Rediscover 1836 Prairietown
June 9 &10
Free with paid general admission
Participating sponsors
Join us June 9 & 10 for a grand re-opening celebration of 1836 Prairietown! We've kept what you've always loved about 1836 Prairietown and made it more interactive and engaging than ever before. From a new entryway that transports you back in time and new structures, to new adventures and more fun, there is something for everyone to explore. Leave behind the microwaves, automobiles and computers and spend the day as an 1836 Prairietown citizen.
In 1830s Indiana, small towns often didn't survive. The residents of 1836 Prairietown are coming together as a community to attract new neighbors, landowners and skilled tradesmen to ensure the future of their town. As a potential resident of 1836 Prairietown, you can become part of this endeavor. Find a job, earn wages, secure a home - all while overcoming hardships and obstacles pioneers faced in the 19th century. Pitch in and do some odd jobs around town such as feeding the animals or helping with farm chores. You'll earn "money" you can spend at the newly remodeled Whitaker's Store. At the end of your journey, you'll affect the fate of the town by deciding if you want to take up residency or continue moving west.
Stay connected to Conner Prairie here, and on Twitter and Facebook for updates, staff blog posts, contests and more as we approach the re-opening celebration on June 9 & 10!
Grand Re-opening Weekend
1836 Prairietown Land Auction
As a potential resident, you may need some land to build a home or you may want to make a good investment in Prairietown. Step up and place your bid to "purchase" land at the 1836 Prairietown land auction. The winning bidder will take away their own deed to their new land.
1836 Prairietown Block Party
Take part in some 19th-century fun with games and dancing, and live music. Puppet shows, participatory plays, take-home crafts and a few surprises are in store for visitors too. Check out new interactive activities at many of the historic buildings.
Return all season long to help determine the fate of 1836 Prairietown
After the grand re-opening weekend, come back to Prairietown again and again for new adventures with each visit. Achievement cards offer you the opportunity to become an official resident by completing specific tasks. Perhaps you will take on the role of a gardener, artist or even a criminal. After accomplishing each task, you'll receive a collectible achievement sticker. Take on different roles and collect new stickers with each visit.
Pick up an Adventure Guidebook and follow the mission provided to see if you want to settle in Prairietown or continue moving west.
What about the youngest potential residents? Children ages 5 and under can pick up a Seek-and-Find book and set off on a fun and educational romp through town, tailored to their age and abilities. They will locate historic artifacts, identify colors, count animals and discover how tools worked in the 19th century.