This is Chautauqua. Community events for the whole family hosted in Syracuse Indiana and Lake Wawasee.

connect. renew. discover. learn.

The ChautauquaWawasee is dedicated to the exploration of the best in human values and the enrichment of life through a program of events focused on Art, Education, Faith, and Recreation. Our goal to to provide unique programs that enrich the individual, families and community.

Art


We celebrate, encourage and study the arts and believe they are integral to all of learning. Learn More

Education


A cornerstone principal of Chautauqua is the belief in consistence self-improvement through lifelong learning. Learn More

Faith


At Chautauqua, religious faith is perceived, interpreted and experienced as central to the understanding and expression of our social and cultural values. Learn More

Recreation


We believe the recreation experience and a healthy lifestyle are essential to the Chautauqua experience and fuller life overall. Learn More

Our goal is to “raise the bar” continually by improving the quality of programs, authors, and presenters.  Your support enables us to grow and carry out our mission of providing valuable programs related to education, arts, faith and recreation.  Our vision is for Chautauqua-Wawasee to be cited as one reason a business and/or people choose to move and live in Syracuse, Kosciusko County, and Indiana.  We promise to use all gifts wisely and responsibly toward this vision.

We are a non-profit corporation 501-(c)(3).  Consult with your tax advisor.  Donations may be tax-deductible.

Mail Donations to:

Oakwood Foundation Inc. 

Chautauqua-Wawasee
702 E. Lake View Rd
Syracuse, IN 46567

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recent news & articles

Celebrate Archaeology Month This September: Three Free History Programs in Syracuse In celebration of Archaeology Month, Chautauqua-Wawasee invites you to enjoy three free, engaging programs that bring history to life. From the cultural renewal of the Miami Tribe to the earliest inhabitants of Northern Indiana and the leadership of Potawatomi Chief Five Medals, these events […]

A Patriotic Day to Remember in Syracuse Sunday, June 29th, was truly unforgettable as Chautauqua-Wawasee hosted a powerful Patriotic Speakers program and proudly co-sponsored the spectacular Patriotic Pops Concert at Oakwood Resort. Teddy and Edith Come to Life A Historical Performance with Heart The day began at Wawasee High School, where 172 guests stepped back […]

Free Wednesday Evening Paint Outs at Lake Wawasee | 5:00 – 8:00 PM Dates:July 2, 9, 16, 23 Are you a beginner landscape painter eager to try Plein Air painting? Or a seasoned artist looking to paint alongside others in the beauty of nature? Join artist David Broerman and fellow creatives for a series of […]

event calendar

Chautauqua Wawasee 2026 Program Schedule Discover the Chautauqua Wawasee 2026 Program Schedule, a full year of inspiring events celebrating Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation in the Syracuse and Lake Wawasee community. This year’s lineup blends beloved traditions with new programs designed to inform, entertain, and connect. Highlights for 2026 The ever-popular Purdue Varsity Glee Club […]

By Kip SchummChautauqua-Wawasee Old Fashioned Christmas Oakwood Resort Returns Syracuse, IN – The Old Fashioned Christmas at Oakwood Resort is back! On Saturday, November 29, from 5:30 to 8 PM, families are invited to enjoy one of northern Indiana’s most beloved free holiday events. This evening tradition brings joy to all ages with a magical tree […]

Syracuse Ghost Tour: Haunted Past Comes Alive The Syracuse Ghost Tour premieres on Saturday, October 18, 2025, bringing history and hauntings together in one unforgettable evening. This one-night-only walking tour takes guests through downtown Syracuse, Indiana, where they’ll meet the “ghosts” of the past and hear the stories that shaped the town. What You’ll Experience […]

  • 574-377-7543

  • 702 E. Lake View Rd, Syracuse, IN 46567