Local crafts, lively music and the sweet scent of autumn treats will fill the streets of Upland on Oct. 17 as the town hosts its fifth Fall Festival.
The festival will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. at Upland Park, according to the event flyer.
Pumpkin carving, games and bounce houses will be part of this year’s festivities, said Stephanie Osborne, director of communications for Our Town Upland and chair of the festival committee.
Hot chocolate, lemonade and cider will be served alongside burgers, meat pies and barbecue, she said. Contests will determine the best costumes, pumpkins, chili and pie.
“Anyone who wants to be judged with their costumes will parade through the vendor booths, and the vendors will vote on their costumes,” Osborne said.
Approximately 30 vendors are expected, with a mix of local businesses and others from surrounding areas, she said.
The festival will also feature a children’s reading time at the gazebo. Plans for a hayride are in progress as organizers map out a route that avoids Main Street construction. The committee does not expect construction to interfere with the festival, Osborne said.
Beyond the activities, organizers emphasize the importance of community partnerships and collaboration.
“We would love to coordinate more and support Taylor while Taylor supports us,” Osborne said. “We are very big on bringing everyone together. Part of our town’s mission is to bring all the nonprofits in town under one roof to support each other, and Taylor is a big part of that.”
Vendor spots cost $5. Osborne hopes “Shop the Loop” vendors sign up and Taylor University students consider performing live music for the event, she said.
With pumpkins, music and the smell of autumn in the air, organizers hope the Upland Fall Festival at Upland Park will bring neighbors and visitors together to celebrate the season, Osborne said.
Upland Park is located at 403 W. Washington St., Upland, Indiana. For more information, view their Fall Festival flyer.
