Every fall, Plainfield comes alive with Quaker Days, a beloved community celebration packed with tradition, entertainment, and special programming just for kids. Quaker Days are interactive, educational, and celebrate shared traditions in this great Hendricks County community. Here’s a lineup of family-focused favorites you won’t want to miss:
Back Your Badge Kids Race
Kicking off the weekend’s action, the Kids Race starts at 9am on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at Plainfield Town Hall. This fun, free race is perfect for energetic young runners and sets the tone for a joyful day ahead. Register your kiddo here.
Quaker Day Parade
At 10am (also on September 20), the Quaker Day Parade rolls through downtown Plainfield. Kids love cheering on more than 70 creative floats, many tossing candy and crafts to the crowd. It’s a traditional, high-energy spectacle themed this year as “Hometown Heroes: Salute to Service”—a charming tribute with wide appeal. The parade will proceed down U.S. 40, starting near Kentucky across from Duke Energy, and ending at Vestal Rd.
Quaker Day Craft & Community Festival
Following the parade (from 8am-4pm), the Craft & Community Festival unfolds on the church lawn at Plainfield Friends Meeting (105 S East St). Keep up with festival updates on the Facebook page.
- Bounce Houses & Inflatables: These are a hit with younger kids—perfect for jumping-off energy in a safe, playful environment.
- Petting Zoo & Pony Rides: Animal lovers can get hands-on with friendly farm critters and even enjoy pony rides in past years’ festivities.
- Shaved Ice Treats & Inflatables: From shaved ice stands like Frigid Frog to various inflatables, there’s plenty to keep kids cool and entertained.
- Craft Booths & Family-Friendly Vendors: Explore booths offering everything from handcrafted toys to educational displays—great for curious youngsters and parents alike.
Evening Entertainment & New Surprises
The fun continues into the evening with a unique, kid-inclusive experience at Hummel Park Performing Arts Center:
- Tethered Balloon Rides begin around 6:30pm, giving families a chance to soar (safely tethered) and see the town from above—a thrilling highlight for adventurous kids.
- A U2 tribute concert by Without U2 at 7pm. adds live-music energy that’s still accessible and family-friendly.
- Plainfield Sky Dance Drone Show: Around 8:30pm, the night sky lights up in a choreographed drone display—an awe-inspiring way to end the day for kids and adults alike.
