, one-hour interactive programs individually or as a three-part series. Held the second Saturday of the month, June-August, from 10:00a-11:00a.
2026 Date TBA
Parking
Tiscornia Park - 80 Ridgeway St., St. Joseph, MI
Tickets (ON SALE STARTING MAY 1, 2026)
- Purchase in-person with CASH only at the lighthouse.
- Purchase in-person with cash or credit at the St. Joe Today Welcome Center - located at 301 State St., St. Joseph, MI
May 19th, 2026
There’s a lot to explore this holiday weekend in Michigan's Great Southwest! Honor those who have served our country during the Memorial Day Parade, support local farmers with the start of the 2026 St. Joe Farmers Market and St. Joe Lighthouse Tour seasons, listen to live music hosted at area businesses, attend special events throughout SWMI and more! There’s a little something for everyone. Read on for a full weekend guide!
FRIDAY, MAY 22
Honor veterans who have served this great country and remember those who have sacrificed their lives to protect our freedom at the annual Memorial Day Parade at 12p in downtown St. Joseph. Sponsored by Lest We Forget and Freedom Boat Club. The parade will begin at the intersection of Lake Blvd. and Park St. Attendees will be able to watch as the parade travels down Lake Blvd. and finishes at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell. Immediately following the parade, everyone is invited to a short program at the Bandshell.
Celebrate the holiday weekend with Round Barn Winery during their Memorial Day MEGA Weekend, Friday-Sunday. Attendees will enjoy Mega Pint Specials, Slushie, Cocktail & Food Features and Jammin’ in the Vineyard Live Music.
Head to Peat’s Cider Social for a special Theme Night: The Social Strikes Back from 4p-10p. It’s a Star Wars celebration with a twist! Attendees will enjoy dancing under the spinning Death Star disco ball, groove to DJ tunes and enjoy out-of-this-world drink specials. Costumes and lane reservations encouraged!
Filkins Vineyards hosts a special Cabi Pop Up Shopping Experience from 6p-8p! Attendees will enjoy a fun, easy-going event featuring the Spring ‘26 Collection. Free to attend, but reservations are required!
There is no shortage of live music throughout Southwest Michigan!
Watermark Brewing - Rocky Weed Road Band & Friends, 6:30p-9:30p
The Acorn - Jackie Venson, 8p-11p
The Livery - Abbie Thomas & Crazy Hearts, 8:30p
SATURDAY, MAY 23
The 2026 season of the St. Joe Farmers Market kicks off this Saturday! Market-goers will enjoy fresh finds at the weekly market, May 23-October 10, in Lake Bluff Park from 9a-2p. Vendors will offer a variety of products, including baked goods, locally grown produce, perennials and cut flowers, meats and cheeses, coffee and more! Sponsored by The Boulevard Inn & Bistro, The Batalis Agency, Krewe, Renaissance Athletic Club, Culver’s of Stevensville and Lest We Forget.
Explore the St. Joe Lighthouse during the 2026 summer season! Go inside the North Pier Inner Light first-floor for free or buy a ticket for just $5/person to climb to the top. Available weekly on Saturdays, from 10a-7p! Looking for more history? Enjoy a free, guided tour at 10a from the start of the North Pier to the Lighthouse.
Kick off the paddling and kayak season with Third Coast Paddling this Memorial Day weekend! Take 15% off your rentals with promo code BEACH15 at checkout (valid for online advance reservations only). Rentals available for Silver Beach, Jean Klock Park, Van Buren State Park, Warren Dunes State Park. If you prefer a river adventure, use the promo code for the Paw Paw River, Gailen River or Wade’s Bayou locations!
Enjoy Memorial Day Weekend with Filkins Vineyards as they host live music and food trucks on Saturday from 12p-7:30p! A $10 cover gets you in for both shows - Elvis Tribute Artist (12p-3p) and The Breakfast Club (4:30p-7:30p). Plus, enjoy delectable wines from Filkins and delicious food trucks all day! Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs.
