With the extensive history that Knox County and Vincennes have, some may have the idea that our sites, attractions, and festivals are not family-friendly, but that could not be further from the truth! There is a multitude of family and kid-friendly events in Knox County—some happen every week!
Below is a list of our best family-friendly events happening this year. Let us know in the comment section which events you plan on attending, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos on Facebook & Instagram!
First Friday Art Walks
Dates: April 7th, May 5th, June 2nd, July 7th, AUgust 11th, September 1st, October 6th, November 3rd, and December 1st.
Let your little ones channel their inner artist by viewing art in one of Knox County’s four art galleries during this monthly event.
Food Trucks on the Wabash
Dates: Every Monday starting on April 17th
Enjoy the warm weather with your family and friends over some unique eats! The food trucks on the Wabash are the perfect opportunity to try different cuisines from the multiple rotating food trucks that come to Vincennes every week.
MARCH
Groundbreaking Black Hoosiers
Dates: Now through March 26th
The Red Skelton Museum of American Comedy (RSM) invites visitors to explore the stories of Black Hoosiers who broke ground for their community and paved a path for future generations while making contributions to Indiana. In this traveling exhibit from the Indiana Historical Society (IHS), visitors are invited to explore the stories of Black Hoosiers who broke ground for their community and paved a path for future generations while making contributions to Indiana.
Groundbreaking Black Entertainers
Dates: Now through April 2nd
Learn. The Red Skelton Museum of American Comedy (RSM) will showcase “Red Skelton’s Groundbreaking Black Entertainers,” which will present the history of black entertainment by way of Red Skelton’s stage, movie, and television career. Red Skelton has appeared with many groundbreaking black entertainers from his early-stage years to his television show. These include Bill Robinson, Mills Brothers, Leana Horne, Mahalia Jackson, Supremes, and others. Movie clips and photos from the television archives are on display.
APRIL
Vincennes Heritage Fair
Date: April 22nd
Celebrate the variety of cultures that call Vincennes and Knox County home by learning about customs, music, dance, games, and more. Discover Vincennes’ historic French heritage, plus learn how Hispanic, Latino, Haitian, and Filipino cultures add to the fabric of the community.
Vincennes Historical Half Marathon
Date: April 22nd
The Rotary Young Leaders Club of Vincennes is hosting its second annual half marathon in Indiana’s first city. With the goal of promoting a healthy lifestyle within Knox County and surrounding cities whilst also raising funds for local charities and organizations within the community, the Historical Half Marathon will highlight many of the first city’s historic landmarks not only by having participants move past them but also through auditory listening devices. There will be a Kid Fun Run & a 5K event in addition to the Half Marathon — allowing friends & family members of all ages to participate in this fun new event!
MAY
Spirit of Vincennes Rendezvous
Dates: May 27th & 28th
Take a step back in time and surround yourself with the sights, smells, sounds, and tastes of the American Revolutionary War period during the Spirit of Vincennes Rendezvous! Held on Saturday, May 27th, and Sunday, May 28th at the French Commons. Festival-goers can enjoy authentic food prepared over open fires and browse through merchant tents that offer goods relative to the time period. A continuous lineup of entertainment is offered including battle re-enactments, period music, oxen, children’s games, storytellers, and more.
JUNE
Spring on Main
Date: June 2nd
Spring on Main will bring art, live music, children’s activities, a scavenger hunt, cars, food, beer and wine to Main Street on Friday, June 2nd. Enjoy the First Friday Art Walk down Main as you shop at participating downtown businesses.
Mid-America Clown-O-Rama
Dates: June 9th – 11th
Mid America Clown o Rama, presented by Hadi Funsters and Red Skelton Festival, will start the afternoon of June 9th with classes and activities. Clown-o-Rama plans makeup tutorials Saturday, followed by the Red Skelton Parade, then follies. Sunday events at the museum will include panel discussions and a classic Red Skelton film. An optional dinner and show are scheduled for Saturday for an extra fee, and the Clown – o – Rama wraps up Sunday morning.
AUGUST
Watermelon Festival
Dates: August 4th & 5th
One of Knox County’s annual events, the Watermelon Festival celebrates the large watermelon industry in Knox County while boasting booths with fair foods, live music, pageants, and all of the watermelon you can eat. The Watermelon Festival has something for everyone!
September & October
First City Music Festival
Dates: September 28th – October 1st
First City Music Festival Inc was started by a group of friends and family that are dedicated to bringing music, arts, and culture to our community. FCM has multiple children and youth activities that take place throughout the festival in addition to the music lineup.
Dana Shelton, I would like to see people use the band shelter in Greg’s Park with some rock and roll music and country music.
What a great idea! Do you know an organization that might want to host that? Like the parks department? Or someone that would want to sponsor bands, for example? Let’s make it happen.