About This Festival

The Mansfield Village Beans & Cornbread Festival is a charming, family-friendly event held in Mansfield Village, Parke County, Indiana, celebrating traditional Midwestern fare with a strong community vibe. It takes place over a weekend, running from September 6 to 7, 2025, with free admission and full handicapped accessibility.

Festival Atmosphere and Location

The festival unfolds in the historical Mansfield Village, a quaint and picturesque area notably featuring the historic Mansfield Roller Mill, a 140-year old gristmill which adds rustic charm and heritage ambiance to the event. The village is located six miles south of US 36 on State Road 59 near Bellmore in Parke County's scenic west region. The vibe is small-town warm and welcoming, centered on community spirit and seasonal celebration, making it a relaxing way to enjoy early autumn in Indiana.

Main Activities and Events

  • Homemade Ham and Beans with Cornbread: This traditional, comforting meal is a focal point, prepared by the local Bar/Grill, embodying festival flavor and hospitality.

  • Live Music: Throughout the weekend, the festival features live musical performances, creating a lively and enjoyable soundtrack to the event.

  • Vendors: Numerous vendors operate in the village offering handmade goods, local crafts, and festival treats, enhancing the shopping experience.

  • DNR Tours of the Historic Mansfield Roller Mill: The Department of Natural Resources organizes guided tours of the Roller Mill, letting visitors explore the gristmill’s workings and heritage.

  • Mill and Village Open Hours: The village and vendors are open from 9 am to 5 pm both days, with the restaurant open late into the evening.

Rough Schedule Overview

  • Saturday & Sunday, 9 am – 5 pm: Vendors and village open for shopping and exploration.
  • Throughout both days: Live music performances.
  • DNR tours: Scheduled periodically during the open hours for visitors to join.
  • Meals served: Traditional ham, beans, and cornbread available during festival hours, with the restaurant open late.

History and Founding

Mansfield Village is historic, anchored by the Roller Mill which is central to the festival’s identity. The festival honors this heritage by focusing on locally sourced, traditional foods and engaging visitors with the village's cultural roots. While the exact founding date of the festival isn't specified, it is a part of Parke County’s array of agricultural and county fairs and closely linked with the ongoing preservation and celebration of Mansfield Village and its historic covered bridges.

This festival is particularly noted for its intimate scale and community feel, serving as a celebration of early autumn, local history, and down-home cooking amid the backdrop of Indiana’s scenic small-town landscape.