Crothersville red white blue festival

About the Event

Nestled in the heart of small-town Indiana, the Crothersville Red White & Blue Festival is a heartfelt celebration of patriotism, community, and summer fun, proudly dubbed Indiana's most patriotic festival. Running from June 10 to 13, 2026, at 109 Preston St. in Crothersville, this four-day extravaganza transforms the streets into a vibrant tapestry of red, white, and blue, honoring the nation's flag, veterans, and American heritage. What makes it special is its warm, inclusive vibe—like a family reunion mixed with a Fourth of July picnic and a dash of carnival magic—where locals and visitors alike gather under twinkling lights, sway to live music, savor classic fair foods, and cheer on dazzling fireworks. Families flock here for the pure joy of it: kids' laughter echoing through carnival rides, parades stirring pride, and evenings capped with starlit spectacles that leave everyone feeling connected and uplifted. It's the perfect escape to rediscover hometown spirit and create lasting memories.

The Surrounding Area

Crothersville, a charming gem in Jackson County in south-central Indiana, embodies quintessential Midwestern hospitality with its quiet streets, friendly faces, and deep-rooted community pride. This welcoming town of just a few thousand swells with excitement during festival weekend, doubling its population as families reunite and out-of-towners arrive. Set amid rolling farmland and gentle hills, it's an ideal spot for visitors seeking an authentic slice of rural Indiana life. Nearby, explore the scenic Muscatatuck River for fishing or kayaking, or head to Brownstown for antique shops and historic sites. Dining options abound with local diners slinging hearty comfort food like tenderloin sandwiches, pies, and fresh corn—perfect for pre- or post-festival bites. Jackson County's rich heritage, from covered bridges to veteran memorials, adds layers of interest, making a trip here feel like stepping into a living postcard of Hoosier heartland charm.

Activities & Attractions

This festival bursts with family-friendly delights that keep everyone smiling from dawn till fireworks. Dive into the carnival with thrilling rides from Bluegrass Rides, perfect for kiddos and thrill-seekers alike—grab ride bracelets early for endless fun. Gearheads will love the car show, showcasing shiny classics with trophies up for grabs, alongside a nostalgic antique tractor display that draws farm enthusiasts. Shop crafts booths for handmade treasures, then cheer at kids' events like prince/princess coronations, baby contests, and Grandma Weddle’s Kids performances. Foodies rejoice with vendors dishing up festival favorites: corn dogs, elephant ears, barbecue, funnel cakes, and refreshing lemon shake-ups. Test your limits in the 5K run/walk, strut your stuff in the parade, and groove to live entertainment on the main stage—think uplifting bands like Redemption Cross, Logan Oaks, Rusty Bladen, The House Band, and Six Ways to Sunday, plus special acts like Jackson Snelling and Impact Worship. Cap it all with a breathtaking fireworks show, a community countdown that lights up the night sky.

Schedule & Logistics

Mark your calendars for June 10-13, 2026, with action kicking off midweek and building to a patriotic crescendo. Expect Wednesday (June 10) to open the carnival around 5 p.m. for an early kid-friendly kickoff. Thursday (June 11) features opening ceremonies at 5 p.m., prince/princess crowning at 5:30 p.m., followed by live music from 6 p.m. onward. Friday (June 12) ramps up with kids' performances at 4:45 p.m., bands like Brian Fink, Logan Oaks, and Rusty Bladen through evening. Saturday (June 13) shines brightest: baby contest registration at 9 a.m., parade at 1:30 p.m., worship and bands from 5 p.m., culminating in fireworks at 10 p.m. over Bard Street Park. Admission is free, family-friendly, and handicapped accessible—bring lawn chairs for comfy stage viewing. Parking is ample near Crothersville Community School grounds and Main/Preston Streets; arrive early for prime spots. Rides and food are pay-as-you-go, with carnival bracelets available locally in advance.

History & Heritage

Born in 1976 as part of America's Bicentennial birthday bash, the Crothersville Red White & Blue Festival cleverly chose Flag Day weekend to dodge July 4 crowds, launching a tradition that's now nearing its 50th year by 2026. Organized by the dedicated Crothersville Festival Board, including community pillars like Christie Schill and Chester Jones, it started as a simple salute to Old Glory and has blossomed into Jackson County's kickoff summer spectacle. What began as a patriotic picnic has grown into a beloved anchor of local heritage, doubling the town's population each year and fostering intergenerational bonds. Honoring veterans and instilling pride, it weaves Crothersville's story into the fabric of American celebration, proving small towns host the biggest hearts.