About This Festival

Artie Fest is a one-day, family-friendly community festival held annually in downtown Martinsville, Indiana, typically in late July (July 27, 2024, for the next event). The festival emphasizes local heritage, community connection, and fun for all ages with a variety of entertainment, activities, and food options.

Event Vibe and Atmosphere:
The festival vibe is festive, family-oriented, and community-centered, offering a welcoming atmosphere for kids, families, and residents to enjoy outdoor fun together. It's designed to provide free, engaging entertainment alongside opportunities for socializing and celebrating Martinsville’s local culture.

Activities and Entertainment:

  • 5K Run/Walk: A morning fitness event for serious runners and casual walkers.
  • Classic Car Show: Display of vintage and classic cars, appealing to automotive enthusiasts.
  • Touch-a-Truck: Hands-on experience where kids can explore and interact with various trucks and vehicles.
  • Chalk Art Contest: A creative competition encouraging community participation in sidewalk chalk art.
  • Cornhole Tournaments: Competitive and recreational cornhole games open for teams to join.
  • Kids Activities: Including Bounce Town (inflatable bounce houses), Trike Race (relay race with tricycles), and other age-appropriate entertainment.
  • Craft Fair: Featuring local artisans and craft vendors showcasing their handmade goods.
  • Food Vendors: Local favorites such as Gather Round BBQ, Daniel Davis’ elephant ears and homemade beignets, Los Reyes tacos, plus a beer & wine garden by Brickhouse on Main.
  • Live Bands and Entertainment: Various musical acts providing continuous live entertainment throughout the day.
  • Artie Fest Movie Night: An outdoor movie experience reminiscent of classic drive-in theaters.
  • Direct Sales Merchants: A market featuring a variety of products available for purchase.

Schedule Highlights (July 27, 2024):

  • Morning: 5K Run/Walk begins.
  • Daytime: Classic Car Show, Craft Fair, Cornhole Tournaments, Chalk Art Contest, Kids' Bounce Town & Trike Race, Touch-a-Truck.
  • Afternoon to evening: Live music performances at various downtown spots.
  • Evening: Outdoor Movie Night.

Most activities are free of charge, encouraging family participation while food and drinks are available for purchase.

Location and Accessibility:
Held in Downtown Martinsville, Morgan County, Indiana. The event site is handicapped accessible, ensuring inclusivity.

History and Purpose:
Artie Fest began as an alumni weekend and community celebration for Martinsville, designed to unite residents ("Artesians") and honor local heritage. It fosters meaningful community bonds through arts, entertainment, and scholarship fundraising. The festival also supports need-based scholarships for local high school seniors and volunteer service awards.

Overall, Artie Fest stands as a vibrant summer tradition in Martinsville, blending arts, recreation, and community spirit into a lively day of celebration. It invites attendees to enjoy creative contests, healthy competitions, classic entertainment, and culinary treats within a friendly, family-focused setting.