Discover how ElkhartCares brings the Elkhart Lake–Glenbeulah community together through events that inspire connection, generosity, and joy.
Throughout the year, ElkhartCares brings people together through events that celebrate our community, honor service, and raise support for our mission. From festive family gatherings to heartfelt tributes, each event strengthens our connection to one another.
Each year, ElkhartCares has the honor of presenting at Teacher Inservice Day for the entire district. There, we share all the ways ElkhartCares is here to support educators and students throughout the school year.
We’ll cover:
This is an open dialogue—where we get the chance to hear hear directly from teachers about what would help most.
Root Beer Garten Sponsored by ElkhartCares
Back by popular demand! The Root Beer Garten is a festive celebration for all ages, with free activities, seasonal treats, and family photo ops—all sponsored by ElkhartCares.
Activities include:
Veterans Day Luncheon
Each November, ElkhartCares proudly sponsors the Veterans Day Luncheon—a meaningful, student-led event honoring local veterans with a homemade meal, music, and heartfelt gratitude.
Ring in the season with the return of Christmas in the Square! This beloved holiday event is hosted by the Elkhart Lake Chamber of Commerce and features carriage rides, holiday treats, seasonal music, and more.
🎄 ElkhartCares is proud to sponsor Santa’s visit under the historic train depot—where children can enjoy a magical meet-and-greet and receive free holiday gifts! Expect special surprises, cozy cheer, and plenty of photo ops as we gather to light the Village Christmas Tree together at 6:15 PM.
✨ Free, festive, and open to all. Come celebrate the magic of community and the start of the holiday season with us!
Be part of the celebration. Volunteer or Support Our Work.
The holiday season in Elkhart Lake is about to shine a little brighter. ElkhartCares will once again host its beloved Christmas in the Square with Santa celebration — an evening filled with warmth, joy, and connection for families across the community.
Each year, ElkhartCares transforms the historic Village Square into a festive gathering place where families sip hot cocoa, enjoy magical visits with Santa and the Snow Princess, receive special gifts, and take home free children’s books — part of the hundreds distributed by ElkhartCares to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
“My kids were so excited to meet Santa, but what meant the most to me was the bag of books we brought home,” shared one parent. “We don’t have many new books, and now my kids curl up with their new stories every night. It meant the world to us.”
While ElkhartCares hosts the family festivities under the historic Elkhart Lake Train Depot, the Elkhart Lake Chamber of Commerce adds extra sparkle to the evening with horse-drawn carriage rides through the Village Square and the cherished Village Tree Lighting Ceremony, bringing the entire community together in one joyful, connected experience.
