Summer concert series, new roller rink open at Elkhart park this week

Elkhart County Parks and Recreation Department

ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. -- Event organizers are encouraging residents to mark their calendars for a few unforgettable evenings at NIBCO Water and Ice Park this summer, starting this Friday, June 21.

The opening concert of what is being called the 2024 Summer Chill will be from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. with "Masters of Blues Rock" Q Sonics. 

The free concert series is family friendly, and is sponsored by NIBCO, Inc. out of Elkhart.

"Bring your family, friends, and a comfy chair to enjoy the music under the stars," organizers say. "And don’t worry about food and drinks – Brass Elk Brewing will be there with delicious bites and refreshing beverages for sale."

The splash pad at the park will be on to keep concert goes cool and entertained.

New this summer to the NIBCO Water and Ice Park is the outdoor roller-skating rink. Over the spring, the Elkhart County Parks and Recreation Department gathered input from residents on whether or not the ice rink should double as a roller rink in the summer.

After receiving positive feedback on the idea, the plan was put in place and the rink will open on Thursday, June 20 at 4 p.m.

"Join the City of Elkhart Park District as we kick off the season with a ribbon cutting, music, Kona Ice, concessions, and $1 skate night," organizers say. "We will offer roller in line skates (roller blades) and quad skate options! We have kid sizes through adult!

Skaters must be 16 or older with a valid ID to rent the skates.