Huntingburg Herbstfest

About the Event

Nestled in the heart of Southern Indiana, the Huntingburg Herbstfest is a joyful four-day fall celebration from September 24-27, 2026, that transforms Huntingburg City Park and League Stadium into a vibrant hub of family fun, lively music, and community spirit. What makes it truly special is its perfect blend of high-energy entertainment, nostalgic games, and heartfelt local traditions, all wrapped in the crisp autumn air—think mouthwatering food aromas mingling with the sounds of live bands and cheering crowds. People flock here from near and far to unwind, connect with neighbors, and create lasting memories, whether you're cheering at tournaments, dancing under the stars, or simply soaking in the welcoming Hoosier hospitality that shines through every smile and shared laugh. ## The Surrounding Area
Huntingburg, a charming small town in Dubois County, exudes Southern Indiana's rich heritage and warm hospitality, where tree-lined streets and friendly locals make every visitor feel at home. Set amid rolling hills and lush farmland, it's a gateway to outdoor adventures like nearby Patoka Lake for boating and fishing, or the scenic trails of the Hoosier National Forest just a short drive away. Dining options abound with cozy spots for German-inspired fare—think schnitzel and strudel—reflecting the area's strong European roots, alongside classic American diners and farm-fresh eateries. Baseball fans will love the historic Huntingburg League Stadium, home to minor league excitement, while downtown shops offer unique crafts and antiques. This slice of Indiana captivates with its blend of rural beauty, cultural depth, and easy access to Jasper and other regional gems. ## Activities & Attractions
Herbstfest bursts with non-stop excitement for all ages, featuring food and game booths loaded with festival favorites like elephant ears, burgers, and seasonal treats; carnival rides and jumping jacks for thrill-seekers young and old; and a pumpkin patch perfect for family photos. Test your skills in friendly competitions: horseshoes, dodgeball, sand volleyball, wiffle ball, cornhole tournaments, a golf scramble at Huntingburg Country Club, and even a kids pedal pull. Watch in awe at Loper’s Extreme Chainsaw Art carving massive sculptures live, or join free kids' activities like pumpkin painting, balloons of faith, animal tales storytime, and the kids firefighter challenge. Free live music nightly on the main stage stars acts like Five Under, Kirby Stailey, Borrowed Time, and Cody Ikerd & the Sidewinders, keeping the energy high. Don't miss the craft show with handmade treasures, a beer garden for adults, car/tractor/motorcycle awards, waterball competition between firefighters and police, and family-friendly bounce houses and games—pure, wholesome fun around every corner. ## Schedule & Logistics
Kick off Thursday, September 24 at 5:00 pm with the baby photo contest info booth, craft show, food booths, jumping jacks, pumpkin patch, beer garden, and chainsaw art, followed by the Little Miss/Junior Miss pageant at 7:30 pm and music by Five Under from 9:00-11:00 pm. Friday ramps up with a noon golf scramble, wiffle ball at 6:00 pm, and more evening tunes. Saturday, September 26, starts strong at 9:00 am with a 5K run/walk, sand volleyball, and wiffle ball, plus kids games at 12:30 pm, cornhole and horseshoes at 2:00 pm, live music from 1:00 pm, and headliners Cody Ikerd & the Sidewinders at 9:00 pm. The grand finale is Sunday, September 27's 2:00 pm citywide parade starting on 3rd Street, winding to City Hall. Admission is free, with ample parking at City Park and League Stadium—arrive early for prime spots, wear comfy shoes for walking, and come hungry. Events run from late morning to midnight most days, weather permitting, so pack layers for that perfect fall breeze. ## History & Heritage
Since its founding decades ago, Huntingburg Herbstfest has been a beloved cornerstone of community pride in Dubois County, honoring the town's German heritage—"Herbstfest" means "autumn festival" in German—while showcasing local talent and traditions. Started by passionate residents to celebrate the fall harvest and bring folks together, it has grown from a modest gathering into a massive four-day extravaganza drawing thousands, evolving with added music, sports, and artisan showcases that reflect Huntingburg's hardworking spirit. Today, it stands as a vibrant tribute to Hoosier resilience, fostering intergenerational bonds through parades, contests, and shared meals, ensuring its place as an irreplaceable thread in the town's cultural fabric.