50th Annual Nappanee Apple Festival Sept. 17 – Sept. 20

NAPPANEE – Historic Nappanee's annual Apple Festival, one of Indiana's premier fall festivals, kicks off Thursday Sept. 17, through Sunday, Sept. 20, continuing a beloved tradition that began in 1975 as a humble one-block celebration. Today, this charming community of 7,000 residents warmly welcomes over 100,000 visitors to a fantastic three-and-a-half-day event, offering authentic Hoosier Hospitality, free parking, and convenient shuttle rides throughout the weekend, making it an ideal family-friendly experience for all to enjoy. The Nappanee Apple Festival has earned top honors in Indiana, being named the number one fall festival in the state in 2013 and 2016 for its show-stopping 7-foot apple pie, a legendary signature food item that draws visitors from across the United States. This gigantic pie is sliced into over 800 pieces, satisfying the annual cravings of festival-goers who flock to Nappanee to indulge in a taste of this beloved tradition. The festival offers a diverse range of activities and entertainment, featuring three stages of performances, over 150 exhibitors, thrilling carnival rides, and at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, parade, highlighted by a signature military aircraft fly-over. The Festival is celebrating the 50th with a drone show that will take place at 9 p.m. Saturday. Other exciting events include the 25th Miss Apple Blossom scholarship pageant, Power From the Past Antique Tractor & Engine Show, cornhole tournament, Pickleball Tournament, Donut Dash 5K Run/Walk, 'Napple' baking contest, garden tractor pull, pedal pull contests for kids and adults, Wings and Wheels show at the Nappanee airport, and mouth-watering apple peeling and pie-eating contests, all amidst a welcoming atmosphere that includes a convenient baby changing and nursing mother's station downtown; ensuring a fun and comfortable experience for all attendees. Handicap scooters and wheelchairs will be available for rent through Goshen Health. Experience the cuteness and fun of the Performance Dogs of Ohio, our headlining act, performing in the Nappanee Library Parking lot at 5:30 p.m. Friday Sept. 18 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20. Be amazed by their mind-blowing tricks that will leave you speechless. The two additional stages will feature a diverse lineup of musical acts, covering a wide range of genres including rock & roll, classic rock, folk, bluegrass, country, gospel, and variety shows, ensuring something for every musical taste. Family-friendly entertainment also takes center stage, with performances by comedy juggler and ventriloquist Mike Hemmelgarn and the engaging Granpa Crachet Kids Show and Puppets, all set to delight kids and adults alike with their lively and entertaining acts. Indulge in a delicious array of apple treats during the festival or take some home to savor later, including classic favorites like apple pie, crispy fritters, tender dumplings, flaky turnovers, sweet fry pies, freshly baked bread, tangy applesauce, refreshing cider, and creamy butter – all made with love and a hint of autumn magic. The Nappanee Apple Festival is a quintessential hometown celebration that will capture your heart and leave you eagerly anticipating next year's event. To plan your visit and make the most of your experience, check out the comprehensive list of entertainment, events, and map available for download at nappaneeapplefestival.org or in the 2026 Nappanee Apple Festival Brochure, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this charming Indiana town. The 50th annual Nappanee Apple Festival, one of Indiana's premier events, is made possible through the generous financial support of local and area businesses, City of Nappanee employees, the Nappanee Area Chamber of Commerce, and a dedicated team of volunteers. Principal sponsors, including the Elkhart County CVB, Community Foundation of Elkhart County, Goshen Health, The Nappanee Pace, Digger Specialties, Inc., Miller's Orchard, Community Fiber, and Monteith's Best-One Tire & Auto Care, have also contributed to the festival's success, ensuring a fantastic experience for all attendees. Stay up-to-date on the latest festival news and behind-the-scenes peeks by connecting with us on social media at @napplefest on Facebook and Instagram. They cannot wait to see everyone at the festival.