Blog

Get the inside scoop about travel to Festival Country Indiana with our blog

If you’re traveling to Festival Country Indiana, make the most of your vacation by reading our blog to see what the locals and experts say. Learn the latest happenings for last minute travel, find out about local music and local food, and explore fun things to do in the summer, fall, winter and spring.

Where to Score Solar Eclipse Souvenirs

Moonwalk your way over to these shops for 2024 solar eclipse merchandise.

Top Things to Do Over Spring Break

If you’re not heading south to Florida for spring break, you can still find spring break fun by heading south (south of Indy, that is).

Planning the Perfect Valentine's Day

If you’re looking for the best ways to celebrate Valentine's Day or need fun date night ideas, look no further.

Top 24 Events Coming Up in 2024

Making plans for 2024? Here are 24 of our top festivals and events to mark on your calendar.

Eclipse Events Just South of Indy

During the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, Festival Country Indiana will be in the middle of the path of totality. See this historic event and celebrate it in the place that's more festive.

The Best Date Night is Just South of Indy

Spend quality time with your special someone just south of Indy. These ideas are perfect for a romantic evening, a casual hangout, or a unique adventure.

Unwinding at the Coziest Coffee Shops

As the air becomes chillier, unwinding at a cozy coffee shop sounds like just what we need. Here in Festival Country, you can find warm, historic venues with handcrafted pastries as well as quirky shops with local art.

7 Festive Ways to Ring in the New Year

Celebrate the beginning of 2024 with these festivities just south of Indy.

15 Ways to Celebrate the Season Just South of Indy

The holidays wouldn’t be the same without enjoying our favorite traditions. In Festival Country, that means gazing at sparkling light displays, finding the perfect gifts at a craft market, visiting Santa and choosing your own tree from a local farm.

Deck the Halls with These Festive Trees

One of the quintessential holiday activities is picking out the perfect Christmas tree. If you prefer the time-honored tradition of cutting down your own, these are the places to go.

Frozen Fun in Franklin: A Guide to the Downtown Ice Skating Rink

As the holiday season approaches, there's a brand new reason to get excited, and it's cooler than ever. An outdoor ice skating rink is set to make its debut by the Franklin amphitheater, turning the downtown into a winter wonderland.

Your Guide to Holiday Shopping

'Tis the season for holiday shopping! Craft fairs, holiday open houses and winter markets abound just south of Indy, where everything is a little more festive.

Top 6 Halloween Happenings

The pumpkins, the costumes, the sweet treats – it all screams spooky season to us. Whether you’re on the hunt for trunk or treating, a haunted experience, or a festive parade, this is the place to look.

All Things Fall Just South of Indy

Fall is in the air and we’re ready for all the festivities this season brings. To help everyone get in the fall spirit, we rounded up the best ways to fall in love with autumn.

Unique Eats in Franklin

Make 2023 the year of trying new things with these one-of-a-kind eateries in Franklin. Whether it’s authentic Cajun cooking or curry pizza, there’s more to discover just south of Indy.

48 Hours in Festival Country this Fall

With beautiful views, charming downtowns and fall fun happening every weekend, there's no better time to explore Festival Country Indiana, located just south of Indianapolis.

Fall Concert Lineup

Sit back and enjoy live music and crisp fall air. Check out the lineup below to see what concerts are coming to town this season.

Embrace the Magic of Fall at Kelsay Farms

As we look forward to the crisp autumn air and changing leaves, we're more and more excited for fall adventures. There's no better place to embrace the magic of the season than Kelsay Farms.

Behind the Scenes: Coffeehouse Five

Coffeehouse Five is more than just a favorite spot for a cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich. This local business has a commitment to community and quality.

Things To Do This Labor Day Weekend

Who doesn’t love a long weekend? This Labor Day, there are plenty of fun events and activities to do in Festival Country Indiana. We rounded them up so the only thing you have to do is decide which to choose.

Apple Works: A Haven for Harvest Fun

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, this beloved destination becomes a wonderland of fall fun.

