Pumpkin Fest returns to Libertyville
Autumn has arrived, and what better way to get in the spirit than at Libertyville's Pumpkin Fest 2010. The Libertyville Junior Woman's Club invites the community to this free family event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9, at Cook Park in downtown Libertyville.
“It should be fun. The weather is supposed to be nice, too, said Laura Joyce, organizer of Pumpkin Fest 2010. “The fest is geared toward younger children, but anyone can come out and enjoy the activities.
Kids can take part in face painting and pumpkin painting in the park. Plus, there will be entertainment provided by the Dance Academy of Libertyville from 10 a.m. to noon and the Improv Playhouse from noon to 2 p.m. A kids' DJ will be spinning tunes as well.
The popular Touch the Trucks, where kids can climb in and on a firetruck, a police car, a garbage truck and many other emergency vehicles, returns this year from 10 a.m. to noon. The event, which is sponsored by the Cook Memorial Public Library, takes place on Church Street, next to Cook Park.
“This is really fun for the kids, Joyce said.
If you haven't had time to pick out a pumpkin for Halloween yet, the Sunrise and Noon Rotary Clubs offer a solution. If you bring nonperishable food items for the Libertyville food pantry, the clubs will give you a free pumpkin.
Also during Pumpkin Fest, 15 businesses in downtown Libertyville will be holding family activities, such as cookie decorating or kids' crafts, in their stores.
“Some businesses might offer apple cider, or some will even be offering a craft inside the store for kids to do, Joyce said. “Others might be handing out stickers or things like that.
Maps of participating businesses will be handed out at Cook Park, and those stores will also have a sign in the window.
While you're out and about, stop by Mayor Terry Weppler's office to guess the weight of the large pumpkin.
For details about the festival, visit libertyville.com.
If you go
What: Pumpkin Fest 2010
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9
Where: Cook Park in downtown Libertyville
Cost: Free
Details: libertyville.com