Harvest Festival Time! October 18-19

When the leaves start to turn in Central Mass, you know it's time for apple picking, sweaters, and of course - Harvest Festival in Sturbridge. This year's event, to be held October 18 & 19, will be the 19th annual. Co-sponsored by the Publick House Historic Inn and the Sturbridge Area Tourist Association, Harvest Fest is a true community treasure and attracts locals and visitors alike. It is held both on the grounds of the Publick House as well as the common across the street.

"An estimated 5-7,000 people come to town that weekend," said Michael Harrington, Jr., Development Manager of the Publick House, "so it is great for the area's economy."

Michael said the planners have made sure that the entire weekend is family-friendly. Attendees can expect plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as train rides, puppet shows, horse-drawn carriage rides, moonbounce and more. There will also be crafters and artisans, as well as food vendors. "It is just such a cool, fun community event," he continued.

A central focus of the event, as always, will be the Scarecrow Festival. The entrants are "not your typical scarecrows," said Michael, adding that one year one was even brought in on a flatbed truck. Visitors can vote on their favorite scarecrows through October 18th, and the winners will be announced on the 19th. Sponsors of the Scarecrow Festival are the Publick House, Sadie Green's and Fallon Clinic.

There will also be a pumpkin decorating contest with various age group categories, starting as young as 4. Decorated pumpkins must be brought to the Pumpkin Tent on Saturday, October 18, between 10am and noon.

So, come out and enjoy a classic New England weekend of fun!

Event information:

• On the Sturbridge Common, 277 Main Street (Route 131), Sturbridge, MA
• Free admission • Rain or shine
• Saturday, October 18, 10am-5pm
• Sunday, October 19, 10am-4pm
• For more information: www.publickhouse.com or www.sturbridgetownships.com