Harvest Fest offers affordable day of live music and family fun

Bensenville, Ill.— Enjoy affordable family fun, live music and arts and crafts from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, at the Bensenville Park District’s Harvest Fest at Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave, Bensenville.

Harvest Fest welcomes everyone with free admission, making it an ideal destination for families seeking to immerse themselves in the joys of the autumn season. While entry is free of charge, numerous activities, as well as food and beverages available on-site, can be accessed with tickets, which can be purchased at the event for $1 apiece. Food and activity fees are between one and three tickets, and a rundown of these may be found online.

The day's schedule boasts a diverse array of activities suitable for all ages and interests. Get the day started right with Pumpkin Yoga, and connect with nature near the Fischer Farm pumpkin patch. The class is free, but advance registration is required by September 28.

Subie World, presented by Grand Subaru, open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., offers an interactive space filled with fun experiences for both kids and families that include a free Subie plush dog kids can name and adopt.

Meet the beekeeper with demonstrations throughout the day and see the farm animals. Learn about apple cider milling. Families will love participating in the old-time duck races. Warm up by the bonfire while indulging in delightful s’mores. Jump around in one of two bounce houses. Enjoy outdoor lawn games that include Connect 4, corn hole, Giant Jenga and a lasso game while inclusive activities by NEDSRA will be available. Young climbers can conquer the straw pyramid, and families can take scenic hay rides around the farm grounds. For those feeling creative, there will be kids' arts and crafts stations as well.

Adventurous souls can test their rodeo skills on the mechanical bull from noon to 6 p.m. and enjoy pony rides from noon to 5 p.m. A face painting station will be open from noon to 4 p.m., and the Fischer Farm Pumpkin Patch will be open throughout the day for choosing the perfect pumpkin.

A food tent is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. to satisfy cravings, and patrons may explore unique finds at the gift store during the same hours. Discover unique creations from approximately 30 local artisans at Artisan Alley, open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The music lineup is impressive, starting with the kid and family-oriented Miss Jamie’s Farm at noon, followed by Dan Asio and Ryan Herrick before headliner Alika Arlynn takes the main stage at 5 p.m.

For additional information about Harvest Fest activities, music and food, please visit BvilleParks.org/HarvestFest.