(Posted on October 12, 2022)
By Kristy Zubrick, Madison Publisher
Hayrides, a costume contest, ax throwing and a professional pumpkin carver, these are just the beginning of the list of attractions that the village of Plain City has planned for its second annual Fall Festival.
The family-friendly event is scheduled for 4-7pm on October 22nd at Pastime Park, 370 N. Chillicothe St. Entry is free.
Throw Nation, located in Dublin, hosts the ax throwing station, a new addition to the festival. The activity is open to people over 13 years old. Participants must sign a waiver. Also new is archery, open to all ages and sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
“We have a lot more craft vendors this year,” said Denton Kitts, Parks and Recreation Assistant. “Over 20 vendors have signed up so far. We have people bringing baked goods, homemade pickles, wood crafts, jewelry, knitwear, soaps and candles, and lots of holiday gift items.”
Anyone interested in setting up as a craft vendor at the festival can contact Kitts at dkitts@plain-city.com. The squares are 10×10 feet and free. The deadline to sign up is October 17.
Lots of food and treats are planned. Food trucks and food vendors include Biscuit Boss, Guelagetza Mexican Street Food, Por’ketta (a modern take on barbecue), Rocky Mountain Coffee Co., Pink Pony Desserts, a corn vendor and Girl Scouts Troop 4944 that sells candy apples.
Local businesses, civic organizations and individuals will be handing out candy in the Trick or Treat Alley. Anyone interested in handing out treats can contact Kitts.
“Last year, we had about 300 kids just for Trick or Treat Alley. I think it’s going to be a lot bigger this year,” Parks and Recreation Director Linda Granger said, adding that those who sign up to donate candy stores should plan to have enough candy for 500 children.
Cornhole, a ring toss and pumpkin tic-tac-toe are some of the games the village has planned. The Miami Valley Steam Threshers will offer hayrides. Bounce houses, face painting and a fall photo shoot are also part of the fun. Gus Smithhisler, professional giant pumpkin carver, returns. He will spend the festival creating a squash masterpiece.
At 18:00 a costume contest is planned. Prizes will be awarded in four children’s categories: 2 years and under, 3-6 years, 7-11 years and 12 years and over, as well as a group category for all ages.
“The festival is a great, fun and free fall activity,” Granger said. “You don’t have to spend money if you don’t want to, but we encourage visitors to check with vendors to buy some vacations.”
“And eat a bite,” Kitts added.
For information on other Plain City events, visit www.plain-city.com.
