Fort Vallonia Days

Fort Vallonia Days is a popular fall festival held annually in Vallonia, Indiana, at the historic fort on Main Street. It typically draws large crowds—up to 30,000 people—and offers a lively atmosphere celebrating local history and community with a variety of activities[4].

The festival usually takes place over a weekend in mid-October; for 2025, it is scheduled for October 18-19. It features a broad mix of events and attractions:

• Food, craft, and flea market vendors showcasing local products and handmade goods
• A Saturday parade at 1 pm, central to the festivities
• Live entertainment on multiple stages
• The Fort Vallonia Days 5K Run & Walk on Sunday, October 19, known as one of the longest-running road races in southern Indiana, finishing in downtown Vallonia[1][5]
• Traditional and skill-based activities like muzzleloader shooting, tomahawk throw, horseshoe throw, knife throw, and a cornhole tournament
• Primitive demonstrators who showcase historical crafts and frontier skills, reflecting the fort's heritage and early settler life

The historic Fort Vallonia itself was built to protect settlers after the Pigeon Roost Massacre in the early 19th century and is a key landmark around which the event revolves. The fort and festival highlight the pioneer history of the region, creating a sense of connection to early Indiana settlers[2].

A rough event schedule based on typical offerings:

• Saturday: Parade at 1 pm, vendor markets open all day, live entertainment, skill competitions throughout the day
• Sunday: 5K Run & Walk in the morning, continued vendor activity, live entertainment, primitive demonstrators, and ongoing competitions

The festival is situated in a rural, historic setting with adjacent parks and natural areas nearby, offering a friendly, community-centric vibe blending historical education, outdoor activities, and family-friendly fun[2].

Fort Vallonia Days has a longstanding tradition and is a highlight of the agricultural fair and county festival circuit in southern Indiana, celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse offerings. It effectively combines outdoor recreation, historical appreciation, artisan crafts, and community gathering in a scenic historic village setting[4].