ORLEANS — The wait is almost over for one of Southern Indiana’s most anticipated spring traditions. Festival Director Robert Henderson has officially released the final schedule of events for the 56th Annual Orleans Dogwood Festival, which begins this Friday, April 17.
Under the 2026 theme “Celebrating America 250,” this year’s festival features a blend of longtime favorites and several brand-new attractions, including a trail-side 5K and a series of daily tea parties.
Opening Weekend: April 17–19
The festival kicks off with the popular Town-Wide Yard Sale running all day Friday and Saturday.
Saturday Highlights:
Competitive spirits can join the new Pickleball Bash Tournament at Second and Monroe Streets, starting at 10 a.m.
The evening focuses on royalty at the Orleans Elementary Gym, where the Little Miss, Jr. Miss, “Mr. Dogwood,” and Queen Crowning will take place at a new time of 6 p.m.
Weekday Fun and New Events: April 20–22
The festival moves to Congress Square on Monday as the vendors and arts & crafts booths open.
A new daily event from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Tea Party on the Porch at Feminine Mystique (158 E. Jefferson St.) runs Monday through Saturday.
The Funtime Carnival opens Monday at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are designated “Bracelet Nights” for unlimited riding.
Wednesday features a Carnegie America 250 Play Area Ribbon Cutting at the library (3:30 p.m.) and a Student Art Reception. Evening entertainment includes the O.H.S. Pep Band and Gospel Night.
The Peak of the Festival: April 23–24
As the weekend approaches, the square becomes even busier with the addition of a Petting Farm and Pony Rides starting Thursday at 5 p.m.
Thursday highlights include the Silent Auction, the new Stars, Stripes & Spices Chili Cook-Off at Unity Hall at 5:30 p.m., and live music from “Last Call.”
On Friday, don’t miss the Dogwood Best of Show Pet Parade at 5 p.m. and a performance by “RetrOasis” on the Main Stage at 6 p.m.
Grand Finale: Saturday, April 25
The festival’s biggest day begins early at the Monon South Trailhead.
At 8:00 a.m., the new Dogwood 5K Run/Walk and Children’s Fun Run kicks off. Registration begins at 7:00 a.m.
The Circle City Sidewalk Stompers will perform on the Main Stage at 1:00 p.m. to get the crowd ready for the main event.
At 2:00 p.m., the 56th Annual Dogwood Parade steps off. Thousands are expected to line Historic Maple Street (State Road 37) to view the “America 250” themed procession.
Festival organizers have designated the Orleans Christian Church and Orleans United Methodist Church as emergency shelters in the event of severe weather. First Aid is available at the Orleans 1st Responders station on the south side of the square.
For maps, visitor info, and festival merchandise, visit Dogwood Headquarters at the Chamber office on the north side of the square.
Note: All outdoor events are subject to change based on weather conditions.
