PENFIELD – Autumn is now in full swing, and for many, this is their favorite time of the year.
Some enjoy the cooler weather. Others venture out to see nature’s brilliant leaf displays. Still more look forward to fresh apple cider and other treats normally enjoyed during the fall and harvest season.
These experiences and more will be available at Parker Dam State Park’s 4th Annual Fall Festival and Pumpkin Float, Oct. 24.
“Come out and help us celebrate the traditions of fall. From 2 – 5 p.m., be sure to check out traditional activities such as Apple Cidering, Candle Dipping, Leaf Art and Pioneer Games,” stated a press release issued by Carey W. Huber, environmental education specialist.
She said that throughout the afternoon, there will also be other educational programming on topics, such as the Pennsylvania Elk and Bats, Snakes and Spiders. She said local artists, authors, and craftspeople will also be on hand to showcase their wares throughout the afternoon.
At 5 p.m., she said that pumpkin carving will begin. She said the pumpkins can be purchased at the Cooper Farm Market stand at the festival. She said at 6:45 p.m., the Beach Bonfire will begin with Elk County’s #1 Liar, Murph, telling his stories at 7 p.m.
Huber said the Pumpkin Float will take place at 8 p.m., when they set the lighted jack-o-lanterns adrift on the lake.
Parking will be available along Mud Run Road in the Day Use Area and in the turf parking area below the Park Office. All activities are just a short walk into the Day Use Area near the Beach House and Pavilions 1 through 4.
Admission and activities are free of charge. The Concession Stand will be open during the festival until early evening.
“So bring the entire family along and enjoy a whole day’s worth of fun activities at the park. Make the Parker Dam State Park Fall Festival one of your fall traditions,” Huber said in the press release.
You can find more information about state park programs and special events by logging on to the Bureau of State Parks website at www.VisitPAParks.com , and clicking on “Calendar”. You can also stay informed on-line with what is happening in Pennsylvania state parks by subscribing to Resource, DCNR’s electronic newsletter.
“The primary purpose of Pennsylvania State Parks is to provide opportunities for enjoying healthful outdoor recreation and serve as outdoor classrooms for environmental education.”
Access for People with Disabilities
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks:
888-PA-PARKS (voice)
717-558-2710 (local or international voice)
888-537-7294 (TTY)
717-558-2711 (local or international TTY)
711 (AT&T Relay Services)