Check out the opening weekend of the Butterfly House at Sarett Nature Center! The Butterfly House is a netted facility located across the driveway from the Nature Center building and is open Tuesday-Sunday through Labor Day weekend. The butterflies are most active on sunny, warm days! No appointments necessary. Attendees can purchase tickets at the Nature Center's front desk.
Lemon Creek Winery hosts a two-day Wine and Art Festival, a celebration of art, music, food and wine! Attendees will enjoy live music and delectable wine as they shop regional artisans. Food trucks onsite both days! Festival hours include Saturday and Sunday from 12p-6p.
Catch the last weekend of Wanderlust Outfitters Memorial Day Sale! Shoppers will enjoy up to 25% off select brands, including The North Face, Osprey, NEMO, KUHL and Prana. Visit the store for more details!
Sister Lakes Brewing and Peat’s Cider Social are teaming up for the Brew Belt Byway Relaunch Party this Saturday from 3p-7p! Attendees will get a chance to visit four locations, get their card punched and be entered to win prizes. Bring in five food items to donate to a local pantry and receive an extra entry on your punch card!
Interested in learning how the Great Lakes were formed? Join one of the Love Creek Nature Center & County Park naturalists at Rocky Gap County Park for a Rock Talk this Saturday at 2p as they discuss how glaciation has impacted the Great Lakes region and comb the beach for interesting rocks and fossils!
This summer, check out the Pleasant Street Plaza, corner of Main St. and Pleasant St., for street dining, drinks, live music and events! Brought to you by 221 Main, Silver Harbor Brewing and The Market!
Wrap up Saturday night with the Box Factory for the Arts as they host “Work at Hand” by Peter Hartel, a Documentary Film Screening from 7p-9. Attendees will enjoy a film about the painter Michael K. Paxton followed by an artist talk following the screening. $5 requested donation.
There is no shortage of live music throughout Southwest Michigan!
Tabor Hill Winery - Vibes in the Vineyard with Aaron James Wright, 2:30p-5:30p
Silver Harbor Brewing - Samuel Harness, 6:00p
Watermark Brewing - Daniel Deitrich Live, 6p-9p
The Acorn - The Electric Cars, 8p-11p
The Livery - Space Bar, 8:30p
SUNDAY, MAY 25
Find your new favorite wine at the St. Joe Wine Shoppe! Every Sunday, they open a variety of wines, all different styles, during Wine Sample Sundays from 10a-5p!
Filkins Vineyards hosts a special Pop Up with Lakuna Liinks Permanent Jewelry from 2p-6p. Sip on a glass of their new Sparkling wine while you shop!
Enjoy live music at Tabor Hill Winery during Vibes in the Vines feat. Daniel Cole Dailey from 2:30p-5:30p!
MONDAY, MAY 26
The St. Joe Today Welcome Center will host special holiday hours from 11a-3p. Stop by and say hello while you’re downtown St. Joe!
River Saint Joe hosts Music Mondays from 5:30p-7:30p! Attendees will enjoy live music outside on the patio. Grab a tasty beverage and something delicious off the menu while you’re there!
Enjoy the last day of Round Barn Winery’s Memorial Day MEGA Weekend and the last day of sales at Wanderlust Outfitters!
December 1st, 2025
Merry & Bright Weekend hosts a number of festive events to put you in the holiday mood! From holiday stories to magically lit wonderland strolls, open houses, holiday shopping and last-minute wish lists, we’ve got you covered. Celebrate the holiday season here in Michigan’s Great Southwest!
SWMI EVENTS
Kick off Merry & Bright Weekend with Light up the Bluff on Friday, December 5! Watch as Lake Bluff Park is transformed into a winter wonderland. At 6p, the St. Joseph High School Choir begins with Christmas carols, followed by the tree lighting at 6:30p. The one million lights will remain on through Valentine’s Day in Michigan’s Most Romantic City. Presented by the City of St. Joseph.
