KilnFest

About the Event

Nestle into the heart of rural Indiana charm at KilnFest, the Medora Brick Plant Annual Kilnfest, a joyful one-day celebration on September 19, 2026, that blends lively music, community spirit, and a nod to local industrial heritage. Held at the historic brick plant site, this festival captures the warm, nostalgic vibe of small-town gatherings—think foot-stomping live bands under open skies, the sizzle of festival food mingling with laughter from kiddie games, and the buzz of browsing crafts amid towering brick kilns that whisper tales of the past. What makes it special is its authentic connection to Medora's brick-making legacy, drawing families, history buffs, and music lovers for a relaxed day of fun that feels like a welcoming backyard party scaled up with heart. Attendees rave about the friendly faces, unbeatable atmosphere, and that perfect mix of entertainment and education, leaving everyone with smiles and stories to share. ## The Surrounding Area
Tucked in picturesque Jackson County, the tiny town of Medora offers a serene escape in southern Indiana's rolling hills, where the East Fork of the White River winds through lush farmlands and wooded valleys. Just steps from the festival at 8202 W. Co. Rd. 425 S., you'll find yourself amid beautiful western Jackson County scenery—ideal for a weekend getaway. Explore nearby gems like the Medora Covered Bridge, the longest three-span covered bridge in the U.S. and a National Register of Historic Places treasure, perfect for scenic photos or a peaceful stroll. A short drive away sits the historic Carr High School (aka Weddleville High School), another National Register site brimming with stories from yesteryear. For dining, cozy up in Medora's local spots offering homestyle comfort food like fried chicken, pies, and farm-fresh eats, or grab quick bites from community clubs. This corner of Indiana shines with its unspoiled beauty, making it a hidden haven for visitors seeking history, nature, and that genuine Hoosier hospitality. ## Activities & Attractions
KilnFest bursts with family-friendly delights that keep everyone grinning from morning till dusk. Groove to live music from local bands and DJs spinning tunes across genres, setting the stage for dancing and good times. Savor mouthwatering food vendors dishing out classic festival fare—think burgers, hot dogs, funnel cakes, and homemade treats that hit the spot. Little ones will love the kiddie games, from bouncy fun to simple races designed for endless giggles. Hunt for treasures at the crafts and flea market, where artisans showcase handmade jewelry, pottery, vintage finds, and brick-plant-inspired keepsakes. Don't miss the excitement of the live auction, featuring unique items from local donors—perfect for scoring one-of-a-kind bargains. Weave in self-guided tours of the historic Medora Brick Plant, where massive kilns and rusting machinery offer a fascinating peek into early 20th-century industry. It's all wrapped in a laid-back setting that invites lingering chats and impromptu jam sessions. ## Schedule & Logistics
Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 19, 2026—KilnFest kicks off bright and early around 9 or 10 AM, running through late afternoon or early evening to catch that golden-hour glow. Expect the live music and kiddie games to ramp up by mid-morning, with the live auction as a midday highlight, followed by peak flea market browsing and food festivities into the afternoon. Exact times may flex with the weather, so check the Medora Brick Plant Historical Society's Facebook page closer to the date for the full lineup. Admission is typically free or donation-based, embracing its community roots—bring cash for food, crafts, and auction bids. Parking abounds on the expansive plant grounds, with plenty of space for RVs or trailers; carpooling keeps it easy on this rural road. Dress comfy for walking gravel paths, pack sunscreen and lawn chairs, and arrive hungry for a full day of immersion. ## History & Heritage
Rooted in Medora's proud brick-making past, KilnFest honors the Medora Brick Plant, which hummed from around 1906 until the early 1990s, producing millions of bricks that built homes and histories across the Midwest. The festival, an annual tradition on the third Saturday in September, was sparked by preservationists with the Medora Brick Plant Historical Society (MBPHS) to celebrate this legacy while fostering community bonds. Starting as a modest gathering to showcase the site's massive kilns—those iconic "brick igloos"—it has grown into a beloved staple, drawing crowds eager to tour the grounds and learn through storytelling and visuals. Founded amid efforts to save the plant from decay, events like this fund clean-ups and upkeep, weaving heritage into every laugh and song. For Medora's tight-knit residents, KilnFest isn't just fun—it's a living tribute to resilient workers and small-town grit, ensuring the kilns' stories echo for generations.