A Guide to Fall Festivals in Northwest Indiana

Festivals are a fun way to bring in a new season. Fall festivals offer the opportunity to find unique arts and crafts and visit smaller towns and cities that you might not generally go to. With higher gas prices this year, why not stay closer to home and visit some of these fun festivals in the area. They all offer family fun at little or no cost and provide a day of outdoor entertainment. Taste unique food and experience small town USA for a day. These festivals are all festivals and functions I have attended and personally recommend.

Sunflower Festival, September 20, 2008

La Porte, Indiana

For one day in September, the small town of La Porte turns into a haven for sunflowers. Michigan Avenue, Jefferson, and Indiana Avenues are lined with fun for everyone. From cook-off contests to carnival rides for children, you are sure to find something enjoyable here. The Sunflower Festival features an art gallery, many booths, sunflower contests, a book sale, small train rides, and horse-drawn wagon rides. A classic car show lines Michigan Avenue and visitors can dance to the entertainment that plays each year down toward Lincolnway. Be sure to visit this festival in September.

Scarecrow Festival, September 26-28, 2008

Wanatah, Indiana

Join this small town for fun the last weekend of September. At the Scarecrow festival you'll find something for everyone. There are plenty of arts and craft booths, food, entertainment, games and kid's rides, plus scarecrow displays everywhere. This is a great festival for the whole family. Come and buy a scarecrow for your home, and welcome fall in Wanatah.

Pioneer Days, September 27-28, 2008

Creek Ridge County Park, La Porte, Indiana

This is a small festival set up at the beautiful Creek Ridge County Park. The festival offers wagon rides, crafts for kids and adults, and all types of food to taste. There are areas set up with demonstrations on things like blacksmithing, and plenty of old-fashioned fun for everyone.

Fall Pumpkin Festival, October 3-5, 2008

Westville, Indiana

This is a celebration of fall and pumpkins all mixed together in one small Midwestern town. This is a great festival that offers crafts, food, tractor pulls, a run/walk, lots of entertainment, and fun for the whole family. If you are looking for beautiful fall decorations, this is definitely the place to find them. A true small town experience for everyone.

Fall Harvest Days, October 24 &25, 2008

Valparaiso, Indiana

This two-day event runs for a few hours each day for members of the community. The kids dress up in costumes, you can have cider and hay rides and pictures can be taken. This is a small fall extravaganza if you live in the area.