Spirit of Monticello Festival

The Spirit of Monticello Festival is a lively summer event in Monticello, Indiana, held on June 21-22, 2024, at the Downtown Courthouse Square. It embodies a festive community atmosphere centered around celebrating summer with a diverse mix of activities including live music, craft vendors, food stands, crowd contests, a talent show, a motorcycle and classic car cruise-in, a 5K run, corn hole tournament, chainsaw carving, carnival games, and more. The event is designed to be family-friendly and handicapped accessible.

The vibe of the festival is vibrant and community-oriented, highlighting local culture and summer fun with both active and spectator activities that appeal to all ages. The setting in the historic downtown square surrounded by the courthouse contributes to a small-town welcoming atmosphere, ideal for social gathering and entertainment.

Key activities at the festival include:

• Live Music: Various performances showcasing local talent
• Craft Vendors: Offering handmade goods and unique crafts
• Food Stands: Featuring a variety of summer treats and meals
• Motorcycle and Classic Car Cruise In: A showcase and parade of vintage vehicles
• 5K Run: A community race event for runners of all levels
• Corn Hole Tournament: Friendly competitive bean bag tossing games
• Talent Show: Community members display their skills in various performances
• Chainsaw Carving: Demonstrations of wood sculpting with chainsaws
• Carnival Games: Fun games suitable for children and families
• Crowd Contests: Interactive competitions encouraging audience participation

A rough schedule typically spreads these activities over the two days, with the 5K run often occurring in the morning, live music and carnival games throughout the afternoon and evening, the Cruise In usually in the midday to afternoon, and the talent show featuring performances spaced during prime times to attract crowds. Chainsaw carving demos and craft vendor booths remain accessible during most of the festival hours.

Regarding history, the Spirit of Monticello Festival was founded to celebrate the community and the onset of summer, aiming to bring residents and visitors together and showcase local culture and talents. It has grown over the years to become a signature event in White County's western region, appreciated for its variety and family-friendly approach.

Overall, the event exemplifies a traditional small-town summer festival with a broad range of recreational and entertainment options designed to appeal to diverse interests and age groups.