Summer 2023 Attractions and Activities in Johnson County
As the summer sun begins to shine on Johnson County, residents and visitors alike can look forward to an exciting lineup of activities and events. From water parks and concerts to fairs and festivals, there is something for everyone to do during the County’s bicentennial summer.
Music fans will be excited to know that venues across the county will feature both rising local talent and longtime favorite performers from every genre.
“Whether you like country music, classic rock, tribute artists, or regional favorites, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy great music, food trucks and drinks all summer,” said Ken Kosky, Executive Director of Festival Country Indiana.
"This summer is going to be jam packed with great concerts and events,” he said. “There are amazing concert series at the Greenwood Amphitheater, Franklin Amphitheater, Mallow Run Winery, and Greenwood Park Mall.”
Festivals in Johnson County always deliver in making a memorable summer. One highly anticipated event is WAMMfest, taking place on August 19 in Greenwood.
“This year’s festival lineup is stronger than ever, with WAMMfest bringing the nationally known Spin Doctors to Greenwood, as well as the wine, art and microbrews that the festival is known for,” said Kosky.
Beyond concerts and festivals, Johnson County offers a range of outdoor recreational activities for families.
The Freedom Springs Aquatics Park, Franklin Family Aquatic Center, and Edinburgh Aquatic Center attract families from miles around to escape from the heat.
Freedom Springs sports unique features like taller slides, a lazy river, cabanas, shelters and more, making it a popular destination for people of all ages. Operating hours during summer are from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays, with extended hours until 10 p.m. on Thursdays.
The Franklin Family Aquatic Center is ideal for those who are looking to use the summer as an opportunity to improve swimming skills. Franklin’s Aquatic Center offers a variety of swimming classes and activities for all ages, including lap swim, group swim lessons for children, lifeguard trainings, one-on-one swim lessons, and water aerobics.
The Edinburgh Aquatic Center offers affordable family and individual passes for residents and non-residents, with varying prices based on location. The pool operates daily, with specific hours for adult swim, public swim, and a free family swim session from 5:00-6:00 PM. Admission fees range from $2.00 to $5.00 for kids and adults, with free entry for children 3 years and younger.
For those seeking a more rustic experience, Dollie's Farm in Franklin, opening June 10th for the 2023 season, is the place to be. “The rural feel of our communities shines with such attractions as Dollie’s Farm in Franklin, a U-Pick flower farm,” Kosky said.
Dollie's Farm is a 5-acre Lavender & flower farm with a rich history. A main attraction at the Farm is the beautiful floriculture field with hand-planted lavender and various flower varieties, including 17 types of Sunflowers. Guests at Dollie’s Farm can pick their own fresh cut flowers and enjoy a picnic surrounded by butterflies and honey bees.
But for those with a need for speed, Johnson County is also home to several favorite local racing attractions including Whiteland Raceway Park and the Go-Kart tracks of Rascal’s Fun Zone.
Kosky believes that this year's summer activities are going to be amplified by the bicentennial celebrations of Franklin and Johnson County.
“There are also plenty of other festivals, fireworks show, classic car shows, parades and more,” Kosky added. “This is also the bicentennial year for Franklin and Johnson County, so expect to see additional celebrations throughout the year.”
To learn more about the exciting attractions and events taking place this summer in Johnson County, go to the Festival Country Indiana Visitor Center in Franklin or visit festivalcountryindiana.com.