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 programs at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Art


We celebrate creativity through performances, exhibitions, and hands-on opportunities that inspire expression, imagination, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

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Educational programs at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Education


We foster lifelong learning through lectures, conversations, and shared learning that encourage curiosity, reflection, and personal growth at every stage of life.

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Faith and reflection at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Faith


At Chautauqua, faith plays an important role in shaping shared values, reflection, and connection within our social and cultural life.

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Recreation and wellness at Chautauqua-Wawasee

Recreation


Recreation and healthy living are essential to life at Chautauqua, supporting connection, balance, and enjoyment through shared activity.

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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

SEO for Beginners: How to Be Found Online and Use Data to Grow SEO for Beginners: How to Be Found Online and Use Data to Grow By: Deena M. DuFour – Chautauqua-Wawasee Graphics/Social Media Director Search engines can help people discover your organization. What happens after that depends on your website. If visitors quickly understand […]

Practicing the Pause – An Invitation to Slow Down Introduction by: Deena DuFour   At Chautauqua Wawasee, we are beginning a new series centered on a simple but powerful idea. Life is not meant to be rushed through. It is meant to be lived, noticed, and experienced. Practicing the Pause invites us to slow our […]

Volunteer Opportunities at Chautauqua Wawasee

Volunteer Opportunities at Chautauqua-Wawasee Chautauqua-Wawasee is a volunteer-driven organization, and we are always looking for passionate individuals to get involved and make a difference in our community. Whether you have a few hours to spare or are ready to take on a larger commitment, there are many ways to contribute to our mission and help […]

event calendar

Experience Art in the Open Air: 2026 Plein Air Programs at Chautauqua-Wawasee Art comes alive outdoors this spring and summer as Chautauqua-Wawasee presents plein air painting in Wawasee, inviting the community to experience the beauty of Syracuse Lake and Lake Wawasee through the eyes of talented regional artists. From personalized paintings of beloved lake homes […]

Purdue Varsity Glee Club Brings Over a Century of Musical Excellence to Syracuse Chautauqua-Wawasee is proud to welcome back the Purdue Varsity Glee Club for a special performance on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 7:30 PM at the Wawasee High School Auditorium. This return performance continues a cherished tradition, bringing one of the nation’s most […]

SS Lillypad II on Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Indiana

Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise – May 16, 2026 Step back in time while enjoying the beauty of Indiana’s largest natural lake. The Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise returns for 2026. This two hour experience takes place aboard the SS Lillypad II and offers a relaxing afternoon on the water. This event is […]

  • 574-377-7543

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