On November 15, the Indiana Dinosaur Museum and South Bend Chocolate Company will host Hometown Heroes, a full day celebration of service, community, and hope. This special event honors the courage of our veterans and shines a light on the strength that grows when families, neighbors, and leaders come together.
Hometown Heroes is completely free to attend and open to all. The program, activities, and campus experience cost nothing. Please note that this does not include admission to tour the museum exhibits, which is separate.
Veterans who wish to explore the Indiana Dinosaur Museum exhibits will receive free admission with a valid ID. This includes access to life size dinosaur displays, museum galleries, and discovery areas. Regular admission applies for non veterans who would like to tour the museum.
Date: Saturday, November 15
Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Opening Ceremonies (10:00 – 11:00 AM)
Flag ceremony, National Anthem, welcome remarks by Mark Tarner, dignitary remarks from invited leaders, Veterans Day keynote by Eric Donoho, and a dedication ceremony.
Book Signing and Meet & Greet (11:15 – 12:00 PM)
Meet Eric Donoho at his book signing table. Guests can also visit South Bend Chocolate Company cafés for coffee, pastries, and chocolate.
“Round the Bend” Live Podcast (12:30 – 1:30 PM)
A special live recording with featured guests and audience Q and A.
Fireside Chats (2:00 – 4:00 PM)
Veterans share personal stories of service and resilience in an intimate setting.
Exploration and Lunch (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Enjoy dining at South Bend Public House and campus cafés, take a chocolate factory tour, join the dinosaur scavenger hunt, and visit the Veterans Resource Fair.
Along with the program, guests can enjoy everything the Indiana Dinosaur Museum and South Bend Chocolate Company campus has to offer, including outdoor trails, family friendly spaces, and plenty of food and treats from South Bend Chocolate Company.
Hometown Heroes is about more than a single day. It is about saving lives and strengthening our community. Throughout the event we will raise awareness and funds for Stop 22 Michiana, an organization dedicated to ending veteran suicide. Every book sold by Eric Donoho will contribute two dollars directly to Stop 22 Michiana, and sponsors are being invited to join this mission of hope.
Date: Saturday, November 15
Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Indiana Dinosaur Museum and South Bend Chocolate Company
7102 Lincolnway W Hwy, South Bend, IN 46628
