Franklin County Business & Travel Expo

About the Event

Step into the heart of Franklin County's vibrant spirit at the Franklin County Business & Travel Expo, a high-energy celebration that brings together the best of local businesses, regional attractions, and exciting travel opportunities. Held at the spacious Franklin County Fairgrounds in Brookville, this one-day event on March 7, 2026, features more than 50 exhibitors showcasing retail shops, service providers, tourist hotspots, festival booths, agritourism gems, restaurants, wineries, and breweries. What makes it special is its infectious enthusiasm for community pride—imagine strolling through aisles buzzing with friendly faces, sampling craft brews, and uncovering hidden treasures that make this corner of Indiana a perfect spot to visit or call home. Attendees flock here for the warm hospitality, door prizes, delicious food vendors, and that unbeatable vibe of discovery, leaving with bags full of ideas, goodies, and a deeper love for Franklin County's charm. ## The Surrounding Area
Nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Indiana, Brookville and Franklin County offer a delightful blend of small-town warmth and natural beauty that feels like a step back in time. The Franklin County Fairgrounds serve as the perfect backdrop, surrounded by lush countryside and the shimmering waters of Brookville Lake, a haven for boating, fishing, and picnics. Nearby, historic Metamora beckons with its canal-era mills, charming shops, and events like the annual Chainsaw Carving Invitational and Strawberry Days, where fresh treats and live music fill the air. Dining options abound, from cozy diners slinging juicy burgers and hot dogs to wineries like Backroads Vineyard pouring smooth sips alongside farm-fresh eats. This part of Indiana shines with agritourism—think orchards, horse racing afternoons, and bourbon tastings—making it an ideal weekend escape for families, couples, or solo explorers seeking authentic Hoosier hospitality amid scenic Whitewater River valleys. ## Activities & Attractions
Dive into a day packed with engaging discoveries at the Expo! Wander among over 50 exhibitors highlighting everything from boutique retail and handy services to thrilling tourist attractions and upcoming festival booths that tease summer adventures. Food lovers will savor tastings from restaurants, wineries, and breweries, pairing local wines with artisan cheeses or craft beers with savory bites—perfect for your Food & Drink category fix. Explore agritourism displays featuring farm-fresh goods, perhaps from spots like The Roaming Mug or Swine Dine, and chat with festival organizers about events like Metamora's lively gatherings. Don't miss the door prizes drawing crowds throughout the day, adding an element of fun surprise. The atmosphere hums with live interactions, vendor demos, and networking that feels more like a block party than a trade show, ensuring every booth sparks joy and inspiration. ## Schedule & Logistics
Mark your calendar for Saturday, March 7, 2026, when the Expo runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Brookville—plenty of time to explore without rushing. Kick off the morning with fresh coffee from local vendors, dive into exhibitor chats by mid-morning, and aim for afternoon tastings when the energy peaks. Admission is typically free or low-cost, welcoming families, locals, and visitors alike. Ample parking is available right at the fairgrounds, with easy access off main roads for a stress-free arrival. Plan to arrive early for the best door prize chances and to beat any crowds; comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the indoor-outdoor spaces. It's a seamless, family-friendly setup designed for maximum enjoyment. ## History & Heritage
The Franklin County Business & Travel Expo has roots deeply woven into the community's fabric, likely launched by the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce to spotlight local entrepreneurs and boost tourism in this historic region. Emerging as a key event in recent years, it embodies Brookville's legacy along the Whitewater Canal, where 19th-century mills and river trade shaped resilient Hoosier spirit. Organized amid celebrations like Brookville Lake's 50th anniversary ribbon cuttings and Metamora's longstanding festivals, the Expo has grown into a beloved tradition, drawing bigger crowds each year with its focus on economic vitality and cultural pride. Its significance shines in fostering connections—think chamber meet-and-greets evolving into this powerhouse showcase—helping residents and visitors alike appreciate Franklin County's evolution from agrarian heritage to a thriving hub of agritourism and small-business success.