About This Festival

Loogootee Summerfest is a three-day, family-oriented festival held annually in downtown Loogootee, Indiana, typically from June 19 to June 21. The event features free admission and offers a vibrant, community-centered atmosphere with a lively summer vibe focused on fun, entertainment, and local engagement.

The festival is known for its diverse activities suitable for all ages, which include:

  • Live Entertainment: Multiple live music performances each evening, kicking off with local bands such as “Last Call” on Thursday, followed by performances from the Alexia Cabellero Group and Cody Ikerd and the Sidewinders on Friday, and concluding Saturday evening with “First and Main” and the headliner “Lost in Paradise,” a Jimmy Buffett tribute band delivering trop rock vibes that encourage a relaxed, festive mood.

  • Queen Pageant: A community tradition held the evening before the festival officially starts, showcasing students from local schools in various age divisions and promoting both talent and community spirit.

  • Car Show: A display of classic and specialty vehicles adding a nostalgic and family-friendly attraction.

  • Carnival Rides and Games: Providing entertainment for children and families, sustaining a classic summer fair atmosphere.

  • Food & Craft Vendors: Featuring local foods and crafts that allow attendees to enjoy regional cuisine and shop from local artisans and church booths.

  • Run/Walk Event: The Loogootee Summerfest 5K and Fun Walk take place on Saturday morning at West Boggs Park, with paved scenic routes suitable for runners and walkers, including strollers. Registration opens early, with events starting at 7:30 AM for the walk and 8:00 AM for the run.

  • Parade: A community parade adds to the celebratory feel, often held downtown during the weekend.

  • Fireworks: A fireworks display on the final festival night adds a grand finale to the event.

  • Local Arts and Church Booths: These booths enrich the festival with cultural and community-focused activities and displays.

The setting in downtown Loogootee, within Martin County in South Central Indiana, brings a small-town charm and strong community spirit. The event typically spreads across multiple downtown locations, including the Summerfest stage near the town square fountain, West Boggs Park for the run/walk, and various streets for parades and vendor booths.

Rough Schedule Highlights:

  • Wednesday (Pre-festival): Queen Pageant at 6:00 PM at downtown Loogootee’s Summerfest stage.

  • Thursday (June 19)

    • Evening: Festival kickoff with “Last Call” live music.

  • Friday (June 20)

    • 6:00 PM: Alexia Cabellero Group performs.
    • 8:00 PM: Cody Ikerd and the Sidewinders perform.

  • Saturday (June 21)

    • 7:00 AM: 5K Packet Pickup at West Boggs Park.
    • 7:30 AM: 5K Fun Walk.
    • 8:00 AM: 5K Run.
    • 6:00 PM: First and Main live music.
    • Evening: Lost in Paradise headliner show.
    • Night: Fireworks display.

The event grew as an annual summer tradition aimed at bringing the community together to celebrate the season with family-friendly activities and entertainment. It has evolved over the years to incorporate local artists, community groups, and a broad spectrum of activities that emphasize inclusivity, fun, and cultural engagement.

Overall, Loogootee Summerfest offers a welcoming, relaxed summer festival vibe with a strong focus on live music, local community participation, family activities, and seasonal celebration. The combination of entertainment, food, rides, a 5K run, and fireworks round out a well-rounded festival experience.