About This Festival

The 106th Newton County Pun'kin Vine Fair is held at the Newton County Fairgrounds in Kentland, Indiana, from July 7 to July 12, 2025. It is known as “The biggest little fair in Indiana” and features a variety of attractions including amusement rides, food vendors, a demolition derby, an IPA truck and tractor pull, 4-H exhibits, and live entertainment. The fairgrounds are located at 12189 South Punkin Vine Road, a rural setting with oak trees near highways US 41 and US 24, providing easy access yet a scenic environment. The fairgrounds are handicapped accessible.

About the Fair and Surrounding Area

The Newton County Pun'kin Vine Fair is a classic county fair that celebrates agriculture, community, and entertainment in a small-town atmosphere. The fairgrounds provide a rustic and pleasant rural backdrop that captures the spirit of Newton County and Northern Indiana. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional county fair experiences such as livestock exhibitions (4-H activities), thrilling rides, local food specialties, and competitive events like the truck and tractor pull.

Kentland itself is a small, welcoming community with historic charm, providing additional opportunities for visitors to explore rural Indiana culture and hospitality. Nearby attractions in the region include outdoor recreation like hiking and biking trails, beaches along Lake Michigan, casinos, arts and cultural sites, and farm-to-fork experiences — all offering diverse options for visitors before or after attending the fair.

Event Vibe

The vibe at the Pun'kin Vine Fair is family-friendly and festive, blending nostalgia of traditional county fairs with lively entertainment. There is a strong focus on agricultural heritage as well as community pride, visible through 4-H exhibits and tractor pulls. The demolition derby and live music bring excitement and energy to the event, drawing crowds who enjoy both competition and socializing. Food vendors and craft stalls add variety and local flavor, while amusement rides provide fun for all ages.

Activities and Attractions at the Fair

  • Amusement Rides: Classic and modern rides suitable for children and adults, adding thrill and fun.
  • Food Vendors: Offering a wide range of fair food, from traditional snacks to local specialties.
  • Demolition Derby: A popular, action-packed event where drivers crash vehicles in an arena to entertain crowds.
  • IPA Truck and Tractor Pull: Competitive pulling events featuring powerful trucks and tractors showing off their strength.
  • 4-H Exhibits: Youth agricultural project displays including animals, crafts, and educational presentations.
  • Live Entertainment: Music bands, local performers, and variety shows that provide continuous entertainment throughout fair days.

Rough Schedule Overview

  • Daily: Amusement rides, food vendors, and 4-H exhibits open during fair hours.
  • Scheduled Events (Evenings or Specific Days):
    • Demolition derby event.
    • Truck and tractor pulls.
    • Live music and entertainment performances.
  • Specific event times and exact scheduling are typically posted closer to the event dates on the official Newton County Fair website or their Facebook page.

History and Founding

The Newton County Pun'kin Vine Fair has been a longstanding tradition in the community, now in its 106th year by 2025. It grew from a small agricultural gathering to a larger county fair that now encompasses a variety of contests, exhibitions, and entertainment activities. The fair celebrates the county’s agricultural roots, particularly focusing on pumpkins and farming, hence the unique “Pun'kin Vine” name. Over the decades, it has become a key event for Newton County residents and visitors from the surrounding region, fostering local heritage and community spirit.

Practical Information

  • Location: Newton County Fairgrounds, 12189 S Punkin Vine Rd, Kentland, IN 47951.
  • Accessibility: Fairgrounds are handicapped accessible.
  • Contact: Phone (219) 474-5745, website http://newtoncountyfair.weebly.com, and official Facebook page.
  • Nearby Amenities: Camping options at the fairgrounds and extensive regional recreational and cultural attractions.

This fair offers an authentic slice of Indiana small-town life centered on agriculture, community celebrations, and outdoor fun.