Fall has officially arrived. That means, changing leaves, changing focucs, and changing into sweaters. I always look forward to the Autumn season for its incomparable ability to provide community/family growing experiences. Pumpkin patches, fall festivals, harvest celebrations, and so many more community festivities happen during this time to make it one of the most memorable times of the year. That being said, it’s very possible that you may not be in the loop about all of the fun festivities coming your way. Let’s take a look at several fun weekend excursions you and your family could certainly try out this Fall season.
First of all, starting with several events from my neck of the woods. Taste of Newton is an annual celebration that showcases the town’s unique ability to provide entertainment, festivities, and more food than you would think possible. If you’ve never been to the railroad town you should certainly give it a try, and this October 3rd, you will be able to say that you did. If you’re not free till the weekend, not to worry, the local institution of Bethel College is there to give you Bethel’s annual Fall Fest. Just north of there, the small town of Goessel has its new Harvest Days festival. The whole weekend is an action-packed event of music, games, and more.
Later on in October, the city of Emporia Kansas has their phone rendition of Dia de los Muertos, or the “Day of the Dead”. A colorful festival that shows off some multicultural experiences and unique cultural traditions. The event will feature food trucks, vendors, music, and dancing.
There are some cities for whom a single weekend every year is not enough. Hutchinson and Dodge City are a couple of these. Hutchinson with their traditional monthly Third Thursday event, brings the town alive with festivities, community building, and music galore. In a similar way, Dodge City brings its own monthly gathering called Final Fridays. Great Bend also brings a similar event to the table, with their Fridays on Forest (Street). The people of the Town gather every single Friday until October 25th to come together and celebrate. Perhaps visiting one of these regularly occurring gatherings suits your fancy?
If large community events aren’t really your style, try visiting a pumpkin patch in the area. Most everybody knows of P & M Pumpkin Ranch, one of the most famous around. But did you know that there’s also numerous pumpkin patches in area surrounding the Wichita location? Cedar Creek Farm, Marietta Farm, and Applejack Pumpkin Patch are just a couple of those that have come up online. Meadowlark Orchard and Cidery near Rose Hill also offer a lovely day trip out in the countryside.
Overall, I wanted to take some time to show you exactly how many incredible opportunities there are around you to understand and be a part of the community. There are so many options for us to celebrate this year and the past summer and spring of 2024. And ultimately, to celebrate the harvest, for what are we more than people who love simple living? With that being said take some time to appreciate the people around you, and to appreciate our world. Taking time to attend these community events, to celebrate the harvest of the year and the hard work of farmers who made it happen is truly a joy.
