Celebrate fall and kick off to Persimmon Festival at Spring Mill State Park’s Candlelight Tour

MITCHELL — Fall is officially in the air, and Mitchell’s Tri Kappa chapter is inviting the public to step back in time for one of the season’s most beloved local traditions. The annual Candlelight Tour of the Pioneer Village at Spring Mill State Park will take place on Saturday, September 19, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Visitors to the tour will feel as though they have been transported straight to the 1860s. The historic village will come alive with period music, historical re-enactments, and interactive displays offering a firsthand look at everyday life during the 19th century. Guests will even have the chance to step into history themselves—and might just find themselves recruited to march alongside Civil War-era soldiers!

As dusk falls, the atmosphere transforms into something truly magical. Soft light will fill the valley as candles begin to glow in the windows of the historic pioneer homes and the famous Spring Mill gristmill.

Beyond the sights and sounds of the past, attendees are encouraged to come hungry. The ladies of Tri Kappa will be serving up a variety of traditional autumn foods and treats available for purchase. The menu features hearty favorites like beans and cornbread, hot dogs, and nachos, along with sweet options like caramel corn, cookies, and candies. Foodies won’t want to miss out on Tri Kappa’s signature, famous local delicacies: fresh persimmon pudding and persimmon cookies.

Organizers remind visitors to plan ahead before entering the valley: cell phone service in the Pioneer Village is very limited, making this a cash-only event for all food and refreshment purchases.

Gather your family and friends for an unforgettable evening of history, food, music, and fall festivities. Mark your calendars for September 19 and kick off the autumn season at Spring Mill State Park!