Festival Festival:Pre Halloween fest for kids this Friday
The time is drawing near for kids to figure out what costume they’re going to wear for Halloween.
In less than a month, those kids to get to test drive their outfits at one of the biggest events in the area.
The North Fort Myers Community Park will host its annual Fall Festival on Friday, Oct. 23, from 6 to 9 p.m., on the main football field for a free event that not only serves as a safe place for families to go for a fun night out, but also for local businesses to advertise for free and give candy to kids.
Remax and the North Fort Myers Rotary Club are sponsoring the event, with other still pending.
James Pittro, event organizer, said from humble beginnings in 2001, the Fall Festival has grown into one of the “can’t miss” events of the year.
“We’ve fine tuned it to that the people want. Two years ago we brought in a DJ because they asked for it. We’re always trying to better ourselves and give the community what it wants,” Pittro said. “The crowds have come out and the participation is great from the police and fire departments.
The event will feature bounce houses, a live DJ, family entertainment, a photo booth giveaways and much more.
One of the highlights of the event will be the costume contest with great prizes, and up to 200 children in costume will receive a free bag of safe candy afterward.
Local businesses are invited to set up a 10-by-10 booth decorated with a fall theme to advertise for free. They are encouraged to have small give-a-ways for guests such as candy, key chains, and discount coupons, among other things.
About the only thing they can’t do is sell items.
“Every year we’ve gotten a couple new people. As soon as information got out, new businesses contacted us. There’s a new chain restaurant that’s looking to comes to the area. It’s great for businesses of every kind,” Pittro said. “We get close to 100 percent return on businesses.”
In the past, the Shell Factory has come with some critters for the kids to pet, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office has come to show off their toys, and the North Fort Myers Pop Warner Association has sold burgers and dogs.
The Fall Festival has drawn more than 1,500 people and 40 vendors in the past and those numbers are expected to be equaled or surpassed this year.
Volunteers, sponsors and donations are always needed. If interested, contact Pittro at 533-7200 for more information.