Enjoy music, pumpkin carving and more when Harvest Hoot returns to Oakton campus Oct. 18

The city of Des Plaines’ annual autumn festival, Harvest Hoot, returns to the Oakton College campus from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18. This free community event offers seasonal fun for all ages, including live entertainment, hands-on activities, and fall-themed attractions. Guests can also enjoy food trucks and browse more than two dozen artisan vendors, offering a variety of items for purchase.

Now in its third year, Harvest Hoot is expanding with new features. For the first time, the event will include two stages: the Lil’ Hoot Stage, showcasing kid-friendly acts, and the Hootenanny Stage, which will host a high-energy country rock band. Glinda the Good Witch, the most “popular” Ozian in Des Plaines, will also be on hand for photo opportunities.

Another new addition is a pair of live needle-felting workshops, led by FeltiFriends Studios, where participants can learn to create their own felt ghost or pumpkin. Each felting session is $20 and includes materials. The pumpkin workshop begins at noon, followed by the ghost workshop at 2 p.m. Space is limited to 15 participants per session; pre-registration is encouraged, but walk-ups are welcome if space allows.

Additional attractions at Harvest Hoot will include an inflatable corn maze, live pumpkin carving, and up-close encounters with birds of prey at the Stillman Nature Center’s “Squawk and Gawk” booth. Kids can also enjoy activities hosted by the Des Plaines Youth Commission and the Des Plaines History Center.

Oakton College is at 1600 E. Golf Road, Des Plaines, and the event will be held in Lot A. To learn more or register for the felting workshops, visit the city of Des Plaines’ official event page at desplainesil.gov/harvesthoot.