As summer fades into the rearview mirror, the kids head back to school, and the leaves begin to turn, you know it’s that special time of year again: fall merrymaking in the Heart of Amish Country, Indiana. The towns of Shipshewana and Middlebury are delightful to visit any time of the year, but from September 1 to October 28, they offer an extra helping of fun, food, and activities that you simply cannot miss.
Festivals and Events
During this period, you have the opportunity to explore 24 different festivals and events. Each one offers a unique experience that captures the essence of fall in Amish Country. Among these are the Snip-Chic Fall Craft and Vintage Show, the Shipshewana Fall Crafters Fair, and the Middlebury Hometown Harvest. These events feature a wide array of handmade crafts, vintage items, and local produce, making them perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
For automotive enthusiasts, there are two classic car shows that showcase beautifully restored vehicles from a bygone era. If you’re looking for entertainment, you can catch a performance of “When Calls the Heart” at the Blue Gate Music Hall or enjoy a movie on Friday nights in the park. One event you absolutely cannot miss is the Middlebury Pumpkin Race, where creativity and fun collide as participants race their uniquely decorated pumpkins.
Shopping Extravaganza
If shopping is what you seek, Shipshewana has you covered. The Shipshewana Swap Meet and the Labor Day Flea Market are must-visits. These markets are a treasure trove of unique finds, from antiques to handcrafted goods. Additionally, an Autumn Shopping Pass provides special deals and discounts at local shops, along with free goodies such as popcorn and pretzels. This pass is a fantastic way to explore the local shops and take advantage of seasonal offers.
Artistic Displays
The towns are adorned with colorful fall-themed décor, including 29 Straw Bale Art designs and 42 giant bales crafted into whimsical art. You’ll find creations like the four-bale cow at The Barn Door, as well as other imaginative pieces such as an alligator and sunflowers. These artistic displays add a festive atmosphere to the towns and are perfect for photo opportunities.
Culinary Delights
Be sure to come hungry because the Heart of Amish Country offers a plethora of seasonal treats that are simply irresistible. You’ll want to sample some of the tidbits that taste especially good at this time of year, such as apple pie, pumpkin spice lattes, butterscotch cookies, and cinnamon doughnuts. These delicious offerings are available at various local bakeries and food stalls, making it easy to indulge your taste buds as you explore the area.
Extended Stay
With a full two months to discover everything there is to see, you can visit multiple times and stay as long as you like. If you need a guide to show you around, that can be arranged too. The local tourism website, VisitShipshewana.org, provides updates and information to help you plan your visit. You can also follow @VisitShipshewana on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and events. While you’re online, it’s a good idea to book your hotel room early, as the event is popular and accommodations fill up quickly.
Detailed Event Highlights
Snip-Chic Fall Craft and Vintage Show
This event is a haven for craft enthusiasts. You’ll find a wide variety of handmade items, from jewelry to home décor. The vintage section offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane with antiques and collectibles that are sure to catch your eye. The show is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
Shipshewana Fall Crafters Fair
Held at the Michiana Event Center, the Fall Crafters Fair is a tribute to the crafting and old-fashioned culture of the Shipshewana countryside. Here, you’ll find artisans, vintage sellers, and hand-made items, along with personalized gifts. The fair also features talented musicians and entertainers, creating a lively atmosphere. Food trucks on the outskirts provide a wonderful addition to your shopping experience, offering a variety of delicious options.
Middlebury Hometown Harvest
The Middlebury Hometown Harvest is a celebration of the local community and its agricultural roots. The event features locally grown produce, food vendors from local restaurants and churches, live music, and crafts. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy the bounty of the harvest season.
Classic Car Shows
For car enthusiasts, the classic car shows are a highlight. These events showcase beautifully restored vintage cars, offering a glimpse into the automotive past. Whether you’re a car aficionado or just appreciate the beauty of classic vehicles, these shows are a must-see.
