New Harmony Kunstfest

The third weekend in September is the time for New Harmony’s largest and most anticipated event of the year—Kunstfest! This celebration of German heritage and art is one of the biggest of its kind in Indiana.

This year, Kunstfest will take place Saturday, September 16, 2023 and Sunday, September 17, 2023.

What is Kunstfest?

“Kunst” means “art” in German, and you can expect to see a lot of it. Artists from across the region will sell and showcase their creations. With so many unique pieces, you’re sure to find something you’ll love!  Add “fest” – short for festival.  Kunstfest is a fun, German festival with art, entertainment, food, and learning opportunities, too!

Arts, Crafts, Antiques and More

At Kunstfest, vendors line the streets, showcasing art, gifts, antiques, crafts, and more on Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 9am-4pm. Many of the local storefronts will also be open with special promotions during the festival.

Festival Food

Be sure to come hungry! We plan to have all of your German favorites — bratwurst, kraut balls, kuchen, apple cider, chicken and dumplings, German potato salad, brain sandwiches, fried bologna, ice cream, kettle corn and more!  New Harmony also has delightful restaurants, bars, and a coffee shop that will be open during the weekend.

Plus, there will be a beer garden at Black Lodge Coffee Roasters!

Entertainment

Events include musical performances of many types.  You will hear dulcimer players, blue grass tunes, a few polka selections and some German Folk Music genres.  Plus, there will be music Friday evening on the Patio at the Red Geranium.

On Saturday evening, don’t miss the Biggest Liar’s Contest at the Murphy Auditorium, a tradition for more than 25 years.  Perhaps you want to sign up in advance to compete yourself as a master prevaricator!  There are also children’s activities at the family stage at Maclure Square, and more!

One of the most popular attractions at Kunstfest is the group of historical craft demonstrations. Each year, children stand in awe as they watch experts demonstrate blacksmithing, rope making, pottery, weaving, spinning and more. Some of these creations will be available for sale, and demonstrators will be present to explain the art of each craft to audiences.

Parking

Don’t worry about having to park far away from the festival! Parking will be available at the Atheneum visitor’s center, as well as the former location of the New Harmony School and with shuttles taking visitors to and from the festival.

Staying in New Harmony

With so many attractions and activities to take part in, you will want to come and stay all weekend!  For more information about the charming places you can stay, click over to the “Places to Stay” section of the Visit New Harmony website.  From the New Harmony Inn with 90 rooms, to Bed & Breakfast Inns, the Old Rooming House, AirBnBs, guest houses and cottages, there are choices to fit every personality and budget. And let’s not forget camping, which you can do at both Harmonie State Park or Murphy Park.

VENDORS and CRAFTSPERSONS/DEMONSTRATORS

The 2023 Official Registration Form, which contains the application for vendors, demonstrators, craftspersons, details about limited electricity, rules of the festival, and contact information will be posted soon.