Indiana Festivals Worth the Drive

July is the month when festival season is in full swing, and it’s easy to find lots of charming celebrations happening all around the state every weekend. Here are some festivals happening this summer that should be on your radar! 

Circus City Festival 

Peru, IN
July 12-20 

Every year in downtown Peru, more than 200 kids and youth, ages 7 to 21, present circus performances during this week-long summer festival. Celebrate Peru’s circus heritage by witnessing beautifully costumed, skilled performers, as well as rides, food, games and more on the main streets of Peru. And for the grand finale on Saturday, grab a seat and watch Peru’s own Circus City Parade, one of Indiana’s largest parades. 

Three Rivers Festival 

Fort Wayne, IN
July 12-20 

Since 1969, Fort Wayne has been celebrating its heritage and the three rivers that flow through the city: the Maumee, St. Marys and St. Joseph. At this annual multi-day event, you’ll find children’s activities, arts & crafts, an international village, live music, amusement rides, a raft race, and more all in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne. 

Frankfort Hot Dog Festival 

Frankfort, IN
July 26-28 

Indiana’s largest two-day hot dog festival, complete with world famous Shoup Dogs, a hot dog eating contest, 5k Bun Run/Walk, street vaulting, Dock Dog diving, weiner dog racing, 150+ arts and crafts vendors, family fun zone, classic car show, and live entertainment with beer and wine garden.  

Pierogi Fest 

Whiting, IN
July 26-28 

Celebrate Whiting’s Eastern European history with this downtown food festival. Enjoy a wacky Polka parade, beer and wine gardens, specialty arts and crafts, and food galore. Tuck into a variety of different kinds of pierogi, and participate in games like the pierogi toss and pierogi-eating contest.  

Van Buren Popcorn Festival 

Van Buren, IN
Aug. 1-3 

Pop over to the popcorn capital of the world and celebrate all things popcorn! Enjoy vendors, delicious corny eats, a popcorn festival parade, concerts every night and fireworks on Saturday. 

Jasper Strassenfest 

Jasper, IN
Aug. 1-4 

This family-oriented street festival in downtown Jasper is filled with German music and merriment. Visitors can enjoy a variety of authentic German food and tasty treats, dancing, games, a car show, parade and carnival rides. A popular activity at this fest is the free polka and German dance class open to everyone.  

Greencastle Music Fest 

Greencastle, IN
Aug. 23-24 

Harmoniously blending music, food and fun for all ages, this annual two-day music festival includes live music, food, beverages, kids games and cornhole. It’s a celebration that creates community through shared musical experiences.  

Marshall County Blueberry Festival 

Plymouth, IN
Aug. 30-Sept. 2 

Celebrate one of nature’s best blue fruits: blueberries! At the Blueberry Festival at Centennial Park, families can come together to enjoy carnival rides and games, pony rides, laser tag, a lumberjack show, sports competitions, and lots of blueberries and blueberry foods! There will also be hundreds of crafters selling unique handmade wares. There’s something for everyone at this festival.