Greenfield, Indiana, a medium sized suburb of Indianapolis, is home to a surprising amount of Greenfield restaurants, Greenfield attractions, and Greenfield things to do. Far from being a simple bedroom community, the town throws several big name Greenfield events to boost Greenfield businesses and delight visitors and residents alike.
The largest and most famous of these is the Riley Festival. This Indiana town is the birthplace of the famed Hoosier poet, James Whitcomb Riley, and several locations in Greenfield are named after him, including Riley Park, the Riley House restaurant, and the Riley Old Home & Museum. The Riley Festival is a huge Greenfield event that takes place in the summer and rivals many Indianapolis fairs and festivals. The festival features a craft fair, live Greenfield music, a parade through downtown Greenfield, and more.
Perhaps the most notable part of the Riley Festival is the Children’s Parade of Flowers, in which hundreds of smiling children take to the streets with armloads of flowers. James Whitcomb Riley, namesake of Riley Hospital in Indianapolis, is one of the most celebrated children’s poets in the United States, so it’s only fitting that Greenfield children are able to honor his memory.
Another popular Greenfield event is the Pennsy Trail Art Fair. This art fair is a chance for members of the Greenfield arts community to sell their works in a friendly, colorful setting. Sponsored by the Greenfield Parks Department, the Pennsy Trail Art Fair features lives music, glass bead blowing, a classic car show, and celebration of the bluegrass music that Hoosiers love so much.
And of course, what would a small Midwestern town be without a big 4-H fair? Greenfield is the host of the Hancock County 4-H fair, a huge celebration of all things agricultural and creative. The fair, held at the Hancock County Fairgrounds, is a much smaller version of the Indiana State Fair but still offers plenty to see and do. Some of the equestrian competitions, animal showings, and other events are just as exciting as any Indianapolis sports match, and there’s tons of tasty carnival food, fun rides, and exciting distractions.
Video of the merry-go-round at the Hancock County Fair in Greenfield, Indiana
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor to Greenfield, Greenfield events are always a good time to get out and experience the wealth of culture, fun, and history that central Indiana has to offer!
