Metamora Strawberry Days

About the Event

Nestled in the charming historic village of Metamora, Metamora Strawberry Days is a delightful early summer celebration bursting with the sweet flavors of the season, lively music, and the timeless allure of a bygone era. Picture yourself savoring towering stacks of homemade strawberry shortcake, drizzled with fresh cream and bursting with ripe berries, while soaking in live tunes that fill the air with joy. This two-day festival on June 6-7, 2026, transforms Historic Downtown Metamora into a vibrant hub of unique shopping, mouthwatering dining, and family-friendly fun. What makes it truly special is its perfect blend of small-town warmth and historical magic—home to the only wooden aqueduct in the US—offering a nostalgic escape where visitors step back in time aboard the thrilling Whitewater Valley Railroad. Attendees flock here for the irresistible vibe: laughter echoing off 19th-century buildings, the scent of strawberries mingling with canal-side breezes, and a sense of community that leaves you refreshed and eager to return.

The Surrounding Area

Metamora, platted in 1838 in Franklin County, Indiana, is a beautifully preserved canal town that feels like a living museum of the 1800s, with its sturdy brick buildings, bustling mills, and the gentle flow of the Whitewater River. This southeastern Indiana gem sits along the historic Whitewater Canal towpath, now a scenic pathway for hikers and bikers, inviting you to wander 2.6 miles of crushed limestone trails through lush valley scenery. Nearby attractions abound: the iconic wooden aqueduct, a marvel of engineering where the canal crosses the river without spilling a drop, and the Whitewater Valley Railroad's short "Metamora Local" excursion, gliding past restored locks and boat docks for 30 minutes of pure nostalgia. Dining options tempt with homemade fudge, creamy ice cream, hearty canal-era meals at cozy spots, and casual eateries perfect for a relaxed bite. What draws visitors to this corner of Indiana is its unhurried charm—far from the hustle, it's an ideal spot for history buffs, nature lovers, and families seeking authentic Hoosier heritage amid rolling hills and river valleys.

Activities & Attractions

Metamora Strawberry Days promises a feast for the senses with an array of engaging activities centered on its strawberry theme and historic backdrop. Indulge in the star of the show: endless homemade strawberry shortcake, served fresh from local bakers in generous portions that capture summer's essence. Live music performances keep the energy high, featuring local bands playing folk, bluegrass, and upbeat tunes on outdoor stages throughout the downtown streets. Shop to your heart's content among unique vendors offering handmade crafts, antiques, canal-inspired souvenirs, and strawberry-themed goodies like jams, pies, and preserves. Food lovers will delight in diverse dining options, from strawberry-infused treats to classic fair fare, barbecue, and fresh salads at pop-up stalls. Don't miss the thrill of a train ride on the Whitewater Valley Railroad—hop aboard for a scenic journey along the canal, past working mills and wildlife-rich valleys, with layover time to explore more. Families can stroll interpretive trails, watch canal lock demonstrations, or simply picnic by the aqueduct. Competitions might include strawberry-eating contests or baking showdowns, adding playful competition, while artisans demonstrate blacksmithing and weaving for an immersive historical touch.

Schedule & Logistics

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7, 2026, when Metamora Strawberry Days comes alive from morning through evening in Historic Downtown Metamora. Expect festivities to kick off around 9 or 10 AM each day, with strawberry shortcake stands and vendors opening early, live music starting midday, and peak crowds in the afternoon for train rides and performances. Key highlights include Whitewater Valley Railroad excursions—aligning with the festival, the Valley Flyer from Connersville arrives around noon for a two-hour layover perfect for event immersion, departing Metamora at 3:30 PM. The shorter Metamora Local runs frequently for quick canal tours. Admission is typically free to wander the streets, shop, and enjoy music, with nominal fees for train rides, shortcake, or special activities—affordable family fun. Parking is ample in nearby lots and along quiet roads; arrive early on weekends to snag spots. Dress comfortably for walking cobblestone paths, bring cash for vendors, and check local postings for exact times as the gentle summer weather enhances every moment.

History & Heritage

Metamora Strawberry Days honors Metamora's rich legacy as Indiana's only surviving canal town, rooted in the 1838 Whitewater Canal era that powered mills and commerce until railroads took over in the 1860s. The festival likely sprang from community traditions celebrating the June strawberry harvest, blending agrarian roots with the town's preservation efforts starting in the 20th century. As part of Franklin County's heritage scene, it has grown from modest local gatherings into a beloved annual draw, showcasing the 1983-preserved Whitewater Valley Railroad line—a nonprofit gem operating since 1974 on the old canal towpath. Founded by passionate locals and railroad enthusiasts, the event underscores Metamora's pivotal role in Indiana's transportation history, from canal boats to steam engines, fostering community pride and drawing thousands to sustain shops, mills, and trails. Over the years, it's evolved to highlight seasonal bounty amid historical spectacles, cementing its place as a heartfelt tribute to resilient Hoosier spirit.