Touch of Dutch Festival, Parade & Car Show

About the Event

Step into a day of pure Midwestern charm at the Touch of Dutch Festival, Parade & Car Show in DeMotte, Indiana, where Dutch heritage meets small-town fun on August 8, 2026. This beloved one-day extravaganza at Spencer Park transforms the renovated green space into a vibrant hub of laughter, flavors, and festivities, celebrating the area's Dutch roots with wooden shoe dancers, traditional baked goods, and a lively parade that winds through town. What makes it special is the warm, inclusive vibe—families picnicking under shady trees, car enthusiasts polishing their classics, and everyone savoring homemade treats while live music fills the air. People flock here for the sense of community, the mouthwatering food scene, and that perfect blend of nostalgia and excitement that leaves you smiling and already planning next year. ## The Surrounding Area
Nestled in northern Jasper County, DeMotte is a welcoming rural gem named after Civil War hero Mark DeMotte, blending rich history with easygoing appeal. Spencer Park, the festival's heart, shines with its recent upgrades, including a town pool, the fascinating Depot Museum chronicling local lore, and regular summer perks like Wednesday farmers markets and Thursday outdoor movies with free popcorn. Beyond the park, golf lovers tee off at the stunning Sandy Pines Golf Course, complete with a sports grill and pavilion for relaxed hangs. Dining delights abound: dig into slow-smoked BBQ at Bub's, savor specialty pizzas and wings at Sandy Pines Sports Grill, or grab gourmet meats and salads from Yesteryear's Meats and Specialty Shoppe. Nearby, Northwest Indiana tempts with Indiana Dunes beaches, Fair Oaks Farms adventures, and bison herds at Kankakee Sands—making DeMotte an ideal base for exploring lakeside beaches, hiking trails, and farm-fresh fun just a short drive away. ## Activities & Attractions
This festival packs endless joy for all ages with a delicious focus on food and drink. Kick off with a hearty pancake breakfast, then cheer on runners in the 5K race before the highlight parade rolls by with colorful floats and marchers. At Spencer Park, dive into the classic car show showcasing gleaming vintage rides, perfect for photos and chats with owners. Food booths overflow with Dutch specialties like fresh-baked goods, plus hearty fair favorites, all paired with a refreshing beer garden. Browse craft booths for unique handmade treasures, let kids unleash energy at dedicated play zones, and tap your toes to free live entertainment ranging from bands to folk performances. Don't miss the enchanting wooden shoe dancers clacking through traditional routines, bringing Dutch culture alive amid the festive buzz—truly something for every taste and tempo. ## Schedule & Logistics
The fun unfolds on Saturday, August 8, 2026, typically starting early with a pancake breakfast and 5K race around 8 AM, followed by the parade at 10 AM sharp. Head to Spencer Park afterward for the car show, vendors, kids' activities, beer garden, and live music running through the afternoon and evening—expect the main action from 11 AM until dusk. Admission is free, embracing all visitors, with plenty of parking at the spacious, family-friendly park. Arrive early for prime spots near the action, pack sunscreen and lawn chairs, and come ready for a full, relaxed day in the Indiana sunshine. ## History & Heritage
Rooted in DeMotte's Dutch immigrant legacy, the Touch of Dutch Festival has been a community cornerstone since its early days on the second Saturday in August, honoring the hardworking families who shaped Jasper County. Founded by local enthusiasts to preserve cultural traditions amid the town's growth from a Civil War veteran's vision into a thriving hub, it's blossomed into a must-attend tradition drawing crowds from across Northwest Indiana. Over the years, it's evolved from simple gatherings to this polished spectacle, blending heritage dances and treats with modern twists like car shows and races. For residents, it's more than an event—it's a heartfelt celebration of unity, history, and that enduring Dutch spirit that keeps DeMotte's heart beating strong.