INSIDER TIP: Starting December 6, attendees can enjoy the lights daily
from 5:30a-8:30a and 5:30p-midnight!
Zo’s Mini Donuts will host special hours on Friday and Saturday from 5p-9p. They will be serving delicious hot & fresh donuts!
The Reindog Parade returns to downtown St. Joseph on Saturday, December 6 at 3:00p! This event features dressed up pets and their owners in a variety of holiday garb. Be prepared to see all kinds of costumes from “Santa Bernards” to “Reindeer Rottweilers” – definitely a must-see event! Day of registration is available from 12p-2:45p at the Welcome Center (301 State Street). Sponsored by Mighty Dog Roofing and FuzzyButz Pet Boutique & Bakery.
INSIDER TIP: Saturday also marks the arrival of Santa in downtown
St. Joseph. After the parade, children can share their wish lists
with Santa at Santa’s House from 4p-7p.
The Krasl Art Center hosts a weekend filled with events! Check out The Clay Guild Merry Makers Market for unique one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, Thursday-Sunday! On Friday, December 5 warm up during Light Up the Bluff from 6p-8p - enjoy Santa, artists sketching Santa, FREE hot chocolate and Ben's Pretzels (onsite in KAC lot). Head back on Saturday, December 6 for XL Family Fun Fest from 10a-2p! Attendees will enjoy a Costume Contest at 12p and Twas the Night Before Christmas Puppet Show with Marionette Playhouse at 1p. Bring the family for a day packed with activities! For just $10, purchase a punch card for up to 10 fun activities, such as crafts, cupcake decorating, face painting and more!
Catch the latest production by Twin City Players, A Christmas Carol! Weekend showtimes include Friday & Saturday at 7:30p and Sunday at 2p!
Lazy Ballerina Winery hosts festive events all weekend long! On Friday, shoppers will enjoy extended hours until 8p and a Pop Up with Charm Bar and Dirty Baker. Head back on Saturday for a Pop Up with Charm Bar from 1p-3p. Wrap up the weekend on Sunday with a DIY Macrame Ornament Pop Up with Banana Knots. All weekend long enjoy muled wine to go!
Local Pour hosts live music on Saturday, December 6 from 4p-7p!
Wanderlust Outfitters hosts a giveback weekend on Saturday & Sunday to benefit the Wonderland Toy Store. 10% of all sales from the day will be donated to assist families in need this Christmas.
EAT, SHOP, STAY, PLAY throughout SWMI for a chance to win local gift cards during Countdown to New Year! Shoppers and diners can turn in receipts to the St. Joe Today (SJT) Welcome Center from purchases made November 21-December 14 at SJT member businesses. Earn one entry for every $25 spent (one time or cumulative purchases). SJT will draw winners throughout the month of December. Visit stjoetoday.com/countdown for more details! Sponsored by the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber.
Santa’s House is moved from the North Pole each year to the corner of State & Pleasant Streets in downtown St. Joe! Santa will be available for wish list conversations and holiday photo ops weekends in December. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture this magical visit! Sponsored by The Herald-Palladium. Visit stjoetoday.com/santa for a complete schedule.
INSIDER TIP: Don’t miss out on Letters to Santa and Storytime with
Mrs. Claus, all part of the Santa Series this December!
The Aware Lab hosts "Why Is Cranio-Sacral Therapy Right For Me" - a free workshop with Maria Falce of Kindred Root on Sunday, December 7 from 1p-3p.
Wrap up Merry & Bright Weekend with the Holiday Artisan Market from 11:00a-4:00p on Sunday, December 7! This event will be held indoors at Union + Social and will feature a variety of local artisans and their handcrafted goods.
GREAT DEALS & ADDITIONAL HAPPENINGS
Shoppers will enjoy additional savings and deals at these locations throughout Merry & Bright Weekend:
For every ticket higher than $25 you get a small bulk bag at Bricks and Minifigs Saint Joseph.
