As we usher in the new year, Hendricks County, Indiana, is gearing up for an exciting calendar of events that promises to make 2024 a year to remember. From thrilling outdoor adventures to captivating indoor activities, exhilarating auto racing to delightful shopping and dining experiences, our communities are set to host an array of events that cater to every interest and preference.
Whether you're a local resident or planning a visit to Hendricks County, our curated list will guide you through our top events in 2024.
While we strive to provide accurate details, please be aware that event specifics may be subject to change. We recommend checking the event websites for the latest updates before heading out to ensure you don't miss any of the action.
1. Indiana Fishing Expo
Date: Feb. 3-4, 2024
Where: Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex, Danville
Jump into the exciting world of fishing at the Indiana Fishing Expo 2024 — the go-to event for all things fishing in the region. With 90 vendors, more than 140 vendor spaces, interesting speakers and educational sessions, this expo is the place to be for fishing fans.
Check out fishing gear, learn about many different species of fish and speak to local guides and outfitters about various waters. Whether you're a pro or just starting out, this event offers a fantastic journey into the fishing scene.
You can learn more about this event by clicking here.
2. Maple Syrup Days
Date: March 2 & 9, 2024
Where: McCloud Nature Park, North Salem
Experience the magic of nature's sweet transformation at Hendricks County Parks & Recreation's 15th Annual Maple Syrup Days, held on the first two Saturdays in March from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Immerse yourself in the surroundings of McCloud Nature Park, where sugar maple trees produce a winter treasure — sap with high sugar content. As temperatures rise, witness the fascinating process of sap collection guided by dedicated park staff and volunteers.
How do they know which trees to use? How do they collect the sap? How do they turn that natural sweetness into syrup? How is all-natural maple syrup different from the syrup you buy in plastic bottles at the grocery store? How has maple syrup been made in the past?
You will find answers to all those questions by grabbing your favorite flannel and heading to McCloud Nature Park in early March to enjoy this free family-friendly event.
3. Geek Meet Indy
Date: March 3, 2024
Where: Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex, Danville
Geek Meet Indy is a spin-off of the Indiana Toy and Comic Expo where you can find some of the best vendors and creators of toys, games and more in the Midwest. This event distinguishes itself by focusing on local vendors rather than celebrities, ensuring an authentic and accessible experience free from high-priced admissions.
From 10 a.m.-4 p.m., the lineup of local vendors includes some of the most imaginative creators around including Ideas from Mars, Grim Comics, Toy Buzz & Fizz, Pixel Dan, ManOrMonster? Studios and more.
4. Solar Eclipse
Date: April 8, 2024
Where: Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Brownsburg
Gear up for a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle as Hendricks County becomes the focal point for the next North American total solar eclipse. Each of our towns will be in the path of totality and experience over three minutes of total eclipse starting at approximately 3:06 p.m.
Join Visit Hendricks County and the Town of Brownsburg at the Race to the Eclipse event at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. Secure a front-row seat by purchasing a camping pass for access to the IRP Campground area starting on Sunday, April 7. The celebration on April 8th features a fun-filled lineup, including a morning 5K fun run, live music, tasty local food, family-friendly activities and the thrilling Eclipse Dragstrip Races starting at 1:00 p.m.
A few other locations the public can enjoy the eclipse in Hendricks County include at The Shops at Perry Crossing in Plainfield, Beasley's Orchard in Danville, Hendricks Live! in Plainfield and Ms. B's Teas in Clayton.
5. Indiana Guitar Show
Date: April 13-14, 2024
Where: Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex, Danville
The Indiana Guitar Show is the largest buy-and-sell music product event in all of Indiana. Dealers assemble to showcase and facilitate the exchange of a diverse array of musical gear. Beyond a marketplace, the show provides a dynamic platform for musicians to engage in buying, selling and swapping equipment of all kinds, fostering a vibrant community of both local and national dealers.
Held twice a year, the Guitar Show will host its fall show at the same location at a date to be determined in September.
6. Cleetus & Cars
Date: May 4-5, 2024
Where: Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Brownsburg
Cleetus & Cars has rapidly ascended to become a local favorite and returns for its fourth event at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in 2024.
Spearheaded by social media sensation “Cleetus McFarland,” the event is renowned for its exhilarating burnout contests and the adrenaline-pumping Indy 800 — showcasing identically prepared Ford Crown Victoria cars in a unique spectacle on the oval track.
7. Carb Night Classic & Hoosier Hundred
Date: May 24, 2024
Where: Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Brownsburg
A rainout in 2023 pushed the Hoosier Hundred to the same day as the Carb Night Classic. IRP organizer decided to continue with one massive day of racing in 2024 to further the annual Memorial Day Weekend festivities in the “Racing Capital of the World.”
The oval track will roar with the speed, smells and sounds of the USF Pro Championship’s USF Pro 2000 and USF2000, as well as a 30-lap National Pavement Midget Championship feature and a USAC Silver Crown National Championship race.
