Best time to visit South Bend

Best Time to Visit South Bend: A Month-by-Month Guide to Perfect Travel

Introduction

Imagine the crunch of autumn leaves underfoot on the Notre Dame campus, the golden light filtering through ancient oaks. Picture the electric buzz of a football Saturday, a sea of navy and gold surging toward the stadium. Envision the St. Joseph River in summer, a ribbon of sparkling blue dotted with kayaks, or frozen solid in winter, a silent, crystalline sculpture. This is South Bend, Indiana—a city whose soul is inextricably linked to the rhythm of the seasons and the heartbeat of its iconic university. Timing your visit here isn't just about checking a weather app; it's about choosing the version of the city you wish to experience. A good trip becomes unforgettable when you sync your journey with South Bend's seasonal cadence. This guide is your key to that synchronization. We've dissected the year, weighing the crispness of the air against the density of crowds, balancing festival fireworks against hotel receipt totals. We considered the palpable energy shifts from the quiet introspection of a January snowscape to the roaring jubilation of a September game day. Whether you seek cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, budget-friendly exploration, or simply the perfect photograph of the Golden Dome against a cerulean sky, the when is as crucial as the where. Let us be your compass through the annual cycle of this Midwestern gem, where every month paints a different portrait, and every season tells a new story. Your perfect South Bend awaits, hidden within the pages of the calendar.

South Bend Weather Overview by Season

South Bend's climate is a classic study in Midwestern extremes, offering four distinct acts in its annual play. Spring arrives cautiously, often in fits and starts. March and April can be capricious, with temperatures climbing from chilly 40s to pleasant 60s (4-20°C), though late frosts and sudden showers are common. Humidity is low, but rainfall increases, painting the riverfront in vibrant greens. Summer is the season of abundance and warmth. From June through August, expect highs in the 70s to low 80s (21-28°C), with July often the warmest and most humid. Thunderstorms can roll in with dramatic flair, especially in the late afternoon, but days are long and generously sunny. Autumn is South Bend's masterpiece. September and October bring crisp, dry air, with temperatures sliding gracefully from the 70s down into the 50s (10-21°C). Nights grow chilly, and humidity plummets, creating those legendary clear blue skies. Winter is a serious affair. From December through February, expect highs often struggling to reach freezing (0°C), with lows diving into the teens (-7 to -12°C). Snow is a frequent visitor, blanketing the city in a quiet hush, with lake-effect snow from Lake Michigan occasionally intensifying the accumulation. The wind off the river adds a biting edge, making a warm coat non-negotiable.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January

Weather Snapshot: High: 31°F (-1°C) | Low: 17°F (-8°C) | Rain/Snow: High probability of snow, overcast skies common.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Deep off-season. The post-holiday lull settles in. Campus is serene, scholarly, and quiet. You'll have museums and cafes largely to yourself, sharing them only with dedicated students and locals.

Key Events & Festivals: Notre Dame basketball season is in full swing at the Purcell Pavilion. The annual "Fire & Ice" festival may feature ice sculptures downtown, battling the winter chill with creative warmth.

Hotel Price Ranges: $ - $$. Deep discounts are standard, with many hotels offering winter getaway packages.

Best Activities: Ice skating at Howard Park's illuminated rink. Cozy study sessions in the ornate Hesburgh Library. Attending a spirited indoor basketball game. Exploring the History Museum without jostling a single soul.

Perfect For: The Solitude Seeker and the Budget Academic. Those who find beauty in stark, frozen landscapes and crave authentic, crowd-free immersion.

February

Weather Snapshot: High: 35°F (2°C) | Low: 20°F (-7°C) | Rain/Snow: Persistent cold, frequent snow showers.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Still very quiet. The winter grind is palpable but there's a sense of community resilience. Campus paths are neatly shoveled, leading to steaming coffee shops.

Key Events & Festivals: More indoor basketball and hockey. Black History Month celebrations with special exhibits and lectures at the Civil Rights Heritage Center and campus.

Hotel Price Ranges: $ - $$. Prices remain at their annual low.

Best Activities: Walking the snowy, silent Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, candles flickering against the white. Visiting the Snite Museum of Art for hours of undisturbed contemplation. Warming up with craft beer at a local brewery.