Find stocking stuffers and fun gift ideas at Caffe Tosi! Shoppers will enjoy get one free on all hats.
DK Boutique will offer 20% off storewide! *Excludes sales items.
FuzzyButz Pet Boutique & Bakery will offer a gift with purchase event on Saturday, December 6! Specially themed Christmas treats in the bakery!
Stop by Glik’s for cookies and hot drinks (treats for puppies, too)! Free gift wrapping and a drawing for a $25 gift card.
Lana’s Boutique offers extended hours and storewide sales!
Head to the Olive Cart for new holiday flavors and 15% off select items! Spend $50 to be entered into our Christmas Eve giveaway! Earn rewards with every dollar spent!
There's no place quite like The Silver Beach Carousel at holiday time! Be sure to stop by this Merry & Bright Weekend, check out their festive decor and hop on for a magical carousel ride!
Enter drawing to win a $25 Sourdough House & Coffee Bar gift card + Merry & Bright Latte Special!
Stock up on wine with White Pine Winery! Shoppers will enjoy 10% off 4-bottle purchase; 15% off 6-bottle purchase; and 20% off 12-bottle purchase.
November 18th, 2025
Getting into the holiday spirit is easy when you visit downtown St. Joe! On Friday, November 21, kick off the holiday season with two great community events - Luminary and Countdown to New Year. This night will also feature sneak peeks of specials, one-of-a-kind gifts, free gift wrapping, live music, new merchandise, events and festive fun throughout Southwest Michigan!
SWMI EVENTS
Luminarias will light your way as you stroll through and explore downtown St. Joseph from 5p-8p during Luminary on Friday, November 21! Participating locations invite you to eat, shop, drink and be merry while you enjoy this charming lakeside town.
INSIDER TIP: The St. Joe Today Welcome Center hosts special guests during Luminary!
Stop by the Loafing with Brittney table for some special sourdough treats.
The Twin City Toastmasters hosts an info table. Try your luck at getting
your favorite pie during the Interact Club Pie Auction from 5:30p-7p.
EAT, SHOP, STAY, PLAY throughout SWMI for a chance to win local gift cards during Countdown to New Year! Shoppers and diners can turn in receipts to the St. Joe Today (SJT) Welcome Center from purchases made November 21-December 14 at SJT member businesses. Earn one entry for every $25 spent (one time or cumulative purchases). SJT will draw winners throughout the month of December. Visit stjoetoday.com/countdown for more details!
“Meet the Makers” of Chartreuse Art Co-op as they celebrate their 19th anniversary and host extended hours! Shoppers will enjoy tasty refreshments and a gift card drawing.
Stop by Glik’s for cookies + hot and cold beverages! Shoppers will be entered into a $25 gift card drawing and kids will enjoy a children’s craft table.
Don’t miss the Krasl Art Center Community Member Show from 6p-8p! View artwork created by local artists. This event is free and open to the public!
Catch live music featuring Story and Zenk at the South Bend Chocolate Company from 6p-8p. Shoppers will also enjoy holiday sales that evening - 2 for $30 on crunches (can mix and match), 2 for $25 on pretzels (can mix and match), and 3 for $20 for another that's $8.99.
Head to the St. Joe Community Taproom and enjoy a drink in their outdoor warming station + drink specials from 5p-8p during Luminary. Keep the party rolling with a Candlit Happy Hour from 8p-10p! Social District drinks available from 12p-10p.
The Culinary Cottage hosts a Pumpkin Roll Cake Class! This class is sold out for Luminary night, but check out culinarycottage.net for a complete schedule of upcoming classes.
Test out your dance skills, or learn some new ones during the Swing Into the Season swing dancing lessons with the Sunset Coast Dancers at The Inn at Harbor Shores from 6p-10p!
