Old Town Waverly Park Festival

The Old Town Waverly Park Festival is a family-friendly event held September 27-28, 2025, in Martinsville, Indiana, at Old Town Park at Waverly. It celebrates the past, present, and future of Morgan County with a variety of activities including artisan demonstrations, a historic backwoodsmen camp, live animals, craft vendors specializing in handmade goods, diverse food options, live local music, golf cart tours of the historical area, kids’ activities, and a car and tractor show.

The festival features educational reenactments and demonstrations such as blacksmithing, weaving, and other traditional crafts where artisans often engage visitors by actively demonstrating their craft. Craft vendors must handmake their items and are encouraged to demonstrate their work during the event. The focus is on authentic, artisanal, and family-appropriate products and experiences.

The vibe is described as lively and educational, infused with the sounds of talented musicians and the aroma of festival foods, creating a nostalgic atmosphere reflective of Indiana’s history. It offers entertainment and activities suited for all ages—with games and challenges for children and interactive history-themed exhibits for adults, creating a welcoming community environment.

Typical activities and elements of the festival include:

• Artisan Demonstrations: Blacksmithing, weaving, painting, and other crafts where artists actively demonstrate traditional techniques.
• Historic Camp: A backwoodsmen encampment recreating life from earlier times, often with live animals on-site.
• Craft Vendors: Booths selling handmade crafts, emphasizing originality and artistic quality.
• Food Vendors: Offering a variety of local and festival foods.
• Live Music: Performances by local musicians throughout the day.
• Golf Cart Tours: Guided tours of the historical Old Town Waverly area.
• Kids’ Activities: Period games and challenges designed for young visitors.
• Car and Tractor Show: Exhibits of vintage vehicles adding to the historical ambiance.

A rough schedule would typically have the festival open in the morning through late afternoon both days, with continuous artisan demonstrations and live music performances scheduled intermittently. The car and tractor show is ongoing during festival hours, and golf cart tours likely run at regular intervals throughout the day.

Founded to celebrate the heritage and culture of Morgan County, the festival takes place at the original site of Old Town Waverly, a historical location by the White River, blending history with community engagement through live presentations, crafts, and entertainment. Accessibility is provided for handicapped visitors, ensuring an inclusive event for all.

Contact is available via Morgan County Parks and Recreation, who organize the event, for vendor applications, detailed schedules, and visitor information. The festival emphasizes a mix of education, entertainment, and community arts, making it a distinctive regional celebration honoring local history and craftsmanship.