Perfect For: The Romantic Winter Wanderer and the Culture Vulture. Couples enjoying cozy retreats and art lovers who prefer empty galleries.

March

Weather Snapshot: High: 46°F (8°C) | Low: 28°F (-2°C) | Rain/Snow: A turbulent mix; last-gasp snowstorms possible, but rain increases.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: A transitional quiet. Spring Break empties the campus mid-month, creating a ghost-town feel for a week. Locals begin to tentatively emerge.

Key Events & Festivals: The excitement of March Madness grips the city if Notre Dame's teams are playing. St. Patrick's Day is celebrated with pub crawls and possibly a downtown parade, a defiant burst of cheer against the gray.

Hotel Price Ranges: $ - $$. Still very affordable, with little demand.

Best Activities: Witnessing the powerful rush of spring meltwater at the East Race Waterway. Exploring the South Bend Chocolate Company factory tour. Cheering on the Irish in postseason tournaments.

Perfect For: The Bargain Hunter and the Sports Fan. Those who don't mind unpredictable weather for great prices and playoff excitement.

April

Weather Snapshot: High: 58°F (14°C) | Low: 38°F (3°C) | Rain/Snow: Showers are frequent, but sunshine breaks through more often.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Moderate and building. Students return energized. The first true spring days bring locals flooding to the riverwalk. A sense of renewal is everywhere.

Key Events & Festivals: Notre Dame's Blue-Gold Spring Football Game draws thousands, the first taste of football since fall. Earth Day celebrations focus on the riverfront's ecology.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$ - $$$. Prices begin their seasonal climb, especially around the spring game weekend.

Best Activities: Strolling the blooming quadrangle at Notre Dame, daffodils nodding in the breeze. Biking the newly clear Riverwalk paths. Touring the historic Studebaker National Museum, a tribute to American innovation.

Perfect For: The Early Bird and the Football Devotee. Travelers who want to see spring's first blush and get a preview of fall's biggest attraction.

May

Weather Snapshot: High: 69°F (21°C) | Low: 48°F (9°C) | Rain/Snow: Warm, but one of the wettest months; pack a light rain jacket.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Busy and celebratory. Commencement at Notre Dame dominates the first half, flooding the city with proud families. After graduation, a calm, studious energy returns as summer sessions begin.

Key Events & Festivals: Notre Dame Graduation is the month's pinnacle, with ceremonies at the stadium. Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer with community events.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$$ - $$$$. Peak pricing during graduation weekend, then dropping to moderate levels.

Best Activities: Witnessing the pomp of commencement under the Dome. Exploring the lush trails and conservatory at Potawatomi Park. Enjoying al fresco dining along East Jefferson Boulevard.

Perfect For: Proud Families and Garden Enthusiasts. Those connected to graduation or who love late-spring gardens in full flourish.

June

Weather Snapshot: High: 78°F (26°C) | Low: 58°F (14°C) | Rain/Snow: Pleasant warmth, moderate humidity, occasional thunderstorms.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Pleasantly active. The student population is thinner, replaced by summer tourists and families. The riverfront becomes the city's living room, buzzing with activity from dawn to dusk.

Key Events & Festivals: The South Bend Cubs season is in full swing at Four Winds Field, perfect for a summer night. The annual South Bend Jazz Festival fills the air with music.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$ - $$$. Steady summer rates apply.

Best Activities: Kayaking or paddleboarding on the St. Joseph River. Catching a minor league baseball game with fantastic views of the city skyline. Attending an outdoor concert at the Jon R. Hunt Plaza.

Perfect For: The Outdoor Adventurer and the Baseball Fan. Anyone who wants to play on the water and enjoy classic American summer nights.

July

Weather Snapshot: High: 82°F (28°C) | Low: 63°F (17°C) | Rain/Snow: Hot and humid at peak, with potential for intense afternoon storms.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Peak summer vibrancy. The city is in full holiday mode around the 4th. Parks are packed, ice cream shops have lines, and a festive, relaxed energy prevails.

Key Events & Festivals: The spectacular "Stars & Stripes" 4th of July celebration, with fireworks over the river. The South Bend Air Show (some years) roars overhead. Various neighborhood street fairs.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$$ - $$$$. Highest summer rates, especially around Independence Day.

