Homewood Fall Fest Returns Sept. 19

The Village of Homewood will usher in the changing season with Fall Fest 2015 on Saturday, September 19 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Martin Ave. from Hickory to Ridge Road. The 14th Annual celebration features live music for all ages, the traditional Chili Cook-off to crown “Homewood’s Top Chef”, the second annual scarecrow decorating contest, enchanting horse-drawn wagon rides and an outdoor viewing of “Monsters University”. Homewood Fall Fest 2015 is free and open to the public. There is ample free parking as well.

“Homewood Fall Fest is a wonderful way for the community to come together one last time before the cold winds blow,” said Mayor Rich Hofeld. “From the delicious Chili cook-off contest that shows off our creative chefs to the lively music and kids activities, Fall Fest is a unique and fun event. This year will be especially nice with all the changes that have happened to Homewood’s downtown street scape.”

Fall Fest 2015 opens at 11 a.m. and the entertainment kicks off at noon with Chicago kiddie-rocker Super Stolie. Music continues with classic rock from Midnight from 3 to 6 p.m. and Latin Satin Soul closes the evening with its lively sound from 7 to 10 p.m.

Kids of all ages can enjoy a variety of activities from a pumpkin patch for pumpkin decorating to face painting and a tinkering space provided by the Homewood Science Center. The ever-popular Mr. D’s magic show amazes the crowd from 2 to 4 p.m. This year the outdoor movie “Monsters University” by Disney Pixar begins at 7:30 p.m. Attendees can also experience a charming tour of downtown Homewood on the horse-drawn wagon rides from 6 to 9 p.m.

The annual tradition of the Chili Cook-off crowns “Homewood’s Top Chef” for both professional and amateur cooks. The contest begins at 2 p.m. when a panel of judges will sample the entries and determine the spicy winner. Fall Fest attendees can sample the entrees themselves at 3 p.m. Chili Cook-off entrees require advanced registration at www.HomeSweetHomewood.com

Back by popular demand, the Village along with the Homewood Beautification Committee is hosting the Scarecrow Decorating contest. Interested residents can pick up their scarecrow from the Homewood Public Works Department located at 17755 Ashland Avenue and use their creativity to decorate it. Space is limited to 50 contestants. Cash prizes are awarded for first, second and third place. All scarecrows are used after Fall Fest to decorate the downtown area and show off Homewood’s unique creative style.

Fall Fest 2015 also boasts a wide variety of unique artisan vendors presenting home goods, vintage finds, fine arts and more. In addition, local caricaturist artist Ernest Posey will be set up ready to sketch family and friends. Food vendors include The Cottage on Dixie, Grady’s Grille, Cilantro, 5th Quarter, Ridgewood Tap, TJ Kettle Corn, Tiddleywink Toffee and more.

For more information visit www.HomeSweetHomewood.com or call 708-798-3000.