The best part about the weather getting better is the opportunity to escape the confines of our heated homes and go explore all the incredible things that Northwest Indiana has to offer. And if you’re thinking of making the trip over to Whiting, you’ll find the city is offering something for everyone this Spring.
No one does Easter in The Region quite like Whiting. From parades to peeps, Whiting packs in a variety of unique events that the whole family can enjoy.
For instance, on March 21st and 28th, you can come watch the Bunch O’ Bunnies hop down 119th street, spreading Easter joy and special treats along the way. Families will have plenty of opportunities to mingle with the bunnies, and photo-ops galore are bound to spring up!
Then on March 28, it all culminates with the Annual Easter Parade, a gigantic celebration of all things Easter. In addition to the parade there is also an Easter bonnet contest, where contestants will be judged on a number of different age groups and creative categories.
And don’t forget about the annual “Project Peeps” either. A contest which uses the fluffy, marshmallow treats we all love as the instruments for creating clever, pun-laden dioramas that celebrate the city of Whiting. The deadline for the dioramas is the 21st of March, and the winners are chosen by, of course, the “peeple” of Whiting.
And what Easter Celebration would not be complete without a photo with the Easter Bunny? Families, kids, and pets will get an opportunity to snap a pic with the Easter Bunny at the WROC from 11-4 on March 21st and 28th.
March is indeed, a showcase of the community and people that make Whiting so great. So what better way to celebrate than with a showcase of all the local artisans that help make it that way?
On March 28th Whiting residents and visitors from all around Northwest Indiana will get a chance to stroll down 119th street and mingle with local craftsmiths, artists, and purveyors of foods and sweets at the “Meet The Makers” event, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Stop into Uptown Evolution and meet Eco Love Design and Jewelry; Lucia Handcrafted Purses; Bear Paw Products; Antique Candle Works; Casserories Jewelry; and Crafts by Pam. Then, head on over to Pie Eyed to sample treats from Elite Sweets and Needmore Coffee Roasters. And cap the day off with a visit to Studio 659 where guests will get to interact with local artists, ask questions, and view some of the great art being created in Whiting.
April in Whiting brings an event everyone can “sink their hooks” into: “Party Like a Pirate” Day!
On Saturday, April 25th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in downtown Whiting, people are encouraged to don their best pirate costumes and come celebrate the high seas life. There will be costume contests; a pirate bounce house; treasure hunts; swashbuckling; and even a pirate ship!
May in Whiting is a celebration of the town coming together for a good cause. It’s “Paint the Town Pink” month, where the community and local businesses come together throughout the month to help raise money and awareness for breast cancer research.
The month starts with the “Pink Postcard” Art Show and Reception on May 1st. Presented by Studio 659, the event will feature local artists from around the community, refreshments, and something for the whole family. On March 2nd, the “Party For Pink” at the Center Lounge will feature DJs, raffles, drink specials, and tons of other cool games designed to help raise funds for breast cancer research.
For the exercise enthusiasts out there, the Stomp Out Cancer 5K Fun Run/Walk on May 9th gives people a chance to get outdoors, connect with the community, and do something healthy and active; all while supporting a great cause. Other events throughout Paint the Town Pink include the Battle of 119th Street school fundraiser, the Battlin’ For Boobies softball game, and the “SMASH” Cancer at Cruise Night, where people will get the chance to take out the day’s frustrations with a sledgehammer on a “Cancer Car”.
The Paint the Town Pink events all come together on May 27, with the Dining Out For A Cure event at participating local eateries. This night on the town event is a great chance for residents all over Northwest Indiana to come out and sample the local fare that Whiting has to offer, while also knowing that 10% of the bill is going towards breast cancer research.
Lastly, don't forget about the Pop Whiting's Amusement Train, a trackless train that allows visitors to tour Whiting Park in a fun and unique way. The train will be opening late Spring and running all through the season as weather permits.
This Spring, make the trip over to Whiting, and explore all the local fun and flavor the community has to offer. You’ll find there is really something for everyone in the family to enjoy.