Things to Do This Weekend in Northwest Indiana | August 7-9, 2026

This is one of the biggest weekends of the summer in Northwest Indiana. The Lake County Fair opens its gates for a 10-day run at the Fairgrounds in Crown Point, the Valpo Corn Roast Fest returns to Porter County, and St. Mary's Western Days Festival wraps up in Griffith. Whether you are a lifelong local or new to the area, there is no shortage of things to do across Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties from August 7 through August 9.

Let me walk you through what is happening each day, where to go, and how to make the most of this August weekend across Northwest Indiana.

Friday, August 7

Lake County Fair: Opening Day!

The Lake County Fair kicks off its 10-day run at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Crown Point on Friday, August 7. This is opening day, and the fair is celebrating with $5 Friday specials, making it an affordable outing for the whole family. The fair features a huge carnival midway with rides and games, food vendors serving everything from corn dogs to funnel cakes, live entertainment on two stages, farm animal shows, horse shows, and kids' contests.

The grandstand on Friday night is a can't-miss event for music fans. Experience ZZ Top performs from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, followed by TNT Chicago (an AC/DC tribute band) from 8:00 to 9:30 PM. Two classic rock tributes for the price of one fair admission.

For the full daily schedule, visit the official Lake County Fair website.

When: Friday, August 7 · Fairgrounds open daily · $5 Friday specials
Grandstand: Experience ZZ Top 6:00 PM, TNT Chicago 8:00 PM
Where: Lake County Fairgrounds, Crown Point, IN
Cost: $5 Friday pricing; regular admission other days

Crown Point is one of Northwest Indiana's most vibrant communities. For more on what makes this town special, read our Crown Point neighborhood guide.

St. Mary's Western Days Festival

St. Mary's Western Days Festival continues through Sunday at St. Mary Catholic Church in Griffith. This annual parish festival features carnival rides, games, bingo, food vendors, and live music. It is a family-friendly, community-focused event that has been a Griffith tradition for years. Friday evening is a great time to visit for a relaxed start to your weekend.

When: Friday, August 7 · Hours vary
Where: St. Mary Catholic Church, Griffith, IN
Cost: Free admission (ride tickets extra)

Deep River Waterpark: Beat the Heat

If you are looking to cool off after the work week, Deep River Waterpark in Merrillville is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Friday tends to be a quieter day at the park, making it a great option for families with younger children or anyone who wants a relaxed start to the weekend. The park is located at 9001 East 109th Avenue in Merrillville. For more details, visit the official Deep River Waterpark website.

Saturday, August 8

Valpo Corn Roast Fest

The Valpo Corn Roast Fest is one of Porter County's most beloved summer traditions. Hosted by the Valparaiso Kiwanis Club, this annual fundraising event runs from 5:00 to 10:00 PM at Central Park and Urschel Pavilion in downtown Valparaiso. Tickets are $28.52 and include all-you-can-eat locally grown sweet corn, two live bands, food trucks, and family-friendly activities.

This is a fantastic event for families, groups of friends, and anyone who loves fresh Indiana corn at its peak. The event takes place in beautiful downtown Valparaiso, a short drive from any Northwest Indiana community. For tickets and details, visit the Porter County Expo Center calendar page.

When: Saturday, August 8 · 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Where: Central Park & Urschel Pavilion, Valparaiso, IN
Cost: $28.52 (includes all-you-can-eat corn and entertainment)

Lake County Fair: Day Two

Saturday is a full day at the Lake County Fair. The midway is open, food vendors are serving up fair favorites, and the entertainment schedule is packed. Saturday typically draws the largest crowds, so arrive early for the best parking and plan your food stops strategically. The fairgrounds are located right in Crown Point, making it easy to combine a fair visit with a stroll through the historic downtown square.

Crown Point Farmers Market

Start your Saturday morning at the Crown Point Farmers Market at Bulldog Park (183 S. West St). Over 70 vendors offer fresh produce, local meats, baked goods, artisan products, and prepared foods. The market runs every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM through September. There is live music, a splash pad for kids, and the historic downtown square is just steps away.

When: Saturday, August 8 · 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Where: Bulldog Park, 183 S. West St, Crown Point, IN
Cost: Free

Highland Wicker Park Summer Concert Series

The Wicker Memorial Park Summer Concert Series in Highland continues this weekend. This past Thursday, August 6, featured Fleetwood Gold (a Fleetwood Mac tribute) at 7:30 PM. The series runs through August with upcoming performances by Adrenalize (Aug 13) and Echoes of Pompeii (Aug 20). Even if you missed Thursday's show, Wicker Park is a beautiful setting for an evening walk or a picnic any day of the weekend. For more on Highland, check out our Highland neighborhood guide.

Deep River Waterpark

Deep River Waterpark is also open Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If the fair crowds are not your thing, a day at the waterpark with the family is a perfect alternative. The park is affordable, family-friendly, and one of the largest waterparks in the region.

Sunday, August 9

Lake County Fair: Final Day of Opening Weekend

Sunday wraps up the opening weekend of the Lake County Fair. It is a great day to visit if you prefer a slightly more relaxed pace. The midway, food vendors, animal shows, and live entertainment continue. If you did not make it on Friday or Saturday, Sunday is your chance to kick off the fair experience before the work week begins.

St. Mary's Western Days Festival: Final Day

Sunday is the last day of St. Mary's Western Days Festival in Griffith. This is traditionally the most family-friendly day with a slower pace and all the same great carnival rides, games, and food. If you live in or near Griffith, this is a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon supporting a local parish and community tradition.

Porter County Card Show

The Porter County Card Show takes place Sunday at the Porter County Expo Center. This is a great destination for collectors and enthusiasts of trading cards, sports memorabilia, and collectibles. Whether you are a serious collector or just curious, it is an interesting way to spend a Sunday afternoon in Porter County.

Indiana Dunes National Park

If you want to escape the festival crowds, Indiana Dunes National Park is always open and always free at most trailheads. Sunday is a perfect day to hike the dunes, visit the Lake Michigan shoreline, or explore the park's extensive trail network. The park is a short drive from any community in Lake or Porter County.

Local Dining and Relaxation

If you prefer a quieter weekend, Northwest Indiana's dining scene is always worth exploring. Crown Point, Schererville, Munster, Highland, and Valparaiso all have excellent restaurants ranging from casual pub fare to upscale dining. After a long day at the fair or corn roast, you will find plenty of great options within a short drive. For a full list of things to do across the region, see our complete guide to Northwest Indiana activities.

What is the weather forecast this weekend?

Early August in Northwest Indiana brings warm, humid conditions with highs in the mid to upper 80s. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible, especially on Saturday and Sunday. The Lake County Fair has shaded areas, and Valpo Corn Roast Fest has indoor space at Urschel Pavilion, but you will be spending time outdoors, so pack sunscreen and plenty of water.

How should you plan your weekend?

From the Lake County Fair to the Valpo Corn Roast Fest, Deep River Waterpark, farmers markets, and the Indiana Dunes, this weekend offers an incredible range of things to do across Northwest Indiana. Whether you are a lifelong resident or new to the area, there is always something to discover in Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties.

If you are thinking about making Northwest Indiana your home, I would love to help you find the right fit. Whether you are relocating from Illinois, downsizing, or buying your first home, I bring 9 years of experience, 80+ homes sold, and a genuine love for this community to every conversation. Reach out anytime on my contact page or browse the relocation guide to learn more about what makes this area so special. For even more ideas, check out our complete guide to Northwest Indiana activities.