50th Annual Nappanee Apple Festival Is Sept. 17-20

NAPPANEE - Historic Nappanee's annual Apple Festival kicks off Sept. 17-20, continuing a tradition that began in 1975 as a humble one-block celebration.
Today, this community of 7,000 residents welcomes more than 100,000 visitors to a three-and-a-half-day event, offering Hoosier Hospitality, free parking and shuttle rides throughout the weekend, according to a provided news release.
The Nappanee Apple Festival has earned top honors in Indiana, being named the No. 1 fall festival in the state in 2013 and 2016 for its 7-foot apple pie, a signature food item that draws visitors from across the United States, the release states. This gigantic pie is sliced into over 800 pieces.
The festival offers a diverse range of activities and entertainment, featuring three stages of performances, over 150 exhibitors, carnival rides and a Saturday morning parade on Sept. 19 at 10:30 a.m., highlighted by a signature military aircraft fly-over.
The festival is celebrating the 50th with a drone show that will take place on Saturday, Sept. 19 at 9 p.m. 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 apple peeling and pie-eating contests. Handicap scooters and wheelchairs will be available for rent through Goshen Health.
Experience the cuteness and fun of the Performance Dogs of Ohio, the headlining act, performing in the Nappanee Library parking lot from Friday at 5:30 p.m. to Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
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 Granpa Crachet Kids Show and Puppets.
Indulge in an 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.
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.
The 50th annual Nappanee Apple Festival is made possible through the financial support of local and area businesses, city of Nappanee employees, the Nappanee Area Chamber of Commerce and a team of volunteers.
Stay up-to-date on the latest festival news and behind-the-scenes peeks by connecting with them on social media at @napplefest on Facebook and Instagram!