Explore Gene’s woods and part of her formal or “tame” gardens during a 45-minute interpretive walking tour. Learn why Gene named her property “Wildflower Woods” and find out the old-fashioned common names for wildflowers used back in Gene’s day. Enjoy coffee and conversation, plus light snacks after the walk. This event is rain or shine, so please dress accordingly. Registration required by April 21.

5k event held by Noble Trails, starting at Gene Stratton Porter State Historic Site. The race will be held on the last Saturday in April, starting at 9:00 am.

You can register directly with Noble Trails to get your free t-shirt at https://www.nobletrails.org/ or contact them at info@nobletrails.org. Registration opens by mid-March and day of registration is available.

A Chain O'Lakes State Park event in April. Fee & Registration Required at Ignitetrailseries.com

Stone's Trace historic dinner.

Hear a tale and hike a trail with your preschooler to discover the natural wonders around
you together! Children ages 3-5 and their caregiver(s) gather for a short story and explore
different places around Merry Lea. This is a monthly program that occurs on the last Tuesday
of each month. Free!

An event at Sweet Church Historic Site.

Join us at the beautiful gardens of Gene Stratton-Porter as we celebrate mothers. Learn about Gene and her daughter Jeanette who lived nearby and raised her daughters spending time in Gene’s gardens, as well as the amazing mothers of the animal kingdom. Enjoy high tea and food (included with admission) and come dressed in historical or contemporary high tea attire if you like!

Saturdays at the Park is a seasonal community event offered at Bixler Lake beginning May 9, 2026 through September with the last event date set for September 12, 2026. This event will feature a mix of local vendors, shopping, food truck/vendor options, live entertainment, and fun activities for a wonderful family experience.

Celebrate spring during our annual Nature Fest! This free and fun-filled festival features various
family and BioBlitz (science investigations) activities at Merry Lea. All ages are welcome to
participate in canoeing and campfires Friday evening. On Saturday, there will be two different
tracks to participate in. To learn more about this event, visit goshen.edu/merrylea/naturefest2023. Free!

Mid-America Windmill Museum Mother's Day celebration for the family.

Downtown Kendallville's magical street festival for families.

Come and support Noble County's only women's ministry at our annual 'Color a Brighter Future' 5k/1 mile Color Run! You're guaranteed to leave brighter than you arrived. Don't forget your crazy costume at home! The race begins at 8:30am.

This event is held by Noble House Ministries and is sponsored by Culligan, Disciple Designs, Dani's Thread Shop, Pilchers, Rome City Marshal's, and Gene Stratton Porter State Historic Site.