This weekend marks the 32nd edition of Whiting’s Pierogi Fest, recognized as one of the nation’s most unique festivals. Spanning 119th Street in downtown Whiting, the event offers attractions for visitors of all ages. Friday night features the annual Polka Parade, with colorful participants like the crowd-pleasing Lawnmower Brigade. The parade begins at Forsythe Park and is accompanied by a variety of pierogi and Eastern European foods. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, including a free showcase by Five for Fighting on Saturday night.
Sunday’s highlights include the Pierogi Eating Contest and a Pierogi Toss Challenge. Festival-goers are welcomed by characters such as Mr. Pierogi, Halupki Guy, and Miss Paczki. For full event details, visit pierogifest.net.
Arts and family entertainment take center stage at the Family Arts Fest on Sunday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster. Hosted by South Shore Arts, the event promises activities such as live music, dancing, balloon art, face painting, and the Rockopelli musical petting zoo. Attendees can enjoy treats from vendors like Brew Box Coffee and Tazones Food Truck.
For the first time, the fest will include outdoor activities like slap graffiti and creative play stations. The South Shore Arts Gift Shop and the “My America” gallery exhibit will be accessible to all guests. Admission is $5 per person. Further information can be found at southshoreartsonline.org or by calling 219-836-1839.
Dunes Summer Theatre in Michigan City is concluding its 75th season with “Avenue Q,” a Tony Award-winning musical comedy. The show premieres this weekend with performances running through August 9. Combining puppetry with humor, the production explores themes of adulthood and purpose. Directed by Danny Kapinos, “Avenue Q” tells the story of Princeton, a new college graduate living in New York seeking his life’s purpose. The show is intended for adults. Showtimes are 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are available from $15 to $35 at dunesARTS.org or by calling 219-879-7509.
Canterbury Summer Theatre presents “The Taffetas: A Musical Journey Through the Fabulous Fifties,” running in Michigan City through August 1. This production features 40 songs from the 1950s pop charts, following a fictional girl group, The Taffetas, as they prepare for “The Ed Sullivan Show.” Located at 807 Franklin St., tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors, and $11 for students and veterans. Showtimes are 2 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays and 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. For more information, visit canterburytheatre.org or call 219-874-4269.