Things to Do This Weekend in Northwest Indiana | July 17-19, 2026

Summer is in full swing across Northwest Indiana, and this weekend is packed with reasons to get out and explore Lake County. Whether you are looking for live music, family fun, or a great meal, there is something happening right in your own backyard.

Deep River Waterpark, Crown Point

Deep River Waterpark is open daily from 10AM to 5PM and is one of the best ways to cool off this weekend. The park features water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, a children's play area, cabana rentals, and food and beverage options. It is located at 9001 East 109th Avenue in Crown Point and is one of the largest waterparks in the region. Admission is affordable and the whole family can spend an entire day without breaking the bank. For more details, visit the official Deep River Waterpark website.

For a deeper look at what makes this Crown Point landmark so special, read our Deep River Waterpark community spotlight.

Crown Point Summer Concert Series

Downtown Crown Point regularly hosts live music events in the historic square. Check the Crown Point city events calendar for this weekend's lineup. The square is surrounded by local restaurants and shops, making it a great spot to grab dinner and enjoy live entertainment under the stars. Read our Crown Point neighborhood guide for more on this historic downtown community.

Highland Freedom Festival

The Town of Highland typically hosts summer community events in the downtown area along Ridge Road. Live music, food vendors, and family activities are common throughout the season. Highland has built a reputation as one of the most walkable and vibrant downtowns in Lake County, and summer weekends are the best time to experience it. Learn more about what makes this town special in our Highland hidden gem post.

Schererville Parks and Recreation

Schererville has a strong parks system with trails, playgrounds, and open green spaces perfect for a family outing. Redar Park and the community's trail network are popular spots for morning walks or afternoon bike rides. The town also hosts occasional summer events and farmers markets throughout the season.

Hammond Lakefront

Hammond's lakefront along Lake Michigan offers beaches, trails, and picnic areas. Wolf Lake and the surrounding parkland are great for fishing, kayaking, or just enjoying a sunset over the water. The Hammond Marina is another option for those who enjoy being on the water or watching boats come in.

Festival of the Lakes, Hammond

The Festival of the Lakes is one of Hammond's biggest annual events and it takes place at Wolf Lake. The multi-day festival typically features live music, carnival rides, food vendors, fireworks, and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. It is a great way to experience Hammond's lakefront community and one of the highlights of the summer calendar in Lake County. Check the City of Hammond's website for the latest schedule and event details.

St. John Community Park

St. John has several well-maintained parks that are ideal for weekend outings. The town's parks department often hosts community events and the trails are great for walking, jogging, or biking. St. John's quiet, family-friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect place to spend a relaxed Saturday or Sunday.

Pierogi Fest Preview

Pierogi Fest is one of my favorite local street festivals and it is coming up fast. The three-day celebration runs July 24 through July 26 in downtown Whiting along 119th Street. Admission is free and the event features live polka music, the Mr. Pierogi Grand Parade, appliance races, and some of the best Polish food you will find anywhere in the Midwest. Check out the full Pierogi Fest 2026 guide for everything you need to know about this year's event. Trust me on this one, you do not want to miss it.

Weekend Weather Outlook

Mid-July in Northwest Indiana typically brings warm, humid conditions with highs in the mid to upper 80s. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible, so keep an eye on the forecast and bring sunscreen if you are spending time outdoors.

Plan Your Weekend

From waterparks and concerts to farmers markets and local parks, Lake County offers an incredible range of things to do every weekend. Check out our complete guide to things to do in Northwest Indiana for more ideas across the region. Whether you are a lifelong resident or just exploring the area, there is always something new to discover right here in the communities I serve.

Thinking about making Northwest Indiana your home? I would love to help you find the right fit. Reach out anytime on my contact page or browse the relocation guide to learn more about what makes this area so special.