Tri State Bluegrass Festival

The Tri State Bluegrass Festival is an annual event held at the Noble County Fairgrounds in Kendallville, Indiana, featuring bluegrass and Americana bands performing over Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. It offers covered seating, making it comfortable regardless of weather, and provides free admission for kids 15 and under with a paid adult ticket. Attendees can enjoy RV and tent camping on shaded grounds, enhancing the festival experience with an outdoor community vibe. The event spans multiple days—in 2025, it runs from May 22 to May 25.

Surrounding Area and Venue

The Noble County Fairgrounds is located at 580 Fair Street, Kendallville. The fairgrounds are noted for their scenic beauty and well-maintained facilities with an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere. This venue hosts many community events throughout the year, including fairs, festivals like the Northeastern Bluegrass Festival and Apple Festival, and is managed by the Noble County Community Fair Corporation, which provides support for various activities and offers facility rentals for events such as weddings and livestock shows.

Event Vibe

The Tri State Bluegrass Festival fosters a relaxed, family-oriented environment typical of traditional bluegrass gatherings. The combination of covered seating and shaded camping areas suggests a focus on comfort and immersion in music and community. With kids allowed free entry, it attracts families and bluegrass enthusiasts alike, creating an inclusive and festive atmosphere celebrating Americana culture and music heritage.

Activities and Schedule

While detailed daily scheduling for the 2025 festival is not explicitly available, the festival typically includes:

• Performances by multiple bluegrass and Americana bands spread over the Memorial Day or Labor Day weekend days.
• Opportunities for camping with RV and tent setups on shaded grounds.
• Covered seating areas for comfortable viewing of performances regardless of weather.
• Family-friendly amenities with free admission for children under 15 accompanied by adults.

The festival spans several days, often starting midday or afternoon and continuing through evenings with live music.

History and Founding

The Tri State Bluegrass Festival is one of multiple bluegrass events held in Noble County, reflecting the region’s rich tradition in Americana and bluegrass music. Founded to bring together regional and national bluegrass artists, it supports the local community by being hosted at the well-established Noble County Fairgrounds, a hub for seasonal and holiday events. The festival benefits from the involvement of local organizations like the Noble County Community Fair Corporation, which maintains the fairgrounds and organizes community-centric events year-round.

This festival exemplifies the cultural heritage of northeastern Indiana, promoting bluegrass music and fostering community ties among music fans and families with a well-organized, accessible event setting.