ISFA Annual Meeting

About the Event Nestled in the heart of Indiana's vibrant festival scene, the ISFA Annual Meeting is a cornerstone gathering for enthusiasts, organizers, and leaders dedicated to celebrating the state's rich tradition of fairs, festivals, and community events. Hosted by the Indiana State Festivals Association—Indiana's largest membership organization for festivals and events—this one-day powerhouse on November 6, 2026, at Greenfield Central High School's Cougar Room promises an evening of inspiration, connection, and forward-looking excitement. What makes it truly special is the sense of camaraderie among passionate folks who live and breathe Indiana's festive spirit, sharing stories, strategies, and visions over a free membership dinner. Attendees come to network, elect board members, hear uplifting reports on 2026 festivals and plans for 2027, and get the latest on the iconic Indiana Festival Guide. The vibe is welcoming and electric—like a family reunion for festival lovers—fostering ideas that keep Hoosier communities buzzing with joy year after year. ## The Surrounding Area Greenfield, a charming gem in Hancock County just east of Indianapolis, offers a quintessential slice of small-town Indiana warmth with big-city accessibility. This friendly community of around 23,000 residents blends historic downtown vibes—think quaint brick-lined streets, local shops, and the beloved Riley Children's Hospital nearby—with easy drives to Indy attractions like the Speedway or Riley National Historical Park. Visitors will love strolling the vibrant Main Street for boutique finds, coffee spots, and eateries serving up farm-fresh comfort food, from hearty burgers at local diners to craft brews at nearby taprooms. Dining options abound, including family-owned steakhouses, pizza joints, and seasonal farm-to-table spots highlighting Indiana's agricultural bounty. What makes this corner of east-central Indiana irresistible? Its deep roots in farming heritage, rolling countryside, and proximity to outdoor havens like Hancock County Fairgrounds or Brandywine Creek, making it a perfect base for festival-goers seeking authentic Hoosier hospitality before or after the meeting. ## Activities & Attractions This intimate yet impactful event focuses on meaningful engagement rather than crowds, delivering value-packed sessions tailored for festival organizers and fans:

• Free Membership Dinner at 6:15 pm: Kick off with delicious, home-style fare that fuels heartfelt conversations.
• ISFA Annual Membership Meeting & Board Elections at 7:00 pm: Dive into democratic action, voting for leaders who shape Indiana's festival future.
• Reports on 2026 Festivals, Fairs, Events & 2027 Plans: Get insider scoops on upcoming celebrations, from county fairs to cultural bashes.
• Update on the 2026 & 2027 Indiana Festival Guide: Preview the essential resource listing nearly 600 events, distributed across all 92 counties.
• ISFA Associates Annual Membership Meeting at 7:20 pm: A dedicated space for associates to connect and collaborate.
• ISFA Board Retreat Meeting starting at 8:00 pm: Open to members, offering a glimpse into strategic discussions. All activities emphasize education, networking, and celebration in a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere—perfect for swapping tips on event planning, promotion, and community impact. ## Schedule & Logistics Mark your calendar for Friday, November 6, 2026, at Greenfield Central High School, Cougar Room, 810 N Broadway St., Greenfield, IN. The action unfolds seamlessly in the evening:
• 6:15 pm: Free membership dinner—arrive early to mingle.
• 7:00 pm: ISFA Annual Membership Meeting & Election of Board Members.
• 7:20 pm: ISFA Associates Annual Membership Meeting.
• 8:00 pm: ISFA Board Retreat Meeting (open to members and public). Admission is free, with all board meetings welcoming ISFA members, guests, and the public—no registration hassles, just show up ready to engage. Ample parking is available at the high school lot, and the venue's central location makes it a breeze via I-70 or local roads. Dress comfortably casual, as the focus is on ideas over formality. For questions, reach out to ISFA Coordinator Doug Weisheit at 765-592-1662. ## History & Heritage Since its founding, the Indiana State Festivals Association (ISFA) has been the beating heart of Hoosier celebrations, growing into Indiana's premier festivals and events organization. Born from a passion to unite fairgrounds revelers, festival producers, and community boosters, ISFA publishes the beloved Indiana Festival Guide annually—distributing 500,000 copies statewide to spotlight nearly 600 events. This annual meeting, a tradition now anchored in Greenfield, embodies decades of evolution from grassroots gatherings to influential forums offering leadership training, promotion, and resources like event-planning manuals. Its significance shines in empowering local organizers, fostering statewide collaboration, and preserving Indiana's heritage of agricultural fairs, harvest festivals, and cultural showcases that knit communities together. Year after year, it honors the past while igniting the future, making it an unmissable thread in the fabric of Indiana's festive legacy.