Paragon Homecoming Festival

The Paragon Homecoming Festival is an established community event held annually in Paragon, Indiana. The 101st edition will take place from August 29 to August 31, 2025, at the intersection of Union and Main Streets, located in Morgan County’s Central region. This family-friendly festival offers a wide range of activities including carnival rides, games, food and craft vendors, live entertainment, a parade, a car show, and a queen contest. The festival is handicapped accessible and aims to provide fun and entertainment for all ages.

Festival Atmosphere and Surroundings:
The event is set in the small-town environment of Paragon, creating a welcoming and nostalgic vibe typical of long-standing local traditions. Streets are animated with colorful rides and booths, crowds enjoying food and games, and communal areas hosting music and performances. The gathering fosters a strong sense of community and family fun, making it ideal for visitors looking to engage in classic festival experiences.

Activities and Attractions:

• Carnival Rides: Various rides suitable for children and adults alike.
• Games: Booths with traditional carnival games.
• Food Vendors: A diverse selection of food and drink options, typical of festival fare.
• Craft Vendors: Local artisans showcase their handmade goods.
• Live Entertainment: Free nightly performances featuring local musicians and entertainers.
• Parade: A community parade that is a highlight of the festival.
• Car Show: Display of classic and custom cars.
• Queen Contest: A contest selecting a festival queen, adding a pageant element.

Rough Schedule:

• Friday, August 29: Festival opening with carnival rides, food vendors starting in the afternoon, queen contest and evening live entertainment.
• Saturday, August 30: Full day of activities including rides, games, the parade (usually mid-morning to midday), car show, craft vendors, and evening live music.
• Sunday, August 31: Continued rides and games with a focus on family activities and final entertainment performances in the evening.

History and Founding:
The Paragon Homecoming Festival has been celebrated for over 100 years, marking it as one of the oldest community festivals in the region. It started as a gathering to bring together residents and those with ties to Paragon in a homecoming style reunion, promoting local pride and civic engagement. Over the decades, it has grown to include more varied entertainment and attractions but maintains its roots as a family-oriented hometown celebration.

Contact for more information is available by phone at (765) 318-0899 or via email at [email protected]. The festival's official website provides updates and details on events. The event is fully handicapped accessible, ensuring inclusion for all attendees.