Best Activities: Claiming a spot on the riverbank for the incredible fireworks display. Cooling off at the Potawatomi Zoo. Enjoying a picnic and free summer movie series in the park.

Perfect For: Families and Festival Lovers. Those seeking classic summer fun, patriotic displays, and a lively community atmosphere.

August

Weather Snapshot: High: 80°F (27°C) | Low: 61°F (16°C) | Rain/Snow: Lingering heat and humidity, beginning to mellow late in the month.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: A crescendo of summer activity. The month ends with the palpable, electric buzz of students returning to Notre Dame and Bethel, transforming the city's energy overnight.

Key Events & Festivals: The final hurrah of South Bend Cubs home games. Back-to-school sales and move-in chaos around campus. The Elkhart County 4-H Fair nearby draws crowds.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$ - $$$$. Rates high early on, potentially spiking for move-in weekends.

Best Activities: Taking a final summer bike ride along the river. Visiting the farmer's markets bursting with produce. Watching the campus repopulate with youthful optimism.

Perfect For: The Last-Call Summer Vacationer and the People-Watcher. Those wanting to soak up the final days of heat and witness a city rebooting for the academic year.

September

Weather Snapshot: High: 73°F (23°C) | Low: 54°F (12°C) | Rain/Snow: Near-perfect; low humidity, crisp air, abundant sunshine.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: The peak of the year. Football weekends are a controlled, joyous chaos of 80,000+ fans. Non-game weekends are still busy with fall tourism. The energy is unmatched.

Key Events & Festivals: NOTRE DAME FOOTBALL. Home games dictate the city's rhythm. The Art Beat festival downtown showcases local artists and performers.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$$$+. Prices skyrocket, often requiring a 2-night minimum, and sell out months in advance for game weekends.

Best Activities: Being part of the legendary game day march to the stadium, the band leading the way. Walking campus under a canopy of just-turning leaves. Enjoying a pre-game tailgate, a cultural ritual in itself.

Perfect For: The Die-Hard Sports Pilgrim and the Energy Junkie. This is the quintessential, if most expensive, South Bend experience.

October

Weather Snapshot: High: 61°F (16°C) | Low: 43°F (6°C) | Rain/Snow: Crisp, cool, and often dry. Perfect sweater weather.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: High, but more manageable than September. Fall foliage peaks, drawing day-trippers and photographers. The academic year is in full, earnest swing.

Key Events & Festivals: More Notre Dame football. Halloween events at the zoo and museums. Oktoberfest celebrations at local breweries.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$$ - $$$$. Still elevated, especially on game weekends, but slightly less frenetic than September.

Best Activities: Photographing the breathtaking fall colors reflecting in the St. Joseph River. Taking a haunted history tour of the city's older neighborhoods. Apple picking and enjoying cider at nearby orchards.

Perfect For: The Leaf Peeper and the Photographer. Those who live for autumn aesthetics and a vibrant, collegiate atmosphere.

November

Weather Snapshot: High: 48°F (9°C) | Low: 34°F (1°C) | Rain/Snow: Growing cold and gray; first accumulating snows possible late month.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Tapering off quickly. After the final home football game, a quiet descends. The focus turns inward, toward the holidays. Campus feels studious and brisk.

Key Events & Festivals: The final Notre Dame home football game, often an emotional senior day. The annual "Holiday Magic" light display begins at Potawatomi Park near month's end.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$ - $$$. Prices drop post-football, making it a more accessible time for a visit.

Best Activities: Experiencing the poignant end of the football season. Visiting the Christmas markets that begin to pop up. Cozying into a booth at a classic diner for hot coffee and pie.

Perfect For: The Late-Season Football Fan and the Holiday Enthusiast. Travelers who want game day energy without the September premium, and who love the first sparkle of the holidays.

December

Weather Snapshot: High: 37°F (3°C) | Low: 23°F (-5°C) | Rain/Snow: Cold and snowy, with a high chance of a white Christmas.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Quiet, but twinkling with holiday cheer. Students leave for break, leaving a peaceful, decorated campus. The city center glows with lights, fostering a warm, community-focused feel.

