Families embraced the fall spirit at the 4th Annual Fall Festival at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates on Saturday. The festival featured pumpkin painting, craft vendors, live music, and plenty of fun for attendees.
Arielle Carlin, founder of the Wallflower Shop, expressed her love for the event.
“I just love everybody here. And I just love it. This area is so special,” said Carlin.
The festival kicked off the season with a community connection focus.
“Lots of people came out, lots of it’s been great to see our community. We haven’t been to one of these festivals probably in about two years, so it’s been nice to be back and get to celebrate this new season with everyone and being able to share all of our fun stuff with people too,” said Carlin.
Kids enjoyed a pumpkin painting contest, inflatable obstacle courses, and a rare opportunity to climb the historic Banyan Tree.
“This is the only time once a year they are able to climb the tree. Normally, these ropes are up, and you can’t even get too close to it,” said Breanna Alexander, Marketing and PR Coordinator for the Edison Ford Winter Estates.
Organizers emphasized that the festival isn’t just fun, it’s historic. Attendees soaked in the unique setting of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford’s winter homes.
For vendors, the community is a significant draw.
“The people, they’re so amazing, and not only the staff, but we’ve got the best customers, and the kids are so cute, especially for the Fall market,” said Sarah Parrott, owner of Sweet Real.
Even those who missed out this year have something to look forward to.
Organizers plan to make next year’s festival even bigger. The estates’ next big event is their Garden Festival at the end of November.