Beau Ciufo scanned the hay bales, weighed his options and picked up the biggest pumpkin his little hands could carry.
The boy, 1, was among about 500 children who went through the pumpkin patch at Plum’s third annual Fall Fest at Plum Creek Park.
Beau’s parents, Amy and Jason Ciufo of Plum, said it was a great family day and a good reason to get out of the house.
About 2,000 people participated in the Oct. 3 event.
“I like the fact that the community can come together and do some activities for the children,” said Adam Bellotti of Plum. “They always focus on the children most, so I really like coming here to experience that and see other community members.”
Bellotti came with his wife, Mackenzie, and their two children, Cayden, 2, and Payson Haberfield, 8.
The young brother and sister rode on ponies provided by Susie’s Pony Rides of Saltsburg. Payson said she loved the rides and playing games.
The Bellottis said they were proud their borough was able to have such a celebration during the covid-19 pandemic.
“I feel like it makes it a little normal, and I wish there would be more of them,” Adam Bellotti said. “We keep clean and wash our hands.”
Fall Fest was more spread out over the park grounds this year compared to the previous two installments.
The pumpkin patch and pony rides were near the main ball fields off New Texas Road while the farmers market, food trucks and other vendors were by the pavilions.
Families had to register for the pumpkin patch to help with maintaining social distancing. Children received pumpkins and take-home decorating kits.
Mayor Harry Schlegel said there was going to be pumpkin painting at the park, but organizers were concerned about having a large group of children gathered in one spot for a long time.
“They’ve put a lot of time into thinking this through,” Schlegel said of the safety precautions.
The mayor also jokingly took some credit for the crisp, dry and sunny weather, as he often does when there is no rain during a Plum event.
Hand sanitizer was available at most of the booths and activities. About half of the guests wore masks.
Plum EMS was on hand in case of emergencies, and borough police assisted those crossing the street to and from the borough building parking lot.
“We try to do everything we can to make it as safe as possible for everybody,” borough manager Michael Thomas said. “Just continuing to give people opportunities to get out in the community and be part of the community.”
Some activities cost $1 with sales from game tickets donated to the Plum Angel Fund, a charity designed to help residents in need have a happy holiday in December.
Vendors on hand included Laura’s Floral Boutique of Monroeville, Dad’s Mobile Grub, Sobel’s Obscure Brewery, Pappy’s Kettle Corn, Bushy Run Winery, Morning Glory Farms, Tom’s Candy Co., the Wax Mill, Oakmont Olive Co., Designs by Becka, Chocolate Moonshine and BoCo Creations.
Robert Habegger of Snakeguy’s Pepper in Sharpsburg was new to Fall Fest. He brought a friendly 5-foot long leucistic rat snake named “Popeye.”
Some folks held the snake with it over their shoulders while sampling spicy pretzels and peanuts. Habegger said he plans to come back next fall.
The borough is planning at least two more activities this year, a Halloween movie party and a Christmas celebration.
More information about Plum events can be found at plumboro.com.
