The North Judson Mint Festival is Indiana’s only mint-themed festival, held annually on Father’s Day weekend in North Judson, Indiana, a town known for its unique mint heritage. The event takes place at North Judson Park and downtown North Judson, offering a family-friendly, community-centered atmosphere with a focus on mint-related activities, local culture, and fun.

Surrounding Area and Vibe
North Judson is a small town in Starke County with strong agricultural roots, particularly in mint farming, which sets it apart as the only location in Indiana where mint is grown and celebrated. The festival reflects the town’s spirit of community pride, tradition, and neighborly connection. Attendees enjoy a welcoming, joyful vibe grounded in local heritage with an emphasis on family, farming, and small-town charm. The festival combines outdoor, hands-on experiences with music, crafts, and food, making it a beloved hometown event that draws both locals and visitors.

History and Founding
The festival is in its 48th year as of 2025, founded to celebrate the unique status of mint production in the area along with local agriculture. It traditionally happens on Father’s Day weekend, emphasizing family participation and community pride, with ongoing support from local groups and nonprofits.

Activities and Events
The festival runs from Friday through Sunday with a robust schedule that includes:

5K Run and 2 Mile Walk: The Herb Ufkes 5K Run and 2 Mile Walk start early Saturday morning with registration at 6:30 am and the race at 7 am, encouraging fitness and community involvement.
Cooking with Mint Contest: A unique competition where participants showcase creative mint-infused recipes, with registration Saturday morning and judging mid-morning.
Parade: Held Sunday afternoon, featuring the North Judson High School football team as grand marshals in 2025, alongside floats, local groups, and festive displays. Parade line-up begins early afternoon, with the event around 3 pm.
Car Show: Registration Saturday morning with judging and trophy presentation early afternoon attracts car enthusiasts.
Antique Tractor and Farm Toy Shows: Located at North Judson San Pierre Middle School and High School parking, celebrating agricultural heritage.
Carnival and Midway Rides: Fun for families, lasting throughout the weekend.
Food and Craft Vendors: A variety of local foods—especially mint-flavored or centered—plus handmade crafts available for purchase.
Entertainment and Music: Bands such as The Blue Hollar Band and Lomax Station perform at different times; there is also bingo and magic shows for diverse entertainment.
Pet Parade: A fun event for animal lovers on Saturday.
Golf Cart Poker Run: A leisurely game and drive event held on Saturday.
Dunk Tank Fundraiser: Supports local nonprofits and student groups.
Historical Society Booth: The Starke County Historical Society hosts a storytelling booth at the public library, encouraging shared local history and memories.

Schedule Highlights (Saturday June 14, 2025 - Central Time)

6:30 am: 5K and 2 Mile Walk registration
7:00 am: 5K Run / Walk start
7-11 am: Masonic Lodge Pancake Breakfast
8-11 am: Car Show registration
9-10:30 am: Mint cooking contest registration
9:30 am: Golf cart poker run registration
10 am-2 pm: Historical Society booth open
10 am: Golf cart poker run begins
11 am: Car show judging and cooking contest judging
1:30 pm: Car show trophy presentation
Afternoon: Carnival rides, live music, pet parade, and other family activities

Sunday June 15, 2025

Early afternoon: Parade line-up at high school parking lot
3:00 pm: Parade starts, featuring community groups and local heroes

Accessibility
The festival grounds at North Judson Park are handicapped accessible, ensuring inclusion for attendees with disabilities.

Contact information for further details is available through the festival’s official channels. The event’s strong community foundation, mint celebration focus, and diverse, family-friendly programming create a unique local festival experience.

About This Festival