Nature is reawakening around us: Hillsides are green again. Songbirds and snowbirds have returned. Farmers are preparing their fields. Spring is in the air on our Ohio and Indiana campuses, and winter’s chill soon will be a distant memory. Whether you’re planning a day trip, weekend getaway, or an extended stay, there’s no better place than Amish Country to experience the beauty of the season. Here’s why:
Flower power
They say April showers bring May flowers, but you don’t have to wait that long to enjoy spring’s earliest bloomers. Daffodils, hyacinths, and lilacs have already started to emerge, serving as the opening act for the big draw: the tulip show! Our Sugarcreek and Middlebury campuses feature some of the most impressive tulip displays in the Midwest, enchanting tens of thousands of visitors each spring.
Oh, baby!
New life abounds throughout the Amish countryside each spring, making it a great time to visit with your little ones. On a typical drive, you might spot calves, foals, lambs, piglets, or baby goats. For an up-close encounter, check out the drive-thru animal parks near our campuses in Walnut Creek, Ohio, and Middlebury, Indiana.
Family fun
Springtime brings warmer temperatures and the return of outdoor activities, including our popular classic car cruise-ins. Thursday evening cruise-ins resume May 7 at the Essenhaus campus in Middlebury and Der Dutchman Plain City. In Bellville, Ohio, the 2026 cruise in season begins June 9 and continues on the second Tuesday of each month through September. Times vary by location, and all events are weather permitting.
In addition to their monthly cruise-ins, Essenhaus and Der Dutchman in Bellville also offer miniature golf during the warmer months. For hours and pricing, visit DerDutchmanBellville.com or Essenhaus.com.
Additionally, Der Dutchman Bellville hosts a trivia night the first Thursday of each month from 6 to 7 p.m. To register a team, call 419-886-7070 and select option 3.
Inspiring Live Entertainment
The spring performance schedule at Ohio Star Theater offers something for everyone, including concerts, comedy acts, and a brand-new Bible-based musical:
Presented May 15 through Nov. 5, Elijah: Prophet of Fire follows the incredible story of an ordinary man used by God to complete extraordinary feats. From the miraculous provision of a widow to the fiery proclamation of Mount Carmel, Elijah leads people from all walks of life towards the One True God and the coming Savior promised to us all.
Other upcoming shows include:
- April 16: Taylor Mason – Taylor Mason is a ventriloquist, musician and stand-up comedian whose quick wit, flawless delivery and polished material make him a hit with audiences of all ages.
- April 17: Voctave – Renowned for their intricate and captivating vocal arrangements, a cappella sensation Voctave brings together a rich tapestry of musical backgrounds.
- April 24: Voyager: A Tribute to the Music of Journey, 1 & 7 p.m. – This high-energy tribute to the music of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame artist Journey will take you on a musical tour of the group’s biggest hits.
- May 2: Brad Stine – For over 20 years, Brad Stine has been by far the most unique Christian comic in the country. His desire to mix his style of intelligent and relatable comedy observations has always been supplemented by his desire to inspire believers to be bold and unapologetic about their faith in Christ.
For the complete schedule and tickets, visit OhioStarTheater.com
Fresh fashion finds
From flowing fabrics and florals to trendy jewelry and charming decor, our gift shops are fully stocked with the latest seasonal looks to enhance your home or wardrobe. For inspiration, check out one of our upcoming Spring Home & Fashion Shows. Attendees enjoy stylish outfits on the runway, prize giveaways, Amish kitchen cooking for lunch, and exclusive discounts.
- April 22-24: Essenhaus Village Shops, 800-455-9471
- May 18-19: Carlisle Gifts Plain City, 614-873-1332
- May 19: Carlisle Gifts Bellville, 419-886-7080
- June 2: Dutch Valley Gifts, 330-852-4926 **Tickets on sale beginning April 20
Does your ideal spring getaway include sand and sun? Consider a stay at the gorgeous Carlisle Inn Sarasota. You’ll enjoy timeless Midwestern charm and modern comforts, minutes from some of the nation’s top-rated beaches. Learn more and start planning your trip at CarlisleInnSarasota.com.