About This Festival
The "Mayberry Comes to Scottsburg" festival is a Mayberry-themed event held downtown in Scottsburg, Scott County, Indiana, celebrating the beloved world of The Andy Griffith Show. It features Mayberry tribute artists and special guest appearances by cast members from the original TV series. Activities include a VIP Meet & Greet dinner, a parade, a classic car show, autograph sessions, variety shows headlined by recognized tribute artists, movie and series screenings, and other fan-focused entertainment.
The event is typically held around mid to late June with most activities located in the Courthouse Square Historic District in downtown Scottsburg. The festival's atmosphere is nostalgic and community-oriented, appealing strongly to fans of the classic TV show by recreating the charm and spirit of Mayberry.
Key activities at the festival usually include:
- Performances by nationally recognized Mayberry tribute artists such as Allan Newsome (known for portraying Floyd the Barber since 1994).
- Special guest appearances by Andy Griffith Show cast members and relatives, including Rodney Dillard, Dennis Rush, Keith Thibodeaux, Karen Knotts, Ronnie Schell, Dixie Griffith, Dreama Denver, and producer Dick Atkins.
- VIP Meet & Greet dinners providing personal interaction opportunities with special guests.
- A festive parade through downtown celebrating Mayberry themes.
- A classic car show showcasing vintage cars in line with the show's era.
- Variety shows featuring tribute artists and fan favorite characters.
- Autograph sessions and photo opportunities.
- Screenings of "Mayberry Man" movie and episodes of The Andy Griffith Show.
Though originally scheduled for June 20-21, 2025, the festival for that year was placed on hiatus with plans to return in 2026, suggesting it is an ongoing event that started in the early 2020s.
Scottsburg itself provides a small-town charm consistent with Mayberry’s setting, enhancing the event tone. The Courthouse Square Historic District serves as an accessible, picturesque backdrop accommodating a handicapped accessible experience for attendees.
In summary, "Mayberry Comes to Scottsburg" is an immersive fan festival that recreates the mid-20th-century small-town American life depicted in The Andy Griffith Show. It combines live entertainment, celebrity engagement, community events like parades and car shows, and nostalgic screenings to celebrate the cultural legacy of Mayberry.