The Salvation Army-Benton Harbor will be ringing bells on the corner of State and Pleasant from 5p-8p!
Wanderlust Outfitters hosts their annual Black Friday Preview Sale from 5p-8p! Get a sneak peek a some amazing Black Friday Deals for three hours only!
ADDITIONAL HAPPENINGS
Shoppers will enjoy great deals, extended hours or sweet treats at these locations on Friday, November 21:
Baroda Founders St. Joseph Tasting Room - Extended hours, sales on merchandise, specialty drinks!
Caffe Tosi - Open until 9p!
Edgewater Gifts - Extended hours!
Evermore Juice Bar - Extended hours, sales and promotions!
Full of Crepe - We will be staying open until 9p and featuring a hickory smoked bbq pulled pork Crepe!
G&M Variety - Open until 9p!
Gallery on the Alley - Wine and sweet treats!
Lana’s Boutique - Extended hours and sale!
Lazy Ballerina Winery - Open late with mulled drinks to go.
Lee & Birch - Open until 8p! It is also Pink Friday on Nov. 21, so we will be celebrating BIG! Doorbuster deals, discounts, giveaways and more!
Loafing with Brittney - Hosting a table inside the Welcome Center. Get a $60 gift card for just $50 ($10 off!) + organic sourdough breads, cinnamon rolls and waffles made with local flour!
Oh My Darlings - Open late and special treats!
Olive Cart - Various holiday sales and an exclusive Black Friday coupon when you make a purchase! Extended store hours (closing at 8p).
Perennial Accents - Open until 8p, we will be offering sweet bites in our kitchen to go along with the delicious coffee roasts from Lake Michigan Coffee. Lots of late night decaf options to choose from...perfect to pair with some Baileys or Schnapps from one of our Social District restaurants! Also, enjoy complimentary gift wrapping, a gift with purchase and all pillows 33%, 5p-8p only!
State Street Stuff - $1 Deals! Free Gift-wrapping. Open until 9p!
The Cheese Lady - Open late, holiday entertaining samples, free gift with purchase.
The Market - Stores will be open late!
The Toy Company - Free gift wrap.
White Pine Winery - Extended hours and complimentary samples of delicious Mulled Wine!
October 6th, 2025
Double, double toil and trouble. We’re on the search for all things spooky in Southwest Michigan! It’s been a fun-packed fall with even more to come through the end of the month. With everything from trick-or-treating and spooky-themed classes to Halloween parties, activities for the whole family and more! Keep reading for festive events leading up to Halloween.
TRICK-OR-TREATING
OCTOBER 25
The City of St. Joseph hosts Truck or Treat from 4p-6p on Lake Boulevard.
OCTOBER 31
Downtown St. Joseph and the Benton Harbor Arts District host Halloween Trick-Or-Treat, sponsored by Holt Bosse, from 4:30p-6p.
Slackers Family Fun Center Trunk-or-Treat from 4:30p-7:30p.
St. Joseph City-wide trick-or-treating is scheduled from 6p-7:30p.
Bridgman City-wide trick-or-treating is scheduled from 5:30p-7p.
Berrien County Historical Association Trick or Treating at the Museum from 5:30p-7:30p.
FRIGHTFUL FAMILY FUN
Throughout the month of October, find the witch hidden in thirteen participating locations in downtown St. Joseph! Pick up your Where’s the Witch passport from the St. Joe Today Welcome Center and start the search. Visit stjoetoday.com/wheresthewitch for a full list of participating businesses!
Join St. Joe Today for a NEW Halloween-themed event, Downtown Spooktacular, in downtown St. Joe on Saturday, October 18, from 11a-4p. Attendees will enjoy a variety of events, including a hayride through downtown, a Spooktacular Market, a pumpkin patch, magic shows, a Spooktacular Costume Parade, a pumpkin carving display and demo, Spooky Lighthouse Tours, downtown decorations and more! Visit stjoetoday.com/downtownspooktacular for a complete schedule.
