DAY OF PLAY | North Webster
North Webster by Mary Jane Bogle | photos by Mike Deak + Sue Pais
North Webster is far more than ‘just’ a lake town. It’s a close-knit community, offering visitors a unique blend of bygone eras and long-standing traditions paired with remarkable recreation, dining, and shopping options. A day (or two…or three!) at North Webster is sure to please everyone in your crew! Making Merry at the Mermaid Festival
Photo by Phoebe Muthart
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LAKElife Magazine June 2022
No “Day of Play” in the lake district in June would be complete without popping in to North Webster for the 76th Annual Mermaid Festival, held this year from June 22–25. It’s one of Indiana’s most treasured and long-standing festivals and offers an annual Cutie Parade, midway rides, strawberry festival,
Photo by Phoebe Muthart
demolition derby, and queen competition. You won’t want to miss all the entertainment on Merlin’s Stage and tons of typical festival food throughout the 3-day event. Bonus: This is your chance to see the Webster Ski Bees, North Webster’s resident water ski show.
Riding The Dixie
Another “don’t miss” in North Webster is a tour of Webster Lake on The Dixie, a sternwheel boat that conjures connections with days gone by. Built in 1929, The Dixie is Indiana’s oldest sternwheel excursion boat, and it still offers 75-minute cruises around Webster Lake. Public cruises run weekdays at 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with additional hours on the weekends. Cruises still cost just $7 per person and offer a taste of history as you tour this spring-fed lake, sternwheel style.
