Indiana Peony Festival back in Noblesville, expands with Friday evening ‘VIPP’ event

Make no mistake ... once you smell a peony, you know spring is in the air! (Photo provided)

Following a successful inaugural event that drew more than 10,000 people in 2021, the Indiana Peony Festival returns to Seminary Park in Noblesville from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 21.

More than 50 vendors are anticipated for this year’s event and, thanks to the Noblesville police, fire and public safety departments, dedicated parking lots and a shuttle both to and from the downtown Noblesville event will improve attendee’s experience.

“Last year’s event was such a wonderful success, we were committed to bringing it back this spring bigger and better than ever,” said Event Chair Kelly McVey. “We are excited to add more sponsors as well as local restaurant and artist partners.”

This year’s festival has expanded to include a VIPP (Very Important Peony Person) event, “Peonies in the Park,” from 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 20, sponsored by Duke Energy Smith Jewelers. Tickets to the VIPP event are $100 each and be purchased at indianapeonyfestival.com/peonies-in-the-park.

Also added this year, the “Brunch and Blooms,” brunch crawl will take place during the day Saturday, May 21. Brunch & Blooms crawlers will receive a Brunch & Blooms button, crawl map, discounted brunch items and special peony promotions at participating retailers. Tickets to Brunch & Blooms are $6.

Of Friday’s “Peonies in the Park” evening event, McVey said, “Attendees will be able to sample peony-inspired dishes and drinks from more than 10 Noblesville eateries while getting a first pick of peony plants and stems and shopping from featured vendors.”

Area restaurants include:

  • Alexander’s on the Square
  • Debbie’s Daughters Bakery & Cafe
  • Grindstone Public House
  • Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano
  • 9th Street Bistro
  • Noble Coffee & Tea
  • Primeval Brewing
  • Spencer Farm Winery
  • Texy Mexy
  • The Nesst
  • Cardinal Spirits

Tickets as well as details about events, sponsors and vendors can be found at indianapeonyfestival.com.

Proceeds from the Indiana Peony Festival special events support beautification projects in Hamilton County.

About the Indiana Peony Festival

The mission of the Indiana Peony Festival is to inspire Indiana residents to celebrate the state flower, to enhance Noblesville through peony beautification projects, and to promote Hamilton County as a desired visitor destination during May, when peonies are in bloom and Indianapolis 500 festivities occur.