SWMI businesses and restaurants will display their decorated pumpkins during Pumpkins on Parade, October 20-31! Visit participating locations to view their decorated pumpkins and vote online for your favorite. Voting will be available from 10:00a October 20 to 11:59p October 30. Winners will be announced on October 31!
The St. Joseph/Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library hosts a few Halloween-themed programs this October! Join them for a Teens Mini Pumpkin Painting Contest on October 8 from 6p-7p; Fall Storytime, Wednesdays at 10:30a through December 17.
Enjoy a Halloween Event hosted by Slackers Family Fun Center on October 10 from 6p-10p. Attendees will enjoy Unlimited Arcade (no tickets or prizes), Unlimited Bounce House, Unlimited Laser Tag, Game Rooms, Candy and more! Head back on October 18 for Haunted Laser Tag from 7p-11p! Cost $20/Non-Members, $15/Members.
Head to Eden Springs Park for Halloween miniature train rides on select dates throughout October! Catch these spooky train rides on October 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26 from 5p-8p. Cash only. These original House of David engines and passenger cars have been lovingly restored by the Eden Springs team of volunteers and train experts.
Trinity Lutheran Church hosts The Great Pumpkin Caper on October 17 from 5p-7p! Families are invited to a fun fall evening filled with a variety of activities, including a pumpkin carving contest, petting zoo, kiddie hay bale maze, flag football and more!
Something wicked is coming at Sarett Nature Center! On October 25, families are invited to Sarett’s Spooky Halloween from 3p-8p. Attendees will enjoy a stroll through the trails, spooky crafts, game stations and more. If you’re looking for a fright, visit the scary trail! Tickets are $6/person (ages 2 and older) and book fast, so reserve your spot today.
River Saint Joe Brewery hosts their 6th Annual Dog Halloween Costume Contest on October 26 from 1:00p-3:00p. $5 donation to enter the costume contest! All proceeds go towards the Humane Society.
Head to Caretel Inns St. Joseph for their Fall Festival on October 30 from 5p-7p! Join in for a night of family fun - pumpkin painting, hayrides, live animals, fall games, local cider & donuts, a costume contest and more!
WIZARDING WORKSHOPS
JLN Studio hosts a variety of workshops throughout October! Join them for two of their fall-themed classes, a Gouache Fall Tree Painting Class on October 9 from 6p-8:30p and an Acrylic Fall Tree Painting Class on October 16 from 6p-9p.
Decorate pumpkins at Filkins Vineyards during their Pumpkin & Pinot held on October 18 from 11:30a-1:30p. Pick out your favorite pumpkin, grab a paintbrush and start creating! Ages 8 and up are welcome.
Lazy Ballerina Winery hosts a few October workshops! Check out their Pumpkin Quilling Class on October 19 from 12p-2p. Head back on October 22 for a Halloween Wine Glass Painting Class 5:30p-7p. Space is limited, reservations required. Wrap up the month with Wine & Tarot 101 on October 23 from 6:30p-7:45p.
Get crafty with Berrien County Historical Association and Dablon Winery during a special Halloween-themed Happy Little Museums: A Wine and Paint Night on October 23 at 6p. This event is 21+.
Create spooky season crafts with Fernwood Botanical Gardens at their Creature Craft Party on October 26 from 12p-3p. Attendees will get to choose a craft inspired by seasonal creatures - bats, spiders, toads and more + enjoy hot cider, popcorn and sweets! Check out the gardens, trails and the pumpkin house. Costumes encouraged!
ENCHANTING EVENTS
The Berrien County Historical Association hosts the second event in their A Drink with History! Series. Spook-tacular History: Berrien County Haunted Locations! Join them on October 9 at Iron Shoe Distillery at 6p with speaker Dan Holroyd of Southwest Michigan Paranormal. Additional October events include Fireside Tales: Fright Night on October 25 at 7:30p and Soups and Spirits on October 30 at 7p.