The 71st running of the prestigious Hoosier Hundred will feature a 100-mile, 146-lap USAC Silver Crown race. It's also one of the richest payouts in Silver Crown racing with a purse of nearly $100,000 and $25,000 to the winner. NASCAR Champion Kyle Larson won the 69th running of the event while six other winners of the Hoosier Hundred have also taken the checkered flag in the Indianapolis 500 -- A.J. Foyt, Al Unser, Parnelli Jones, Mario Andretti, Rodger Ward, Jimmy Bryan and Bob Sweikert.
To celebrate the entire race weekend in Indianapolis, IRP will offer free primitive camping to all race fans for the entire weekend.
8. Indy Tattoo Expo
Date: June 14-16, 2024
Where: Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex, Danville
The Indy Tattoo Expo is staying in Hendricks County this year thanks to event organizer Chris Taylor — an esteemed tattoo artist, enthusiast and dedicated collector of tattoo history.
With 28 years of experience in the industry, Taylor's vision is set to elevate the art of tattooing to new heights.
The expo boasts a lineup of elite tattoo artists from across the globe, live entertainment, diverse vendors, tattoo contests and much more.
9. Amo Fish Fry Festival
Date: TBA (Mid-June)
Where: Mill Creek West Elementary School, Amo
Mark your calendars for the much anticipated 73rd annual Amo Fish Fry Festival, an immensely popular event set for three days in mid-June.
While the specific dates for the 2024 edition are yet to be announced, this festival promises to be a highlight of the summer calendar, offering a perfect blend of community spirit and entertaining activities.
This year’s festival will be filled with live music, tasty food, bounce houses for the kids, a car show, an antique tractor and equipment display, a parade and a spectacular fireworks finale.
Hosted by the Amo Volunteer Fire Department and the Cascade Youth League, this event not only promises a good time but also provides an opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause. By participating, you'll be supporting both groups and helping raise funds that will be utilized throughout 2024.
10. Hendricks County Rib-Fest & BBQ
Date: June 29, 2024
Where: Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex, Danville
Prepare your taste buds for one of the most-anticipated local events of the summer, the Hendricks County Rib-Fest BBQ! The local tradition since 2005 will take place the Saturday before Independence Day at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds in Danville.
Rib-Fest has become an annual tradition and features games for kids, plenty of local food and fireworks! Local restaurants compete for bragging rights of "best ribs" & "best sauce" as judged by a few lucky local tasters.
You may want cut calories leading into the day’s festivities, so start the morning by participating in the 9th annual 5K Rib Run/Walk. Don't worry, kids can also participate in the Riblet Rub which is a fun, 1/4-mile run. And because we are celebrating the county's Bicentennial this year, live music on stage returns!
11. Hendricks County 4-H Fair
Date: July 14-20, 2024
Where: Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex, Danville
The week-long Hendricks County 4-H Fair occurs every July in Danville and offers tons of family fun. This year's theme will be all about the county's Bicentennial.
So, attendees can anticipate a little history and celebrating 200 years to go along with the usual array of action-packed motorsports, thrilling carnival rides, a chance to connect with farm animals and an assortment of fair food to satisfy every palate.
More information will be added to the Hendricks County 4-H Fair website as the event draws closer.
12. NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series TSPORT 200
Date: July 19, 2024
Where: Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Brownsburg
Get ready for a heart-pounding return as the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series comes back to IRP for a third-consecutive year. The excitement kicks off with the TSport 200 under the dazzling lights on Friday, accompanied by the ARCA Menards Series Reese’s 200, setting the stage for a premier week of auto racing action in Indianapolis.
This event brings NASCAR's three national touring series to town, promising a spectacular weekend of speed, skill and unforgettable moments.
The racing frenzy continues as the Xfinity Series takes on the monster 2.5-mile oval at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Saturday, leading up to the grand finale with the Cup Series on Sunday.
This race will also serve as the opening round of the 2024 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Playoffs.
13. NHRA U.S. Nationals
Date: Aug. 28-Sept. 2, 2024
Where: Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Brownsburg
Rev your engines for the 70th Annual NHRA U.S. Nationals, a longstanding tradition at IRP over Labor Day weekend. This marks the 62nd consecutive year that the World's Biggest Drag Race™ will thrill audiences in Hendricks County.
The Big Go is not just any race — it's the final opportunity for drivers to qualify for the NHRA Countdown to the Championship, ensuring that the sport's biggest stars will take the tree for an adrenaline-pumping spectacle.
As always, fans will have the opportunity to interact with their favorite drivers, as Every Ticket’s a Pit Pass® at the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet.
14. North Salem Old Fashion Days
Date: Aug. 31-Sept. 2, 2024
Where: Downtown North Salem
Labor Day weekend also brings us North Salem Old Fashion Days in downtown North Salem. This annual event, steeped in tradition, is renowned for its fun-loving contests, featuring the county's longest parade on Saturday morning and the exhilarating annual bed races through the heart of town — a true spectacle — on Monday.
