The Best of Amish Country

Winter Fun in Elkhart!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 20:35:00 +0000

The NIBCO Water and Ice Park is now open!

Monday - Thursday 5pm-9pm
Friday 5pm-10pm
Saturday 10am-1pm, 2pm-5pm, 6pm-10pm
Sunday 1pm-4pm, 5pm-9pm

Visit Elkhart's fun new park, Glide along skate paths in winter; stroll walking paths in summer; enjoy scenic beauty along the Riverwalk year-round.574.295.7275 / ElkhartIndiana.org

We're Blooming With Excitment in '08!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 20:07:00 +0000

Plan a visit to The Quilt Garden's Tour Elkhart County's newest attraction!

The Quilt Gardens Tour is all new for 2008; 10 larger than life quilt gardens and 11 murals will dot the countryside during the 2008 tourist season. The first ever of its kind this quilt gardens tour will having you grabbing for your camera. Quilters and gardeners alike will marvel in the greatness of these traditional creations. Over 55,000 annuals are going to be planted in gardens that average 20 x 40 in size. In addition several murals will be created to depict the area’s heritage in a larger than life medium. The murals and quilts will bring beauty and pride to the towns and cities throughout Elkhart County. Stop by the Visitors Center or click on the website for Quilt Gardens Tour maps and interesting tips for viewing. The self guided tours will begin in May and continue until the first frost peaking sometime between late July and early August. Plan your visit now you won’t want to miss it!

Landscapers and gardeners will definitely want to plan a visit to Linton’s Enchanted Gardens. Home to one of the 10 Quilt Gardens this new state of the art gardening center will have you blossoming with ideas. Spanning 9 acres on the south east side of Elkhart, ponds, waterfalls, bridges and streams were created to showcase 9 themed garden areas. Guest will enjoy the indoor conservatory filled with exotics, annuals and hanging baskets. Children’s play areas, a garden café, and master gardener seminars assure that there is something for garden enthusiasts of all ages to enjoy.

2008 Brings Great Entertainment to Amish Country

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 19:38:00 +0000

Check out The Fantastic New Entertainment Line Ups!

Amish Acres Round Barn Theater promises a fun and exciting line up. The national home to Plain and Fancy will be hosting The Fantasticks, The Music Man, Carousel, Kiss Me Kate and A Wonderful Life in 2008. The theater season runs from April 15 to December 31st.

Subscribe to our blog feed to get up the minute information on shows such as:

Tom Netherton former Lawerence Welk show performer has found a home in Elkhart County. Tom will be performing exclusive shows at American Countryside Farmers Market. Beginning on Valentines Day Tom will perform his shows periodically throughout the year.

If you are interested in Gospel Music or Comedy you won't want to miss a night out at the Blue Gate in Shipshewana, where they offer wholesome entertainment and great food.

Elkhart has a very talented community theater groups offering performances throughout the year at the Bristol Opera House and The Elco Performing Arts Center.

The Heritage Trail is ALL NEW for 2008!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:17:00 +0000

Pick up your copy of the New Heritage Trail Driving Tour!

Newly updated audio tells visitors interesting facts and tidbits about the area while guiding them along the scenic driving route. Featuring some of Amish Country's newest attractions as well as old favorites the new audio is something you don't want to miss in 2008! The Heritage Trail has been featured twice by LIFE Magazine publications as One of America's Most Scenic Drives and 100 Places to See in Your Lifetime.

Pick up your copy beginning in late February at area lodging facilities or the Visitors Center located at Elkhart Exit 92. You may also download the audio online Free! Mp3 files can be uploaded to your Mp3 player or burned to a Cd on your home computer. Online you will also find Trail Tips and an interactive driving map at AmishCountry.org.

Sleighbells Ring Are You Listening!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 21:02:00 +0000

It is Christmastime in Amish Country and Santa is stopping by to find out what all the good little boys and girls have on thier Wish Lists.

Santa will be visiting Shipshewana this weekend on Saturday morning. He will also be at American Countryside Farmers Market on Friday evening and Saturday during the day.

Sleigh Rides are available as well in both locations. Whether is snow or not you can get out there and enjoy a brisk ride in a horse drawn sleigh to catch a bit of the Christmas spirit. You may also catch a glimpse of Santa's Reindeer, get your photo taken and feed them a few reindeer treats.

