Fall Fest big hit with fans in Burlington
By Jeanie Mayer For The Courier-News September 9, 2012 8:16PM
IMG 4142 A cavalcade of emergency vehicles led by an antique engine bring up the rear of the parade at 2012 Fall Fest.
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Updated: October 11, 2012 6:19AM
BURLINGTON — Sunny skies and warm autumn air were the perfect backdrop for the 2012 Fall Fest participants who filled Burlington Park on Sunday.
There was something for everyone with acres of craft booths vending everything from custom made horsehair jewelry to Klein’s fresh vegetables.
The day’s events began with the Old Car Show where over 100 street rods, antiques, muscle cars and convertibles vied for over 50 trophies including Best in Show and the Mayor’s Choice Award. Proceeds from the car show will benefit charities supported by the Old Gold Cruisers organization, according to Ron Clark who coordinated the day’s event.
“My prime reason for doing this is for charity,” Clark said.
At noon, the Local VFW helped to kick off the parade by marching with the nation’s colors. Dozens of floats entertained the attendees along the crowded streets with music from the Central High School marching band. Children eagerly snatched-up the tossed candy that flew from wagons and car windows for nearly an hour.
Fest goers young and old flocked to the children’s game area to witness, or participate in, the bounce houses, water ball and body ball activities. Water ball involved kids climbing into plastic, inflated balls and running, rolling and crashing through a three-foot pool of water. The body ball game allows kids to run and smash one another while being safely encased in an air bubble.
“You can’t even stand in these, but you can do flips. It’s fun,” said 13-year-old Tyler White from Bolingbrook who gave the water ball game a try.
Kids also flocked to the mini zoo where they could chase, pet and feed everything from miniature ponies, to a llama, to rabbits and fancy chickens. Pony rides were a big success with young riders taking turns at the free event.
For the adults, there were plenty of opportunities for fun with two live bands playing throughout the day and a beer tent offering cold beverages and a big screen television set to air football opener. The popular Turkey Drop raffle drew a steady stream of takers, each vying for a chance to win cash prizes if the resident turkey, Elizabeth, plopped in their square.
Mindy Phillips, an Elgin resident, came to Fall Fest for the first time. She said her children participated in the parade and were enjoying all the fare available.
“We are enjoying this a lot. We got a bag of produce from Klein’s for $5. It’s a shame (Fall Fest) is only one day,” Phillips said.