Just Horsing Around: 3 Places for Equine Fun

Learn and grow in your equestrian skills while surrounded by natural beauty and expert guidance.

Great Spots for Outdoor Dining in Festival Country Indiana

One of the best parts of summer is when the restaurants start opening up their patios for dining again. Festival Country Indiana, located just south of Indy, has plenty of places that combine tasty food with the ambiance of outdoor seating.

Top 5 Activities for Family Fun

From thrilling adventures and interactive museums to delicious dining options and exciting events, Festival Country is the perfect destination to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Summer Concert Lineup

Live music is easy to find in Festival Country Indiana. Check out the lineup to see what concerts are coming to town this season.

Pick Up Pickleball

Pickleball is a growing phenomenon in the United States, and here in Festival Country there are plenty of places to play. Whether you want an indoor or outdoor court, we’ve got you covered.

5 Places to See Fireworks in Festival Country

Nothing says Independence Day like an exciting fireworks show. Click to learn where to enjoy this iconic summer holiday just south of Indy.

8 Places to Have Retro Fun in Festival Country

From visiting a classic diner to attending an antique car show, these activities will help bring vintage experiences to modern life.

Cheers to 200 Years

Did you know that Johnson County (also known as the home of Festival Country Indiana) and the city of Franklin are celebrating their bicentennials this year? Dive into a brief history, then find out how to celebrate this historic year.

Why Local Tourism Matters

Here's why to consider exploring your own backyard next time you plan a trip.

Unique Places to Take Insta-Worthy Photos

Looking for a place to take fun photos with friends? Check out this list for inspiration for your next photoshoot.

Inside Scoop: Farmers Markets

Farmers markets are treasure troves for items ranging from fresh produce to handmade pies to scented candles. This year's farmers market season is just beginning, so here is all the information you need to make the most of it.

Festie's Frozen Favorites Ice Cream Trail

During the hot days of summer (or any time of year, really), you can’t go wrong with some cold ice cream. Thankfully, Festival Country is home to a dozen ice cream shops. Hit the (ice cream) trail and enjoy some of the best treats just south of Indy.

Meet the Chef: Le Croissant French Bakery

Pedro Ulloa, owner of Le Croissant French Bakery, is a hard-working baker with a passion for making his customers happy.

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day South of Indy

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day, and some of the best celebrations are just south of Indy.

You Have to Try These Brunch Spots

There's nothing better than a great brunch. Head to one of these restaurants for dishes ranging from classic American to brunch with a twist.

Dynamic Duos: Nathan and Leah Huelsebusch

To celebrate the season of love, we're getting to know a few couples who own businesses together. We sat down with Nathan and Leah Huelsebusch to chat all things Taxman, Pizza & Libations and their businesses to come.

Winter Bucket List

Looking for something to spice up the slower winter months? Hit the road and find your fun in Festival Country.

Dynamic Duos: Mark and Stephanie McGaha

This week, we met Mike and Stephanie McGaha, owners of Simple Abundance, a home store in Edinburgh.

Dynamic Duos: Elissa McKee and Thomas Moore

Couples that work together stay together.

Free Winter Fun

When you're stuck inside and looking for something fun that won't break the bank, look no further than Festival Country.

You Need to Try These Heated Outdoor Dining Spots

Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean you can't still enjoy patio dining. These restaurants offer heated outdoor options. Step aside, winter.

Where to See Holiday Light Displays

Every year, businesses and homes in Festival Country don their best decorations and create captivating holiday light displays for all to enjoy. Jump in the car and check out these lights.

Meet the Chef: Our Table's Joe Miller

Our Table is one of the hottest spots on the Festival Country dining scene. Meet the driving force behind the popular restaurant.

Test Your Mettle With The Top 14 Coolest Fitness Challenges

If you’re looking for outdoor recreation opportunities that are both fun and challenging, check out The Top 14 Coolest Fitness Challenges.

Festival Country's 5 Most Instagrammed Spots

Want to know where the influencers go? These are the most picturesque spots in Festival Country according to Instagram.

