About This Festival
Area Surrounding the Event
Harvest Fest takes place in Fishers, Indiana, a lively suburb just northeast of Indianapolis, within Hamilton County—a region known for its blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. For many years, the event was held at Heritage Park at White River, a picturesque park with garden paths, the historic Ambassador House, and scenic riverside views, offering a tranquil yet community-focused atmosphere.
However, in 2025, the festival expanded to the Nickel Plate Trail in the heart of downtown Fishers, a state-recognized cultural district. The Nickel Plate Trail is a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly area, flanked by local businesses, cafes, and breweries, and is easily accessible via multiple parking areas. The event now stretches from Café Patachou at 8654 E. 116th Street to Fairway Mortgage at 8911 Technology Drive, covering several “art fields” along the trail. The area features ample restrooms, accessible pathways, and a mix of urban and green spaces—making it suitable for all ages and abilities.
Vibe of the Event
Harvest Fest is a relaxed, family-friendly community celebration that emphasizes art, music, food, and direct support for local nonprofits. Admission is free, reinforcing its inclusive, community-driven ethos. Attendees can expect a welcoming, creative atmosphere with a “buy local, support local” spirit. There’s a strong sense of camaraderie as artists, musicians, food vendors, and local volunteers come together to foster a sense of belonging and shared pride in Fishers’ cultural life.
The move to the Nickel Plate Trail in 2025 signals a new chapter: the festival’s growth has enabled more artists, vendors, and activities, with a lively, walkable layout that encourages attendees to explore and discover local talent. The event is well-organized, with clear signage, maps, and accessible amenities, catering to families, art enthusiasts, and casual visitors alike.
Activities at Harvest Fest
- Artist and Artisan Market: Browse and purchase unique works directly from over 60 regional artists, artisans, and authors at booths spread along the festival route.
- Live Music: Enjoy a full lineup of local bands and musicians performing throughout the day; past lineups have included Sweet Tunes, Mudsock Jazz Combo, and Remington Hill.
- Local Food and Drink: Savor offerings from a variety of vendors, with sponsors like MashCraft Brewing (beer garden), Peace Water Winery, and local restaurants participating.
- Nonprofit Showcase: Over ten local nonprofits are on site, offering attendees opportunities to learn, engage, and support community causes.
- Children’s Activities: Hands-on, kid-friendly activities to entertain young visitors.
- Garden Walks: While at Heritage Park, stroll through the gardens of the historic Ambassador House—part of the festival’s tradition.
- Community Engagement: The event is a platform for local connection, whether shopping for art, learning about nonprofits, or simply enjoying the company of neighbors.
Rough Schedule of Events
Location: Nickel Plate Trail (2025), stretching from Café Patachou to Fairway Mortgage. Previous years at Heritage Park at White River.
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Sample Schedule (Based on Prior Years):
| Time | Activity / Performance | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 12:00 PM | Festival Opens | All venues along Nickel Plate Trail |
| 12:30 PM | Live Music: Band 1 | Main stage area |
| 2:00 PM | Live Music: Band 2 | Main stage area |
| 3:30 PM | Live Music: Band 3 | Main stage area |
| All Day | Artist booths, food vendors, | Along Nickel Plate Trail |
| nonprofit showcase, kids’ | ||
| activities, beer garden |
Exact timing and lineup may vary; check festival maps for current details.
History and Founding of Harvest Fest
Harvest Fest was launched in 2020 by the Fishers Arts Council in collaboration with Fishers Parks and the City of Fishers, in response to the cancellation of other local events due to the pandemic. Its mission was to provide a safe, outdoor gathering place to support local artists, nonprofits, and the community during a challenging time. The festival was initially held at Heritage Park at White River, quickly becoming a beloved annual tradition.
As the event grew in popularity, its footprint expanded, eventually outgrowing Heritage Park’s capacity. In 2025, Harvest Fest moved to the Nickel Plate Trail in downtown Fishers, offering more space for artists, vendors, and attendees. The festival’s growth is a testament to the strong community support and the city’s commitment to arts and culture, with ongoing partnerships including Hamilton County Tourism, MashCraft Brewing, and Walmart.
From its modest beginnings as a pandemic-era response, Harvest Fest has transformed into one of Fishers’ signature cultural events—a celebration of creativity, community, and local pride.