Boone County’s late-summer event season delivers a lineup of experiences for everyone. Whether you’re a longtime local or first-time visitor, August and September offer a chance to explore the heart of Indiana through art, music, culture, and tradition.
The season begins with the Zionsville Street Dance on August 2nd, a beloved tradition that transforms the brick-paved Main Street into a festive stage. With live music, food vendors, and dancing, this event captures the town’s charm through an evening of celebration. The 23rd Annual Zionsville Paint Out, also on August 2nd, brings artists from all around to set up easels along the streets and trails to capture the town’s natural and architectural beauty in real time. Hosted by the SullivanMunce Cultural Center and the Indiana Plein Air Painters Association, this event offers prizes in different categories and paintings will be available for sale after the awards are complete.
Looking to experience some of the best BBQ in Boone County and support a great cause? Come visit the 18th annual Boone County Battle of the BBQ hosted by the Boone County Cancer Society on August 9th. This fun evening of live music and a delicious BBQ competition are sure to delight and all proceeds benefit the Boone County Cancer Society.
The Traditional Pow Wow, August 16th-17th at the Boone County 4-H Fairgrounds, invites visitors to experience Native American culture through speakers, drumming, singing, dance, and artisan crafts. This event is an excellent opportunity to learn about Native cultural history and current Native lifestyle.
September brings a wave of great fall-time celebrations across the county, starting with the Zionsville Fall Festival, held September 5th-7th in Lions Park. This three-day community tradition features a colorful parade, carnival rides, food trucks, a classic car show, and live performances. On Friday September 5th, the Fall Festival will once again be hosting their VIP Carnival for families with special needs to come and enjoy an evening of fun in the park as the Fall Festival gets underway.
Lebanon’s Back to the Fifties Festival, September 13th, offers its own blend of Americana, with vintage cars, rock n’ roll music, children’s fun park, art show, and lots more fun for all ages at the Boone County 4-H Fairgrounds. It’s a day of exciting 50’s fun you don’t want to miss!
The Festival of the Turning Leaves in Thorntown, held from September 27th-28th, takes place as the first colors of fall begin to appear. This festival blends live music, food, artisan vendors, a lively parade, and small-town hospitality in a way that feels both timeless and unique to Boone County.
