The long-loved fireworks in Goshen at Black Squirrel Golf Course are returning this year with a new name, Fireworks on the Fairway. Doors to the event open at 4 p.m., and attendees can enjoy the various local food trucks and vendors and kick back on the fairway. A brief program will begin at 8 p.m., and the fireworks will begin at 10 p.m. The event is free for the entire community.

Parking locations can be found on the map above. The Goshen Police Department asks area motorists to please avoid the roads surrounding the golf course if possible to alleviate traffic congestion. The fireworks show will last approximately 30 minutes. At the conclusion, traffic will be restricted primarily to outbound traffic from the golf course. Our officers will be doing their best to get people out of the area as quickly as possible but ask motorists to be patient.

The City of Goshen’s Parks and Recreation Department will once again host its Splash-Tastic Weekend at Abshire Park from Friday, July 26 to Sunday, July 28.

This is the second year parks and recreation staff will install two 300-foot inflatable slip-n-slides on the hill at Abshire Park. Individuals can purchase $10 wristbands and enjoy the slides for a two-hour session. Kona Ice, DonutNV, and other food vendors will be on-site for an additional cost.

Tubes are mandatory to enjoy the slide. Sliders should bring their own one-person inflatable pool tube. Wristbands will not be sold at the event, so preregistration online is required. Below are available session times:

Friday, July 26

• 2 – 4 p.m. (Preschool and Special needs children)
• 5 – 7  p.m.

Saturday, July 27

• 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• 2 – 4 p.m.
• 5 – 7 p.m.

Sunday, July 28

• 12 – 2 p.m.
• 3 – 5 p.m.

Parking at Abshire Park is limited. Overflow parking is available at both Dykstra Park and Goshen Church of God.

Visit the Goshen Parks and Recreation page for more information: goshenindiana.org/parks-rec.

The City of Goshen offices will be closed on Wednesday, June 19th in observance of the Juneteenth holiday.

Trash and recycling services will continue as normal.

With dangerously hot weather moving in through Elkhart County this week, the City of Goshen is asking residents to be mindful and take action to protect themselves, their loved ones and their neighbors.

The National Weather Service (NWS) reports an excessive heat advisory from Tuesday Afternoon through Saturday, with heat index values rising into triple digits.

Extreme heat and humidity will increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.

In talking with the Goshen Public Library and First Light Mission, the City of Goshen has designated the library, 601 S. Purl Street, and First Light Mission, 801 Wilkinson Street, as cooling centers during these extreme weather events. Individuals can go to the library to cool down and escape the heat. Individuals can use the Library during its regular business hours, which are below.

First Light Mission is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It will provide a safe, cool place for those exposed to the elements and welcome those in need with open arms while also ensuring the privacy of residents and their families.

• Monday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Tuesday 1 – 8 p.m.
• Wednesday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Thursday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The NWS recommends being prepared to drink plenty of fluids and staying in an air-conditioned room or out of the sun if possible.

Additionally, Mayor Gina Leichty asked residents to look after one another. “Please check on your friends, family, neighbors, the homeless, and the elderly during this time of extreme heat,” she said. “If you know of anyone in need of assistance, don’t hesitate to call for help.”

If you need assistance checking in on someone, please contact Officer James Ballard at 574-536-1790. If you need transportation to a cooling center, contact the Goshen Police Department at 574-533-4151. Please call 911 if you have an emergency.