Elmhurst Park District preparing for Family Fall Fest

Fall Fest has been a staple in Elmhurst for a number of years, so when the Elmhurst Park District was asked to take over the event, it couldn't turn it down.

This year's fest will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, at Wild Meadows Trace, along the Illinois Prairie Path and Safety Town, 511 S. York Road.

"In the past, the park district has been an event partner by offering trick-or-treating within Safety Town, and this year we're excited to add some new features as the organizer of the event," park district Executive Director Jim Rogers said.

"The York and Vallette Business Association has done a great job with the event all these years, and park district staff is looking forward to expanding upon that tradition."

In addition to changing the name to Family Fall Fest, the district decided to eliminate the admission cost.

"It is our mission to provide fun, recreational experiences to residents, and one of the ways we do that is by hosting a number of free events throughout the year," Rogers said.

"When staff agreed to take over Fall Fest, it was an easy decision to eliminate the cost of admission and allow the community to take part in the festivities free of charge."

New activities will include an inflatable corn maze; craft time in the Depot, courtesy of the Elmhurst Public Library; and a festive backdrop where families are invited to take their own photos.

The Elmhurst Police Department will be on hand distributing complimentary trick-or-treat bags, while supplies last, and a number of local businesses will offer games and activities, including pumpkin tick-tack-toe, rock painting, plinko and a pumpkin toss. Food trucks also have been added.

For information, visit the park district's Facebook page or website, epd.org.