I brought my parents who were here visiting from VA out here for a picnic. We had a wonderful time. Watching the river flowing by, looking at the beautiful scenery, walking into the buildings there and reading the historic information about them....it was a wonderful afternoon!!
We visit Fort Quiatenon each year for the Feast of the Hunter's Moon. Fall festival that celebrates the French and Indian history of the area from the 18th century. We love the musical groups - old sea shanties and French songs... Lafayette Fife and Drum Corps (French Marines) and Voyageurs are some of our favorites. Food and authentic crafts are great. Since they added a tavern, there's something for everyone.
We usually come here for the Feast of the Hunters Moon. The people who run the place do a good job!!
New and interesting foods to try, re-enactors who are sleeping in historically accurate tents for the weekend, hatchets, woolen cloaks, hot cider... What more could a girl want? If you like history or just festivals in general, this is a cool one. It celebrates the Indians native to the area and the French voyageurs who built the original fort at this location. We always have fun when we go, and there are all kinds of interesting things to see that demonstrate the life of early Indiana settlers. Bring the kids or go as a couple or with friends. I've had fun every time I've been there. Just be prepared to get muddy if there's been rain!
Growing up in West Lafayette I had numerous opportunities to visit the old French trading post. Each visit was wonderful whether on a picnic on the banks of the Wabash or learning from those who inturpt this area's history. If you are in the area, please plan to visit. You and your family won't forget it.
Every early fall, Fort Ouiatenon is the site of the Feast of the Hunter's Moon. This is a historical reenactment of a French/Indian trading post in the 1700s drawing spectators and participants from all over the Midwest. There is great attention to detail to keep everything (costumes, music, food, items for sale) historically accurate. People of all ages will enjoy this from the smoked turkey legs to the Native American dances. Parking is available nearby for a fee but its less stressful to park at the Purdue University football parking lot and take a Feast Shuttle bus.
I've been to many "folk festivals" and recreations around the world and this one is really outstanding. Well organized with many people who are serious about their craft. Watching the canoes come down the Wabash gives goose bumps. Get the kids away from the TV and the Wii and go for the day!
Fort Ouiatenon (Wee-teh-non) is a historical site sitting on the Wabash River located south of Purdue University. Settled by the French in the early-mid 1700's, the site is now akin to a large park with open fields, outdoor pavilions, etc. Although a bit out of the way compared to some of the other parks (Happy Hollow, Columbian Park) It is great for larger bbqs, nature hikes, and fair weather.The Fort's blockhouse is open weekends from 1-5 p.m. May through September. Feast of the Hunters' Moon is a historical re-living, family attraction held every Fall usually late September.
Feast of the Hunters Moon is the only reason to visit. This takes place in the fall. There are about 500 to 700 booths open that sell food and items from the time period of Native American and French trading that went on in the area during pre colonial times. Lots of reinactments and people in dress. Very fun and informational. We try to go every year. You can park at Purdue's football parking lot and take the shuttle for free. Tickets are less if you get them online.
The Feast is held every fall and is a great re-enactment of the French and Indian War. The costumes, food, displays and games are pretty authentic of that time. Lots of fun.