It's Your Business: Ellettsville events bring community, businesses together

In Ellettsville, like most communities, events serve as the lifeblood bringing residents together, fostering economic growth and enriching the cultural tapestry of the area.

These events play a significant role in contributing to a town's vitality and development in several ways. Events attract visitors, which increases spending at local businesses. Events foster community by bringing residents together, strengthening social ties and creating a sense of pride and belonging. They provide networking opportunities for local business owners to connect and collaborate. Events can enhance the town's image and attractiveness to potential new residents and businesses.

From the farmers' market in the Chandler Funeral Home parking lot every Saturday, Food Truck Wednesdays and the Monroe County Fall Festival, summertime in Ellettsville is full of opportunities.

Food Truck Wednesdays began as an idea from Denise Dyche, Farmers Insurance, and Jordan Davis, general manager of Chocolate Moose. The town agreed, hoping to attract visitors, encourage people to stop in Ellettsville and offer something unique for the community.

By 2023, the event outgrew its original location on Sale Street, prompting a move to Marci Jane Lewis Park in August. Benefits of the move include using the shelter house, restrooms and additional parking. The town plans to introduce a summer concert series at Food Truck Wednesdays in 2025.

Bands perform in the shelter house, creating a relaxing atmosphere for attendees to enjoy their meals and music, fostering community connections.

Ellettsville Town Planner Denise Line said, "The vision for Food Truck Wednesdays is to have a successful, sustainable event for the community of Ellettsville. Long-term goals are continual growth, which will spur other events."

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/EllettsvilleFoodTruckWednesdays.

The Ellettsville Farmers' Market blossomed from a conversation among a few Chandler Funeral Homes employees and owner G.L. Chandler. When discussing the farmers' markets in surrounding areas and lamenting the lack of one in Ellettsville, G.L. said, "Why don't we do it?" Noting the empty lot next door and Chandler Park for expansion, G.L. said, "Make it happen."

Ron Wayt, Dave Jarrett and Kaitlin Erickson did just that. They researched and developed a plan to present to the town. They were motivated to offer a local market for fresh produce, baked goods and handcrafted items to provide residents with a convenient place to shop and socialize nearby.

"There is quite a bit of change to each week's market," Ron said. "One market will not be like the next."

As a result of the farmers' market, businesses including Temperance Street Market and The Mimosa Tree Florist and Gift Shoppe have seen an increase in the number of visitors on Saturdays.

Plans for the farmers' market include music or other entertainment and activities for children. Ron shared, "We are excited about having a Holiday Market in December along with the Ellettsville Holiday Extravaganza sponsored by Chandler Funeral Homes. There will be a parade, tree lighting, and a holiday show."

The best way to get involved is to patronize the vendors and spread the word about what the market offers. Visit the Chandler Funeral Homes Facebook page for more information.

The Monroe County Fall Festival (MCFF), held this year on Sept. 12-14, is a true community event. Dedicated chairpeople lead the volunteer staff. This year, community organizations helping with the festival are Boy Scouts of America, Hoosier Hills FFA, Edgewood FFA, Indiana University wrestling team, and Monroe County 4 H, to name a few. 

"MCFF could not happen without the support of the town of Ellettsville employees," said MCFF President Marv Ulmet.

Marv's father and grandparents participated in the MCFF in the 1940s and '50s. "My parents always made sure our family attended the Monroe County Fall Festival," said Marv, "I spent many years riding on 4-H floats and driving tractors in the parade. I believe in knowing your neighbors and making lasting friendships within the community."  

The 2024 MCFF will welcome new events including Cincinnati Circus Company, featuring a two-person thrill show that wows the crowd. Saturday will start with a new parade time of 10 a.m., followed by a baby contest, Royal Elite Cheer, pedal tractor pulls, and a car show. Enjoy your favorite beverages from Butler Winery and Upland Brewing on Friday and Saturday. New items for all three days include a mechanical bull, live wood carving, axe throwing and children's train rides.

The MCFF kicks off Thursday evening with the Queen Contest and entertainment by Edgewood Music Warehouse. With 16 food trucks, attendees will have plenty of food options. Enjoy over 60 craft vendors, new boutique vendor trailers and more than 40 local service providers in the commercial tent.

Children can play pay-to-play games like jump houses and hamster balls. Saturday continues with traditions like Queen and Me, clogging performances and local bands. Each night features rock, country and bluegrass, with the main stage for bigger bands and a second stage for smaller acts.

Visit Monroecountyfallfestival.com for a full schedule.

MCFF offers free admission. Sponsors and vendors cover other entertainment costs. This festival is possible thanks to the town of Ellettsville, Richland Township trustee and local businesses and organizations. Join us for the 2024 Monroe County Fall Festival at Marci Jane Lewis Park.

Jill Thurman is office administrator with the Greater Ellettsville Area Chamber of Commerce.