ORLEANS —The Town of Orleans is set for a weekend of community festivities, kicking off with a “Block Party” on Friday night and culminating in the 17th Annual Orleans Fall Fun Fest in the Park on Saturday, October 11, 2025.
The event, sponsored by the Orleans Chamber of Commerce, promises a host of fall family activities, live music, and local flavor.
Friday Night Kick-Off: Block Party & Concert
The weekend begins on Friday, October 10th, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a special “Block Party” Kick-Off Event.
The evening features a FREE Front Porch Concert at the 1847 Historic Home of Larry Padgett, one block west of Town Square, with performances by Zaden Cave & Kirby Staley from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The kick-off will also include:
- An Old Fashion Ice Cream Social with Hometown Scoops.
- Special performances by the Dazzlers Dance Team and the Orleans Marching Band Regiment.
- A chance to meet and interact with local Police & Fire Departments, complete with an Emergency Vehicle Display.
Saturday: Fall Fun Fest in the Park
The main event, the 17th Annual Orleans Fall Fun Fest, takes over Historic Congress Square (Town Park) on Saturday, October 11, 2025.
Key activities throughout the day include:
- Farmers Market (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.): Featuring fresh produce, homemade baked goods, fall décor, handcrafted items, and a “Buck a Book” sale.
- 5K Run/Walk (10 a.m.): The 11th Annual Orange County Homegrown 5K Run/Walk starts from the Historic Town Square (registration begins at 9 a.m.; fee charged).
- Kids’ Fun (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.): Activities include Tri Kappa’s Harvest Corner (games and homemade fall treats), Pumpkin Painting (sponsored by Suddarth & Company), and Bounce Houses.
- Scarecrow Contest: Judging for the Orleans Chamber Scarecrow Decorating Contest will take place.
Live Music and Car Show Highlights
The Saturday festival will feature free concerts at the Bicentennial Stage (SW corner of Town Park; bring lawn chairs):
- 11 a.m. – “Last Call”: This band, known for blending classic country and rock n’ roll, features members Rick Mathias, Don Brewer, Dave and Sue Harner, and Del Sheets, combining over 200 years of musical experience.
- 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. – “RetrOasis”: Formerly “The Old n Gold Band,” RetrOasis will perform classics from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s, promising a dance-friendly atmosphere.
Car Show and Food
The Fall Fest Car Show will take place from Noon to 4 p.m. Registration begins at 11 a.m.; an entry fee will be charged), featuring trophies and a 50/50 drawing.
A variety of food options will be available, including Orange County Cattlemen’s Steak Sandwiches, a Masonic Lodge Chili Cook-Off ($10 for chili, cornbread, and drink), and food booths from the Dazzler Dance Center and OHS Junior Class Parents.
For more information about the event, contact the Chamber Office at 812-865-9930 or visit www.historicorleans.com.
