Each year, millions of monarch butterflies migrate from Canada and the United States to their winter home in Mexico. Some travel as far as 3,000 miles! You can take part in this great migration right here in SoIN when the Monarch Festival returns to Southern Indiana on September 7!
Hosted by the Arts Alliance of Southern Indiana, the 2024 festival runs from 10 a.m. – 11 p.m., with the butterfly release happening at 6 p.m. Keep reading for more details, including on the festival's new location and partner!
Festival Schedule
Arts and Crafts Booths
10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Food Trucks
10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Beer and Wine Garden
11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Butterfly Educational Experience
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Butterfly Release
6 p.m.
Kid Zone Activities and Inflatables
Noon – 7 p.m.
New Location
For the first time, Monarch Festival takes place at Art on the Parish Green at St. Paul's Episcopal Church located at 1015 E. Main St. in New Albany. The timing coincides with the monarchs emerging from their cocoons to begin their journey south. In previous years, the festival was held during MountFest at Mount St. Francis. (Click here for details on this year’s MountFest.)
Kid-Friendly Fun
Thanks to community sponsors, the Monarch Festival at Art on the Parish Green is free to attend. The event offers a kid’s zone featuring inflatables and face painting. There is a $5 suggested donation for the “Butterfly Educational Experience”, where families can observe various butterfly species up close, including the majestic Monarch and vibrant Painted Ladies. Educators will be available to explain their life cycles, habitats, and unique traits. A special butterfly release will take place at 6 p.m.
Art & Live Music
Throughout the event, attendees are treated to live music and can view work and demonstrations from 100 artists. Food and drink are available for purchase from food trucks, including Smokin' Frank's BBQ, Dock Seafood, Mini Mai's Thai, Tender Vendor and Wink's Ice Cream. There will also be beer, wine and spirits available for purchase.
Proceeds from the Monarch Festival benefit St. Paul's food pantry and the Arts Alliance of Southern Indiana.
