Hinsdale’s annual Family Fall Festival, an event that started in 1982 and has grown over the years returns Oct. 24.
This year’s free festival is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hinsdale Middle School and downtown Hinsdale.
“It has grown and evolved into a larger family-focused Halloween and fall celebration, coordinated by the village of Hinsdale, in partnership with local community organizations, businesses and event sponsors,” said Mike Hayes, Hinsdale’s parks and recreation superintendent. “The event has changed quite a bit over the years, while maintaining its focus on bringing the community together for a fun, family-friendly Halloween celebration.”
Hayes said Family Fall Festival typically attracts more than 500 people, and both residents and nonresidents are invited.
“We welcome everyone to come out, enjoy the activities, get a pumpkin and experience Fall Fest and downtown Hinsdale with their family,” he said.
Hayes said the village tries to add something new each year to Family Fall Festival.
“One thing we enjoy doing is rotating our bounce house themes so families have a different experience each year,” he said. “We also continue to work with event sponsors and community partners to provide giveaways and activities for families attending Fall Fest.”
Along with inflatables, Family Fall Festival also will offer crafts, entertainment and food. Free pumpkins will be offered to the first 500 people who want one, and there will be a costume contest between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., with check-in available at the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce table.
Activities at HMS are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and downtown businesses will participate in trick-or-treating during the same hours, giving families an opportunity to enjoy both parts of the event, Hayes said.
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“One of the best parts is seeing the community come together and watching families enjoy the event together,” he said, “Kids love getting a free pumpkin, while supplies last, and collecting the different giveaways provided by our event sponsors.
“It is also great to see everyone dressed up and walking throughout downtown Hinsdale. It creates a fun atmosphere throughout the community and is one of those events where you really get to see the spirit of Hinsdale.”
Village President Greg Hart called Family Fall Festival a great Hinsdale tradition that brings together so much of what makes the community special.”
“It’s a chance for families to spend time together, enjoy our downtown and connect with neighbors and local businesses,” he said. “I’m grateful to our village staff, community partners and sponsors, who continue to make this a fun and welcoming event for families year after year.”
Family Fall Festival parking is available in the downtown parking garage. The main entrance for the event at Hinsdale Middle School is located on the south side of the school, 100 S. Garfield Ave.
For more information, contact the Village of Hinsdale Parks & Recreation Department, 630-789-7090 or [email protected].
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.