Middlebury Pumpkin Race
The Middlebury Pumpkin Race is a fun and creative event where participants design and race their own pumpkins. It’s a family-friendly activity that brings the community together in a spirit of friendly competition. The race is held on the 400 block of West Warren Street, and registration is free.
Shopping and Dining
Shipshewana Swap Meet
The Shipshewana Swap Meet is one of the largest flea markets in the Midwest. It’s a great place to find unique items, from antiques to handcrafted goods. The market is open every Tuesday and Wednesday, offering a wide variety of products from hundreds of vendors.
Labor Day Flea Market
The Labor Day Flea Market is another must-visit event for shoppers. Held over the Labor Day weekend, this market features a vast array of items, from vintage collectibles to handmade crafts. It’s a great opportunity to find one-of-a-kind treasures.
Autumn Shopping Pass
The Autumn Shopping Pass offers special deals and discounts at local shops, along with free goodies such as popcorn and pretzels. This pass is a fantastic way to explore the local shops and take advantage of seasonal offers.
Artistic Displays
Straw Bale Art
The towns are adorned with 29 Straw Bale Art designs, each one a unique creation. These artistic displays are made from giant straw bales and crafted into whimsical shapes, such as a four-bale cow, an alligator, and sunflowers. They add a festive atmosphere to the towns and are perfect for photo opportunities.
Culinary Delights
Seasonal Treats
The Heart of Amish Country offers a plethora of seasonal treats that are simply irresistible. You’ll want to sample some of the tidbits that taste especially good at this time of year, such as apple pie, pumpkin spice lattes, butterscotch cookies, and cinnamon doughnuts. These delicious offerings are available at various local bakeries and food stalls, making it easy to indulge your taste buds as you explore the area.
Extended Stay
Accommodations
With a full two months to discover everything there is to see, you can visit multiple times and stay as long as you like. If you need a guide to show you around, that can be arranged too. The local tourism website, VisitShipshewana.org, provides updates and information to help you plan your visit. You can also follow @VisitShipshewana on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and events. While you’re online, it’s a good idea to book your hotel room early, as the event is popular and accommodations fill up quickly.
Additional Activities
Guided Tours
If you’re interested in learning more about the local history and culture, consider taking a guided tour. These tours offer a deeper insight into the Amish way of life and the history of the area. You’ll have the opportunity to visit local farms, see traditional crafts being made, and learn about the customs and traditions of the Amish community.
Outdoor Activities
The fall season is a great time to enjoy the outdoors in Amish Country. You can take a scenic drive through the countryside, go for a hike in one of the local parks, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail. The trail offers beautiful views of the fall foliage and is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.
Family-Friendly Fun
There are plenty of activities for families to enjoy during the fall season. Kids will love the petting zoo at the Fall Crafters Fair, where they can see animals like guinea pigs, parakeets, dwarf hamsters, and finches. There are also train rides, face painting, and other fun activities to keep the little ones entertained.
Conclusion
Fall merrymaking in the Heart of Amish Country, Indiana, is an experience like no other. With a wide variety of festivals and events, unique shopping opportunities, artistic displays, and delicious seasonal treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor from out of town, you’ll find plenty to see and do during this special time of year. So mark your calendar, plan your visit, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories in Shipshewana and Middlebury. For more information, visit VisitShipshewana.org and follow @VisitShipshewana on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
Citations:
[1] https://dutchhostinn.com/packages/
[2] https://www.michianaevents.com/event/crafters-fair
[3] https://middleburyinchamber.com/community-events/
[4] https://olafbreuning.com/text/
[5] https://www.southeast.edu/student-life/illuminations/files/Illuminations%20Vol%2018_web.pdf
[6] https://www.middleburyin.com/attractions/festivals_events___entertainment.php
[7] https://amishcountrytheater.com/shows
[8] https://fliphtml5.com/hccfa/pmea/Wordly_Wise_3000%2C_Book_12%2C_Student_Book/