Tomato Fest 2026
Sunday, September 20, 2026 | 12:00–4:00 PM
Big Maple Lake
Fresh tomatoes, music, local food, family fun, and a community picnic with a purpose.
This year, Tomato Fest comes at a difficult time for Northwest Indiana farmers and families. After a season of damaging storms, we’re gathering to celebrate what our local farmers have grown, support them through a challenging season, and enjoy an afternoon together as a community.
Come for a community picnic, listen to music, try over 2 dozen varieties of tomatoes, and show some love for the farmers who help feed our region.
Join us for Tomato Fest 2026—and let’s gather around our farmers when they need us most!
Your admission includes:
Tomato tastings presented by Region Roots
Lively Music
Access to local farmers and artisan vendors
Family-friendly activities and children's art area
Yard games including cornhole, giant Jenga, Connect 4, checkers, and more
A relaxing picnic atmosphere to enjoy the best of Northwest Indiana
Optional Add-Ons - make each of these a selection in the ticket purchase area
Make your day even more memorable with:
• Tomato Fest branded kites - $10 each
• Picnic Kits with reusable bamboo tableware - $15 for a set of 4
• Charcuterie Picnic Boxes from The Gourmet Goddess - perfect for sharing - $25 each (serves 2). $5 from each box will be donated to NWIFC
Shop Local
Browse a curated marketplace featuring local farmers, food producers, artisans, and specialty food vendors offering fresh produce, handmade goods, gourmet treats, and unique gifts.
Help Grow Northwest Indiana's Local Food System
Tomato Fest is the Northwest Indiana Food Council's signature fall fundraiser. Every ticket purchased, raffle entered, and Tomato Fest item purchased helps support programs that strengthen our regional food system, connect local farmers with consumers, and expand access to healthy, locally grown food throughout Northwest Indiana.
Be sure to visit our raffle featuring gift baskets, restaurant gift cards, gardening packages, family experiences, and locally made products donated by generous community partners.
Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, gather your favorite people, and enjoy an afternoon celebrating local food, local farms, and the harvest season.
Come hungry. Come curious. Come celebrate community—one tomato at a time!
Tickets
General Admission – $10 (Children 5 and under are free)
Advance ticket purchase is encouraged. We can't wait to celebrate with you!
Calling All Vendors!
Vendor applications are now open for Tomato Fest 2026!
Join us on Sunday, September 20 at Big Maple Lake for an afternoon celebrating Northwest Indiana's local food system with farmers, makers, food artisans, live music, family fun, and all things tomato.
We're looking for:
Farmers & food producers
Handmade artisans
Food trucks & beverage vendors
Garden & agricultural businesses
Tomato-inspired foods, sauces, baked goods, and more!
If your products celebrate local food, gardens, harvest, or tomatoes, we'd love to hear from you. Apply by August 21st!
Apply here: https://bit.ly/3TGWEqd
Interested in sponsoring our event - learn more here -https://www.nwifoodcouncil.org/sponsorship