Amish County Is Crazy about Blogging

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 13:53:00 +0000

Get up to the minute information about the Old Bag Factory and the upcoming Renaissance Faire on their new blog! Log on today for Christmas shopping ideas and special event information.

Amish Acres Founder Richard Pletcher authors a Fantastic blog . Richard is a very well respected community leader who cares a deeply about tourism and his family business. His thoughts and community perspectives can very refreshing at times.

Grab Your Girlfriends...Getaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 14:16:00 +0000

Leave the Cooking, Cleaning and Daily Routine Behind!

Plan a Girlfriends Getaway in Amish Country. This is the perfect time of year for the girls getaway! Shop till you drop, scrapbook, catch up on all the gossip! Share rooms, laughs and memories.

Shops around the area are packed full of great gift ideas. Most stay open later on weekend nights throughout the Christmas shopping season, offering special holiday open houses and sales. Come experience Christmas shopping in a laid back atmosphere. Its is a wonderful way to experience all the sights and sounds of the season.

Das Dutchman Essenhaus has The Girlfriends Getaway Packages available October 21, 2007 through the New Year. Chat with your friends, pick a date, and call the Reservations Coordinator at 800-455-9471 (x550) for additional details or information OR to book your reservation. Ask about special add ons such as massages and pedicures.

Tis the Season to Explore the Arts

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:52:00 +0000

Holiday Shows will Sell out Fast Get your tickets today!

White Christm a s
November 6- December 31, Amish Acres
An Evening with Nicholas Roth
November 23, Ruthmere
Christopher's Christmas
November 30, 2007, Elco
Wizard of Oz
December 7-9, Elco
WinterLude
December 7-9, Bristol Opera House

The Holidays are a great time to discover area museums
Edwardian Yuletide at Ruthmere begins the day after Thanksgiving and continues through the month of December. The mansion is beautifully decorated in period style with numerous Christmas trees, garlands, and live poinsettias.

Take a tour of Elkhart's Fine Museums
Sunday, December 16, 2007 from 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Admission is free!
Refreshments & Shuttle available!!!

Shipshewana Country Christmas has Begun!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:32:00 +0000

In Amish Country we get into the Holiday spirit early!

Shipshewana is busy putting the fishing touches thier holiday decorations in anticipation of the Christmas shopping season.

Visit this weekend November 3 for their first annual Christmas Light Parade! Over 1000 handmade luminaries will line the streets of the small town Saturday Evening. The parade starts at 6:45 pm, followed by Christmas carols by the Chuckwagon Gang and lighting of the Christmas tree in front of the Blue Gate Restaurant.

Visit any weekend between now and Christmas for Holiday fun! Some upcoming events include:

Nov. 9 Evening at the Gallery

Nov. 10 Carousel Day

Nov. 17 Chocolate Day

Dec. 1 Gingerbread Houses on Display 11am-3pm
Cookies, Candy & Cocoa Day

Dec. 7 5-8pm Christmas Carolers throughout Town6-8pm Live Nativity

Dec. 8 7am-3pm Holiday Bazaar at Town Center 6-8pm Live Nativity

Dec. 14 5-8pm Christmas Carolers throughout Town

Dec. 15 10am Christmas Holiday Parade
10:45am-3pm Visit Santa at the Courtyard of Arts (Goody Bags/Gift Drawing)

Dec. 21 5-8pm Christmas Carolers throughout Town

Dec. 25 Merry Christmas! Shops closed in celebration of the Holiday

My Favorite Christmas Cookies!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:24:00 +0000

This is my all time favorite recipe for Christmas Cut-out cookies!

1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
3/4 cup (1-1/2 sticks) butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp. vanilla
2-1/4 cups flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/4 cup colored sugar or festive sprinkles

BEAT cream cheese, butter, granulated sugar and vanilla in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Add flour and baking soda; mix well. Cover. Refrigerate 30 min.

PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Roll dough to 1/8-inch thickness on lightly floured surface. Cut into assorted shapes, using 3-inch cookie cutters. Place, 2 inches apart, on greased baking sheets. Sprinkle with colored sugar.

BAKE 10 to 12 min. or until edges begin to brown. Transfer to wire racks; cool completely.

Taken from Kraftfoods.com

Fall Fun for the Entire Family!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:04:00 +0000

Grab your camera and pack up the kids! If you're looking for the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors this season we have fabulous fall activities everyone will enjoy!