Join the Morton House Museum for a Halloween Event and Chili Dinner on October 18 from 6:p-8p! Attendees will enjoy a variety of chili, spooky treats and desserts while they test their Halloween trivia skills.
Shop & sip the 5th Annual Halloween Makers Market at Peat’s Cider Social on October 18 from 1p-7p! Head back on October 24 from 4p-9p for a Bowl-A-Ween Party, a spook-tacular night of Halloween fun for all ages.
Join Fernwood Botanical Gardens for Herbal Fortune Telling with the Michiana Herb Society on October 18, 19, 25, 26 from 12p-3p.
Support The Acorn during their fundraiser, the Boo Ball, on October 24 from 8p-11p. Attendees will enjoy a costume contest, delicious food from Classic Catering, spook-tacular music from Expo ‘76, a silent auction, live auction and more!
Catch the latest GhostLight Theatre production, The Rocky Horror Show - The Musical, October 29-November 2. Tickets are going fast, so reserve your spot today!
Watermark Brewing hosts two Halloween events this October! Try your luck at White Elephant Bingo - Halloween Edition on October 15 from 7p-9p (must be 21+). Then head back on October 31 for their annual Halloween Party at the Solarium at 7p! $10/person (must be 21+). This event features DJ Danger Cave and a costume contest!
Head to Round Barn Winery & Estate for their Hallowine event on November 1-2. Attendees will enjoy the last Jammin’ in the Viewyard weekend with a Halloween twist. Costumes are encouraged!
September 16th, 2025
The third weekend of the month, May through September, celebrate all things Southwest Michigan (SWMI) during the Love Local weekends! This month, attendees will enjoy sidewalk sales, live music, a Farmers Market, Fall Fest, special offers throughout SWMI and more. Read on for a complete weekend guide!
Love Local is sponsored by The Boulevard Inn & Bistro and Silver Harbor Brewing.
SWMI EVENTS
Discover fresh finds at the St. Joe Farmers Market held weekly on Saturdays (through October 11) in Lake Bluff Park from 9a-2p! Market-goers will find a variety of products, including baked goods, locally grown produce, perennials and cut flowers, meats and cheeses, coffee and more. Sponsored by The Boulevard Inn & Bistro, Culver's of Stevensville, NOBO, Renaissance Athletic Club and Third Coast Paddling.
Fall Fest returns to downtown St. Joseph on Saturday, September 20, from 9a-2p in Lake Bluff Park and the Grassy Lot (corner of Lake Blvd. & Pleasant St.), sponsored by RE/MAX by the Lake, Infusco Coffee and Visit Southwest Michigan! Fall Fest activities include the RE/MAX by the Lake Big Balloon Walk-Through (11:30a-1:30p), Interactive Booths from RE/MAX by the Lake, Balloon Twisters, Berrien County Democratic Party, Berrien County Historical Association, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Southwest Michigan, Citadel Dance & Music Center, First Congregational UCC St. Joseph, Interact Club, Kiwanis Club St. Joseph-Benton Harbor, Krasl Art Center, Let’s Play Music of Southwest Michigan, Mighty Dog Roofing, Performance Plus Quick Oil Change, Platinum Hardwood Floors, Rotary Club of St. Joseph-Benton Harbor, St. Joseph Maud Preston Palenske Library, T-Mobile, The Little Things Play Cafe, The Woods Fitness Park and Lucky Dog Ranch, Trinity Lutheran School & Church, Water Street Glassworks and the YMCA of Greater Michiana (9:00a-2:00p); Benton Harbor Sunrise Rotary Pumpkin Raffle (9:00a-2:00p); Critter Barn (10:00a-2:00p), Storytime on the Bluff at 11:30a (St. Joseph Maud Preston Palenske Library), 12:30p and 1:30p (Forever Books - Storytime with Poppy).
