Harvest Homecoming – A Local Legacy

Image Credit: Courier Journal

Honored by the Library of Congress Bicentennial Local Legacies Project in 2000, the Harvest Homecoming Festival has drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors to New Albany, Indiana and has been growing and thriving since 1967.

The festival was conceived as a means of bringing the people of southern Indiana together to share in its wealth of talent, history, and beauty, as well as to promote the vast tourism opportunities.

What is now more than a week’s worth of activities began with a $300 donation to put on a three-day ‘Pumpkin Festival’, a civic effort by the Tourism Bureau of the New Albany Chamber of Commerce. It is now funded exclusively by Harvest Homecoming Festival Associates, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, fully operated by volunteers and powered by sponsors.

Mission Statement

Harvest Homecoming is a group of volunteers dedicated to providing a family-oriented festival. It unites the community in a spirit of fellowship and is committed to continuous improvement.

A Letter From Our President

Dear Friends of Harvest Homecoming,

On behalf of the Harvest Homecoming Committee, I’m honored to welcome you to the 2025 Harvest Homecoming Festival. This celebration has always been about our community—neighbors coming together to enjoy music, food, small businesses, and the simple joy of spending time with one another. As Interim President, my goal is to keep that tradition alive while ensuring this year’s event is family-friendly and fun for everyone.

This year’s theme, Heart of Harvest, reflects what makes this festival so special—our shared pride in New Albany, the people who pour their hearts into making it happen, and the memories we create together year after year. We’ll kick things off with our beloved parade on the first Saturday in October—complete with floats, marching bands, and candy for the kids—before heading into a week full of activities for all ages. From delicious foods and unique handcrafted items during Booth Days to games, music, and special events, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to stop by the kids’ stage, attend the car show, cheer on contestants in our competitions, and enjoy time with friends old and new.

The magic of Harvest Homecoming doesn’t happen without the people behind it. We are grateful to our volunteers, sponsoring businesses, city partners, and the many individuals who give their time and talent to make this event possible. When you visit, please remember to enjoy the festival respectfully, look out for one another, and support our local vendors and community groups.

See you at the festival—and thank you for being part of the Heart of Harvest.

Sincerely,

Glenn Dethy
Interim President, Harvest Homecoming 2025

Mission Statement

Harvest Homecoming is a group of volunteers dedicated to providing a family-oriented festival. It unites the community in a spirit of fellowship and is committed to continuous improvement.