This Saturday, all roads lead to Napoleon, Indiana, where the community comes together for a summer tradition 140 years strong. The Napoleon Volunteer Fire Company Picnic isn’t just a party — it’s a celebration of service, history, and hometown pride. And it all kicks off earlier in the day with something for the adventurous crowd.
The morning starts with the Jeep and UTV Poker Run, a fun and scenic 75-mile ride through Southeastern Indiana. Registration opens at 10:00 a.m. at the firehouse (4161 W. Millhousen Road, Osgood). The ride rolls out at noon. Entry is $30 for a driver and machine, which includes one poker card and a $10 food line voucher. Additional riders are $10 each, and you can purchase extra poker cards for $5.
When the engines cool down, the evening heats up with the main event: the 140th Annual Picnic, beginning at 5:00 p.m. You’ll find food from local restaurants — plus rich, flavorful mock turtle soup, a regional favorite — along with a beer and wine garden, bounce houses, and games. The band Misty Creek will keep the atmosphere lively, and the night caps off with a chance at a $10,000 grand prize raffle.
This isn’t just a fun day out. It’s a vital fundraiser for a department that’s been serving the area since 1885. The Napoleon Volunteer Fire Company is made up of local volunteers — people who drop everything to respond when emergencies strike. Events like this keep them equipped, trained, and ready.
So whether you’re in it for the poker run, the soup, the music, or just to show your support, make plans to be in Napoleon this Saturday. Bring a friend, bring the family, and be part of something that matters.
For more information, find Napoleon Volunteer Fire Co. on Facebook or call Jay Gayheart at 812-363-3707 or Bill Vankirk at 812-662-4440.