There are always a ton of craft and food vendors, so bring your shopping shoes and your eating pants. The final day will start with a 5K run/walk, a 10K run and a bike ride to support the B&O Trail.
This festival offers small-town Americana at its finest all while greeting you with a smile and ushering you in for a weekend full of food, fun and lively entertainment.
15. Back Your Badge Run
Date: Sept. 22, 2024
Where: Richard A. Carlucci Recreation & Aquatic Center, Plainfield
Show your unwavering support for all public safety agencies at the second annual Back Your Badge marathon, half marathon and 5K walk/run. Police, Fire and Communications departments unite in this event, inviting participants to join the cause.
Choose your distance and explore a dynamic course that encompasses historic U.S. 40, Plainfield Parks Trail System and routes past local police stations, fire stations and communications centers. For every mile you run or walk, contribute to the running total for the agency of your choice, with the one accumulating the most miles earning coveted bragging rights and a prestigious traveling trophy.
All proceeds directly benefit public safety beneficent programs, the Plainfield Youth Assistance Program and the Hendricks College Network.
16. Heartland Apple Festival
Date: Oct. 5-6 & 12-13, 2024
Where: Beasley’s Orchard, Danville
Beasley's Orchard is renowned for its fall activities with the annual Heartland Apple Festival standing out as a local favorite. In its 38th year in 2024, this beloved event typically happens over the first two weekends in October, but stay tuned for exact dates, as Beasley's has been known to extend the festivities into weekdays due to overwhelming popularity.
Activities include an 8-acre corn maze, hayrides to the pumpkin patch, apple cannons, barnyard bonanza, delicious food, entertainment and more.
For a lasting memory, participate in u-pick apple and pumpkin activities, allowing you to take a piece of the autumn magic home with you.
17. Hendricks County International Festival
Date: TBD
Where: The Shops at Perry Crossing, Plainfield
The fifth annual Hendricks County International Festival will take place this fall in Plainfield. The official date has not been announced but expect this great event to occur sometime in late September or early October.
Enjoy this free, family-friendly educational event that promises a kaleidoscope of experiences, featuring food trucks, live dance and musical performances from around the globe, interactive booths and captivating displays of traditional attire.
Embark on a journey to explore the rich diversity of cultures, as countries like India, Pakistan, Kosovo, West Africa, Poland, Russia, Mexico, Japan and Scotland take center stage.
Join us in supporting, encouraging, and fostering awareness for the diverse cultures that contribute to the rich tapestry of Hendricks County — because unity in diversity is what makes our community thrive.
18. Doctoberfest
Date: October 2024
Where: Who North America & Courtyard by Marriott, Plainfield
Prepare for an out-of-this-world experience as Doctoberfest returns in October 2024 to Hendricks County. For devoted enthusiasts of the legendary British Sci-Fi TV show, Doctor Who, this festival is a must.
With more than 20 vendors spread across the Who North America location and the nearby Courtyard by Marriott hotel at The Shops at Perry Crossing, there's an abundance of sci-fi wonders to explore.
Past events have featured costume contests, actors from the show, action figure competitions and the thrilling opportunity to have your photo taken with the iconic TARDIS.
19. Fall Colors Festival
Date: October 2024
Where: McCloud Nature Park, North Salem
Bring the whole family out to North Salem and join Hendricks County Parks & Recreation in celebrating vibrant hues of autumn at the annual Fall Colors Festival at a date to be determined usually in late October.
Nestled in a 232-acre park recognized as one of Visit Indiana's Top 10 Places for Fall Foliage, this event promises a day filled with free, family-friendly festivities like hay rides, an apple cider press, archery, the McCloud Prairie Maze, throwing an atlatl (an ancient hunting weapon) and much more.
The day will begin with a 5K or 10K run/walk along the scenic trails and through the fall foliage. Once you're done with the Fall Colors Run, the Fall Colors Festival is ready for you to enjoy for the rest of your day!
20. Tri Kappa Gingerbread Christmas
Date: Dec. 7, 2024
Where: Plainfield High School, Plainfield
Elevate your holiday shopping experience at Gingerbread Christmas, proudly sponsored by Plainfield Tri Kappa. As the oldest and largest fine arts and craft show in the area, this event boasts more than 130 booths featuring master artists and crafters from various states.
Browse a tempting array of unique and one-of-a-kind gifts, home decor, accessories, wearable art and seasonal decorations.
What sets Gingerbread Christmas apart is its commitment to authenticity. Vendors are required to submit an application with photographs of their items every year which are juried by a committee to make sure all items are handcrafted. No commercial or imported items are allowed.
Plenty More in 2024
With that, our list of the top events of 2024 comes to an end. But there are plenty more events scheduled around Hendricks County in 2024 of all sizes and for all interests. Check out the complete Visit Hendricks County Events Calendar to find exactly what you are looking for!