Kercher's Sunrise Orchard Goshen, IN
Fall Harvest Fest October 6-7, 2007, Goshen's Best Kept Secret
Apple picking of many varieties, wagon ride to the u-pick pumpkins, cider pressing, and a farm market with yummy treats all season long. Make memories to last a lifetime with a visit to Kercher's.

Knollbrook Farm Goshen, IN
Enjoy a day on the farm! Step into a family friendly corn maze with over 10 miles of pathways, Rosie's Farm Maze covers 7 acres and has 3 different trivia scavenger hunts to choose from. Take a spin around the trike track, have a wing at the pumpkin sling shot, and pick out the perfect jack-o-lantern pumpkin in the u-pick patch. Hearty Mums and other fall goodies for sale in the farm market.

Amish Acres Fall Harvest Days Nappanee, IN
Experience the fall fun of yesteryear with a visit to Amish Acres Fall Harvest Days. Old fashioned cider pressing demonstrations, apple butter boiling, wagon rides, pumpkin picking and marshmallow roasting are all activities you can enjoy. Stop by the Old Fashion Soda Shop for some Pumpkin flavored ice cream and fudge.

The Great Pumpkin Tree Wakarusa, IN
Come to Wakarusa and see the Great Pumpkin Tree! A 17 foot tree made with over 200 pumpkins will be on display from October 10-27, 2007. Join in the fun at the Wakarusa Harvest Halloween Party October 27. There will be games for everyone to enjoy including a cake walk, hayride, and costume contest. During the time the tree is on display stores throughout town will hold special fall sales including the Wakarusa Dime Store featuring a fall spice mix of Jumbo Jelly Beans.

Octoberfest Elkhart, IN
October 6, 2007, 5-9pm, Live German music by Lloyd's Wienerschnitzel Band, free polka lessons, food court with fall favorites, beer and wine garden featuring German and domestic beer and wine -- fun for the whole family! Free Admission.

First Fridays Oc tobe rfest Goshen, IN
Downtown Goshen's First Fridays event on October 5, 2007 will feature an Octoberfest theme.
Jay Fox and the Bavarian Showtime Band will perform along with The Goshen High School band and many others. A bike parade, Porsche car show and Ice cream festival will add to the excitement offering an evening of fun for everyone. Stop by local restaurants and shops for specials features and sales.

Autumn Driving Tours Take You on Backroads Adventures.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:52:00 +0000

Fall is my favorite time of year in Amish Country!

The crisp country air and the bursts of color make October a wonderful time to enjoy a scenic drive through Elkhart County.

The Heritage Trail Audio Driving Tour is one way to enjoy our scenic backroads while learning some fun facts about the area's history. Pick up a CD at a local hotel or the Amish Country Visitors Center and be on your way. The drive takes a 90-mile loop through Elkhart Country heading East out of Elkhart you will travel through Bristol, Middlebury, Shipshewana, Goshen, Nappanee, and back to Elkhart to complete the loop. Information and MP3 Downloads can be found can be found online.

Another scenic tour can be found in our Best-of-Autumn Outing. This trip will guide you to special fall treats in the area including apple picking, cider pressing and pumpkin patches. Experience the fun fall adventures of days gone by.

Curl up by the fire on a crisp fall evening and enjoy a warm cup of cider at one of our Amish Country Bed and Breakfasts! Smiling hosts make your visit extra special with insider tips and fantastic breakfasts. Get a great nights sleep and start your day off right on a fall getaway weekend!

Are you our friend?

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:49:00 +0000

Amish Country has a new myspace page!
Join in the fun!

www.myspace.com/visitamishcountry

Check out the newest way to stay in touch with your favorite weekend destination.
Amish Country happenings, special sales and more!

Apple Picking = Apple Pie!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 14:19:00 +0000

This is a special recipe comes from the Nappanee Apple Festival Cookbook. Give it a try, a Homemade Apple Pie is the perfect way to top off a fun filled day of apple picking in Amish Country! Visit the Nappanee Apple Festival to try a slice of the 7 foot Apple Pie! Then make your own version at home! Try this simple recipe below for a delicious fall treat.

