About This Festival
Area Surrounding the Event
Brookville CanoeFest takes place in the town of Brookville, located in Franklin County, within Indiana’s scenic South Central region. The town is nestled along the Whitewater River, offering beautiful natural surroundings with lush greenery, rolling hills, and waterways that attract outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Brookville is a small, welcoming community known for its friendly atmosphere and historic downtown, with easy access from major cities like Cincinnati (travel via I-74 to US 52), Indianapolis (I-74 to State Road 1), Fort Wayne (State Road 1 South), Bloomington (State Road 46 East to SR 1 North), and those coming off Interstate 70 (take the SR 1 exit). The event site itself is on the river, with launch points such as Eagle Beach northwest of town serving as a central gathering spot for festivalgoers.
Event Vibe
Brookville CanoeFest is a lively, family-friendly festival that draws over 2,500 participants and visitors from Brookville, surrounding Indiana counties, and even neighboring Northern Kentucky. The vibe is upbeat, community-focused, and inclusive, with an emphasis on outdoor recreation, family fun, and local pride. Expect a festive summer atmosphere with riverside activities, live music, great food, and a strong sense of camaraderie among attendees of all ages. Accessibility is a priority, with the event being handicapped accessible and welcoming to both competitive racers and casual floaters alike.
Activities and Event Schedule
Brookville CanoeFest offers a diverse lineup of activities, blending competitive sports with leisure, entertainment, and community fun. Here’s a detailed overview of what attendees can expect, along with a suggested rough schedule based on typical festival programming. (Note: Specific start times are not available without a published hourly schedule, but activities generally follow a festival flow from morning through evening.)
Activities
- Canoe & Kayak Races: Competitive races on the Whitewater River, including the state’s largest canoe and kayak races, launched from Eagle Beach and paddled downriver.
- Lounge Floating: Relaxed, non-competitive floating down the river for those who prefer a leisurely day on the water.
- Car Show: A classic car cruise showcasing vintage and custom vehicles.
- Beer Garden: A social hub for adults featuring local brews and refreshments.
- Food & Vendors: Local vendors serve a variety of eats, including mouthwatering fried chicken and a hot wings contest.
- Kids’ Fest: Activities and contests designed for younger attendees.
- Live Music & Entertainment: Musical performances on a main stage throughout the day.
- Exhibitors: Local artisans, crafts, and environmental education displays.
- Talent Contests: Opportunities for attendees to showcase their skills.
- Canoe Painting: Creative activities for families.
- Awards: Ceremonies recognizing race winners and contest participants.
- Fireworks Display: The festival concludes with a large fireworks show, the biggest in the region.
Rough Schedule & Locations
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Race Check-in & Launch | Eagle Beach (NW of town) |
| Mid-morning | Canoe/Kayak Races Begin | Whitewater River |
| Late morning | Kids’ Fest Opens | Festival Grounds (downtown or riverside) |
| Noon | Food Vendors, Beer Garden | Festival Grounds |
| Afternoon | Car Show, Live Music | Downtown/Central Area |
| Afternoon | Talent Contests, Exhibitors | Festival Grounds |
| Early evening | Awards Ceremony | Main Stage |
| Dusk | Fireworks Display | Overlooking Whitewater River |
History and Founding
Brookville CanoeFest was established as a non-profit initiative to promote appreciation for canoeing, kayaking, and the natural resources of the community. It serves as a platform for environmental stewardship, encouraging future generations to value and protect local waterways. The event has grown into the largest canoe and kayak race in Indiana, drawing participants and spectators from across the region. Over the years, it has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of family-friendly activities, entertainment, and community events, solidifying its reputation as a signature summer festival in South Central Indiana.
Brookville CanoeFest is both a celebration of local culture and a legacy project that brings together outdoor sports, music, food, and family fun—making it a highlight of the region’s festival calendar.