Fall Fest leaves nothing out

by Dan Holland

The second annual Broadview Heights Fall Fest took place Sept. 24, from noon-3 p.m. at the city amphitheater.

Activities included axe throwing, a DJ, photo booth, games, hayrides, face painting and pumpkin decorating, a pumpkin patch, inflatables, food trucks and more.

“We wanted to expand it a little more this year since we had such a great turnout last year, so we added a few more things,” said Broadview Heights Director of Parks and Recreation Amanda Hutcheson. “We have the farmer’s market from Luther Farms, who are providing the hayrides; we added some more outdoor games, and the fire department is here as well. We’re having a fantastic turnout; people love being outside, and it’s all free.”

“We just want the community engaged, and we want to show them that we’re not just the rec center; but we can do many other things as well,” she added. “We just want everyone to have fun this weekend.”

Dana Daniels, of Broadview Heights, took in the event with sons Dillon and Bodhi, along with the boys’ grandfather, Broadview Heights Councilperson George Stelmaschuk.

“We came last year, and the boys had a lot of fun on the bounce houses and we also painted the pumpkins,” said Daniels. “It’s just a nice place to get together as a community and enjoy the outdoors.”

Broadview Heights residents Kyle and Megan Schwab said their sons, Ryan and Dillon, enjoyed the pumpkin decorating and inflatables.

Milan Kubat of North Royalton, took in the festivities with his children Anastasia, Eliana and Lazarus.

“This is our second time coming; we came last year,” he said. “They have the bounce houses and pumpkin painting for the kids; it’s always a lot of fun and good food too.”

Broadview Heights Assistant Director of Parks & Recreation Ryan Meyer attended with wife Jennifer and children Jaden and Guinevere.

“The best thing about this event is that we’re able to provide a service we used to do inside and move it outdoors for the whole community,” said Meyer. “We have the farmer’s market, the food trucks, the inflatables, the fire department – it’s a nice kick off to the fall season. There’s something for everyone here.”

Steve and Hillary Kaput, of Broadview Heights, attended the event for the first time with their daughters Finley and Emma.

“We love checking out all the fun things for the kids,” said Hillary. “This is just a great event for families.” ∞