Free Family Fun

With summer in full swing, we could all use some ideas on how to keep the kids entertained, especially ideas that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re looking for completely free ideas or something just a little cheaper, we’ve got a list of fun and enjoyable attractions that the kids are sure to love.

A Guide to Guy’s Day

Hanging out with the guys for a day and need ideas on places to go and food to eat? Look no further because Festival Country has you covered, and you won’t be disappointed.

A Taste of Something Unique in Greenwood

Do you ever get bored ordering the same food off the same menus? Don’t get us wrong, some of the best places to eat are full of everyday cuisine and it can be delicious, but sometimes something different is calling your name. When that happens, we’re here to help.

Welcome the Warm Weather the Right Way

Summer is fast approaching, and there’s no better place to spend it than in Festival Country! Whether you’re trying to beat the heat or enjoy time off from school or work, we’ve got you covered.

The Most Festive Father's Day

Father’s Day is coming up and Festival Country has what you need to make this weekend extra special. Give your father or father-figure a time to remember just south of Indy. Check out the list to find our top recommendations.

Inside Scoop: Aquatic Centers

The weather is heating up and it’s time to soak up the sun at an aquatic center. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

A Day with Mom Just South of Indy

Instead of flowers this year, treat Mom to an experience she’ll cherish. What better way to thank the mother or mother-figure in your life than with quality time and lasting memories?

What's Hopping in Festival Country This Easter

The Easter Bunny is delivering eggs, hosting breakfasts, smiling for photos and flying on helicopters this season. Check out all the Easter festivities happening just south of Indy.

Curing Cabin Fever

In the midst of a long Indiana winter, it’s easy to feel an itch to get out of the house. Thankfully, here in Festival Country Indiana, there is no shortage of fun, unique experiences that everyone can enjoy, no matter the weather.

What's New in 2022

A new year means new businesses, exciting experiences, and more opportunities to taste, see and do all that Festival Country has to offer. Here’s what to look forward to in 2022!

10 + Ways to Enjoy the Holiday Season Just South of Indy

If you’re looking to make memories and enjoy holiday fun, here are more than 10 ways to enjoy the holiday season just south of Indianapolis.

Eyes on the Pies This Thanksgiving

Delicious, scratch-made pies are sure to please, especially during the holidays. There are several local businesses offering to do the baking for you.

Things to Do for $10 or Less

Looking for fun that won’t break the bank? Festival Country is full of activities, events and experiences that offer major whoa for only a little dough.

Kid-Approved Activities Just South of Indy

Give the kids a summer to remember. From ice cream shops to water parks to go-karts, you'll find activities that kids love just south of Indy.

Spooky Season Celebrations

Attention ghouls and goblins: celebrate spooky season in the place that is more festive. These Halloween events are sure to impress.

Authentic Autumn in Festival Country Indiana

Autumn in Festival Country is fun and safe, with wide open spaces to enjoy corn mazes, pick pumpkins and climb straw bale mountains.

Fill a Day with Fun for Only $20

There is a lot to be said about all the fun activities one can do in Festival Country for free, or at minimal cost. See how one local enjoyed the whole day for only $20.

Girls Day in Festival Country

If you and the gals are looking to get away for a fun, relaxing day or weekend, plan your next trip to Festival Country!

Dog-Friendly Festival Country Indiana | Top Things to See and Do

Whether you are a local resident or just passing through Festival Country Indiana, you are sure to have a great time. If you are one of the many pet families, you and Fido have come to the right spot! Just south of Indy, Festival Country Indiana is a great destination for you and your favorite canine.

Drink Like a Local

Want to drink like a local? Here are some of the great breweries and wineries Festival Country has to offer.

Summer Bucket List

There’s something special about summer in Festival Country Indiana. With renowned festivals and events, outdoor concerts, aquatic centers, unique dining experiences and more, there is no shortage of memories to be made just south of Indy.

7 Ways to Have a Healthy Day in Festival Country

Just south of the hustle and bustle of Indianapolis, you’ll find plenty of ways to unwind amidst the beautiful parks and green spaces. Grab a smoothie bowl and enjoy a healthy day with us.

