Everyone loves a late-summer, small-town festival. Steeped in traditions, entertainment, charity and good food, the Quaker Day Festival delivers on all fronts. This year's festival will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21 at Plainfield Friends Church.
Aside from being one of the last times to enjoy the Indiana fall weather in 2024, check out our top reasons to add this event to your family's social calendar this September!
1. Quaker Day Parade
Organized by the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce, the parade has become a staple in Plainfield's annual events with more than 70 floats. Beginning at 10 a.m. and traveling along its usual route on U.S. 40, this is an opportunity for many local non-profits, businesses and groups to take center stage and introduce themselves to the community.
2. Craft & Food Vendors
What started in the 1970s as a simple "Church Mouse Sale" at the Plainfield Friends Meeting Church has evolved into a rich tradition of arts, crafts and culinary delights.
Today, the festival includes a bustling craft sale, delicious pork chops and lamb burgers in the church, and food trucks from around central Indiana - continuing its legacy of supporting local missions and community gatherings.
3. Entertainment & Other Activities
The Quaker Day Festival organizers wanted to expand this year's festival beyond one day. So, while most of the usual parts of the festival happen on Sept. 21, there's more to experience over multiple days including:
- Music on Main free concert - 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19 at Plainfield Friends Church. The American West Band will perform.
- Levi Riggs concert - 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21 at Hendricks Live! Purchase tickets.
- Back Your Badge Marathon & 5K - 7:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 22, Downtown Plainfield. Registration
4. Car Show
Join the Quaker Day Car Show to enjoy or display vintage cars, with each $15 entry fee benefiting the HandiCapable Camp. The festival not only supports local craftspeople and businesses but also contributes to various local groups and charities, making it a meaningful community event that combines fun, philanthropy and local pride.
Just the Details
- What: Plainfield Quaker Day Festival & Parade
- When: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 21 with the parade starting at 10 a.m.
- Where: Plainfield Friends Meeting Church, Plainfield, Indiana.
- Admission: FREE! But bring along cash to shop all the local vendors on-site as well as food trucks and the car show.
