Fun fact: did you know that there's a delightfully fun and totally quirky persimmon festival in Indiana that's unlike any others in the nation? Yep - hidden in the small town of Mitchell each and every autumn is a festival that's been going strong for more than seven decades with no signs of slowing down any time soon. It's the Mitchell Persimmon Festival, and it's as much fun for the entire family as it is unique. You'll never find anything else like it - when it comes to festivals in Indiana, this one takes the cake (the persimmon cake, that is) for one of the best. Personally, I'm obsessed with all the different ways you can enjoy persimmons. Come out and see for yourself!
It all started in 1947, when a local man by the name of George Bishop came up with a plan to unite the community once a year as a sort of homecoming event.
Needless to say, his attempt was wildly successful, and to this day, this festival occurs on Main Street every single September. Why September? Well, that's the time when all the native persimmons are falling from the trees... it's time for the harvest. Yum.
It all starts at Spring Mill State Park on a Saturday with a wonderous candlelight tour of the park like none you've ever experienced. You'll see it in a whole new way - literally AND figuratively!
There's plenty to do during the week of the festival, from live music to food and drink vendors to carnival rides and even delicious food trucks offering all the best fair foods. The Zipper is a long-time favorite among the ride-goers... think you're brave enough? You bet your sweet persimmons it's a blast.
Other activities going on throughout the week include things like a motorcycle show, pageants, a 5K, a pancake breakfast, an arts and quilts exhibit, and SO. MUCH. MORE.
Seriously, I can't even list everything in this short article. The list is too lengthy; I think you get the idea. This is one Hoosier State delight you do NOT want to miss. Not this year, not next year, not any year!
On the final Saturday of the festival, the tradition of the Grand Parade goes on with plenty of locals and visitors showing off their best floats, flags, and more as an amazing way to wrap up the whole shebang.
There's a real sense of comradery and community here year-round, but it's highlighted most spectacularly in Mitchell, Indiana, each and every autumn at this delightful family-friendly event.
Best of all, it's not JUST a local thing; everyone is welcome and definitely encouraged to come out. It doesn't matter if you're a Hoosier or just visiting - everyone is welcome here.
Adults will love the food and drinks, and the kids will love the rides (okay... many of the adults will love those, too. It's me. I'm adult). Have a knack for baking and/or cooking? Try your hand at the various persimmon-based food competitions going on.
This year's festivities all begin on Saturday, September 23rd, and go daily every single day until the big finale on Saturday, September 30th.
For more information, including the full events schedule and how to volunteer, be sure to visit the official Mitchell Persimmon Festival website. Have you ever attended this delightful fall festival in Indiana? Which festivals would you recommend to a visitor? Let me know! And if you need a place to stay while visiting, check out the unique offerings from our friends at VRBO.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
