Best of Blawnox Fall Festival draws a crowd to borough park

Dozens of families flocked to Blawnox Community Park to celebrate the season and support local businesses as part of the third annual Best of Blawnox Fall Festival.

There was hardly a cloud in the sky as children played and parents reveled in the last day of September.

Sharpsburg Community Library had a crafts table to make autumn-colored, card stock bats.

Artist Julie Dellert volunteered for face painting, and Jersey Mike’s gave out sandwich samples.

Bridgette Jacobs-Rohan watched as her two boys, Henson, 5, and Holling, 8, painted rocks and had their faces painted as cats.

“I think it’s wonderful event,” she said.

There was local honey and coffee for sale and a basket raffle to benefit the Best of Blawnox.

Organic gardener Doug Oster showed children how to plant flower bulbs at the Blawnox Community Garden in the park.

State Rep. Mandy Steele, D-Fox Chapel, and the Eat’n Park Smiley Cookie mascot made a special appearance.

“It was a beautiful day,” festival Coordinator Carol Hillwig said. “A large turnout and 31 vendors attended the event.

“I heard only good things from everyone I talked to throughout the day — of how they enjoyed the event and can’t wait to see what’s planned for next year. Thanks to all that attended, donated or volunteered to make this year’s festival a huge success.”

More information about activities presented by the Best of Blawnoxn and volunteering opportunities is available at bestofblawnox.com.