The most successful events usually start from humble beginnings. While the original planner might have had something bigger in mind, its always a good idea to start with a small event than to force yourself into a large one that will be less organized, if at all. The Potawatomi Festival was small when it was started in 1971, but has since grown into one of the bigger Western Indiana festivals.

In September, the 39th annual festival will be held, and it will not be an exception. The main activities will be held at the large Ouibache Park along the Wabash River. You’re sure to find flea market booths, food vendors and crafts stalls in abundance here.

The vice president of the Powatami Festival board said, “Everyone will have a blast,” and “There will of course be other activities for the festival that can be found all around the city, including the downtown area. Sample some of the tastiest festival snacks, have fun haggling for various items sold at the flea market booths, and enjoy the entertainment that we have planned!”

Incorporated originally in 1979, the festival’s organizers are striving to keep it as part of the city scene. They are proud of their heritage and the advances it helps comes to pass in a small town. Even though the Chamber of Commerce started the festival initially, it was due to the efforts of the local residents that the festival kept on growing year after year.

The focus on arts and crafts is one of the ways in which they are able to affect real change. Because permanent items can be used as decorative pieces in the home, they can serve as a reminder of the festival to the people who purchase them, albeit an indirect one. Of course, there is no denying the skill involved in making these items. See if you can find anything you like at the Powatami Festival!