Fall Fest set to return to Emmerling Community Park
An autumn celebration is set to return to Emmerling Community Park in Indiana Township.
The second annual Fall Fest is set for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 11.
Presented by the township and its police department, more than 200 people attended the inaugural event last year.
Organizer Lt. Kirk Vandenbord hopes to welcome more smiling faces this time around.
“It was very well received,” he said. “I think (I’ll be) meeting some new faces. Hope we have a lot return from last year. I’m hoping there are people that are new to us coming to the event to enjoy themselves.
”It’s a chance for the residents to meet our police offices, especially our newer guys who were recently hired.”
Activities include a bounce house, balloon art, temporary tattoos, DJ playing music, pumpkin painting, burn barrels (also called mini campfires), and a visit from The Treat Truck to provide candy and treats to children.
Allison Farms is providing a tractor for hay rides.
First responders are expected to have their vehicles out for families to explore.
Mayor Darrin Krally said he plans to attend.
“I do know these events are very popular,” Krally said. “I’m anticipating we will do the same if not better (attendance wise).”
The mayor called Emmerling Community Park the “crown jewel” of the township, and sees the festival as a time for everyone to take a break and come together.
“It strengthens the sense of community,” Krally said. “It brings people together. We do live in divisive times due to the political climate. … The backdrop is the park and it’s such a nice place to spend a nice afternoon.”
Hunter Thompson was recently hired as township patrolman. Fall Fest will be his first major Indiana Township event.
“I’m looking forward to meeting all the community,” said the former Aspinwall officer. “I grew up in Hampton, so it’s right down the road. I’m sure there’s going to be a bunch of great people. If it was anything like Aspinwall, I met a lot of great people, new faces and friends to have in the future.”
Parking at the park is limited. There will be a free shuttle from the ball park and township public works building off Route 910 near Cove Run Road Extension.
More information about the event is available on the township’s website, indianatownship.com.
Michael DiVittorio is a TribLive reporter covering general news in Western Pennsylvania, with a penchant for festivals and food. He can be reached at mdivittorio@triblive.com.
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