The Elkhart County CVB has launched preparations for the 2026 edition of the Quilt Gardens.
This year the tourist attraction has been expanded to 17 garden sites, with a new location in Nappanee.
The 2026 Quilt Gardens will carry the Best of the Best designation in the Festivals & Events category by the American Bus Association. The Quilt Gardens will be featured in the November/December 2025 issue of American Bus Association’s Destinations magazine.
“The Best of the Best recognition shows that Elkhart County performs at an elite level when it comes to creating memorable experiences that delight visitors and are a source of pride by residents,” said Jon Hunsberger, Elkhart County CVB executive director, in a press release. “Our team works hard with an impressive core of volunteers to plan Quilt Gardens that honor our heritage as makers and engage visitors.”
Each of the 16 Quilt Gardens sites from 2025 will return in 2026, all with new quilt patterns that will bloom for the new season starting May 30. The newest Quilt Garden location will be at The FarmHouse Inn, 1061 Parkwood Drive, Nappanee.
“At the American Bus Association, we’re proud to recognize companies like the Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau who raise the bar in the Festivals & Events space,” Fred Ferguson, ABA president and CEO, said. “This year’s honorees reflect the very best of what group travel has to offer — innovative experiences, unwavering hospitality and a genuine commitment to connecting people to places in meaningful ways.”
The Quilt Gardens’ annual exhibition runs May 30 to Sept. 15. It helps fuel Elkhart County’s tourism and hospitality industry, attracting tour groups and leisure visitors to visit each location while also enjoying the Heritage Trail. Tourism activities contribute an annual $850 million economic benefit to Elkhart County.
