Apple butter cooking over the fire; pioneers in and around the Log House; vendors displaying their wares; tall-tales being spun; crafts to make... must be Prairie Days! This is THE event for Darke County Parks. Each year, this Free Family Event brings in 3,000 people to Shawnee Prairie Preserve.

Held annually the last full weekend of September, this event focuses on the prairie way of life in and around 1780-1810 and will feature many crafts, games and trades of the time period. Many crafts are free for children and with a select few requesting a small donation to cover material costs. Bring your family to the Prairie and step back in time!

Prairie Days Dates:
September 25 & 26, 2010
September 24 & 25, 2011

Prairie Days Map
Past Prairie Days Pictures

Skill Demonstrations
Bringing pioneer living to life, demonstrators use their skills and tools to educate the visiting public on their skill. Many have their items for sale as well.
Past Demonstrators
Demonstrator Application

Vendors / Sutlers
Demonstrating skills or items from the late 18th century, Prairie Days sutlers offer a variety of goods with a wide range of pricing. Please be sure to get us your registrations by August 1st.
Past Vendors / Sutlers
Vendor / Sutler Application

Located at the center of it all, the Children's Tent provides an excellent setting for kids of all ages to learn some crafts of the 18th century! Ranging from tinsmithing decorations, cornhusk dolls, tussie-mussies and more, there is something for everyone to try!

Longhunters, civilians, sutlers and more join us for our weekend encampment. This allows the public a view of various styles of camp and lifestyles during 1780-1810. Please be sure to get your registration to us by August 1st.
Encampment Registration

Early-mid 20th century farm machinery also makes an appearance at Prairie Days! Located on the other side of the hill from the Log House, these classic machines and tools demonstrate how farm life took place in the not so distant past.
Want to bring your equipment?

Offering a wide variety of entertainments, there is something for everyone! Anything from tall-tales being told, to traveling musicians, to art shows or melodramas can be found throughout the weekend. Registration deadline: August 1st.
Want to offer your entertainment?

Do you make or sell unique and/or historic items? Offer food services such as Kettle Corn or Ice Cream? Shoot us an email as we're always looking for new goods to offer to our guests. Registration deadline: August 1st.
Modern Vendor Application