Indiana Fiddlers' Gathering

The Indiana Fiddlers' Gathering is a long-standing, three-day acoustic music festival traditionally held at Tippecanoe Battlefield Park in Battle Ground, Indiana. It celebrates traditional music styles such as bluegrass, old-time, string band, swing, jazz, Celtic, and ethnic fiddle music, featuring renowned performers and fostering a community dedicated to preserving and promoting these genres.

The festival's history spans over 50 years, attracting traditional music fans annually for a weekend of concerts and jam sessions. It was founded to enrich lives by preserving traditional music through performance, education, and outreach. The event has hosted legendary artists including Alison Krauss & Union Station, John Hartford, Johnny Gimble, and many others.

In recent years, the festival usually took place over three days in late June, with live performances on a central stage at Tippecanoe Battlefield Park, located at 200 Battleground Avenue, Battle Ground, Indiana. The park and surrounding battlefields add a historical and natural backdrop that enhances the event's atmosphere.

However, the 2024 edition (originally scheduled for June 28-30) was postponed to June 2025 due to leadership changes affecting the event's planning and execution. To maintain community involvement, the organizers introduced the Fiddler’s Frolic, a smaller old-time music retreat held in September 2024 at Ross Camp in West Lafayette, Indiana, focusing on music instruction, fellowship, and catered meals.

Surrounding Area and Vibe

• The setting at Tippecanoe Battlefield Park offers a scenic, historic outdoor environment with ample space for performances, dancing, and informal jam sessions.
• The vibe is traditionally warm, community-centered, and rooted in a love of acoustic traditions.
• Attendees often camp or stay nearby, enjoying both structured concerts and informal gatherings.
• The festival is handicapped accessible, ensuring broader inclusivity.

Activities and Schedule (Typical)

While the exact schedule may change yearly and was not finalized for 2024, typical activities include:

• Concert performances featuring top fiddlers and bands in bluegrass, old-time, swing, jazz, Celtic, and ethnic styles.
• Workshops and jam sessions that allow musicians of all levels to learn, share, and collaborate.
• Community dances promoting participatory fun.
• Food vendors and craft booths complement the cultural experience.
• Opportunities to engage with historic site tours given the festival's location.

The Fiddler’s Frolic retreat in September typically includes:

• Old-time music instruction and workshops.
• Group jams and informal performances.
• Meals served by catered staff.
• Fellowship and community-building events.

Summary

The Indiana Fiddlers' Gathering is a historic and beloved festival showcasing the best traditional acoustic music in a historic park setting. Its emphasis is on community, education, and preserving diverse fiddle traditions. Despite the 2024 postponement, the event remains active through alternate gatherings like the Fiddler’s Frolic, maintaining its mission and vibrant community presence.