A Fall Family Day in Bluffton, IN
A Day of Community, Fun, and Flavor in Downtown Bluffton – Saturday October 4th
Downtown Bluffton is the place to be on Saturday October 4th, as The Parlor City comes alive with a full day of events that celebrate community, generosity, and good old-fashioned fun for the whole family!
Start your morning bright and early with the Bluffton Fraternal Order of Firefighters Pancake and Sausage Breakfast, a beloved tradition that not only fills your belly but also supports the brave men and women who serve our community every day. Come to the Bluffton Fire Station anytime between 6a.m. and 11a.m. to get your fill of flapjacks, sausage, and friendly smiles. Learn More
Next, lace up your walking shoes and head a few blocks north to Wabash River Pavilion for Walk Steady for Rock Steady at 9 a.m., an inspiring event supporting the fight against Parkinson’s Disease. Whether you’re walking to honor a loved one or just joining for fun, it’s a meaningful way to show your support and connect with neighbors. Register here.
For those who love a challenge, the Oktoberfest 5K & 1 Mile Pretzel Dash hosted by the Bluffton Parks Department is NEW and a fun way to embrace German heritage. Each entry receives festive socks and a beer stein. Also enjoy the yodeling, pretzel eating contest, and beer stein race! Open to all ages! (Under 21 receives root beer after the race) Register here.
Join over 18 local competitors for the 8th Annual Bluffton NOW! Chili Cook-Off, a flavorful competition that brings out the city’s culinary creativity. Sample an array of chilis, vote on your favorites, and enjoy strolling through renovated alleys —it’s a taste of Bluffton’s generosity, fun, and hometown pride all in one place. Learn More
From fundraising breakfasts to family-friendly runs and flavorful cook-offs, October 4th is a shining example of how Downtown Bluffton thrives on community connection. These events showcase not only the city’s stewardship and generosity but also the joy of coming together to celebrate causes, fitness, and local flavor. Bring your family, invite your friends, and experience a day full of smiles, laughter, and memories in the heart of Bluffton!
Make it a full weekend of fun throughout Wells County !
Want to experience even more? Reserve a stay at our campgrounds or book a night at our local hotels and airbnbs.
Sunday you can wake up slow and take your pick of activities in Bluffton:
Learn about The Old Bluffton Cemetery and the early history of Wells County through reenactments from Wells County Genealogy and Historical Society members. This presentation will be held at the Wells County Historical Museums Annex at 2 pm on Sunday October 5th.
Want to take in the fall-scape? Bring your furry friend to the Fall Hound Hike at Ouabache State Park at 2p.m. *gate entry fee applies
Or make your way to Markle (just off of I-69):
Join Stauffer Farms for the second day of their Car & Craft Fest held on October 4th and 5th which raises funds for Forgotten Children Worldwide. This is the perfect place to find your fall favorites from local vendors- there’s more than we could ever list- This is not an event to miss!
Stop by Markle Exit 286 Antique Mall to wander the 30,000 square feet of vendors from noon-5p.m. Owned by twin sisters Connie and Carol- they call it “The Wanderkummer of the Wabash”. This gem of an antique store is just a four minute drive from Stauffer Farms and a must stop for travelers off Exit 286 into Markle.
We hope you explore more with us! Use the hashtag #wanderingwellscounty on your social media posts for your chance to be featured in future posts/publications showcasing our community.