Hoosier Hills Fiber Festival

About the Event

Step into a world of tactile wonder at the Hoosier Hills Fiber Festival, Indiana's beloved 20th annual celebration of fiber arts and timeless artisan skills. Nestled at the Johnson County Fairgrounds in Franklin, this two-day haven on June 5-6, 2026, draws fiber enthusiasts, crafters, and families eager to immerse themselves in hand-dyed yarns, luxurious spinning fibers, fleeces, tools, and exquisite handcrafted goods from over 70 vendors spread across three buildings. What makes it truly special is the joyful community spirit—watch live demonstrations of spinning and weaving, join hands-on workshops led by expert artisans, catch free lectures, and marvel at animal shearing that brings the farm-to-fiber process alive. The atmosphere buzzes with creativity, laughter, and the soft hum of wheels and looms, fostering connections among makers and admirers alike. Whether you're a seasoned spinner or a curious beginner, this festival sparks inspiration and invites you to take home skills, stories, and treasures that celebrate handmade heritage. ## The Surrounding Area
Franklin, a charming seat of Johnson County just south of Indianapolis, welcomes visitors with its historic downtown square lined with quaint shops, boutique eateries, and the iconic Johnson County Courthouse, a Greek Revival gem from 1839. This part of central Indiana blends small-town warmth with easy access to urban energy—only 25 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport and a short drive from the vibrant cultural hubs of Greenwood and Columbus. Nearby attractions include the charming Franklin Train Depot for railroad history buffs, the scenic Driftwood River for peaceful walks, and family-friendly spots like the Johnson County Museum of History. Dining options abound: savor farm-fresh comfort food at local diners like The Tilted Teapot for artisanal teas and pastries, or dig into hearty barbecue at 317 Gastropub. Johnson County's rolling hills and rich agricultural roots make it a delightful base for explorers, offering a taste of Hoosier hospitality amid peaceful countryside. ## Activities & Attractions
Dive into a fiber lover's paradise with endless hands-on delights. Explore 70+ vendors in Scott Hall, Magill Hall, and Herring Hall, offering hand-dyed yarns, raw fleeces, spinning wheels, looms, dyes, and finished treasures like scarves, felts, and quilts. Step outside for additional vendors, fiber animals up close, and yarn trucks brimming with bargains. Catch captivating demonstrations of spinning, weaving, dyeing, and animal shearing throughout the day. Workshops by skilled instructors run all weekend in Fitzpatrick Hall, covering everything from beginner felting to advanced techniques—perfect for building your skills. Enjoy free lectures in the Shooting Sports Club building on fiber topics, plus fleece sales for the best raw materials. Entertainment sparkles with live folk and blues music from Bum Doubt, dulcimer strums by Salt Creek Sweet Taters, 4-H llama and alpaca shows, clown antics, face painting, and readings by children's author Professor Watermelon. Add your touch to the festival's signature fiber arts archways—craft peonies or butterflies in crochet, knit, or beyond for a collaborative display. It's a full sensory feast that keeps everyone engaged from morning to evening. ## Schedule & Logistics
Mark your calendars for Friday, June 5, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday, June 6, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., when the vendor marketplace hums in three halls, with workshops, demos, lectures, fleece sales, and entertainment weaving throughout both days. Key highlights like animal shearing and performances pop up spontaneously, so arrive early to catch them all. Free admission and free parking make it effortlessly accessible—no tickets needed, just your enthusiasm. The fairgrounds at 250 Fairgrounds Road, Franklin, IN, feature ample space, including RV camping (pets allowed there, but not in festival areas; service animals welcome). Buildings are clearly marked: vendors indoors, workshops in Fitzpatrick Hall, lectures at the Shooting Sports Club. Come prepared for a full day of strolling, shopping, and learning—pack comfortable shoes and a reusable bag for your finds. ## History & Heritage
Since its founding over two decades ago by the nonprofit Hoosier Fiber Arts Association Inc., the Hoosier Hills Fiber Festival has grown from a modest gathering into a cornerstone of Indiana's fiber community, now proudly marking its 20th year in 2026. Organized by a passionate team of volunteers dedicated to sharing fiber arts with the public, it began as a marketplace to connect artisans with enthusiasts amid Johnson County's farming heritage. Year after year, it has expanded, drawing 1,000-5,000 attendees and 70 vendors, while nurturing traditions like shearing demos that honor old-time skills passed down through generations. This event weaves deep significance into the local fabric, boosting craftsmanship, supporting small farms, and inspiring new makers in a region rich with textile history—making it an unmissable thread in Hoosier culture.