DeKalb County Free Fall Fair ## About the Event The DeKalb County Free Fall Fair is one of Indiana's largest and most beloved community celebrations, earning its nickname "America's Family Reunion" for good reason. This six-day festival draws over 150,000 visitors to Auburn each September, creating an electric atmosphere that blends agricultural heritage with modern entertainment and carnival fun. What makes this fair truly special is its commitment to remaining free and open to the public—a tradition that has endured for nearly a century. Whether you're a longtime attendee returning for your annual tradition or a first-time visitor, the fair offers something magical: the chance to experience authentic Hoosier culture, see prize-winning livestock and produce, enjoy world-class entertainment, and indulge in some of the best fair food Indiana has to offer. ## Activities & Attractions The fair is a treasure trove of activities for every age and interest. Agricultural competitions showcase the region's farming heritage, with 4-H swine shows, draft horse and mule events, and livestock exhibitions that celebrate rural excellence. The midway features classic carnival rides that thrill visitors of all ages, while the main stage hosts national entertainment and free performances throughout the event. Food lovers will find themselves in paradise here. The fair is famous for its fresh, warm donuts prepared by local cooks, alongside traditional fair favorites and diverse food vendors. A huge merchant's tent showcases local businesses and crafts. You'll also find parades, pageants, and live performances that keep the energy high from morning through evening. For those interested in culinary arts, there are competitions and exhibitions featuring everything from baked goods to preserves. ## Schedule & Logistics The 2026 DeKalb County Free Fall Fair runs from September 28 through October 3. While specific daily schedules vary by year, the fair typically operates throughout the day and into the evening, with major events and performances scheduled at various times. The fairgrounds in Auburn provide ample space for visitors to explore at their own pace. Admission is free, making it an affordable family outing. Parking is available at the fairgrounds, though arriving early during peak times is recommended given the fair's popularity. ## History & Heritage The DeKalb County Free Fall Fair boasts a remarkable history spanning over nine decades. The fair's roots run deep in the community's agricultural tradition, emerging from a county rivalry in the late 1800s between Auburn and Waterloo. After competing fairs failed to sustain themselves, the community united around a single, unified fair held in Auburn. Following a hiatus during World War I, local merchants rallied to revive the tradition by raising funds for premiums, and the fair has been held almost every year since. This persistence through economic challenges and changing times speaks to the fair's deep significance in the hearts of DeKalb County residents. Today, it stands as one of Indiana's most unique and enduring events, fed by a century of tradition and community pride.