Fall festivals provide weekend fun
Cecil, Hickory, Houston host annual events
Autumn arrived at 8:43 a.m. Sept. 22 and that means one thing in Western Pennsylvania: fall festival season.
Three big celebrations will be occurring on three consecutive weekends in Washington County.
Cecil Township kicks off the fun with its fall festival Sept. 28 and 29 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
As the leaves begin to change and a crisp breeze fills the air, Cecil Park, located on Route 50, transforms into a wonderland of entertainment with vibrant activities and joyful celebrations.
The heartbeat of the event lies within an array of bounce houses. Colorful and whimsical, they invite children of all ages to jump to their hearts’ content as giggles echo through the air. The rhythm of the festival is set to live music that fills every corner, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy.
And what’s a festival without delectable treats?
Attendees can indulge in a mouthwatering array of food options that cater to every palate, from classic comfort foods to delightful seasonal treats that embrace the flavors of fall.
Additionally, there will be a towering rock climbing wall for the adventurers and thrill seekers, pony rides, pumpkin-painting stations and whimsical mascots, affording opportunities for selfies not to mention laughter.
There’s also plenty for the shopping enthusiasts as the grounds will feature vibrant vendor stalls that showcase an eclectic mix of crafts, arts, and one-of-a-kind products and treasures from local artisans.
Visit the Cecil Township Facebook page for further information.
Apples are the signature fruit of the season and they will be prepared in multiple ways as Hickory hosts its annual festival Oct. 5 and 6.
The Hickory Apple Festival is the largest fundraiser for Mt. Pleasant Township Volunteer Fire Company, which serves more than 3,500 residents and a number of businesses along its 88 miles of roads.
The event kicks off with a pancake breakfast held both days from 7 a.m. to noon.
Festival booths offering crafts, homemade brick oven bread, soup, apple crisp, dumplings and pies will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In addition to everything apple, the festival will offer live entertainment and attractions.
Among the activities are a bounce house, petting zoo, face painting, and rock and roll pet show. There will be chainsaw sculpting, blacksmithing, rope making and mine bale making demonstrations as well as children’s characters roaming the festival grounds.
In addition to apple treats, food options include fire roasted chicken, funnel cakes and deep-fried Oreos, kielbasa, pierogies, hot dogs, hamburgers, French fries and nachos. There will be fresh ground cornmeal and bagged apples for baking along with chilled as well as warm apple cider for purchase.
A free shuttle is offered from surrounding parking sites along Routes 18, 50 and 519. Overflow and weather back-up locations are at Fort Cherry High School and the Hickory U.P. Church.
Visit www.hickoryapplefest.com for more details as well as a list of vendors and crafters participating in the event.
The Houston Pumpkin Festival will be held Oct. 11 to 13 at the American Legion Post No. 902 picnic grounds, located at 124 W. Pike St. Hours are 10 a.m to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
The 41st annual Pumpkin Parade begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 and runs along Pike Street from Shady to Cherry avenues. The hour-long march features floats, marching bands, dance groups, area haunted houses as well as local fire departments and dignitaries as well as politicians.
The Pumpkin Prince and Princess will be crowned at noon during opening ceremonies on Friday, Oct. 13.
In addition to over 175 food and craft vendors, there will be music and entertainment as well as several activities for children. The fourth annual Scarecrow Contest will also be held. Free to enter, winners receive cash prizes.
The pumpkin festival, which benefits the Houston Volunteer Fire Department, offers parking and a free shuttle from the Houston ballfields.
Visit www.houstonpumpkinfestival.net for further information
Admission is free to all three festivals.