North Judson Mint Festival ## About the Event The North Judson Mint Festival is a beloved Father's Day weekend celebration that honors the unique agricultural heritage of this small Indiana town. Held annually in mid-June, this festival draws visitors from across the region to celebrate mint farming—a crop that thrives in this particular area in ways it cannot elsewhere. What makes this festival truly special is its deep connection to local history and community pride. The event creates a warm, family-friendly atmosphere where generations gather to enjoy live music, sample mint-infused treats, browse local crafts, and participate in activities that celebrate both the plant and the people who've made North Judson their home. The festival captures the spirit of small-town Indiana, where neighbors come together to share their heritage and create lasting memories. Whether you're a longtime visitor or discovering the festival for the first time, you'll find yourself welcomed into a celebration that feels both festive and genuinely rooted in community values. ## The Surrounding Area North Judson is a charming town of about 1,850 residents located in Starke County in north-central Indiana, positioned at the intersection of State Roads 10 and 39. The town's history stretches back to 1859, when it was originally platted as Brantwood before being renamed North Judson in honor of William D. Judson, president of the Cincinnati & Chicago Railroad. This rich railroad heritage remains part of the town's identity today. Beyond the festival, visitors can explore the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum, a cultural gem dedicated to American railroad history. The museum offers old-fashioned train rides on Saturdays that take passengers on a scenic journey to English Lake, where the Kankakee and Yellow Rivers meet, before returning to the museum. The area's natural beauty and small-town charm make it an ideal destination for those seeking authentic Midwestern experiences away from urban centers. ## Activities & Attractions The North Judson Mint Festival offers something for everyone across its three-day weekend celebration. Live musicians perform throughout the weekend on a stage at Norwayne Field, the festival's primary venue—a beautiful Works Progress Administration-built park situated at the intersection of State Roads 10 and 39. Attendees can enjoy a diverse array of activities and attractions, including: - Cooking demonstrations and tastings featuring mint-infused dishes and beverages

• Family-friendly activities designed for children and visitors of all ages
• A car show showcasing classic and vintage automobiles
• Carnival rides and entertainment
• Food vendors offering festival favorites and local specialties
• Craft vendors displaying handmade goods and local artisan products
• A 5K run and 2-mile walk on Saturday for fitness enthusiasts
• A pet parade on Saturday, a delightful opportunity to show off your furry friends
• A community parade on Sunday ## History & Heritage The North Judson Mint Festival was born from celebration and community spirit. In 1976, when the United States celebrated its Bicentennial, North Judson hosted a memorable party that was so successful that residents decided to make it an annual tradition. Rather than simply repeating the same celebration, organizers chose to highlight something unique to their region: mint farming. Mint is an unusual crop in that it thrives in only certain geographical areas, and north-central Indiana is one of the few places in the United States where it grows exceptionally well. This distinctive agricultural heritage became the perfect theme for the festival. The festival has grown into one of the longest-running celebrations in North Judson's history, surpassing even earlier harvest festivals and muck crop shows. Today, it stands as the second-oldest mint festival in the entire United States, a testament to its enduring appeal and the community's commitment to preserving and celebrating their agricultural legacy.