Downtown St. Joe will enjoy a new summer vendor located on the corner of State & Pleasant, KT’s Rasoi! Come by and enjoy our refreshing Mango Lassi, crispy Samosas, creamy Kulfi (Indian ice cream pops), and more delicious treats!
Join Lazy Ballerina Winery for a wine tasting and new releases!
INSIDER TIP: Enjoy two new fall flavors of the Lazy Ballerina Hard
Apple Cider: Caramel Apple and Cherry. FREE logo pint glass
with the purchase of 4 or more cans of hard cider.
Local Pour hosts a weekend of events! On Friday, September 19, enjoy Happy Hour from 5p-7p and Karaoke from 6:30p-8:30p. On Saturday, September 20, take in some live music from 4p-7p.
The Acorn hosts events all weekend long! On Friday, September 19, enjoy Dustbowl Revival at 8p. On Saturday, September 20, enjoy live music with DuPont Phillips - Kylee Phillips and Chris DuPont with special guest Christopher Gold at 8p.
Head to The GhostLight Theatre to catch CPR Dance: Inhale Movement’s Season 4 concert, Resonance Benton Harbor, on Saturday, September 20, at 2p and 7p.
Wanderlust Outfitters hosts Kuhl PANTcakes on Saturday, September 20 from 10a-1p! Shoppers will enjoy 20% off ALL KUHL, a free gift when you try on two pairs of Kuhl pants, freshly flipped pancakes and hot brewed coffee served in your own new Kuhl mug from Wanderlust (while supplies last).
GREAT DEALS
Shop special sales throughout 1232 Broad Street Mercantile. Shoppers can register to win a $25 gift card!
Enjoy 25% off Aveda, Eleven Australia and Kevin Murphy products, all weekend long at Affinity Salon & Spa!
The Box Factory for the Arts for free gallery exhibits and local art/gifts for sale!
Head to the Box Factory for the Arts for free gallery exhibitions throughout the historic building, view local art and find one-of-a-kind homemade gifts for sale!
Enjoy a free gift with purchase at FuzzyButz Pet Boutique & Bakery! For purchases over $100, get a free FuzzyButz Silicone Travel Bowl. For purchases $50-$99, get a free FuzzyButz Waste Bag Dispenser. For purchases $50-$74, get a free FuzzyButz Frisbee.
Glik’s will have an additional 50% off their clearance items!
Lana’s Boutique offers 30% off the Lulu B Collection!
Lee & Birch will host racks outside and offer special discounts all weekend!
Get 10% off when you mention Love Local Weekend at Olive Cart!
The South Bend Chocolate Cafe hosts a September Love Local Weekend special—any of our sandwich options with a choice of side and a drink for $15.
Head to the St. Joe Community Taproom for 4th Anniversary Specials!
State Street Stuff will host racks outside and offer special discounts all weekend!
Autumn Equinox on the Water - the leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and the river is calling! Join Third Coast Paddling during the first weekend of fall for peaceful paddles, golden views, and cozy autumn vibes. For the first weekend of fall only (September 20-21), take 15% off your rentals with promo code FALL15 at check-out. (Valid for online advance reservations only.)
Check out White Pine Winery's Summer Special! Take 5% off any 4 bottles, 10% off any 6 bottles and 15% off any 12 bottles (case).
Stop by the St. Joseph Today Welcome Center located on the first floor of 301 State Street for information on all the exciting things to do, see and experience in St. Joseph.
Monday-Friday: 11:00a - 5:00p
Saturday: 11:00a - 4:00p
Sunday: CLOSED
Contact Information
Phone: (269) 985 1111
Fax: (269) 985 0171
Email: info@stjoetoday.com
@stjoetoday
⧫ St. Joseph, MI
@joshua.nowicki
⧫ Downtown St. Joseph, MI
@stjoetoday
⧫ St. Joe Farmers Market
@stjoetoday
⧫ Antiques on the Bluff - Lake Bluff Park
