Michiana Event Center brings big names, crowds to Shipshewana

SHIPSHEWANA, Ind. -- A million dollar investment is paying off in Shipshewana. The Michiana Event Center is seeing big names and big crowds this weekend for Masquerade of the Horse.

The center opened last year with funding from the Regional Cities Initiative.

“Without that funding we wouldn’t be here,” said Dennis Fry, CEO of the Michiana Event Center. “We’re bringing in horse shows that have not been in this area, sales that have not been in this area.”

Hugh and Chelsi Warren are hosting the Masquerade of the Horse show which they say puts a spotlight on Michiana.

 “You’re not gonna see a show like this anywhere – especially in Shipshewana,” Hugh said.

With people coming in from all over the country, officials say they’ve seen many local businesses also benefiting from the center’s success.

“We have some people coming in from Ohio, and Texas, flying in or getting a big travel bus, they’re really excited,”Chelsi said.  “There’s really not much for people to do here so bringing this show gives them nightly entertainment.”

Upcoming shows at the Michiana Event Center include Bill Engvall and an extreme rodeo show.

Full a full lists of events, click here.