The Woman Behind The Shoppe Recreated Treasures

JoAnn Houdek has done it all, from selling cars to working as a designer. Now she runs The Shoppe in Bargersville and curates a unique collection of antiques.

The Woman Behind Geri Girl Bakery

After a life-changing injury, Carrie Davies turned her lifelong love of baking into a new business. Her menu pulls from heirloom recipes, childhood memories and plenty of creativity.

The Woman Behind Middle Davids Artisan Candles

This veteran-owned business started with simple homemade candles and is now an artisan candle and gift shop with items from nearly 60 vendors. Meet Tauria Catlin, the woman behind it.

The Woman Behind Yokohama Japanese Cuisine and Sushi

Yokohama Japanese Cuisine and Sushi is known for their gourmet sushi, artful dishes and welcoming atmosphere, thanks to Chef Debbie Bennett. Plus, where else can you enjoy your meal while the chef performs magic tricks at your table?

The Woman Behind 1823 Bakehouse

Elissa Moore went from producing films in Los Angeles to producing gluten-free baked goods and meals in historic downtown Franklin.

Businesses That Help the Community and World

Downtown Franklin not only has history within its streets, but also businesses that are helping the community and world each time they sell their goods.

Revery Chef

Revery restaurant in Greenwood has always been innovative. The challenging 2020 just spurred more innovation and success.

Visit Historic Downtown Franklin

Enjoy dining, shopping, entertainment and lodging in a historic downtown setting in Franklin, which was founded in 1823.

Fall Fun This Weekend

With many fall activities opening up this weekend, there’s no shortage of fun, safe things to do in Festival Country Indiana.

These Trails are the Perfect Place to Get Active

Festival Country Indiana is home to over 35 miles of trails that offer a range of urban and natural settings. Enjoy the great outdoors with the parks and trails that accommodate everything from leisurely strolls to intense runs and bike rides.

Harvesting Great Finds at the Farmers Market

Farmers Markets are now open throughout the area, including the Franklin Farmers Market. The Franklin Farmers Market is a Saturday staple in downtown Franklin, providing the community with an assortment of fresh local produce and handcrafted items.

Night Lights Initiative Brightens Franklin

If you venture to downtown Franklin on a Friday night, make sure to stop by the City Hall building at 70 E. Monroe St. Here you’ll find a quaint mini festival complete with a positive lighted message, a food truck and live music.

These Coloring Pages are More Festive

When you're looking for fun, new activities to keep the whole family entertained, this is one way to put a festive spin on the traditional coloring book.

Your Guide to Takeout in Festival Country Indiana

Staying home doesn’t have to mean cooking every meal. There are plenty of ways to enjoy your favorite restaurants and cafés from the comfort of your own couch. Check out this list for carry-out and delivery information at local eateries all throughout Festival Country.

Time to Get Crafty

All around Festival Country Indiana, businesses are innovating and creating new ways to share their products from afar. To help you find your new favorite craft project and bring the festivities to your home, we rounded up a list of all the take-home kits available just south of Indy.

Renowned restaurant keeps on trucking

Revery restaurant in Greenwood has always been innovative. The challenging 2020 just spurred more innovation and success.

Try Solving These Virtual Jigsaw Puzzles

Staying home is important, but it has us missing our favorite Festival Country sights and activities. Reminisce with us by solving these virtual jigsaw puzzles that feature a few local spots.

Lend a Hand While Social Distancing

With everything happening in our world today, community support is more important than ever. If you are able to help, the list here outlines a number of local organizations working to support the community, be it through time, money or resources. Remember, we’re in this together.

March Happiness - The Final Round

Over the last few weeks, we have voted on all kinds of attractions throughout Festival Country. Week four, the final week, is a little different than before. For this round, you got to chose what the voting options were.

March Happiness - Round Three

March Madness may not be happening this year, but March Happiness in Festival Country Indiana is still going strong. Check out the round three voting options here.

March Happiness – Round Two

Round two is here, so we’re ready to announce the new category and competitors. Since spring is upon us, it’s the perfect time for a new spring wardrobe. This week’s category will feature a few of the stylish boutiques that are just south of Indy.