Mom's Apple Pie
5 to 7 Macintosh Apples, 3/4 C Sugar, 2 T. Flour
1 1/2 tsp Cinnamon, 1/4 tsp Nutmeg, 1/4 tsp salt
1 Pre-made pie crust , 5 pats Butter, 1 T. milk

Cut up Apples and lay in crust first. Combine dry ingredients and pour over apples. Put 5 pats of butter on top of that; apply top crust. Rub on milk and sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 350 degrees until golden brown. Approx 30-50 minutes.

View the Quilt Garden at Das Dutchman Essenhaus

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 14:27:00 +0000

See It to Believe It!

Amish Country's first quilt garden contains over 6000 annuals, including Dwarf Yellow Marigolds, Begonias, Dwarf Red Salvia, Dusty Miller, and Ageratum. Gary Henderson, local landscape architect, has been responsible for the gardens at the Das Dutchmen Essenhaus since 1984, planting over 24,000 annuals each year. He designed this The Quilt Garden with the help of his wife Linda and it was no easy task to accomplish. Gary worked over 150 hours with two additional staff members to execute this magnificent garden.

Das Dutchman Essenhaus is proud to have Amish Country's first Quilt Garden on their campus. While visiting the garden they invite you to dine in the restaurant where family style meals and menu dining are served 6 days a week. The shops open 9am-8pm Monday-Saturday and are filled with treasures sure to make your visit memorable. Be sure to stop into The Quilt Shop stocked with fabrics, stencils, templates, and No Sew Quilt Magic Wall Hanging kits. Hands on demonstrations are given for anyone interested in having fun with fabric and learning new techniques. If you'd like to stay over night the Essenhaus Inn and Conference Center offers top notch hospitality and beautifully appointed guest rooms.

Amish Country is A Quilters Paradise

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 18:07:00 +0000

Quilters Find Treasures In Amish Country

The history of quilting dates back to the early 19th century. Many Amish quilters have embraced this as a social activity and an art medium. Amish women began quilting around 1870 but within just 15 short years Amish Quilts became quite common.

Today's Amish and Mennonite women in northern Indiana still enjoy quilting. Quilt supply shops, quilt stores and annual benefit auctions make this area a fantastic place to visit if you have an interest in quilting. Enjoy shopping at places such as Yoder's Department Store, The Quilt Shop and Lolly's Fabrics. Stocked with thousands of fabric bolts and quilting supplies, hard to find items are often located here. Take time to admire the work of local women and purchase an Amish quilt at Little Helpers Quilt Shop or Martins Quilt Shop.

Are you searching for the perfect color pattern or a special design to match your decor? Custom quilt designs and one of kind treasures made to order can be found in Goshen at Quilt Designs.

Annual quilt auctions are just around the corner. Plan a visit during the Michiana Mennonite Relief sale September 22 or the Goldenrod Benefit Auction September 7, both events feature quilt auctions for a worthy cause and great locally made foods.

Watch Tradition Bloom on a One Tank Trip

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 15:14:00 +0000

Amish Country is Inspiring Green Thumb Quilters

This exciting trip through Amish Country mixes the legacy of Quilting and Gardening into one inspiring journey. A delicious home style breakfast at one of the area restaurants will get your day off right. You'll find Amish pastries are extremely yummy when paired with a fresh cup of hot coffee.

Begin in Shipshewana located along SR 5 you will find ample parking in the downtown area. Take a stroll around the quaint streets visiting many fun shops including D'vine Galleries where you will find treasures for your home and garden. Be sure to stop by Yoder's Department store just south downtown where quilters delight in looking through thousands of fabric bolts, and gardeners are inspired with a wide selection of tools and supplies.

As you leave Shipshewana head south on SR 5 to US 20 take a right turn to head west a few miles where you will find Little Helper's Quilt Shop. The Amish owned shop is filled with beautiful handmade quilts sold on consignment. You'll see hundreds of quilts ranging in size and design, the urge to purchase one will be very hard to resist.

Jump back in the car and continue East on US 20 to the town of Middlebury and the Das Dutchman Essenhaus. Here you can dine on Amish Country favorites such noodles, chicken, mashed potatoes, and delicious pies for a very hearty lunch. The Essenhaus is home to Amish Country's first Quilt Garden spanning 2400 square feet, this one of a kind garden is sure to inspire your own creations. Stop by the shops before leaving the grounds including The Quilt Shop featuring hands on demonstrations and Quilt Magic Kits.

