story by GLENDA WINDERS
Early winter is such fun with the promise of cozy holidays and a bright new year, but winter wears long when all of that is over. A change of pace to recharge your batteries could cure your doldrums, and Shipshewana and surrounding LaGrange County might be just the place to do it.
Once you’ve arrived in Amish country, check into one of the area’s independent accommodations. Maybe that will be the Highfield Manor bed and breakfast in LaGrange, which is set among beautiful scenery and was formerly an Amish farmhouse.
Or perhaps you’ll prefer the Morton House, located downtown within walking distance of one-of-a-kind restaurants and shopping. Plan to pop into Yoder’s Meat & Cheese, Davis Mercantile and Glow Bookstore, or pick up a set of bamboo sheets or a pair of bamboo socks at Cariloha.
On Wednesdays Shipshewana Trading Places hosts weekly antique auctions. Or if you’d like to make gifts and keepsakes of your own, head for the March Madness Makers Event at the Farmstead Inn & Conference Center March 4 to 6.
Stop by the Official Indiana Amish Country Visitor’s Center on your way into town for a visitors guide and coupon book to use as you find your way around the area and visit cottage businesses owned by Amish families.
Come between Feb. 26 and March 9 if sampling a wide array of foods is high on your menu. Graze LaGrange, new in 2024, is being offered at several popular eateries. Find appetizers, entrees and desserts at portions and prices that will invite you to hang out and sample several.
Entertainment abounds here, too, with an endless lineup at the Blue Gate Theatre and Performing Arts Center. Enjoy big-name stars from every genre, tribute bands, plays and even a game show.
Eager to get outside? LaGrange County Parks offer a Leap Year Nature Walk on Feb. 29 at Maple Wood Nature Center. On March 9 they’ll hold the Sap Run & Syrup Stroll 5K Fun Run at the Maple Wood Nature Center, and Maple Syrup Days are March 16-17.
By now you should be in a great frame of mind to face the rest of winter. And when you get back home it will almost be time for spring.
For more information visit: www.visitshipshewana.org