March Happiness, Round One

Welcome to the first round of the March Happiness Bracket Challenge! For round one, we will be voting on the best burger in Festival Country Indiana.

It's Time For March Happiness

It may be March Madness season, but here in Festival Country Indiana, it’s time for March Happiness!

Wellness Tourism is the Perfect Reason to Travel

Bargersville, Indiana may seem like an odd place to consider a hub of wellness tourism, but read this blog to find out what great things are going on.

You've Got to Try Axe Throwing

If you've never tried axe throwing, you don't know what you're missing. And a fun, supportive place to try is just south of Indy at Johnson County Axe Throwing.

Franklin transforming into Halloween Town

Downtown Franklin is the place to be on Oct. 26 as the town transforms into Halloween Town, with a variety of fun for all ages.

Hayrides, corn mazes and more

Fall is here, and nothing says fall just south of Indy in Festival Country like hayrides and cornfield mazes. One of the best spots for these experiences and more is Kelsay Farms in Whiteland.

Skeletons Take Over Downtown Franklin

Downtown Franklin is a little spookier in October now that dozens of businesses and organizations are displaying skeletons in various poses and outfits inside and outside their buildings.

Indy 500 racer brings awesome go-karting experience south of Indy

Sarah Fisher O’Gara enjoyed a long racing career, including nine appearances in the Indy 500. Although she’s retired from racing now, racing remains in her blood. That’s why she is offering people a chance to experience the thrill of racing at Whiteland Raceway Park, a go-kart track.

Most Interesting Items at our Resale and Thrift Shops

Visiting a thrift stores is an adventure in which you actually find hidden treasures. Here are some of the treasures that are waiting to be discovered at our resale and thrift stores at the moment. And, if you are unable to find them, there will be something equally as exciting.

The perfect time (and place) for disc golf

Festival Country Indiana is home to four awesome disc golf courses. The courses are beautiful and enjoyable in the spring, summer and fall.

Enjoy the Classic Drive-In Experience

Summer is here, and nothing says summer like enjoying food at a drive-in restaurant or catching a late-night movie at a drive-in theater.

Fun for Train Lovers

If you’re a train enthusiast, plan a trip to Festival Country Indiana for train rides, to see an elaborate model train layout, and to learn about the area’s train history at a train-themed museum.

These Easter Events are Worth the Trip

An Easter egg hunt for adults? A Bunny Brunch event with all the fun for kids plus cocktails for the adults? Easter is a little more festive in Festival Country Indiana, located just south of Indy.

Annual Report

Check out the video recap of the work of Festival Country Indiana, the tourism agency just south of Indiana in Johnson County.

Guitar legend living the dream south of Indy

People have come from as far away as Germany and New Zealand to visit Frank’s Guitars in Franklin to hear stories about, and see memorabilia from, some of the most famous musicians of the past several decades.

Explore the Beer & Wine Trail That is More Festive

From the nationally-recognized Belgian brews at Taxman Brewing Company to the award-winning wines and ciders at Mallow Run Winery, people are finding their new favorites at the nearly dozen stops along the Festival Country Indiana Beer & Wine Trail.

Winter Fun

There's nothing like sledding or cross-country skiing, followed by a stop at a local coffeehouse or tea room.

Poster of Historic Artcraft Theatre created

A poster series featuring iconic spots throughout Festival Country Indiana kicked off this month with the completion of the first poster, which features The Historic Artcraft Theatre in Franklin.

Authentic Holiday Experiences

If you want to try something fun this holiday season – and maybe even start a new holiday tradition – head to Festival Country Indiana, located just south of Indianapolis.

Find Artisan-made Candles South of Indy

Learn about the artisan candles made right here in Festival Country Indiana.

Praise Acres

If you’re looking for a peaceful place to walk on a nature trail, have a picnic or do a photo shoot, head to Praise Acres in Bargersville.

See Colorful Murals and Watch Two Get Painted

Enjoy a drive around Festival Country Indiana and check out the colorful murals that decorate the buildings in our communities. And, in August, see two getting painted.