Key Events & Festivals: "Holiday Magic" at Potawatomi Park is a dazzling drive-through light show. The Notre Dame campus is tastefully decorated. Downtown hosts holiday markets and carriage rides.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$ - $$$. Affordable, except for the nights immediately around Christmas and New Year's.

Best Activities: Driving through the spectacular Holiday Magic light display. Ice skating at Howard Park under festive lights. Attending a sacred Christmas concert at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

Perfect For: The Holiday Romantic and the Peaceful Traveler. Those dreaming of a classic, snowy Midwestern Christmas and quiet, reflective exploration.

Peak vs. Shoulder vs. Off-Season Analysis

The rhythm of a South Bend visit is dictated by the academic and athletic calendar, creating starkly different experiences across its seasons. Peak Season (Late August – October) is synonymous with Notre Dame Football. This is when the city's energy is at its zenith. Pros include perfect autumn weather, the electrifying game day atmosphere, and every attraction and restaurant operating at full throttle. The cons are severe: exorbitant hotel prices (often triple the norm), intense crowds, traffic gridlock on game days, and the need to book accommodations and activities many months in advance. It's a thrilling, all-in experience. Shoulder Season (April – June, November) offers the best balance. In spring, you catch the Blue-Gold game and blooming beauty with moderate crowds and prices. In late fall, you may snag a final football game as prices begin to dip and the winter chill sets in. Weather is more variable, but the value and accessibility are superior. Off-Season (December – March) is South Bend's hidden gem for the right traveler. Pros are undeniable: deeply discounted hotels, empty attractions, a serene and authentic local atmosphere, and the stark beauty of a snow-covered campus. The cons are the harsh winter weather, limited outdoor activities, and some seasonal closures or reduced hours. For those who prioritize budget and solitude over perfect weather, the off-season provides a profoundly different, introspective look at the city's character.

Best Time for Specific Traveler Types

Best for Budget Travelers: January through March. This is your undisputed window. Hotel rates plummet, and you can often find flight deals to nearby Chicago or South Bend International. You'll experience the city without markup, enjoying museums and cafes in peaceful solitude. The trade-off is braving the cold, but the savings are substantial. Best for Honeymooners: October (non-game weekend) or late May. Seek the romantic perfection of fall foliage along the riverwalk or the lush, blooming serenity of late spring on campus. The weather is ideal for strolls, and you can find cozy, intimate dining without the overwhelming football crowds. Best for Families: June or July. Summer offers the full suite of family-friendly activities: the zoo, the South Bend Cubs, kayaking on the river, and festivals. The weather is predictable for outdoor fun, and you avoid the academic-year frenzy. Best for Culture Seekers: Shoulder months of April, May, and November. You'll catch unique events like the spring football game or the start of holiday traditions, enjoy full access to museums and the Snite Art Museum without crowds, and witness the city in transition—a culturally rich time. Best for Outdoor Adventurers: September and June. September provides crisp, dry air perfect for long bike rides on the Riverwalk and hiking nearby trails amid fall colors. June offers warm, long days ideal for paddling the St. Joseph River and exploring parks at their greenest peak.

Money-Saving Timing Strategies

To conquer South Bend on a budget, timing is your most powerful weapon. Flight Hacks: Fly into Chicago O'Hare (ORD) or Midway (MDW) and take the reliable South Shore Line train directly into South Bend Airport station. This is almost always cheaper than flying into SBN directly. Book these flights for winter or early spring travel. Use price alerts for the SBN route as well, as sales do occur. Hotel Mastery: The golden rule: never book a hotel for a Notre Dame football weekend without expecting peak rates. For savings, target Sunday-Thursday nights in the off-season. Consider hotels in neighboring Mishawaka or Granger, often at lower rates, with easy driving access. If you must come for a game, book your hotel the moment the season schedule is released—often a year in advance—for the best rate within the expensive spectrum. Local Transportation: The city is very drivable, but use the free parking on campus on weekends (non-game days) and after 5 PM on weekdays. The Transpo bus system is affordable and can connect you to key areas. In summer and fall, renting a bike is an economical and delightful way to explore the extensive Riverwalk network. General Timing: Embrace the off-season. Restaurant week promotions often occur in winter. Many attractions have discounted or free admission days during quieter months. By aligning your visit with South Bend's natural lulls, you unlock incredible value without sacrificing the core experience of this historic city.

