Old Settlers Days Festival
On the grounds of the John Hay Center
About Old Settlers' Days
Old Settlers’ Days is an annual, free to the public festival, first established and held for the community in 1875, to commemorate and honor the pioneers who settled the wilderness lands of the Indiana Territory that would eventually become Washington County.
Step back in time with us at the John Hay Center in Salem for Old Settlers Days 2026!
Saturday, October 3 & Sunday, October 4
John Hay Center • Salem, Indiana
Free Admission
THE CABOOSE IS BACK!One of this year’s biggest highlights is the Grand Unveiling of the restored caboose at 11:00 AM Saturday! After the unveiling, the caboose will officially open for tours throughout the weekend.
PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN IS COMING TO SALEM!Abraham Lincoln, portrayed by Larry Elliott, will welcome visitors during Saturday’s Opening Ceremonies and bring history to life throughout the day. Hear the Gettysburg Address, meet Lincoln at the historic John Hay House, and bring the kids to Storytime with Abraham Lincoln in the Pioneer Village Schoolhouse!
On Sunday, don’t miss “The Story of Our Lives: Birth to Ford’s Theatre,” featuring Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, portrayed by Larry and Mary Elliott.
LIVING HISTORY ALL WEEKEND LONG!Wander through Pioneer Village and experience history firsthand with blacksmithing, spinning, historic crafts, loom weaving, Revolutionary War-era cricket, Morse code demonstrations, horse-drawn implements, historical tours, demonstrators, food and craft vendors, and more!
Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides Saturday afternoon, visit the art show, listen to music on the John Hay House porch, sample parched corn and apple cider, and explore the historic grounds.
AND STAY SATURDAY EVENING FOR LIVE MUSIC!
Blue Halo — 5:00–7:00 PM Bourbon Sour — 7:00–9:00 PMBring the family and spend the weekend experiencing history instead of just reading about it.
Old Settlers Days 2026 Saturday & Sunday, October 3–4 John Hay Center • Salem, IndianaHistory comes alive in Salem this weekend!
Event Information
| Event Date | 10-04-2026 10:00 am |
