21 Things to Do this Spring in Shipshewana, IN

Ahhh spring. There's hardly a better feeling than opening up those windows and letting the cool spring breeze air out your home.

Spring is also the time when you can finally shake off the winter blues and get out and enjoy all that Shipshewana, Indiana has to offer. From markets to festivals to shows, here are the top 21 things to do in Shipshewana this Spring.

1. Celebrate Spring at Shipshewana Mayfest

This Annual Festival is held in downtown Shipshewana the first weekend of May. There's food, entertainment, kids games, buggy races, a 5K Road Run, softball tournament and even a Grand Parade.

2. Find Bargains at a Swap Meet

Shipshewana Swap Meets, outdoor markets where Amish and English come together to sell and buy poultry, small animals, housewares, plants, baked goods, and more are a great place to find unique finds. Don't forget to bring cash as most vendors do not accept credit cards or checks.

3. Get Some Retail Therapy

• Attend our newest Craft & Vintage Show in April. The Ship-Chic Craft & Vintage shows have become a new favorite for Shipshewana visitors seeking one-of-a-kind, gifts and decor from unique vendors selling quality products!
• Go shopping at one of the many Unique Shops in Shipshewana. From boutiques, to Amish furniture stores, to gift shops, you're sure to find something that fits your style.

4. Enjoy a Bike Ride

Go for a bike ride along the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail. As temperatures get warmer, you'll love riding along this picturesque trail that runs from Shipshewana to quaint surrounding towns from Elkhart to Middlebury to Shipshewana.

5. Take a Buggy Ride

Hear the clip-clop as you Take A Buggy Ride through Shipshewana. You can't visit Amish country without taking a buggy ride, right?

6. Be Amazed by Art

Take in 16 giant wall murals depicting the history of Shipshewana. Each "Walldog" Mural is absolutely gorgeous! The murals are found all over downtown and along S.R. 5, so be sure to visit each of them and uncover some of the history of Shipshewana!

7. Shop til' you drop at the Midwest's Largest Flea Market

Shipshewana Flea Market opens the first Tuesday and Wednesday in May. You'll love browsing the numerous booths at the Shipshewana Flea Market. The 26 gigantic outdoor aisles have vendors selling everything from home decor, to party supplies, to food!

Want to learn the difference between swap meets and the Midwest's Largest Outdoor Flea Market? Read all the details in our blog titled:  The Difference Between the Shipshewana Flea Market & Swap Meets!

8. Drift Down the River

Float down a river in a canoe or kayak! The whole family will love getting out in nature by renting a canoe at one of the kayak rental stops near Shipshewana.

9. Bid on a Piece of History

Find an antique toy or two at the annual Spring Shipshewana Antique Toy and Miscellaneous Auction. Held in late April, this auction features a special section of hard-to-find vintage toys.

10. Catch a Musical

Musicals and entertainment take place year-round at the Blue Gate Theatre. Pick one you love for an uplifting and entertaining evening in Shipshewana. Pair the musical with dinner at the Blue Gate Restaurant, and you've got yourself a great night!

11. Taste Delicious Food

Are you a foodie? Be sure and visit one of Shipshewana's many restaurants this spring, including the Shipshewana Auction Restaurant for some good old fashioned cooking.

12. Play a Round of Golf

Grab your golf clubs for a round of golf at Heron Creek Golf Course or Meadow Valley Golf Club in nearby Lagrange and Middlebury. You'll love the warmer spring weather while enjoying the golf course.

13. Enjoy a Tour

Experience Shipshewana in a new way by taking a guided tour. Your tour guide will bring to life the unique culture of the area, and you'll get to relax as you take in scenic views and landscapes.

You will also love our new self-guided tour of the Amish backroads by getting Off the Beaten Path!

14. Prepare for Summer

Get your patio ready for summer by visiting Raber Patio Enclousures at their annual Spring Open House. Typically held in late April, the open house features a huge tent sale with discounted furniture, giveaways, grilled hamburgers, and their famous potato salad!

15. Go Junkin'

Experience being a real American picker by attending the famous weekly Shipshewana Antique Auction where sellers bring in their picks and barn finds from all over the country. Auctions start at 9am every Wednesday.

16. Visit the Circus

Visit the Circus at the Michiana Event Center. See mesmerizing performers, World-Famous Equestrian Acts and Acrobatic Artists!

17. Learn Some Local History

Is someone in your family a history buff? This spring, be sure to visit the historical locations in Shipshewana including an Amish & Mennonite Cultural Museum, a 1906 Denzel Carousel, and the Heritage Trail.

18. Bid on Handmade Patchwork Quilts

See a variety of quilts, wall hangings, rugs and more auctioned at the Honeyville Quilt Auction. Experience the fresh air of the countryside as you take in this local event.

19.  Go to a Cruise-In

If you are a classic car owner or a car enthusiast, be sure to attend the Essenhaus Classic Car Cruise-Ins  every Thursday night from May to September. This free event features theme nights, LIVE entertainment, hand dipped ice cream & old fashioned sodas.

20. Enjoy Some Great Music

Attend world-class concerts this Spring. The Blue Gate Theatre has a whole line up of great artists and acts coming to Shipshewana.

21. Head Where the Buffalo Roam

Visit Cook's Bison Ranch during their annual Red, White, & Bison Calf Days celebration in late May. Take a wagon ride to see and feed bison and eat some buffalo burgers or visit some of the other Shipshewana area Animal Farms.

While you may have some old favorites to visit when you're in Shipshewana, there’s always something new to check out! Download our free Shipshewana Amish Country Travel Guide for some more trip ideas.