News Release

NAPPANEE — Experience the thrill of WeFlip Entertainment, the Nappanee Apple Festival’s headlining act, performing in the Nappanee Library Parking lot from Friday at 5:30 p.m. to Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Be amazed by their death-defying acrobatic feats, including jugglers, jump rope artists and heart-stopping balancing acts that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Thursday’s festival kickoff at 5:30 p.m. sets the stage for an exciting evening of entertainment, featuring Blue River Jazz at The Kountry Cabinets Entertainment Tent, and Bremen Family Martial Arts at The UFP Nappanee Stage, both performing at 5:30 p.m.

Kids and parents alike will delight in Granpa Cratchet’s hilarious puppet shows at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., a beloved festival tradition continuing through Sunday.

At 7 p.m., head to The Kountry Cabinets Entertainment Tent at Depot Plaza to support the talented young women competing for Miss Apple Blossom scholarships and witness the crowning of the Festival Queen, making for a fun-filled evening for all.

Friday festival goers are in for a treat with high-energy comedy shows by Mike Hemmelgarn, a talented juggler and ventriloquist, performing throughout the weekend. The day’s music lineup is equally impressive, featuring Sunshine Production Factory, John Gaut, Adrienne Frailey and Exit 41, culminating in a fantastic finale with a two-hour performance by Jim Kaylor’s Front Porch Singing and Dan Heath and the Iconics, closing out Friday night in style.

Friday through Sunday, Silly Safaris, Indiana’s leading provider of live animal conservation education, brings its engaging and interactive show to the festival, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment that captivates audiences of all ages. With over 3,000 shows annually across the U.S., Silly Safaris showcases a diverse range of reptiles, mammals, birds, and bugs, creating an unforgettable experience that combines fun and learning, perfect for the whole family.

Saturday’s musical lineup is packed with talented performers, featuring Carlie’s Angels, Broken Lifters, Dan Heath and the Iconics, Touch of Texas and Gene Mullet, all joining forces with The Bulldogs to deliver an unforgettable day of entertainment, showcasing a diverse range of musical styles and genres that are sure to delight festival-goers of all ages.

Rounding out the festival’s entertainment schedule on Sunday are performances by the Gray Horse Band, John Gaut, Memphis Underground, the lively Heartland County Cloggers and the talented NorthWood High School Dawning Generation, all coming together to deliver a fantastic finale to the weekend’s festivities.

Throughout the weekend, downtown sidewalks will be lined with crates of fresh apples, accompanied by an array of delicious apple treats, including pie, dumplings, fritters, turnovers, bread, cider and butter, offering endless opportunities for indulgence. But that’s not all — the festival will also feature exciting contests, tournaments and attractions, such as the Farm Tractor & Antique Farm Equipment show at Nappanee Power from the Past Showgrounds from Thursday to Saturday, a Saturday morning parade and an afternoon Wings, Wheels and Car Show at the municipal airport, ensuring a fun-filled experience for all.

The 48th annual Nappanee Apple Festival, one of Indiana’s premier events, is made possible through the generous financial support of local and area businesses, City of Nappanee employees, the Nappanee Area Chamber of Commerce, and a dedicated team of volunteers.

For a comprehensive guide to the festival, including a full list of entertainment, events, and a map, visit nappaneeapplefestival.org or check out the 2024 Nappanee Apple Festival Brochure. Stay up-to-date on the latest festival news and behind-the-scenes peeks by connecting with us on social media at @napplefest on Facebook and Instagram!