By Erin K. Lovall—
MUNCIE, IN —The Old Washington Street Festival celebrates a major milestone this year as it returns to the historic Emily Kimbrough Historic District for its 50th anniversary on September 19 and 20, 2026. The two-day festival brings together the history, architecture, arts, food, music, and community spirit of Muncie’s East Central neighborhood. The festival is free and open to everyone.
Visitors will find a full schedule of free entertainment throughout the weekend, including rock, country, blues, and jazz musicians; an old-time radio show; a beard contest; aerial performances; and much more.
Food vendors will offer something for every appetite, including fish and chips, barbecue, gyros, elephant ears, chicken on a stick, slushies, homemade ice cream, the festival’s popular ham and beans, and more. A variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available.
This year’s festival will feature a large selection of artisan and community organization vendors. Longtime festival favorites will return alongside vendors participating for the first time. Visitors can shop for ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, charcuterie boards, clothing, crocheted and knitted goods, custom-made mugs, handmade pens, artistic prints, 3D-printed figurines, and more. Several vendors will also demonstrate their creative processes.
Families and children will find plenty to enjoy, including face painting, arts and crafts, children’s musical performances, and other activities designed especially for young Festival-goers.
The festival’s annual historic home tour will take place Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The tour will showcase a variety of historic homes and properties in the neighborhood, including the historic Emily Kimbrough House. Visitors can also take part in a home tour and historical walking tour led by knowledgeable guides who will share the history, architecture, and stories of the neighborhood. Tickets for the tours will be available at the festival information booth for $15.
Festival Chair Kim Miller said the 50th anniversary provides an opportunity to celebrate both the festival’s history and its continuing role in the community. “Fifty years is an incredible milestone, and we’re excited to celebrate it with the entire community,” Miller said. “The Old Washington Street Festival is a celebration of the people, history, architecture, creativity, and spirit. We’re looking forward to welcoming longtime festival friends as well as people experiencing the festival for the first time. With great music, food, artists, activities, historic homes, and plenty of opportunities to explore the neighborhood, there truly will be something for everyone.”
Festival organizers have worked throughout the year to create an exciting, welcoming, and safe event for residents and visitors of all ages.
The Old Washington Street Festival will take place along East Washington Street between Madison and Hackley avenues in Muncie on Saturday, September 19, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, September 20, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. On-street parking is available in and around the festival area, and additional parking will be available at East Washington Academy.
Come celebrate five decades of the Old Washington Street Festival and experience the history, creativity, and community that continue to make this annual event a Muncie tradition.
For the most up-to-date Festival information, follow the Old Washington Street Festival on Facebook or visit the Festival website.
