Since 1980, people have cheered and celebrated whenever the Bears of Blue River Festival comes to town. It is the one time of year when people can forget their everyday trials – car repairs, house mortgages, constant bills, debt settlement – and just go out and have some fun.

Originally starting as a kind of teen and outdoor social, the festival grew and gathered power and momentum as the years and the popularity grew. People would leave their jobs, come home, throw on some civvies, and head out into the Indiana heat for some good old fashioned music, food and entertainment, and the tradition continues to this day.

However, the festival has gotten even bigger and now there are even more events to choose from. There have even been 10k runs or walks for various benefits and organizations, and there have also been so many musical performances and entertaining shows by such big name groups that tourists from all over the country have made it a point to take a trip down to Shelbyville whenever the festival comes to town. It’s great fun for the whole family and if you ever wondered what being a part of a community feels like, you need only spend a little time in Shelbyville.

The Blue River Festival features a 10 kilometer walk/run every year. The festival is one of the more popular Shelbyville events of the late Summer and early Fall. The festival marks the transition of seasons and it helps celebrate the harvest. It also serves as a pleasant diversion in what would otherwise be a stressful time. The celebrations let people relieve the stress related to the start of the school semesters and the busy season. When the races Read the rest of this entry »

The 32nd Annual Bears of Blue River Festival was a whirlwind of music, food and fun. Held on the weekend of August 20th and 21st, the festival ushered out the summer with a splash. With plenty of games and activities for all ages, the festival is always a great family outing. The festival provides a true summer weekend that will create memories for a life time.

Starring hit country duo Cook and Belle, along with singer songwriter Casey Jamerson, the music kept toes tapping and toddlers dancing Read the rest of this entry »

The Blue River Festival in Shelbyville, Indiana helps the local economy in several different ways. It is held once a year and draws in thousands of people who want to listen to fantastic blue grass music, shop the market place, food booths, flea market, and just socialize with people around the nation who love great music. The Festival also hosts a 5 and 10k walk or run as well as a parade and children’s days with kiddy rides and games.

Shelbyville has a population of about 20,000 individuals and is surrounded by countryside. The festival draws in people Read the rest of this entry »

The Blue River Festival is a great community event, and it is a really big money maker for the city and the commuinty which hosts it. The event is an annual ordeal, which draws in thousands of visitors for the weekend, and really brings in money to the city. The tourist event is a favorite both for residents, as well as tourists coming in from out of state (or from a nearby city), who really love the blues, and what the music has Read the rest of this entry »