If it's more inspiration you crave head north on Wayne Street to Krider Gardens. The gardens were originally designed by Krider Nurseries for display at the 1933/34 Chicago World’s Fair. Closely resembling the original design, these gardens have been restored for future generations to enjoy.

To visit the last stop of the day head north of town on SR 13 to SR 120. Take a left to go west on 120 to the town of Bristol where you will find Hilbish Nursery. Located just north of town on CR 25. A great place to shop and explore featuring a wide selection at fantastic prices.

If you would like to plan an overnight stay, Amish Country offers many outstanding lodging options from quaint Bed and Breakfast to comfortable Country Inns. Please check out AmishCountry.org to learn more about planning your stay.

Top Ten Tips for Good Antiquing

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 15:51:00 +0000

Tips to get you started on your adventure, provided by local antique expert Chuck Haarer, Antique Manager for the Shipshewana Trading Place.

Get to know pricing and look through general antiquing guides.

Start out slowly.

Shop around, Frequent as many shops as possible.

Ask questions, Inspect the goods.

Become an expert in the field you are interested in. Buy, collect, find great buys, and don't worry about spending "too much" now and then for something that is a great addition to your collection.

You have to feel good about the purchase.

Find a good auction to attend and arrive early.

Don't ride a bike to go antiquing. Bring along boxes, blankets, rope, whatever you may need to pack up and safely take home that special purchase.

Enjoy your antiques. It is fun to collect as there are many good memories of where you picked each piece.

When it comes to antiques, the thrill of the hunt is the best thrill of all!

Antiquing in Amish Country-The Perfect Getaway

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 14:56:00 +0000

Are you an antique collector looking for a fun getaway?

Drive on over to Amish Country!
We have some of the best selections in the area.

A can't miss attraction for any antique lover is the famous Shipshewana Antique Auction held every Wednesday year-round. Things really heat up in the summer! With at least 3 rings going at all times you'll find all kinds of eclectic treasures. If you'd like to browse in cool air conditioned comfort, the Trading Place Antique Gallery just across the street holds over 100 vendors with furniture, glassware, pottery, toys, books, jewelry, quilts, and primitives...all selected with quality in mind.

In Goshen visitors are delighted to find several fun antique shops right along Main Street as well as the Old Bag Factory. Browse for century old treasures in quaint shops filled with everything from antique toys to furniture. The Old Bag Factory has an upscale twist and is a fun stop for any art and antique lover. Elkhart is home to 5 quality antique malls Antiques at the Loft, Elkhart Antique Mall, Valley Antiques, Antiques on Beardsley and Hearts Desire.

Mark your Calendars for August 4, 2007 when over 200 vendors fill the lawn at the Antique Gallery in Shipshewana for the Bi-Annual Antique Market. You're sure to find some great treasures to take home at this exciting event.

Carriage Barn Antiques Gives tips from an Expert

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 12:34:00 +0000

Carriage Barn Antiques located in the Old Bag Factory is a wonderful place to find 19th Century furniture and other unique treasures. Owner Shirley Thompson welcomes guests to her store where they can shop an ever changing collection to add to thier homes.

When selecting that unique piece of 19th Century furniture Shirley says to ask yourself the following questions:

Is the piece a pleasent design? Not too bulky or fragile looking?

Are there apparent replacements?

Is the finish old and original or refinished and too glossy?

Are the drawers hand dovetailed?

Is it square nail construction?

Is it common or hard to find?

Will it fill a need or space?

Does it "speak" to me and ignite an emotional response?

American Countryside Elkhart County’s Newest Attraction

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Fri, 25 May 2007 15:07:00 +0000

What is American Countryside?
Fresh from the Farm FUN on a Grand Scale!

Abundance on an almost unimaginable scale awaits you at Elkhart County’s newest attraction. The extraordinary dream that started over 15 years ago is now a reality! American Countryside Farmers Market is open for Business, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 7:00am-3:30pm. Centrally located and easy to find just off of SR 19 between Elkhart and Wakarusa, visit AmishCountry.org for area maps.

Over 400+ Vendor spots are filled with quality products including fresh foods, locally made crafts, specialty products and healthy living items. The market will feature vendors from all over the county showcasing the rich Amish heritage of farming and wood crafting. An international food court will offer a variety of yummy treats and the culinary director will offer fun interactive demonstrations of seasonal recipes in their exquisite test kitchen.

