Celebrate the 44th Annual Old Washington Street Festival, Sept 18th and 19th

Friends and neighbors enjoying the vendors at the Old Washington Street Festival.Friends and neighbors enjoying the vendors at the Old Washington Street Festival.

By Matthew Lowe—

MUNCIE, Ind.—The Old Washington Street Festival returns for its 44th iteration this Saturday and Sunday, September 18th and 19th. A mixture of the past and present of the East Central Neighborhood, The Old Washington Street Festival combines the antiquity of the Emily Kimbrough Historic District with a dash of modern flare.

The festival features a wide array of free entertainment options, including Victorian era vaudevillian amusements – a freak show, a beard contest, and a burlesque show as well as rock, folk, rap, r&b, and classical musicians. In addition, there are food vendors featuring a variety of wares – fish & chips, walking tacos, candy, and of course the festival favorite ham & beans.

On Saturday there is a car show. There are historic home tours both Saturday and Sunday. Artists, artisans, and craft makers abound. The festival is free and open to all.

After a year away the festival organizers have made strides to provide a fun and safe festival and believe that this year’s showing will be better than ever. According to festival co-chair Kim Miller, “The Old Washington Street Festival committee is excited to be welcoming both new and returning vendors and entertainers this year. We are dedicated to creating a welcoming and safe environment for everyone to come and enjoy.”

Please be a part of the Old Washington Street Festival this weekend on East Washington Street between Madison and Hackley in Muncie. On street parking is available in and around the area. The festival is open from 11am to 6pm on Saturday and 11am to 5pm Sunday.

Look for the Old Washington Street Festival on Facebook for the most up to date information about the event: www.facebook.com/Oldwashingtonstreetfestival or on the web at  http://www.oldwashingtonstreetfestival.org