By Erin Lovall—
MUNCIE, IN—The Old Washington Street Festival returns for its 45th year this Saturday and Sunday, September 17 and 18, 2022. The Festival combines the long, storied history of the Emily Kimbrough Historic District with modern-day fun and is free and open to all.
The Festival features a wide array of free entertainment options, including rock, country, blues, and jazz musicians, an old-time radio show, the Festival’s inaugural pin-up competition, a beard contest, a freak show, and more. In addition, there are food vendors featuring a variety of wares—fish & chips, barbeque, gyros, elephant ears, chicken on a stick, slushies, homemade ice cream, beer from local breweries, Festival-favorite ham & beans, and much more.
There will be a record number of vendors this year, with over 65 artists, artisans, and craft-makers. Many vendors have been coming to the Festival for years, and others will be joining the Festival for the first time. Vendors will be selling ceramics, plants/flowers, jewelry, stained glass, charcuterie boards, clothing, crocheted/knitted goods, custom-made mugs, homemade pens, artistic prints, and so much more. There will be face painting, balloon art, and many other kids’ activities. In addition, some of the vendors will be putting on demonstrations to show how they create their wares.
The annual historic home tour will once again take place during the Festival, both Saturday and Sunday from noon to five. A variety of beautiful homes and properties will be available to tour, including the historic Emily Kimbrough house. Tickets will be available at the Festival information booth for the low price of $10.
The Festival organizers have worked hard to make this an exciting, safe event, with something for everyone to enjoy. Festival chair Kim Miller said, “The Old Washington Street Festival committee is excited to invite many new and returning art and food vendors and performing artists. Every year we strive to create a welcoming environment for every member of the community and to celebrate the history and future of East Central neighborhood.”
Please be a part of the Old Washington Street Festival this weekend on East Washington Street between Madison and Hackley in Muncie. On street parking is available in and around the area. The Festival will be open from 11 am to 6 pm on Saturday and 11 am to 5 pm Sunday.
Look for the Old Washington Street Festival on Facebook for the most up to date information about the event and information about volunteering: www.facebook.com/Oldwashingtonstreetfestival or at http://www.oldwashingtonstreetfestival.org.