Be part of the fun! Visit our Website for travel information, local events and nearby lodging. Have you been to this amazing attraction? Post a comment below to share your story.

Enjoy a Seasonal Recipe from American Countryside

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Fri, 25 May 2007 15:01:00 +0000

Fresh Spinach and Strawberry Salad:
From Culinary Director Charmene Skillmen, American Countryside

1/3 cup sherry vinegar
2/3 cup honey
2 TBS lemon juice
Dressing: combine the vinegar, sugar and lemon juice in a small non-reactive saucepan.
Heat over medium heat until the honey dissolves.

Remove pan from heat, let cool.

1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
2/3 cup olive oil
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp paprika
Whisk in the sea salt, pepper, olive oil, mustard and paprika until combined.

Set aside.

6-12 ounces fresh spinach
1 can artichoke hearts, drain and cut into quarters
2-3 cups strawberries, stemmed and sliced
In a large bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts and strawberries.

2/3 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
When you are ready to serve the salad, add some of the dressing and the pecans, toss.

This is a simple and delicious salad my kids love. You can make substitutions as needed with slight flavor changes. The sherry vinegar can be replaced with apple cider vinegar, champagne vinegar or your favorite flavored vinegar. Some veggies that might be nice if added could be steamed asparagus or blanched green beans. You can also add different fresh fruit and lettuces. Be creative. Use what is in season.

This recipe will serve 6-12 people depending on the amount of spinach you add. You can adjust the amounts to fit your crowd. Do you have a great Strawberry recipe to share? Post it below in our comments.

What's in Season and Where do I find it?

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Fri, 25 May 2007 14:54:00 +0000

When Can I get the best; Strawberries? Sweet Corn? Watermelon? Cantaloupe? Summer in Indiana means an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables but when is the best time to buy it? Take a peak at Indiana’s Harvest schedule to get the inside scoop.

Farmers Markets, U-pick-its and road side stands pop up all over the Midwest during the months of June July and August they are almost synonymous with summer! Click here for a listing of Amish Country's most famous markets.

Did you find a hidden treasure you want to share? Do have a U-Pick-It or produce stand you want people to know about? Share those stories here by posting a comment!

Downtown Elkhart is "Livin It Up"

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Tue, 15 May 2007 13:20:00 +0000

Join in the Fun this weekend May 18 and 19 as Downtown Elkhart Celebrates with Livin' It Up!

This fun event is designed to get people moving and help them to discover what downtown Elkhart has to offer.

Friday night, May 18 there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony at 5pm for Elkhart's new street scape then the Party Begins. Join in the fun when Main Street is blocked off from 5:30 to 11:00pm for a modern Day Block party. Bands to preform are Mambo Sun along with George Bedard and The Kingpins, There will also be a beer tents and A family area.

Come on down on Saturday, May 19 to tour the newly renovated buildings and upstairs apartments. Tours begin at 11am, pick up a tour sheet at 227 S. Main, Event Headquarters. Scout-O-Rama will be going on at the Civic Plaza with an old fashion pine car derby. While your downtown be sure to stop into a few of our local shops and have lunch at a local downtown restaurant.

For more information Checkout DowntownElkhart.org

Farmers Markets and Flea Markets Opening in May!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy) — Fri, 04 May 2007 16:59:00 +0000

It is the most wonderful time of the year in Amish Country; SPRING!

Shipshewana's Beloved Trading Place Of America Flea Market is now open for the Season. Carrying seasonal plants, shrubs, vegetables, as well as handmade crafts and some traditional "flea market" finds. They are open Tuesday and Wednesdays beginning at 7am to the late afternoon. Admission is free although there is a small parking fee. Watch for extended Flea Market days over the holiday weekends this summer.

Elkhart County's newest attraction American Countryside Farmers Market with also be opening for the first time this month. Kicking off their first season of business May 24, 2007. At this market you will find fresh produce and meats, an international marketplace area, as well as many high quality artisan vendors with everything from jewelry to furniture, with demonstrations on site. Open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7am-3pm.

Hometown Farmers markets can be found throughout the county such as the Mill Race Farmers Market in Goshen offering the freshest produce and meat selections. Many are open on Saturday mornings and welcome visitors with open arms.