When the city of New Point was founded in 1840 in Decatur County, it was known then as the town of Crackaway. Now, 168 years later, the annual tradition and celebration of the Crackaway Daze Festival has become a staple of the New Point community.

Now in its 15th year, Crackaway Daze provides festival-goers with live entertainment, a flea market, a display of antique tractors and games for kids. Before every year’s celebration, the Crackaway Daze committee chooses an organization that will receive a portion of the

proceeds that are generated.

“This year, we’re going to help out the new fire department,” event secretary Sharon Walterman said.

The New Point Volunteer Fire Department was chosen to receive some of the money made at the event. The town’s department has recently moved into its new fire station.

As crowds gather at 10 a.m. on Saturday at the Salt Creek Township Park, one of the first things they will experience is the bed race in front of the Post Office. Teams of five will race beds in the street, with the first place team receiving $50.

At 11 a.m., the Crackaway Daze parade will begin at the New Point Community Center. Walterman said she expects the parade to be enormous, noting that last year’s parade included more than 70 entrants. The parade will make its way to the park, where attendees are invited to enjoy the hog roast and other food items. Opening ceremonies will be performed with Southern Indiana Pipes and Drums, a bagpipe and drum band. Then, the flea market will be open with dozens of vendors showcasing their wares. Kids’ games and pony rides will keep the children entertained as adults enjoy the food and entertainment.

The live entertainment kicks off on Saturday at around 12 p.m. with the Eureka Band, Heartland Cloggers, Old Friends, the Barnstormin’ Bluegrass Band, the Adams Church Boys Plus and the Tunesmith Band featuring Kevin Proctor.

On Sunday, the New Point Kiwanis Club will be serving up the always anticipated and famous fried chicken. Beginning at noon, bands the Flatrock Bluegrass Band and Gospel, Judith Montgomery and Family, Old Friends and Jim Innis with the Flatrock Bluegrass Band will be performing for the crowds.

Walterman added that Buddy and Mary Demaree, who were elected as festival King and Queen, will reign over the festivities. They have been New Point residents all their lives and active in helping the Crackaway Daze event since its inception, Walterman said.

“It’s getting bigger every year,” Walterman explained. “It’s a lot of work, but we enjoy doing it.”

For the Crackaway Daze committee, the festival is not just a time to raise funds for community causes. It is a time to enjoy the town and make the community one of neighbors and friends.