About This Festival

The American Legion Post 119 Bed Race and Bed Parade is a community event held in Greenfield, Hancock County, Indiana, on September 13, 2025, at the Hancock County Fairgrounds. It supports veterans and features teams from the community competing in a fun and competitive bed race for bragging rights, along with a bed parade where teams showcase their best-dressed decorated beds. There is also a cornhole competition open to all skill levels. The event honors hometown heroes, adding a significant community recognition aspect.

The atmosphere at this event is festive and supportive, centered around community spirit and veteran appreciation. The vibe is family-friendly, celebratory, and competitive but in good fun, fostering local camaraderie with an emphasis on honoring veterans.

Activities and Schedule (approximate based on typical event patterns):

  • Bed Race: Teams of five members race decorated beds in a double-elimination format, racing two beds head-to-head until a winner emerges. The bed race is both entertaining and competitive, with teams vying for the title, sometimes involving multiple local American Legion posts.

  • Bed Parade: Community teams display their creatively decorated beds, which are judged or showcased for their artistry and spirit.

  • Cornhole Competition: Included as a casual, inclusive game allowing attendees of all levels to participate.

  • Honoring Hometown Heroes: Ceremonial or presentation portions dedicated to recognizing local veterans and servicemembers.

  • The event typically runs during the day at the Hancock County Fairgrounds, likely starting mid-morning and continuing into the afternoon or early evening, allowing time for all competitions and community gatherings.

History and Founding Context:

The event is organized by the Dale E. Kuhn American Legion Post 119, which has a long history in Greenfield. The local post was established on October 9, 1919, by 15 World War I veterans as a place of support, service, and community engagement. Over time, it has remained a key veterans’ organization in Hancock County, running multiple public and veteran-oriented events, including Memorial Day programs, golf fundraisers, breakfasts, and specifically this bed race event known as the "4 Post 400" which involves multiple veterans posts.

The American Legion's mission to support veterans, servicemembers, and the broader community is embodied in this event, blending recreation, community pride, and veteran recognition in a unique and engaging way.

Location and Accessibility:

  • Held at the Hancock County Fairgrounds in Greenfield, Indiana, which is handicapped accessible.
  • The event and its organizers can be contacted via (317) 649-2469.

This event is a notable local tradition that not only provides fun and entertainment but also emphasizes historical veteran service and community solidarity in Hancock County.