Plainfield put on a show for our ‘WISH You Were Here’ broadcast

The WISH-TV team rolled into Plainfield for the latest stop on its “WISH You Were Here” summer tour, shining a spotlight on one of Indiana’s fastest-growing towns.

Anchors Phil Sanchez and Faran Fronczak set up at Bicentennial Plaza, just steps from historic U.S. 40 and the iconic Oasis Diner, to showcase what makes this Hendricks County town special. They caught up with Town Manager Andrew Klinger and several other guests who shared how Plainfield is balancing booming development with its signature small-town charm.

7-9-25 Exploring the gems of Hendricks county

Only One Hendricks County—And Plenty to Do
Josh Duke with Visit Hendricks County says the mission is simple: Make the area a great place to visit, and it becomes a great place to live. With 84% of residents choosing to spend their free time locally, Duke and his team are leaning into storytelling through blogs, reels, and an always-packed events calendar to promote attractions like Beasley’s Orchard, Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, and Danville’s iconic Mayberry Café.

Plainfield Balances Growth and Charm
Town Manager Andrew Klinger says Plainfield is growing fast and proud of it. As Indiana’s largest town by population, it’s expanding with new development in places like Perry Crossing and downtown, all while preserving its small-town feel. With attractions like Splash Island and a new arts center, Klinger says the town is focused on building spaces that connect both new and longtime residents.

WYWH – Andrew Klinger – 070925

7-9-25 Keeping Kids Active in Summer Camp

Plainfield Parks Keep Kids Cool and Active
Matt Willard, executive director of Plainfield Parks and Recreation, joined us with a few enthusiastic campers to highlight the town’s popular summer camp program. From themed weeks, like Science Week and Superhero Week, to daily trips to Splash Island and visits to local parks, the program offers nonstop fun for kids ages 5 to 12. Willard says the town’s 110,000-square-foot recreation and aquatic center provides multi-generational programming, from pickleball and crafts to fitness classes and indoor play spaces. With online registration now available, Plainfield families can dive into summer activities with ease.

Plainfield’s Charm on Full Display Downtown
Marley joined us from right outside the iconic Oasis Diner in downtown Plainfield, showing off the town’s small-business spirit and Americana charm. From the popular tenderloin at Oasis to the fresh finds at the weekly farmers market, she highlighted the walkable stretch of Bicentennial Plaza lined with locally owned shops and eateries. A first-time visitor turned fan, Marley praised the town’s scenic trails and the cozy, connected feeling that sets in as the sun goes down.

Plainfield’s Charm on Full Display

7-9-25 Robin

Council President Reflects on Plainfield’s Growth and Spirit
Robin Brandgard, Plainfield’s longtime town council president, has held the role for 35 years and lived in the town for more than five decades. He says it’s the people, and their commitment to progress, that make Plainfield special. Brandgard praised the community’s collaborative spirit, from volunteering to smart growth strategies that keep business and residential areas balanced. As the fastest-growing town in Indiana, he says Plainfield continues to thrive by welcoming change, encouraging solutions, and staying rooted in stability.

Local Theater Shines on New Plainfield Stage
The Hendricks Civic Theatre is bringing big performances to a new stage in Plainfield. Executive producer Jamie Williams says the recently opened Hendricks Live venue is drawing in talent from across the region and creating a top-notch experience for both cast and community. Young performers, like high school junior Shannon, say the group feels like family and the rehearsals—though demanding—are full of fun. With a full lineup of shows ahead, the theater continues to spotlight local talent and deliver live entertainment for all ages.

7-9-25 Hendricks Civic Theater

7-9-25 Oasis Diner

Oasis Diner Still Serves Up Classic Flavor in Plainfield
Doug Hoff has been keeping tradition alive in downtown Plainfield. As owner of the iconic Oasis Diner, he’s preserving a piece of history that started in New Jersey in 1954 and later relocated just off U.S. 40. Known for its fresh, never-frozen pork tenderloin, the retro spot dishes up all-day breakfast and handmade onion rings. Hoff also renovated The Pruitt, once a movie theater, now a unique restaurant and lounge. A third project is already underway next door, with plans for a market, eatery and event space.

Plainfield Grows with Heart—and Popsicles
Stephanie Singh, communications director for the town of Plainfield, says telling the story of her community is easy—it practically writes itself. Joined on-air by her son, Leo, Singh shared what makes the fast-growing Hendricks County town so special: family-friendly amenities, vibrant new projects like Echo Hollow Nature Park and Hendricks Live, and a culture of connection. A resident herself since 2018, Singh says living and working in Plainfield makes it easy to invest in its success.

7-9-25 Stephanie Singh

7-9-25 Hues of Hendricks

Bringing Color to the County
Anne Johansson, project lead for the new Hues of Hendricks public art initiative, says the murals popping up across the county are more than just eye-catching—they’re economic engines. Thanks to a READI grant focused on creative placemaking, international artists have added vibrant works in Coatesville, Danville, North Salem and Liston. A larger installation is coming soon to Plainfield’s downtown parking garage. Johansson says the artists were selected from more than 40 applicants, and each left with a deep appreciation for Hendricks County’s warmth and Hoosier hospitality.

Hendricks Live! Hits All the Right Notes
Chris Petrelli, executive director of Hendricks Live!, says the venue has quickly become a cornerstone for the arts in Plainfield and beyond. Since opening, the state-of-the-art performing arts center has drawn talent and audiences from 36 states and all 86 Indiana counties. From John Hiatt to Lisa Loeb, big-name acts are taking the stage—alongside local performers of all ages. “It’s been a wild ride,” Petrelli says, “but the support from the community has made it extraordinary.

Hendricks Live! transforms Plainfield

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