The Live Music Makes Festival Country Indiana so Festive

Part of what makes Festival Country Indiana so festive is the live music scene. Get your music fix just south of Indianapolis.

Vintage & Antique Finds

Antique shopping is one of the big up and coming trends that you definitely don’t want to miss out on. We’re all unique people and deserve unique decorations that match that.

The Top Hoosier Tenderloins – and the Full Story

Two long-time residents of Festival Country Indiana (and tenderloin aficionados) scoured the area for the best Hoosier tenderloins. Here's what they found.

Seeing a Movie at The Historic Artcraft Theatre is a Must-do Experience

I’ve seen plenty of movies, but up until recently I never had the privilege of experiencing a film at The Historic Artcraft Theater in Franklin. I’d been told it’s more than a movie, it’s an experience. That turned out to be very true.

Bring Your Pet to Festival Country

Do you love to travel but hate having to find a restaurant where you can sit outside with your dog, a hotel that accepts pets, or things to do with your pet? Well, you don’t have to worry because here in Festival Country Indiana, you can bring your pet with you!

Learning how to Make Sushi is a Blast

If you love sushi, you’ve probably thought about how cool it would be to make your own. Now you can, by taking the beginner sushi making class at Yokohama Japanese Cuisine and Sushi in Festival Country Indiana, just south of Indianapolis.

Freedom Festival is a Must-See Event

Festival season is in full swing in Festival Country Indiana, and one of the can’t-miss events is Greenwood Freedom Festival on June 30.

The Farm Girl: Shopping Shabby Chic Local

Repurposed goods and vintage farmhouse style decorations can be found in many places, but Festival Country Indiana’s own Farm Girl Mercantile stands out among the crowd.

The History Behind Festival Country Indiana

The wonders of Johnson County are tucked away, waiting to be explored, at The Johnson County Museum of History

An awesome festival season begins now

There's nothing better than getting away and enjoying an authentic festival that celebrates great music as well as local food, drinks and goods. One of the best places for festivals and events is Festival Country Indiana, located just south of Indy.

Check out these perfect ways to get out and play this spring

Great golf courses, air sports like skydiving and paragliding, and plenty of craft brewpubs are just south of Indy in Festival Country Indiana.

Music, Food and Drinks to Make the Winter More Festive

To beat the winter blues, there are some great opportunities to get out of the house and enjoy some great food, drinks and live music.

Franklin one of “55 Best Small Towns to Visit on a Road Trip of America”

The City of Franklin has been named one of the “55 Best Small Towns to Visit on a Road Trip of America.” Franklin was included in the feature by www.AutoAccessoriesGarage.com. It was one of only 10 Midwest destinations featured, and it was the only one in Indiana.

Ring in the New Year in a Festive Way

If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate New Year’s Eve and have an enjoyable weekend getaway, Festival Country Indiana is the place to be.

Thanksgiving Fun South of Indy

Have fun south of Indy with a Thanksgiving day race and a Stretchy Pants Party.

The Willard's Tenderloin Named One of Indiana's Best

Tenderloins are definitely a thing in Indiana. And a local restaurant that has become famous for its delicious pork tenderloin sandwiches just finished as one of the Top 3 “Best Tenderloins” in Indiana.

Take a Learning Vacation at World-renowned Woodworking School Just South of Indy

People come from all across the world to study not only woodworking, but also glass blowing, concrete casting, stone carving, blacksmithing and jewelry making.

Make Memories With These Top 10 Holiday Experiences Just South of Indy

If you're looking to make memories this holiday season, check out these 10 things to do just south of Indy in Festival Country Indiana.

Check Out These Pre-holiday Shopping Experiences

Here are five must-do shopping experiences south of Indy

Five Things You Must Do Before Summer Ends

Summer is almost over and if you're anything like me, you probably haven't taken enough days to enjoy these warm days before they're gone.

California Native Living in New York Finds Plenty of Fun South of Indy

So, how do you entertain someone who travels the world looking for great craft brews, wine, cocktails and adventures?