The Michigan City Parks and Recreation Board on Nov. 19 approved a slate of event requests and sponsorship offerings for 2026, including dates for the MC Food and Music Fest, a rebranded traveling block party and permission for seasonal horse-and-carriage rides.

Michigan City Special Events requested approval for the MC Food and Music Fest on Memorial Day weekend, Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24, with contingency set-up beginning Monday, May 18. "Last year was a huge success," an organizer said, and staff confirmed food trucks will be located in Federer's Alley in front of the amphitheater. The board moved, seconded and approved the event dates by voice vote.

The board also approved a request from a Fish Camp vendor to run one horse-and-carriage unit for three Sundays in the winter. Organizer Nicole explained the rides are limited by equipment and cost and are primarily offered to restaurant patrons who have supported the business. Resident Scott Melanchoe urged the board to consider ways to expand public access to the lights and events in future years, and Nicole said capacity and expense restrict broadening access this season. The motion to approve the rides carried by voice vote.

Separately, the board approved the 2026 recreation sponsorship packet — including youth baseball team sponsorships, Patriot Park banner sponsorships and vendor packages for a traveling 'Plug In' block party (formerly Party in the City) — to allow staff to begin soliciting sponsors.

Staff also presented and the board approved the 2026 City Kids Day Camp packet (no price increase for 2026, added field trips and a reduction in one supervisory position) and an 'open game night' pilot to increase weekday use of Krieger Memorial Hall beginning next year on fourth Mondays.

All event and program approvals were carried by voice votes during the meeting. Staff said event details and calendars will be published on the city's event app and website.