The city of Ligonier, located in northeastern Indiana, takes pride in its heritage, that includes being known as “The Marshmallow Capital of the World.” Ligonier’s marshmallow legacy began when Kidd and Company established a marshmallow plant there in 1947. Kraft took over the company in 2000 and moved production to nearby Kendallville. But, the Ligonier Marshmallow Festival continues to pay homage to the legendary confection, with the annual four-day festival taking place in downtown Ligonier over the Labor Day weekend.
Activities
- The festivities begin fittingly with a marshmallow roast. Weekend activities include food and craft vendors, bingo and marshmallow-themed games, face painting and pony rides. On Sunday morning, a pancake and sausage breakfast is followed by a community worship service.
Entertainment
- The highlight of Friday’s opening festivities is a fireworks display at dusk. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, musicians take the main stage to provide entertainment. A car show, tractor pulls, a bike rodeo, a BMX jump show, a motorcycle show and a police vehicle exhibition are also on the agenda. The festival wraps up with a juried parade featuring themed floats on Monday afternoon.
Competitions
- A variety of competitions are held during the festival, including a Marshmallow Bake-Off -- you guessed it, entries must include marshmallows or marshmallow creme -- a chance to become the reigning “King of the Pizza Eaters” by being the fastest to consume a 14-inch pizza and the Armored Fitness Strongman competition for those whose forte is brute strength. Cornhole and euchre tournaments are held, and those who dream of being a star can enter the festival’s talent show.
Tips for Visitors
- Ligonier is located at the intersection of US-6, US-33 and SR-5, 25 miles from both I-69 to its east and I-80/90 (toll roads) to the north. Two bed and breakfasts are located in the heart of Ligonier: Solomon Mier Manor and Laura's Victorian Inn. Mainstream hotels -- including Super 8, Courtyard by Marriott, Hampton Inn, and Comfort Inn -- are located about 20 minutes away on Lincoln-Way East in Goshen, Indiana. Visitors won't want to miss the more than two dozen murals painted on Ligonier's walls and its six life-size bronze statues. More information on things to do can be found at the Ligoniers Visitors Station, housed in a 1920s gas station at the corner of SR-5 and West Union Street.
