Here are just a few of the events and activities going on in the Michiana area this weekend.

Five Medals Living History experience starts May 2 in Nappanee

Five Medals Living History Inc.

With all the new technology over the last 20 years, it is hard for some kids to image life without electricity, let alone running water.

On May 2, at the Nappanee Barns, the Five Medals Living History experience will take local students back to the 18th and 19th centuries for a day of learning and exploration.

"Students from area schools and homeschool will learn what life was like during this time period," organizers said. "With over 40 demonstrators and over 100 camps, this event has something for everyone."

Chief Five Medals was a prominent and influential Pottawatomi Chief from Elkhart County during the years 1790-1812.

Five Medals Living History Inc. is an education-focused 501(c)3 and sponsored in-part by the Community Foundation of Elkhart County and the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

"Smell the wood-fire, hear spitted meat sizzle as it smokes. Watch tinsmiths, blacksmiths, and artisans work their trades in front of your eyes. Hear a Revolutionary War cannon being fired," organizers said.

"Have a question about a school wood project? Ask a wood-turner as they are working on their next creation! Wonder how to bake a pie in the 1805? Ask a culinary expert as they roll out dough in an outdoor 'kitchen.' This is an environment where learning is paramount, and no question should go without asking. Speak with a flint-napper, a hide tanner, a soap-maker or a French soldier. Want to know how the poor lived in 1776, come and find out! There will be professional historical interpreters from all walks of life ready to share with you"

The public (all ages) are invited to experience the program on Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Indiana State Parks offer free admission for Welcome Weekend May 4

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources announced in celebration of the outdoor recreation season there will be free admission to all Indiana State Park properties on May 4, the second day of Welcome Weekend and opening day of Visit Indiana Week.

“We’re excited to welcome back longtime visitors, and we also warmly invite anyone who’s never visited,” said Ginger Murphy, Deputy Director of Indiana State Parks. “Our parks offer beautiful scenic views, camping and healthy outdoor activities, nature centers for learning about Indiana’s history and natural resources, and delicious dining and restful lodging at our inns.”

This includes the Indiana Dunes at 1600 N. 25 E. Chesterton, Ind. You can find a list of all Indiana State Park properties on the DNR website.

Officials say campgrounds are open, with comfort stations open and water on for the season.

The DNR says a 25 percent discount is available Sunday-Wednesday through May 14 using the code SPRING25, but some restrictions may apply.

Campers can reserve a site online by 11 p.m. ET on day of arrival. In the past, 2 p.m. ET was the cutoff.

May 4 is also a Free Fishing Day, for which you can find more info online.

Music Village's third annual 'Block Party' takes over Howard Park

Music Village

Music Village is hold its third annual "Block Party" in Howard Park.

On Saturday, May 3, the free block party will bring music to Michiana. This event will celebrate local and regional artists from 1 to 8 p.m.

The Music Village is Michiana's community musical arts center located in South Bend and more information on them, or the event can be found on their website.