Old Fashion Day Festival

About the Event

Step back into a simpler era at the Old Fashion Day Festival, a beloved Terre Haute tradition that captures the charm of yesteryear right in the heart of Collett Park. On Sunday, September 20, 2026, this nostalgic celebration invites families, history buffs, and community lovers to immerse themselves in vintage vibes with craft vendors, lively music, horse-drawn wagon rides, a sparkling car show, enchanting live animal and puppet shows, and even free ham and beans while supplies last. What makes it truly special is its warm, wholesome atmosphere—think laughter echoing through tree-lined paths, the scent of homemade treats in the air, and generations mingling under the autumn sun. Free admission and full handicap accessibility ensure everyone can join the fun, creating joyful memories that keep locals returning year after year and newcomers eager to discover this slice of Indiana heartland magic. ## The Surrounding Area
Nestled in Terre Haute, Vigo County's vibrant hub along the Wabash River, the festival unfolds at Collett Park (2414 N 7th St), a lush, historic green space perfect for outdoor revelry. Terre Haute buzzes with Midwestern pride, blending industrial heritage from its coal-mining and railroad past with modern energy as home to Indiana State University. Nearby, explore the Vigo County History Center for captivating tales of the Old National Road or the Terre Haute Symphony's century-old legacy. Foodies will love downtown spots like the historic Terre Haute Brewing Company, Indiana's oldest operating brewery, serving craft brews and hearty pub fare, or Terminal Public House for cozy gatherings. Stroll to Clabber Girl headquarters for baking history or catch riverfront views—making this corner of Indiana an inviting gateway to authentic, welcoming Wabash Valley hospitality. ## Activities & Attractions
This family-friendly extravaganza brims with old-time delights designed to spark wonder across all ages:

• Craft Vendors and Hands-On Fun: Browse unique handmade goods, try pottery demonstrations, and get creative with face painting for kids.
• Live Music and Performances: Groove to toe-tapping tunes from local bands, plus captivating puppet shows and live animal exhibits that delight young and old.
• Classic Car Show: Admire gleaming vintage autos polished to perfection, a highlight for gearheads and nostalgia seekers.
• Wagon Rides: Hop aboard horse-drawn wagons for a gentle, scenic trot through the park, evoking pioneer days.
• Free Ham and Beans: Savor steaming bowls of this hearty classic Hoosier dish—first come, first served, so arrive hungry!
  From the 38th annual edition's lineup, expect a full day of interactive, low-key joys that blend craftsmanship, entertainment, and community spirit, with plenty of shaded spots to relax and soak it all in. ## Schedule & Logistics
  Mark your calendar for Sunday, September 20, 2026, from morning through late afternoon at Collett Park—gates open early for a relaxed pace, with major attractions like the car show, music sets, and wagon rides kicking off around 10 a.m. and peaking midday for puppet shows and animal demos. Free beans flow while supplies last, typically until early afternoon. Admission is completely free, with handicap-accessible paths, restrooms, and seating throughout. Ample free parking surrounds the park, and rideshares drop off nearby; pack sunscreen, lawn chairs, and cash for vendors. Easy access via N 7th St makes it a breeze for day-trippers from across Vigo County. ## History & Heritage
  Rooted in Terre Haute's rich tapestry of community traditions, the Old Fashion Day Festival has enchanted visitors for nearly four decades, with the 38th annual event set for 2026. Hosted by the Terre Haute Parks Department in picturesque Collett Park—a gem named for local benefactor Josephus Collett—it honors the Wabash Valley's pioneer spirit, evoking the hands-on ingenuity of 19th-century Indiana life. Starting as a modest nod to bygone days amid the city's railroad and coal boom, it has blossomed into a cherished ritual, drawing crowds eager to celebrate Vigo County's enduring heritage. Much like nearby festivals preserving Italian mining legacies or Old National Road lore, Old Fashion Day weaves education and joy, strengthening neighborhood bonds and passing down stories of resilience to new generations. It's more than an event—it's a living tribute to what makes Terre Haute timelessly welcoming.