NEW PALESTINE – Chili tasting, country line dancing, kids games and plenty of photo opportunities are available this weekend in New Palestine, in a growing Harvest Fest with a small-town vibe.
The second annual festival takes place from 1-5 p.m. Oct. 21 at 11 E. Main St., New Palestine.
While this is the second year New Palestine Main Street has brought the fall festivities to the community, there are several new or expanded features, including the first-ever Scarecrow Stroll.
“I was going to be happy to get six scarecrows, but we have over 20,” said organizer Diana Boss, adding that the scarecrows are already out decorating the area for people to see the entire month.
Businesses branded their scarecrows, as well as a few nonprofit groups. A boy scout troop, for example, went with a nature theme complete with tree limbs.
“The Scarecrow Stroll was sort of my brainchild, and I just wanted something to get people excited about Harvest Fest and give them an opportunity to walk around and see the different scarecrows,” Boss said.
Harvest Fest drew crowds last year in a picturesque setting of falling leaves and clear weather. Boss is hoping for the same luck with the weather this year.
High school volunteers are running the games at the event, which are $5 and provide stamps for prizes.
Families can also enjoy many of the events for free. There will be chili tasting from a local church, line dancing throughout the afternoon, entertainment by Hearts Ablaze cloggers, trunk or treating, vendors and a cookie walk. Freebies include cider and caramel apples.
Food trucks will be on site. There’ll be photo props, as well as a corn play area for youngsters to run toy trucks through kernels.
Boss said their mission is to provide businesses and families in the area an opportunity to come together and enjoy the small-town atmosphere of New Palestine.
While many of Main Street’s events are adult-oriented, Boss said Harvest Fest started last year as an opportunity for families to get together and enjoy the autumn season.
“I just felt like we really needed a kid event to finish up the summer and head into fall,” Boss said. “I only prepped for about 100 kids last year because it was brand new and I wasn’t sure how the word would get out, but we ran out of things within like an hour last year. This year we’re preparing for at least 300 kids.”