Festival & Events Calendar

South Bend's annual heartbeat is marked by a mix of iconic traditions and vibrant local celebrations that should anchor your travel plans. Spring: The season awakens with the Notre Dame Blue-Gold Spring Football Game (April), a festive and free preview of fall that draws a crowd. Art Beat (September) technically kicks off fall but is a massive downtown street festival celebrating visual and performing arts. Summer: The calendar explodes. Independence Day (July 4th) features a spectacular fireworks display over the St. Joseph River, a must-see. The South Bend Air Show (some years in July) roars over the lakefront. The South Bend Jazz Festival (June) fills the air with music. Fall: Dominated by Notre Dame Football Home Games (September-November), each game day is a city-wide festival with tailgating, parades, and unparalleled energy. Winter: The focus shifts to lights and community. Holiday Magic at Potawatomi Park (Late Nov-Dec) is a breathtaking drive-through light display. The Fire & Ice Festival (January) battles the cold with ice sculptures and warm drinks. These events dramatically affect visit timing: football weekends demand planning and budget; summer festivals create lively downtown crowds; winter events offer magical reasons to brave the cold. Checking the dates for these anchor events is the first step in planning your perfect trip.

Practical Monthly Packing Guides

Packing for South Bend means preparing for its full seasonal drama. Winter (Dec-Feb): This is serious cold. Pack a heavy, insulated coat, waterproof boots with traction, gloves, a warm hat, scarf, and thermal layers. The wind off the river is biting. Spring (Mar-May): The key is layers. Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket, sweaters or fleeces, long pants, and comfortable walking shoes that can handle puddles. Include a warm hat and gloves for early spring, but have t-shirts ready for surprise warm spells. Summer (Jun-Aug): Pack for warmth and sudden storms. Lightweight clothing, shorts, breathable shirts, a sun hat, and sunglasses are essential. Always include a light rain jacket or umbrella for pop-up thunderstorms. Comfortable sandals and walking shoes are a must for riverfront exploration. Autumn (Sep-Nov): Similar to spring, layers are paramount. Bring jeans, long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, a medium-weight jacket, and a beanie for chilly game day evenings. A waterproof layer is still wise. For game days, include comfortable walking shoes for campus and, of course, your Notre Dame gear if you have it. Year-Round Essentials: Regardless of season, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring campus and the riverfront. A small backpack is useful for carrying layers. For cultural sites like the Basilica, modest attire (covering shoulders and knees) is respectful. Always check the forecast just before you leave, as Midwest weather is famously changeable.

Sample 7-Day Itineraries by Season

Spring Itinerary (Late May): Day 1: Arrive, settle, evening stroll on the Riverwalk. Day 2: Deep dive into Notre Dame: Tour the campus, visit the Grotto, Hesburgh Library, and Snite Museum. Day 3: Explore history at the Studebaker Museum and the Civil Rights Heritage Center. Day 4: Day trip to the Amish Country in Shipshewana, Indiana. Day 5: Potawatomi Zoo and conservatory, afternoon in downtown shops. Day 6: Bike the East Bank Trail, enjoy dinner in Eddy Street Commons. Day 7: Morning at the Farmer's Market, depart. Summer Itinerary (July): Day 1: Arrive, kayak rental on the St. Joseph River. Day 2: South Bend Cubs day game, explore Four Winds Field. Day 3: Potawatomi Zoo full day, picnic in the park. Day 4: Day trip to Lake Michigan beaches (New Buffalo, MI). Day 5: South Bend Chocolate Company tour, History Museum, evening concert at Jon Hunt Plaza. Day 6: Visit the Morris Performing Arts Center, afternoon at Howard Park splash pad. Day 7: 4th of July festivities and fireworks. Autumn Itinerary (October Game Weekend): Day 1: Arrive, soak in fall colors on campus, visit the bookstore for gear. Day 2: GAME DAY. Tailgate, march to the stadium, experience the game. Day 3: Recover with a leisurely brunch, explore the fall foliage along the river on a bike. Day 4: Apple picking at a nearby orchard, cider tasting. Day 5: Art galleries downtown, haunted history tour in the evening. Day 6: Day trip to Indiana Dunes National Park for hiking. Day 7: Final campus walk, depart. Winter Itinerary (December): Day 1: Arrive, evening ice skating at Howard Park. Day 2: Notre Dame campus tour in the snow, visit the Basilica. Day 3: Holiday shopping at University Park Mall, see Holiday Magic lights at night. Day 4: Cozy day at the South Bend Museum of Art and History Museum. Day 5: South Bend Chocolate Company tour, Christmas market downtown. Day 6: Day trip to Amish Country for handmade holiday gifts. Day 7: Attend a holiday concert, depart.

