Metamora Music Festival

The Metamora Music Festival is an annual free music event held in Metamora, Indiana, celebrating its 27th edition in 2025 over the Labor Day weekend (August 30–31). It takes place primarily at the Back Porch of the Lane's End Barn, with additional performances throughout the historic Canal Town area. The festival showcases regional groups playing Americana Roots, Bluegrass, Blues, and more, with a vibrant atmosphere of live music flowing around the town and along the Whitewater Canal.

History and Setting:
Founded in 1998 as a small gathering of friends along the Whitewater Canal, the festival has grown into a well-established event featuring multiple stages and workshops. In 2007, the Back Porch performance space was constructed at Lane’s End, becoming the central hub. The town itself, known as Indiana’s Canal Town, offers a charming historic ambiance with performances spilling into Duck Creek Village, Grist Mill porch, and even in front of local shops, creating a relaxed and immersive musical experience.

Event Vibe and Atmosphere:
The festival has a welcoming, community-oriented vibe with music happening all day long. Besides formal stages, musicians often busk throughout the town streets and venues, encouraging visitors to wander and discover spontaneous performances in various cozy locations, including inside local restaurants. The event's feel is laid-back but actively engaging for music lovers and families alike.

Activities and Schedule Highlights:

• Back Porch of Lane’s End Barn: Main stage for continuous live performances during the day.
• Songwriters Stage: Introduced to provide music between main acts under a large tent.
• Making Music Area: Located along the canal, this area features instrument builders, interactive jamming spaces, and workshops open to attendees.
• Duck Creek Village Stage: Additional tented venue for live sets.
• Grist Mill Porch and Shopfronts: Frequent jamming and busking spots providing intimate listening experiences.
• Food and Refreshments: The local Lion’s Club provides food services to festival-goers.

Camping:
Camping is available close by at Whitewater Gateway Park, supporting a full weekend experience for visitors.

Accessibility and Logistics:
The venue at Lane’s End Barn is handicapped accessible. There is no admission fee, reinforcing the festival’s community and inclusive spirit.

In summary, the Metamora Music Festival blends rich Americana music with a historic canal town environment, featuring multiple stages, workshops, jamming areas, food vendors, and a casual, inviting ambiance that encourages exploration and connection through music over two full days.