Residents are invited to celebrate the season at Park Forest’s annual Fall Fest, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Somonauk Nature Adventure Park, located at 266 Somonauk St.

Hosted by the Recreation & Parks Advisory Board, the event will feature live music from Park Forest’s own Patch of Blue band, as well as food vendors, games, giveaways, pumpkin painting, hayrides, line dancing, a pie-eating contest, inflatables, story time, fishing, sports, and more. Families will also have the chance to meet Reecy the Mascot, enjoy arts and crafts activities with the Girl Scouts, participate in face painting, and explore fire trucks during a “Touch a Truck” event with the Park Forest Fire Department.

“Fall Fest is an opportunity for the entire community to come together to celebrate, relax, and enjoy each other’s company,” said Teresa Brown, a staff member with the Recreation, Parks & Community Health Department. “It’s a time to step away from our busy lives, meet new people, and reconnect with old friends in a festive setting.”

Brown explained that Fall Fest is not just about fun; it also highlights the importance of community pride and local support. 

“From food vendors and craft makers to local musicians and artists, Fall Fest provides our small businesses and creative minds with a platform to shine. It’s a reminder that Park Forest is full of talent and resources worth celebrating,” Brown said.

The event will take place at Somonauk Nature Adventure Park, one of the Village’s newest attractions. The park features playgrounds, walking trails, picnic areas, a fishing pond, and other amenities that make it a hub for family and community activities throughout the year.

Fall Fest is free to attend and open to all ages.