Quaker Days Festival ## About the Event Quaker Days Festival is a beloved free community celebration that transforms Plainfield into a vibrant hub of entertainment, culture, and family fun over four spectacular days in September. This cherished event captures the heart and spirit of small-town Indiana, bringing together residents and visitors for a weekend filled with live music, exciting performances, delicious food, and activities for every age. What makes Quaker Days truly special is its perfect blend of nostalgia and modern entertainment—from traditional parade celebrations to cutting-edge drone light shows that illuminate the evening sky. The festival's commitment to remaining free and accessible to everyone reflects the welcoming, inclusive values of the Plainfield community itself. ## The Surrounding Area Nestled in Hendricks County just west of Indianapolis, Plainfield offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and convenient access to big-city attractions. The town itself is known for being a safe, vibrant community with plenty of shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities. Visitors will find The Shops at Perry Crossing, an outdoor lifestyle mall featuring a movie theater, diverse restaurants, and extensive shopping options. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Plainfield boasts an impressive parks and trails system, including the scenic Hummel Park with its well-maintained biking trails and Sodalis Nature Park, perfect for nature walks and peaceful afternoon hikes. Beyond Plainfield's borders, the proximity to Indianapolis means visitors can easily explore world-class attractions like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, and the Lucas Oil Stadium. The Oasis Diner in downtown Plainfield offers a charming step back in time with classic American dining, while the area features everything from craft breweries like Brew Link Brewing to family-friendly chains and ethnic cuisine options. ## Activities & Attractions The Quaker Days Festival lineup promises something for everyone. The parade is the centerpiece event, bringing the community together in a traditional celebration of local pride and spirit. The festival's modern twist comes in the form of spectacular drone shows that paint the night sky with synchronized light displays—a mesmerizing experience that appeals to tech enthusiasts and families alike. Food lovers will delight in the variety of food trucks offering everything from classic festival fare to gourmet options. The craft festival showcases local artisans and vendors, making it an ideal opportunity to discover handmade goods and support small businesses. Live music performances throughout the festival grounds provide the soundtrack to your weekend, with genres and artists rotating to appeal to diverse musical tastes. For the athletically inclined, the festival includes a marathon event, combining fitness with community spirit. Beyond these headline attractions, expect carnival games, family activities, shopping opportunities, and the kind of spontaneous street entertainment that makes community festivals memorable. ## Schedule & Logistics Quaker Days Festival runs from September 17-20, 2026, with events distributed across multiple locations throughout Plainfield. As a free event, there's no admission cost to enjoy the festivities. The festival's multiple-location format allows visitors to explore different areas of town, discovering new shops, restaurants, and attractions along the way. Parking is readily available throughout Plainfield, and the town's compact, walkable layout makes it easy to navigate between events. ## History & Heritage The Quaker Days Festival celebrates Plainfield's historical roots and community identity. The festival's name pays homage to the area's Quaker heritage, reflecting the values of community, simplicity, and togetherness that have defined the region for generations. Over the years, Quaker Days has grown from a modest local celebration into a major regional event while maintaining its emphasis on free, family-friendly entertainment and genuine community connection. The festival's evolution—from traditional parade to incorporating modern attractions like drone shows—demonstrates how Plainfield honors its past while embracing the future.