The fun begins on Friday!
Kick off your adventure to Shipshewana with a getaway through Amish Country! Stay Friday and Saturday to experience Independence Day celebrations the right way.
Spend your weekend exploring local farmers markets, enjoying a delicious meal at the Blue Gate Restaurant, and catching Straight No Chaser live at the Performing Arts Center. Then head over to Topeka for the exciting softball tournament and the can’t-miss Topeka 4th of July Celebration!
July 3 | Essenhaus Classic Car Cruise-In
Whether you are a classic car owner or a car enthusiast, this event is for you! Walk the grounds of the Essenhaus Inn & Conference Center seeing vintage and classic vehicles from 4:40 pm – 8:00 pm.
July 3 | Straight No Chaser
Enjoy a night of fun with Straight No Chaser. The captivating sound of nine unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense , the show kicks off at 7:30 pm at the Blue Gate PAC.
July 3 | Kickoff Day!
Experience the first round of the Pickleball, sand volleyball, softball and 3-on-3 basketball tournament. With food trucks available all day, catch the Little Mr. & Mrs. Topeka at 5:30. Bring your own chairs for a FREE Concert by Full measure at 7:00 at East Park.
Saturday, July 4th
The 53nd annual family-friendly event from 7 am – 11 pm in Topeka (10 minutes south of Shipshewana). Click here to download map for location on events below.
- 7:00 am – 10:00 am: Pancake and Sausage Breakfast
- 8:00 am: Annual Road Race & Fun Walk
- 8:00 am: Pickleball, sand volleyball, softball & 3-on3 Tournaments
- 10:00 am: Kids’ games; dunk tank (10-2) barrel train (all day)
- 10:00 am: Tractor Pulls at Topeka Pizza
- 12:00 pm: Watermelon Eating Contest
- 3:30 pm: Parade
- 5:00 pm: Buggy Races
- 6:00 pm: Live Music
- 10:15 pm: Fireworks
The Shipshewana Visitors Center will be open 9:00 am-1:00 pm offering guideance on parking or other activities to do while you're in town!
More to enjoy in the Heart of Amish Country!
The fun doesn’t stop in Topeka! Head over to Shipshewana for even more farmers markets, concerts, shopping, and dining during your Fourth of July getaway.
No matter how long your stay is, enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal at the Blue Gate Restaurant. Feast on crispy fried chicken, slow-cooked roast beef, and classic Amish-style entrees served Monday through Saturday. Pair your meal with mashed potatoes, homemade noodles, macaroni and cheese, green beans, and corn. Be sure to save room for apple pie, pecan pie, fresh cookies, and bakery treats!
Shop Downtown Shipshewana
Downtown Shipshewana shops will be open on the Fourth of July, making it the perfect time to explore unique local finds. Wander through Davis Mercantile to discover clothing, accessories, specialty foods, candy, and the beloved vintage 1906 carousel.
Stroll along Harrison and Morton Streets to browse handcrafted goods and locally made treasures at Teaberry Wood Products, Riverwood Pottery, Plaid Umbrella, and many more charming boutiques. Don’t forget to stop at Yoder’s Red Barn Shoppes for two stories filled with apparel, gifts, and delicious treats.
Before heading to the fireworks, stock up on fresh meats and cheeses from Yoder’s Meat & Cheese Co. or grab road trip snacks and goodies from E & S Sales.
Don’t Miss These July 4 Events
July 4 | Morton Street Farmer’s Market
Spend the day exploring the Morton Street Farmer’s Market in downtown Shipshewana. Shop fresh produce, handmade goods, and local creations at 125 Morton Street while enjoying food trucks and festive small-town fun.
July 4 | Kansas in Concert
Rock out with legendary classic rock band Kansas live at the Blue Gate Performing Arts Center. Sing along to iconic hits like Carry On Wayward Son and Dust in the Wind when the show begins at 7:30 p.m.
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