Tarentum Boo Festival brings hayrides, balloon art and an obstacle course

A sidewalk chalk contest, inflatable obstacle course and caricature artist will fill Tarentum’s Riverview Memorial Park for the annual Boo Festival.

Sponsored by the borough’s recreation board, the event will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 28.

“It’s a wonderful event,” said Carol McPherson, a longtime volunteer. “It’s so nice what they do, and I appreciate all the effort.”

This year’s lineup includes free games with prizes, a balloon artist and face painting. Hayrides will be sponsored by the Praha Hotel.

“This event isn’t just for kids anymore,” said Councilwoman Carrie Fox, who also serves as the recreation board’s president.

“We want people to come down and take in the fall view. Grab a bite to eat and support the food trucks, take a hayride and join in a fun-filled day.”

In its 20th year, the event has grown to attract hundreds of people for tricks and treats throughout the day.

When it first kicked off, the Halloween outing was aimed at children only. It featured trick-or-treaters moving from booth to booth to collect candy and at one point included a small costume parade.

Now, attractions are meant for young and old alike.

“You walk around and see the grandparents enjoying it as much as the kids,” said McPherson, a retired teacher from West Deer.

She has become an avid volunteer at recreation board events throughout the year that include free concerts and senior bingo.

“It gives you a real sense of community,” McPherson said.

Craft booths will fill the park, as will food trucks that include J&J Smokehouse and Fat Cat’s Subs.

Fox gave a special shout-out to Pittsburgh Brewing Co. for donating cornstalks, hay bales and mums to spruce up the park.

“I really enjoy all of the kids,” McPherson said. “Last year, I worked at the bounce house and, oh my gosh, they’re so excited to be there, all dressed up and having fun.”