About This Festival

The Wabash Founder's Festival is a cultural and heritage event held in Wabash, Indiana, celebrating the history and amenities of the city with family-friendly activities, vendors, and a parade on Saturday at 3 pm. It takes place in Downtown Wabash and Paradise Spring Historical Park from September 12 to 13, 2025, and is handicapped accessible.

Surrounding Area and Vibe

The event is centered around the historic downtown area and Paradise Spring Historical Park, which provide a scenic and historically rich backdrop. The vibe of the festival is festive, family-friendly, and community-oriented, with a focus on local heritage, crafts, and food. It includes interactive historical reenactments and a variety of stalls offering arts, crafts, and food, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for attendees of all ages.

Activities and Events

  • Friday, September 12 (Evening)

    • Bill Osborne Memorial Cruise-In: A classic car cruise-in from 5-8 pm, featuring vintage and custom vehicles.

  • Saturday, September 13 (Daytime)

    • Militia and Historical Reenactments:

      • 9:15 am: Militia prepare for the Raising of Colors
      • 9:30 am: Raising of Colors ceremony
      • 9:45 am: Breakfast with the Militia
      • 11:00 am: First performance of the 1826 Play, a historical drama
      • 11:30 am: Story sharing by local performers and guests
      • 12:00 pm: Militia drill demonstration
      • 1:00 pm: Second performance of the 1826 Play
      • 4:30 pm: Lowering of the colors to close the day’s ceremonies

    • Vendor Village & Market (10 am - 5 pm):

      • Local artisans and craftspeople featuring wood creations, jewelry, soaps, resin art, quilts, photography, and various handmade crafts.
      • Food trucks and pioneer village food offerings such as kettle corn, pulled pork, and ham & beans.
      • Demonstrations like broom making, cooking in the Old Trappers' cabin, and cattail reed weaving.

    • Kids Zone at Paradise Spring:

      • Giant yard games
      • Bubble stations
      • Rock painting
      • WCPL Storywalk (a storytelling trail)
      • Waypoint Kickball Tournament (lower Paradise Spring, wristband $5, free for some activities)

    • Parade at 3:00 pm:

      • The parade runs through the downtown route from Canal Street to Huntington Street and then Market Street.
      • Showcases community groups, floats, bands, and local celebrations.

History and Founding

The Wabash Founder's Festival highlights the city’s foundation and early history, with a particular emphasis on local heritage and community pride. It integrates historical reenactments, including the 1826 Play, that depict early events relevant to Wabash’s establishment. The festival has grown to include a broad array of vendors, food, and family events, making it a highlight of the area’s cultural calendar.

Summary Schedule and Locations

Day & Time Event Location
Fri, Sept 12 5-8 pm Bill Osborne Memorial Cruise-In Downtown Wabash
Sat, Sept 13 9:15 am Militia prepare for Raising of Colors Paradise Spring
Sat, Sept 13 9:30 am Raising of Colors Paradise Spring
Sat, Sept 13 9:45 am Breakfast with the Militia Paradise Spring
Sat, Sept 13 10 am - 3 pm WCPL Storywalk, giant yard games, bubbles, rock painting Paradise Spring
Sat, Sept 13 10 am - 5 pm Vendor Village and Food Trucks Downtown Wabash, Market St
Sat, Sept 13 11 am & 1 pm 1826 Play Performances Paradise Spring
Sat, Sept 13 11:30 am Story sharing with performers Paradise Spring
Sat, Sept 13 12 pm Militia Drill Paradise Spring
Sat, Sept 13 3 pm Annual Parade Downtown Wabash (Canal to Huntington to Market St)
Sat, Sept 13 4:30 pm Lowering of the Colors Paradise Spring

This festival is well-rooted in the celebration of Wabash’s heritage, combining historical education, community pride, and entertainment in a family-friendly environment.