Marion Parks Department hosts Fall Festival

The community gathered for the Marion Fall Festival this past Saturday at Matter Park, which included pumpkin picking, s’mores, carnival games, costume contests and seasonal treats provided by food and craft vendors.

Jeffrey Kilgren, a representative of the Grant County Historical Society, said he was using the festival to recruit new members and promote community engagement. 

“This is great for the kids. They get to do some candy collection before Halloween, but it’s also great for people to get out, get some exercise and fresh air, and meet one another,” Kilgren said. “I met several people that I know here. It’s a great way for the community to come together.”

The winner of the costume contest, Robin Patterson said she was attending the festival for the first time with her granddaughter. 

“The costume contest is something fun for us to do together,” Patterson said.

 She said she also enjoyed the food options.

“I got some loaded spuds and it was a great addition to the day,” Patterson said.

Loretta Tapean, DJ and MC from Rolo Entertainment, said she was providing music and announcements while enhancing the festival atmosphere with a themed playlist. 

“We DJ all kinds of stuff, but community events like this are my favorite. Today’s playlist is all about the fall season,” she said. 

Tapean said her favorite part of the day, however, was the animal costume contest. 

“Seeing all the costumes and the joy it brings to people—it’s really a special experience,” she added.

Organized by the Marion Parks Department, the event was designed to give families and children the opportunity to enjoy fall-themed activities together as the season begins.