Park's fall fest caters to all ages

Whether you're looking for a painted pumpkin or plump bratwurst, Aurora's Phillips Park Fall Festival is the place to be today.

City special events coordinator Lisa Jungels said the fest remains successful heading into its 10th year because it's free and caters to both children and adults.

For the kids, there are pony and hayrides, pumpkin decorating, a petting zoo and inflatable play areas. The Native American Storytelling sessions and tepees also will return to the fest.

For adults, there will be Oktoberfest-themed food and hourly entertainment.

Phillips Park's Fall Festival runs 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. today in the Phillips Park Zoo area, 1000 Ray Moses Drive, near Hill Avenue and Montgomery Road.

Jungels said children also can enjoy hands-on crafts such as glitter magnets and bead-making. The first 1,600 children in the Aurora Noon Rotary pumpkin painting tent can take their creations home.

"The smart folks will be here early and get in line right away to paint a pumpkin," she said. "The die-hards will be lined up by 10:15 a.m., just waiting to rush in."

The live entertainment lineup, all of which demands audience participation, begins outside the Visitors Center at 11 a.m. with comedian and juggler The Truly Remarkable Loon, followed by comedian/musician Dave Rudolf at noon, musician Thaddeus Rex at 1 p.m. and Magic By Randy at 2 p.m.

Aurora fire and police officials will be on hand, as well as McGruff the Crime Dog, Ozzie the Kane County Cougars mascot and zoo mascot Olly.

The zoo exhibits include the Reptile House, wolves, cougars, an elk herd, llamas, foxes, goats, peacocks and more.

Phillips Park, on more than 325 acres, features a golf course, the Sunken Garden with a fountain and floral displays, a historic waterfall, World War I cannons, veterans monuments and the 28-acre Mastodon Lake. A one-mile jogging and bike path circles the fishing lake.

Parking lots are located on Wyeth and Moses drives and at the Aquatic Center, off Montgomery Road and Howell Place. Additional parking is available along Smith Boulevard.

If you go

What: Phillips Park Fall Festival

When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. today

Where: Phillips Park Zoo, 1000 Ray Moses Drive, Aurora

Cost: Free

Info: (630) 844-7431 or aurora-il.org