Summer’s Not Over Yet: The Best Things Happening in Indiana This July & August
Looking for fun things to do in Indiana this summer? Whether you're chasing small-town fairs, outdoor concerts, or quirky festivals, Indiana knows how to keep summer alive well past the Fourth of July. Here’s your go-to guide for what’s happening across the state in July and August 2025.
Quick Answer: The top Indiana events this summer include county fairs, the Peru Circus Festival, Rock the Ruins concerts in Indy, and local celebrations like the St. Joe Pickle Festival and Kouts Pork Fest.
County Fairs in Full Swing (July–August 2025)
Indiana’s county fair season is peak summer fun — think tractor pulls, lemon shake-ups, and 4-H livestock shows. Some of the best coming up include:
Central Indiana County Fairs 2025: Don’t miss the Hendricks County Fair (July 14–20) and the Indiana State Fair kicking off late July.
Southern Indiana County Fairs 2025: Gibson, Dubois, and Perry counties all host big fairs packed with community pride.
Northern Indiana County Fairs 2025: Elkhart and LaGrange counties offer some of the best mid-summer fair fun up north.
Don’t Miss the Peru Circus Festival (July 11–19)
Peru, Indiana — the Circus Capital of the World — hosts its world-famous Peru Circus Festival, a weeklong celebration of aerialists, clowns, and old-school circus vibes. The parades, shows, and carnival rides make this a true Indiana hidden gem.
Check out our Peru Circus Festival 2025 guide here.
Outdoor Concerts & Festivals in Central Indiana
Nothing beats a summer concert under the stars:
Rock the Ruins (Indianapolis): This beloved summer series at Holliday Park wraps up with shows by indie, rock, and country artists.
Greenwood Amphitheater Free Summer Concert Series: Family-friendly fun with food trucks and local bands. See our full Greenwood Amphitheater guide.
Indiana’s Quirkiest Festivals This August
Indiana's small towns know how to throw a quirky festival. Add these to your August calendar:
St. Joe Pickle Festival (St. Joe): A dill-lightful event featuring pickle-flavored treats, parades, and a pickle derby. Explore the Pickle Festival.
Kouts Pork Fest (Kouts): August 23. This community party celebrates Indiana’s pork farmers with BBQ, craft vendors, and live music.
Outdoor Adventures & Road Trips
When you’re not at an event, hit the road for these summer adventures:
Water Parks: Splash your way through our Indiana Water Parks & Outdoor Adventures guide.
Lake Michigan Beaches: Cool off at Indiana’s best beaches.
Hidden Gems: Don’t forget to explore quirky spots like the Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum.
Your Indiana Summer FAQ
What are some fun attractions in Indiana in July and August?
The Peru Circus Festival, Indiana State Fair, county fairs, outdoor concerts, and small-town summer fests are must-see events. Plus, water parks and Lake Michigan beaches are perfect for weekend getaways.
Where are the best small-town summer festivals in Indiana?
Check out the St. Joe Pickle Festival, Kouts Pork Fest, and countless county fairs across the state. Each one has its own Hoosier charm.
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