Conclusion

Choosing the best time to visit South Bend is ultimately about listening to your own travel priorities and matching them to the city's vibrant seasonal personality. If your dream is to be swept up in the roaring tide of football tradition, to feel the collective heartbeat of 80,000 fans, then you must brave the peak season crowds and costs of a September or October Saturday—it is a premium, unforgettable experience. If you seek the perfect balance of pleasant weather, vibrant activity, and manageable prices, aim for the shoulder seasons of late spring or late fall, where you can catch a whisper of that game day magic or the first blush of spring without the frenzy. And if your soul craves quiet reflection, deep cultural immersion, and remarkable value, do not overlook the profound beauty of the winter off-season, where the snow-cloaked campus and hushed riverfront offer a different kind of majesty. There is no single "best" time, only the best time for you. Whether framed by fall foliage, summer fireworks, spring blossoms, or winter frost, South Bend's charm is perennial. Use this guide as your key, unlock your ideal season, and prepare to write your own story in this city of seasons and spirit.

FAQ - Best Time to Visit South Bend

What is the absolute worst time to visit if I hate crowds and high prices?

If crowds and high prices are your primary concern, you should unequivocally avoid home Notre Dame Football weekends from late August through November, especially the marquee games in September and October. Hotel prices can triple or quadruple, restaurants are packed, and traffic is intense. This is the city's peak operational mode, designed for fans who prioritize the event over cost and calm.

Is it worth visiting South Bend in the winter?

Absolutely, for the right traveler. Winter offers a serene, starkly beautiful, and incredibly affordable version of South Bend. You can have the iconic campus landmarks like the Golden Dome and the Grotto almost to yourself, enjoy deep discounts on hotels, and experience charming events like Holiday Magic or ice skating at Howard Park. The trade-off is enduring cold temperatures and potential snow, so pack accordingly.

When is the best time for good weather and outdoor activities?

The windows of late May through June and September through early October are ideal. These periods typically offer pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rain interference. You can comfortably enjoy kayaking on the St. Joseph River, biking the extensive Riverwalk trails, exploring parks, and walking the Notre Dame campus without summer's peak heat or winter's chill.

We're a family with young kids. When should we plan our trip?

Summer (June and July) is perfect for families. The weather is reliable for outdoor fun at the Potawatomi Zoo and parks, the South Bend Cubs offer affordable, family-friendly baseball games, and the city hosts numerous festivals and events. You'll also avoid the overwhelming crowds and academic pressure of the school year, making for a more relaxed, activity-focused vacation.

I want to see Notre Dame but don't care about football. When should I go?

To experience Notre Dame's campus in a peaceful, authentic academic setting, visit during the university's "off-peak" times: mid-January through early April (avoiding Spring Break), or during the summer session (late June, July). The campus will be quiet, beautiful, and accessible. You can tour the landmarks, visit the libraries and museums at your leisure, and soak in the scholarly atmosphere without the game day frenzy.

How far in advance should I book for a football weekend?

As soon as the official football schedule is announced, typically in the spring prior to the season. Hotels for popular fall game weekends often sell out within days or weeks of the schedule release, and prices are at their "lowest" at that point. Booking a year in advance is not uncommon for the most sought-after dates. Flights and rental cars should also be secured many months ahead.

What is a "shoulder season" event I shouldn't miss?

The Notre Dame Blue-Gold Spring Football Game in April is a fantastic shoulder-season event. It offers a taste of the game day atmosphere—the team, the band, the fans on campus—but with free admission, smaller crowds, and spring's pleasant weather. It's a unique and cost-effective way to experience the football culture without the autumn price tag and chaos.