About This Festival

The Bass Lake Festival is a lively, three-day family-friendly event held around beautiful Bass Lake in Knox, Starke County, Indiana, scheduled for July 25–27, 2025. It offers a mix of outdoor activities, competitions, entertainment, and community events, drawing locals and visitors to celebrate lake life and local culture.

Surrounding Area and Vibe

Bass Lake is known for its scenic natural beauty, with a friendly, close-knit community vibe centered on lake recreation. The festival promotes community spirit, supporting local businesses and family entertainment. The atmosphere is fun, relaxed, and welcoming, ideal for families and all age groups to engage in active and social events across the lakefront and nearby venues.

Festival Activities and Events

The Bass Lake Festival features a wide variety of events spread over three days, including:

  • 5K Run and 3K Walk: Held Saturday morning, starting early near the Bass Lake Lions Club building, catering to runners and walkers of all skill levels.
  • Car Show: Display of classic and custom vehicles.
  • Craft Marketplace: Various vendors selling crafts and local goods.
  • Water Volleyball Tournament and Sailboat Races on the lake.
  • Cardboard Boat Race, where participants race creatively built boats.
  • Parade: Takes place on Sunday, July 27, starting at 1:00 PM; parade entries compete for trophies in several categories.
  • Goat Drop: A fun community event.
  • Kids Zone: Bouncy houses and activities designed for children.
  • Miss Bass Lake Pageant and Junior Miss Bass Lake.
  • Food Trucks, Beer Tent, and Cornhole Tournament.
  • Fireworks Display: One of the festival’s highlights, lighting up the night.
  • Additional contests and entertainment such as a Magic Show, Watermelon Eating Contest, and Photography Contest.

Rough Schedule Highlights

  • Friday, July 25: Festival opening with a mix of marketplace vendors, family activities, and music.
  • Saturday, July 26:
    • 6:15 AM – Registration for 5K Run and 3K Walk
    • 7:30 AM – 5K Run starts
    • Daytime activities like car show, water volleyball, sailboat races, and children’s events
    • Evening includes food trucks, beer garden, and live entertainment
  • Sunday, July 27:
    • Parade starts at 1:00 PM, judging prior at 12:00 PM
    • Continued family and craft activities
    • Festival concludes with fireworks

History and Founding

The Bass Lake Festival is a long-standing tradition that has grown with strong community support and sponsorships. It is organized by volunteers and the Bass Lake Festival Association, aiming to highlight the beauty of the lake while fostering community spirit and economic activity. The 2025 Grand Marshall, Al Randall, symbolizes this deep-rooted community engagement, having contributed for decades through various activities and volunteer efforts.

Accessibility and Contact

The festival grounds and events are handicapped accessible. Organizers encourage volunteer participation and provide contact information for details or to get involved.

Summary

The Bass Lake Festival is a well-loved event that combines outdoor recreation, family fun, local culture, and community spirit in a scenic lakeside setting. It offers diverse activities for all ages with a relaxed, festive vibe, making it a highlight of summer events in Starke County.