Backyard BBQ
Friday, July 3, 2026
5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
About
Downtown South Bend's July First Fridays is celebrating the simple joys of summer with a Backyard BBQ theme. Think picnics, great food, yard games, live music, and time with friends and family right in the heart of downtown.
The 100 and 200 blocks of S. Michigan Street will close for our First Fridays Block Party, with dining in the street, local vendors, and plenty to experience. This year also marks the return of the 4th Annual BBQ Cook-off — a community favorite where your vote decides who wins.
BBQ Vendors:
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KO's Port A Pit
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Smokey Road BBQ
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Talk of the Grill
The South Bend Music Festival fills the 200 block with a stellar lineup of local artists: Bastian Steven, Mr. Mota, Powerhouse, and BLAMMO closing out the night.
Round out your evening with even more to explore. The Studebaker Car Show and Corvette Club bring classic automotive history to the streets, while a free hands-on craft at the DTSB tent offers fun for all ages. Cool off with a free popsicle at our info booth or splash through the sprinklers near The Gridiron. Take an Architectural Walking Tour to discover the stories behind downtown South Bend's most iconic buildings. The night closes with a spectacular fireworks display — the perfect end to a beloved Downtown South Bend summer celebration.
Event Details
When: Friday, July 3, 2026 | 5–9 PM
Where: 100 & 200 Blocks of S. Michigan Street, Downtown South Bend
And, as always, enjoy live music, art exhibits, dining specials, and much more.
FREE PARKING
Parking (on-street and in City-managed garages) is always free in downtown South Bend nights and weekends. For full details on downtown parking options, click here.
ROAD CLOSURES
Michigan Street will be closed from Washington to Wayne this First Fridays for the festivities, as well as the area in front of Studebaker Plaza.
Ongoing First Fridays Promotions
121 S. Niles Ave.
Perry Vine - located inside the Emporium Building - will be doing tastings this First Fridays. Enjoy three free 1 oz. tastings, and additional for tastings $1.50. In partnership with Island Fusion guests may buy a meal and a glass and dine in the atrium area adjacent to our store — please note seats are limited. They will also have bottles for sale! Bring back your clean bottles and receive 10% off your next purchase!
218 Sycamore St.
They are located near Fire Arts and are a minority-owned studio that is seeking to build individual and community power through pole dance. They provide quality pole instruction and a welcoming atmosphere for all of their students.
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They will be featuring an Intro to Pole Class every First Fridays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for $22. Registration is required and can be done on their website.
WXYZ Bar at Aloft
111 N. Main St.
Buy 1 flatbread pizza and get a 2nd flatbread pizza at 1/2 off; plus monthly Cocktail for a Cause, with $1 from every cocktail sold donated to their featured charity of the month.
Plus Live @ Aloft with DJ Outlaw playing your favorite tunes. Live @ Aloft features local artists, groups or DJs playing music every Friday from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. in the WXYZ lounge.
Sponsors
