About This Festival

Old Court Days is one of Madison, Indiana's longest-running community festivals, held annually on the fourth full weekend of September at the Jefferson County Courthouse Square. The 2025 event takes place from Friday, September 26 through Sunday, September 28, offering free family fun featuring a wide variety of handcrafted arts, woodwork, collectibles, crafts, antiques, and diverse food booths. The festival is fully handicapped accessible and sponsored by the Madison Pilot Club, with vendor space costing $125 per festival.

Event Atmosphere and Surroundings:
The festival is set around the historic courthouse square, extending through nearby Jefferson and Second Streets plus the city parking lot. This downtown area provides a charming small-town ambiance with a historic courthouse as the centerpiece, fostering a friendly, community-focused vibe that mixes local culture with arts and crafts. Event proceeds benefit the local community, enhancing its communal spirit.

Activities and Offerings:

  • Vendors presenting unique handmade items and woodwork
  • Collectibles, antiques, and a broad array of crafts
  • Multiple food booths offering various culinary options
  • A special highlight includes a Saturday Fish Fry hosted by the Fairplay Fire Company near the event
  • All activities are family-friendly and accessible to those with disabilities

Event Schedule:

  • Friday: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (includes Fish Fry event)
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

History and Founding:
Old Court Days has long been a hallmark event in Madison, recognized as one of the town's longest-running festivals. While exact founding details are not specified, it traditionally occurs every year on the fourth full weekend of September and is organized by the Madison Pilot Club, a local community organization that supports charitable projects and community engagement.

In short, Old Court Days is a free, family-friendly, arts and crafts festival rooted in community spirit with a rich local tradition, held in a picturesque historic courthouse setting with a diverse offering of vendors and food, anchored by a supportive and welcoming atmosphere.